Harvest Mice Diet

In the wild a harvest mouse diet would predominately be seeds, fruits and bulbs. Like most rodents they have a very fast metabolism so food and water should constantly be available. A shallow dish is preferable as a food dish since they do not seem to dig well for food.

Water

should always be available with daily changes. A small water bottle is ideal for this, as they will dirty their bowls quite quickly unless placed on a separate ledge. Some Harvest mice may have trouble with the ball in the bottle so it is best to use the smallest size or a sippy bottle that does not have the ball.

Seeds

A good canary or budgie mix is a good base for their diet. Sprays of millet are both good food and climbing material. Good seeds to include are panicum, red, white, black millets, hemp, sunflower and safflower. Niger seeds, flaked peas and maize can also be included in your harvest mouse diet.

Protein and Insects

Dried cat biscuits are a good addition or even a quality brand of canned dog meat occasionally. Dried or live mealworms or small crickets can be offered, also an insectivore mix such as Bogena universal.

Treats

On occasion you can offer items from your garden providing they are free from pesticides. Items such as grasses, mosses, rosehips and blackberries. Fresh fruit and vegetables such as apple and carrot can also be offered.