What is the typical lifespan of mice in the wild?

Choosing the lifespan of mice in the wild as 6 months to 2 years accurately reflects the biological reality for most wild mice species, such as the common house mouse and field mouse. In their natural habitats, various factors such as predation, disease, and environmental conditions significantly impact their lifespan. While some individual mice may live longer under suitable conditions, the average life expectancy tends to fall within this range due to the harsh realities they face.

In contrast, other ranges suggested either fall short or extend beyond typical expectations for wild mice. For example, a lifespan of 1 month to 6 months is too short and does not account properly for their natural resilience and adaptability. Similarly, a range of 2 to 5 years is often associated with domesticated mice or specific captive settings where they benefit from reduced threats and controlled diets. Lastly, the 1 year to 3 years option also overestimates their typical lifespan in the wild, as it does not consider the high mortality rates they typically face outside of protective environments. This makes the choice of 6 months to 2 years the most accurate representation of wild mice lifespans.