Mouse Life Cycle
Illustration of House Mouse
Rapid Reproduction
The typical mouse life cycle will vary, but typically lasts about two years indoors, which can be a problem for residents. Mice cause both damage and the spread of disease, problems made much worse by their high birth rate. On average, an adult female mouse can have over 60 babies in one year.
Mouse Life Cycle Stages
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Females go into heat for 4 to 5 days.
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Once pregnant, rodents give birth after three weeks.
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Litters consist of 5 to 8 pups, and females can reproduce up to 10 times per year.
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At the start of the mouse life cycle, newborns are hairless and blind.
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After two weeks, baby mice develop thin fur and slowly gain sight and mobility.
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Mice reach sexual maturity and are ready to mate about 2 months after birth.
Ridding Homes of Rodents
The mouse life cycle results in rapid breeding and makes control hard for homeowners to handle on their own. A call to Orkin can provide much-needed relief for those dealing with mice in the house or yard.