Mice

What do mice look like?

Mice are small rodents with slender bodies, typically measuring 4.5 to 8 inches long, including their tails. Their fur is usually light brown or gray, with slightly lighter-colored bellies. Mice have large, rounded ears and small, beady black eyes that give them a distinctive appearance. 

What’s the difference between mice and rats?

Mice and rats differ in several key ways. Mice are smaller, with long, thin tails and slender bodies, while rats are much larger, ranging from 7 to 9 inches in body length with thicker, hairless tails. Mice have softer, lighter-colored fur, whereas rats have coarser, darker fur. Behaviorally, mice are more curious and agile, squeezing through tiny openings, while rats are more cautious, preferring dark, hidden areas. Mice build smaller nests from shredded materials, while rats create larger, more secure burrows. 

‍

What do mice eat?

Mice are opportunistic feeders who eat almost anything available but prefer grains, seeds, and sugary foods. They commonly target pantry items like cereal, rice, bread, and pet food in homes. Mice are also drawn to high-fat and protein-rich foods like nuts, cheese, and meats. 

In outdoor environments, they feed on fruits, vegetables, and even insects when other food sources are scarce. Their ability to adapt their diet to their surroundings makes them particularly persistent pests in the Birmingham metro.

‍

How quickly do mice reproduce?

Mice breed rapidly, with one female producing up to 10 litters of 6–8 pups each year.

‍

Are mice dangerous?

Yes, mice can spread diseases like salmonella through their droppings and urine. They can also contaminate insulation with their droppings and chew on electrical wires, increasing the risk of fires. 

In addition to the risks noted above, mice often damage property by chewing on building materials and belongings. 

‍

How do mice get into homes?

Their agile bodies allow them to squeeze through tiny gaps as small as a dime, making it easy for them to infiltrate homes in search of food and shelter.

‍

Where do mice nest?

Mice typically nest in hidden, secluded areas where they can find warmth, food, and safety. Common nesting sites in homes include:

• Wall voids: Mice often create nests in the gaps between walls, especially if there are cracks or holes they can squeeze through.
• Attics and crawl spaces: These areas provide shelter and are often undisturbed, making them ideal nesting sites for mice.
• Under furniture: Mice like to nest beneath sofas, cabinets, and other large pieces of furniture where they can find debris to build their nests.
• Basements: Dark and quiet basements are another common place for mice to build their nests.
• Closets and storage areas: Mice are attracted to cluttered storage areas like basements, attics, and garages, where they can easily access materials like paper, fabric, or insulation to make nests.
• Kitchens and pantries: Mice sometimes build nests behind or under appliances like refrigerators, stoves, or dishwashers, where food and warmth are abundant.

Mice are resourceful and can build their nests using shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or even materials they bring in from the outdoors.

‍

What are the signs of a mouse infestation?

If you suspect mice in your home, look for these telltale signs:

• Droppings: Small, black, rice-shaped droppings found near food, in drawers, or along baseboards, and in areas where these rodents nest.
• Gnaw marks: Mice chew on wood, plastic, and wires, leaving behind small, rough holes or marks.
• Noises: Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls, ceilings, or attics, especially at night.
• Nests: Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation often indicates nesting areas.
• Odors: A musky smell caused by mouse urine or droppings in enclosed areas.

‍

What should I do if I see a mouse?

Act quickly! In most cases, there’s more than one mouse in the house. Contact a pest control professional to inspect your home and develop a treatment plan.

‍

How can I get rid of mice?

Acre Pest Control is the company to call for relief from mice in Hoover, Mountain Brook, and throughout the Birmingham metro. Our local exterminators deliver effective home pest control services that stop mice and other pests from taking over all year. Contact us today to request a quote! 

‍

Can I prevent a mouse infestation? 

Preventing a mouse infestation is all about eliminating food sources, entry points, and shelter. Here are some essential prevention tips to keep mice out of your home:

• Seal entry points: Check for cracks or holes in walls, doors, windows, and around pipes. Use steel wool or caulk to seal any gaps.
• Keep food stored properly: Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills promptly, and don’t leave pet food out overnight.
• Maintain cleanliness: Regularly sweep and vacuum floors, especially in kitchens and dining areas, to avoid attracting mice. Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight. 
• Dispose of trash properly: Keep trash cans sealed and remove garbage regularly to prevent attracting mice.
• Trim vegetation around the home: Keep shrubs, trees, and vines trimmed away from your home to limit pathways for mice to enter.
• Repair or replace screens: Ensure window and vent screens are intact and free from holes.
• Eliminate clutter: Reduce clutter in basements, attics, and garages, which can provide hiding spots and nesting material for mice.