Why winter is the prime time for mouse problems
Winter in the Birmingham metro brings colder weather, which drives mice indoors in search of warmth, food, and water. Your home offers all three, making it an attractive refuge. Unlike outdoor spaces, homes provide consistent temperatures and protection from predators. During this time, mice are not only more likely to enter homes, but they also increase their activity as they establish nests, forage for food, and of course, reproduce.
Signs of mice in your home
Droppings
Aside from spotting a live mouse in the house, droppings are one of the most obvious signs of an infestation. Mouse droppings are small, dark, and shaped like rice grains. You’re likely to find them near food storage areas, behind appliances, in cabinets, or along baseboards where mice frequently travel. It’s common to find them in attics and other areas with little to no foot traffic.
Gnaw Marks
Mice have constantly growing teeth and must gnaw on materials to keep them filed down. Look for chewed packaging, wooden furniture, cardboard boxes, or electrical wires. Gnaw marks are often a sign of a well-established infestation, as mice need time to cause visible damage.
Scratching Noises
At night, when the house is quiet, you may hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds coming from walls, ceilings, or attic. These noises are a strong indicator that mice are moving around your home.
Mouse Nests
Mice build nests from shredded materials such as paper, fabric, insulation, or even dried leaves. You might find these nests tucked away in hidden spaces like closets, attics, basements, or behind appliances.
Grease Marks
As mice travel the same routes repeatedly, they leave behind greasy smudges along walls, baseboards, or entry points. These marks are created by oils on their fur rubbing against surfaces.
Contaminated Food
If you notice food packaging that’s been chewed or small crumbs scattered in unusual places, mice may be to blame. They’re attracted to accessible food sources, including pet food and pantry items.
Tracks & Footprints
In dusty areas like attics or basements, you might see tiny footprints or tail drag marks. If you suspect activity, sprinkle some flour near suspected mouse pathways and check for tracks the next day.
Why it’s important to act quickly if you have a mouse infestation
Mice reproduce rapidly, with a single female capable of producing up to 35 offspring in a year. And there’s never just one mouse in the house. A small problem can escalate quickly into a full-blown infestation. Mice not only damage property but also pose health risks. Their droppings and urine contaminate surfaces and food, spreading diseases such as Hantavirus and Salmonella. Additionally, their gnawing can cause electrical fires if they chew through wiring.
How to prevent mice in your Birmingham home:
- Seal entry points including gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and foundations.
- Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up spills or crumbs.
- Clear out storage areas like basements and attics where mice can hide and nest.
- Fix leaky pipes, appliances, and other plumbing problems.
- Ensure proper ventilation to remove water sources that attract mice.
Call Acre Pest Control for help getting rid of mice
If you spot any signs of mice in your home, it’s crucial to act fast. DIY traps and baits can provide temporary relief, but professional pest control services are often necessary to eliminate the problem entirely. Acre Pest Control’s team of experts is ready to help by identifying entry points, removing existing mice, and implementing prevention strategies to keep your home rodent-free.
This winter, don’t let mice take over your Birmingham home. Stay vigilant, address issues early, and call our local pest control company if you suspect an infestation.
