Tiny mice scurry into Scotland
A tiny mouse that weighs less than a 10 pence piece has been confirmed nesting in Scotland for the first time – offering new hope for its survival.
The harvest mouse (Micromys minutus) is Britain’s smallest rodent, measuring just 50-70mm and weighing at just 4-6 grams.
The “notoriously shy” native mouse is on the Red List of species of conservation concern throughout the UK.
Targeted searches in Scotland revealed four confirmed sites in Fife, Strathclyde Country Park in South Lanarkshire, Hunterston in North Ayrshire, and a location west of Aviemore in Inverness-shire.
Derek Crawley, from the Mammal Society, said further finds are expected: “This is the first time we have had absolute proof. To have a number of confirmed nests is very positive news.”