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FAQ about Mice

What are the signs that I have mice?

Signs that you may have mice may include:

  1. Sounds of scurrying or scratching in walls
  2. Run paths in dirt
  3. Holes gnawed in stored foods, piled papers and insulation
  4. Crumbs, food scraps, or wrappers located in out of the ordinary locations such as closets, cabinets, or corners.
  5. Rodent droppings
  6. Tiny rodent hairs
  7. Hair, paper, or other materials piled into a nest
  8. Stale, rank, or musty odors
How does a technician eliminate mice?

Mice are very curious and will investigate new things. After examining your property, the pest control technician will strategically place bait stations and/or traps in places that will entice the mice. The traps typically include sticky treats such as peanut butter which requires the mouse to work to remove it. Bait
stations will not hold mice, however the bait will attract them and they will eat it.

How do mice get inside a home?
A mouse can slip through holes and gaps as small as 1/4 inch, or roughly the size of a pencil. If an opening is not big enough to squeeze through, the mouse can gnaw it until it is big enough. They are excellent jumpers, swimmers, and climbers and can scale rough and vertical surfaces. Mice also can jump 13 inches high and can run along wires, cables, and ropes.

Sometimes, mice find ways into your home by searching for food. Products such as bird seed and pet food are often prime feeding for mice. Mice also feed on nonfood items such as books paper, cloth, toilet paper, insulation, and dryer lint. Other times, environmental issues such as cold temperatures drive mice to look for warm spaces to shield from winter weather.

How do you keep mice out of your home?

Mice tend to nest in quiet, dark places such as closets, attics, and garage areas. They will only travel within 10 feet of their nest, so their nest is always near a source of food and water.

In order to keep mice out of your home, you should:

  1. Seal any gaps or holes in foundation around your home as well as in the siding of your house.
  2. Make sure there are no gaps or crevices around your doors and windows.
  3. Clean up clutter and take garbage out regularly.
What do mouse droppings look like?
Mouse droppings resemble a grain of rice, but dark in color. They are small and pellet-shaped with pointed ends, approximately ¼ inch in length.
Are rodents dangerous?
Urine and fecal matter from mice can carry and transmit diseases. Ticks and fleas are also commonly found where rodents are, which increases chances of diseases that can be passed along. When cornered mice can bite, which can lead to spreading a virus or disease they may carry.
Does seeing one mouse mean there is an infestation?
While just one mouse isn’t always a sign of an infestation, it’s important to note that mice reproduce approximately every 20 days. Each litter of mice can have as many as 14 babies, so it’s important to have a professional help eliminate them quickly before one mouse turns into many!
Why is it better to have someone come out to treat for mice instead of doing it yourself?
Our licensed pest management professionals have knowledge about the habits and behaviors of mice. A thorough examination of your property, will allow them to locate favorable rodent conditions that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Our technicians will explain their plan of action to ensure the most safe and effective treatment for your home.