noun
small Japanese field mouse
Refers specifically to Apodemus argenteus, a small native rodent. In everyday contexts, it may be used loosely for any small field mouse.
ヒメネズミは夜行性で、木の実を食べる。
The small Japanese field mouse is nocturnal and eats nuts.
山小屋でヒメネズミを見かけた。
I saw a small Japanese field mouse at the mountain hut.
Compound of 姫 (hime, 'princess; small and delicate') and 鼠 (nezumi, 'mouse'). The name likely refers to its small size and graceful appearance.