Mouse and Rodent Facts and Identification
How to Get Rid of Mouse and Rodent Infestations
Illustration of House Mouse
House mice are second only to humanity as the most populous mammals in urban areas.
House mice are considered dangerous and destructive pests.
Because they carry and transmit viruses, bacteria and other diseases, mice are considered to be troublesome pests.
Damage
They are commonly responsible for causing damage to personal property and are notorious for commercial crop destruction. In agricultural communities, mice may also be responsible for machine and equipment malfunction. These pests are capable of causing massive losses in commercial farming enterprises, as food that has been contaminated by mice is rendered unfit for consumption.
More information about what mice eat.
Disease
Mice can contaminate surfaces and food sources within homes. Hantavirus is a particular threat associated with particular rodents such as deer mice. The virus is contracted with inhalation of particles released when mouse droppings, urine and saliva are disturbed.
Humans who consume contaminated food may contract a number of mouse-borne diseases, including salmonellosis. Within domestic environments, food contamination may be less obvious and foods may be consumed unknowingly. The constant chewing of mice also causes damage to electrical wires, clothing, books and furniture. They destroy storage boxes, electrical lines and other materials while building their nests.
Reproduction
Mouse populations can expand to include over 200 specimens in a matter of months.
Droppings
The presence of mouse droppings is an early and certain indication of an infestation. These dark, tiny feces are particularly dangerous and should not be handled without the use of gloves and a protective face mask.
Nests
Mouse nests can be located within homes, and infestations become obvious when holes appear in walls and floorboards. Nesting areas may be found in drawers, shoeboxes, storage boxes, under cabinets and other areas that are seldom accessed.
Infestations should be handled swiftly and are most efficiently dealt with through professional pest control methods.
Tracks
Mouse tracks are sometimes visible in dusty or muddy areas, and holes in walls confirm their presence as well as their nesting places.
Sounds
Homeowners experiencing infestations may hear noises at night and smell the mouse urine in areas with poor ventilation.
Contact your local pest control professional to discuss extermination methods.