'Harvest Mouse'
A drawing of a Harvest Mouse sitting on a shaft of wheat, by David Dancey-Wood
A litho edition of just 495 prints
Print measures: Image size: 120mm x 203mm (Full paper size: 16.3cm x 25.5cm
 
The harvest mouse, also known as Micromys minutus, is a small rodent that is native to Europe and Asia. It is the smallest mouse species found in Europe and is known for its cute appearance and nimble movements.
Physical Appearance
The harvest mouse has a small and slender body that measures around 5-7cm in length, with a tail that is approximately the same length as its body. The fur of the harvest mouse is typically brown or reddish-brown on the back and white on the belly. The fur on the tail is also brown or reddish-brown on the upper side and white on the underside. The harvest mouse has large eyes and ears in proportion to its small body, which helps it to be aware of its surroundings and avoid predators.
Habitat and Distribution
The harvest mouse is found across Europe and Asia, from Portugal and Spain in the west to Japan in the east. It prefers to live in grasslands, meadows, hedgerows, and wetlands, where it can find plenty of food and shelter. The harvest mouse builds its nest in tall grasses, using woven leaves and stems to create a spherical shape with a small entrance hole. These nests are usually found a few inches off the ground and can be hard to spot.
Diet and Behavior
The harvest mouse is an omnivore, and its diet consists of seeds, insects, and other small invertebrates. It is known for its ability to climb up grass stems and use its long tail to balance while it feeds on seeds or insects. The harvest mouse is primarily active at night, but it can also be seen during the day if the weather is cloudy or overcast.
Conservation Status
The harvest mouse is not considered endangered at the global level, but it is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and fragmentation. In the UK, the harvest mouse is listed as a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting and creating habitats that are suitable for the harvest mouse, such as wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and wetlands.
 
In conclusion, the harvest mouse is a fascinating and adorable small rodent that is found across Europe and Asia. Its unique physical appearance, diet, and behavior make it a fascinating species to observe and learn about. While it is not currently endangered globally, efforts to protect and conserve its habitat are crucial to ensuring that this delightful little creature can continue to thrive in the wild.