If there’s one pest met with many mixed emotions by homeowners, it’s the house mouse. Some people are terrified of these small rodents, while others find them endearing and adorable. However, whether you like mice or can’t stand them, the chances of finding a mouse in your home are fairly high, as they are one of the most common home-invading pests in Nassau County.
The house mouse is about 6-8 inches long, including their tail, and they are brownish-grey in color with cream-colored underbellies. While they can look similar to rats, mice have more pointed noses, larger ears, and longer tails in relation to their bodies.
However, despite their small size, mice are considered a problem pest that can cause property damage and health concerns. Mice can spread many diseases that harm humans, including salmonella and hantavirus. They can also carry parasites, such as fleas, that spread other dangerous diseases. On top of the risks of sickness, mice are known to cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and asthma attacks.
The Reasons Why Mice Are Attracted To Your Home
Mice have adapted over many hundreds of years to live near people. This dependent relationship with humans is beneficial to mice in many ways, as it allows them shelter and access to food and water. These are also the three main reasons why mice find your home appealing. Mice behavior has these rodents on the lookout for humid environments where they can easily get food. The food inside your house, even small crumbs, is perfect for these small rodents to eat.
Factors like excess humidity and a dirty kitchen can attract mice, and they can then use holes as small as a dime to get inside. They also have strong incisors that allow them to gnaw through all sorts of materials, including plastic, drywall, plumbing, and even wood.
7 Ways To Prevent Mice
Mice can hide in many hidden areas once they get inside, including under floors and inside of walls, and they also reproduce quickly. This means that preventing a mouse infestation before it begins is the overall best way to protect yourself and your family.
These seven tips will reduce factors that attract mice and make it harder for them to get inside your home.
- Fix any screens that are ripped or torn.
- Place lids over garbage cans and regularly take out the trash.
- Store pet food indoors and in airtight containers.
- Keep kitchens cleaned, which includes wiping up spills as soon as they happen.
- Look for small crevices where plumbing and electrical wires enter the home. Fix these cracks using caulk, steel, or wool.
- Reduce humidity in your house by fixing leaky pipes and faucets.
- Install door sweeps and weather stripping.
How Can You Get Rid Of Mice For Good?
If you’ve noticed mice around your home, you might be tempted to remove them on your own. Unfortunately, common mouse removal methods, such as traps, don’t work very well. They might get a few mice, but they won’t remove the entire infestation.
The safest and most effective way to eliminate a mouse infestation is to work with the professionals at Parkway Pest Services. We are Green Shield Certified and use Integrated Pest Management techniques to efficiently remove mice while keeping you, your pets, and your family safe. To learn more about our residential pest control or request a free quote, contact us online or over the phone.