The winter months can be a breeding ground for various pests, including mice. These tiny rodents can cause a lot of damage to your home, including chewed wiring, spreading diseases, contamination of food, and structural damage inside the walls. It’s important to take preventive measures to keep them out to avoid the problems they can cause.
6 Signs of Mice in Your Home
These six signs can help you determine if mice have made it into your home.
1. Droppings:
Mice will leave small, dark droppings that are about the size of a grain of rice. Check areas where food is stored, or where the mice may be nesting.
2. Chew marks on food packaging:
Mice have strong teeth and will chew through cardboard, plastic, or even thin metal. If you notice chew marks on your food packaging, it’s likely that mice are involved.
3. Finding nests:
Mice like to build nests in dark, hidden places. Check closets, attics, and other areas where they might be hiding.
4. Musky smell:
Mice have a distinct odor that can be detected if they are in large numbers. The smell is often described as musky or ammonia-like.
5. Scratch marks on baseboards:
Mice will leave scratch marks as they run along the baseboards or other hard surfaces.
6. Scratching and scurrying sounds in walls:
If you hear scratching or scurrying sounds in the walls, it’s a potential sign of mice. They are most active at night, so listen out for noises then.
Keeping Mice Out of Your Home
Here are the top tips for keeping mice out of your home.
1. Block all entry points:
Mice can enter your home through small holes and cracks, so it’s important to seal up any gaps they might use. Use silicone caulk or expanding foam to block any openings.
2. Move bird feeders away from the house:
Birdseed can attract mice, so it’s best to keep bird feeders away from your home.
3. Store food in airtight containers:
Keep all your food in airtight containers or jars, as mice can easily chew through packaging.
4. Keep counters and floors clean:
Mice will be less likely to infest your home if you keep it clean and tidy. Wipe down counters and tables regularly and sweep up any crumbs right away.
5. Keep garage door closed:
Mice could seek refuge in your car or garage, so make sure you keep the door closed.
6. Declutter:
If mice can’t find a place to hide, they’re less likely to stick around. Keep your home free of clutter and store items in sealed plastic containers.
7. Keep garbage bins tightly closed:
Make sure your garbage bins have lids that fit securely. This will avoid giving easy access to mice looking for food.
8. Adopt a cat:
Cats are natural predators of mice and having one (or two – cats do better in pairs) around the house can help keep them out. Besides, they make excellent companions!
If you have a problem with mice or any other wintertime pest, it’s time to call The Pest Force. We’ll help you with the pests you have and provide guidance to keep pests from coming back.
