Discovering that you have an unwelcome rodent roommate can be alarming. But catching a mouse infestation early and taking action to remove the pests can help prevent more serious issues down the line. Here are some of the most common signs that mice have made themselves at home in your house.
Sightings of Live or Dead Mice
Actual sightings of mice, either alive or deceased, are one of the clearest indicators that you have a mouse problem. Live mice are generally active at night, so you may catch a glimpse of them scurrying across your floor in the evening hours. You may also find dead mice that have expired after coming into contact with poisons or traps. Even just one sighting merits further investigation and action.
Strange Noises
Mice are active creatures that like to climb and burrow. As they go about their activities, they can make light scratching, scuttling, or scurrying noises that may be audible through walls, floorboards or the ceiling. Mice are especially noisy at night. If you hear odd squeaks, rustling, or pitter-patter sounds coming from within your home’s infrastructure, there may be mice on the move.
Droppings
Carefully examine areas where mice frequent, like along baseboards, under sinks, and inside cabinets. Look for small, oblong faecal pellets that are black or brown in colour. The presence of mouse droppings is a clear signal that mice have been there. Mouse droppings can also pose health risks, as they may contain bacteria, viruses, or parasites. So proper cleaning is essential.
Urine Stains
Mice tend to urinate as they travel, leaving a trail of urine stains. Look for small wet spots that fluoresce under a black light. Mouse urine glows blue-white under black light. Urine stains may be along baseboards, in cupboards, or under appliances. The presence of these stains indicates mouse activity. The urine also has an unpleasant musky odour.
Gnaw Marks
Mice have sharp teeth that grow continuously, requiring them to gnaw frequently to keep their teeth worn down. Check for signs of gnawing damage, especially on food boxes or bags. Mice may also gnaw on wood or electrical wires. Irregular chew marks on items in your home are a clear sign mice are around. Their teeth leave behind a distinct pattern as they gnaw.
Nests
Mice will create nests out of available soft materials, like shredded paper, fabric, or insulation. They often build nests in concealed areas like inside walls, under appliances, or behind furniture. Discovering a nest signals that mice may have taken up residence in your home. Nests are generally 2 to 10 inches across when mice begin using them.
Mouse Holes
Inspect along floors, walls, and cabinets for small holes, approximately 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Mice can squeeze through very tight spaces. Any openings greater than 1/4 inch could be an entry point for mice. The presence of these holes indicates that mice have found a way to enter your home from the outside. Seek out and seal any openings.
Discovering signs of mice does not necessarily mean your home is overrun. But acting quickly and contacting Bristol’s Leading Pest Control Services for Expert Rodent and Rat Extermination at the first signs of mice can help nip a small problem before it gets out of hand. Their licensed professionals can inspect your home, identify any entry points, and implement customised rodent control Bristol solutions to eliminate mice and prevent them from returning.
Don’t live with unwelcome roommates – call the mouse removal experts today to schedule an inspection and pest control treatment.
