When you hear the term 'mice infestation' all sorts of bad images come to mind. Millions of mice spilling out of your ceiling to take over your home, your entire family afflicted with terrible diseases, all the food in your pantry being decimated by hungry mice, and more nightmarish thoughts. But while some of these may be true in the most extreme cases, mice infestations are largely misunderstood among Carolina homeowners. Your friends at Nelon-Cole are experts at diagnosing mice infestations and getting rid of them for good, and we are happy to share some knowledge of these mice, what to look for, and how to avoid an infestation.
TYPES OF MICE
Among homeowners in the Carolinas, we are mostly immune to the large mice you see on TV that inhabit the back street of big cities. Homes in our region generally see smaller mice that can be quite difficult to catch, and even difficult to find at all.
The most common species of mice that infest homes in our region are the common house mouse (Mus musculus) and the deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus). Both of these species are small rodents that are well-adapted to living in close proximity to human habitation. House mice are one of the most widespread rodents in the world and are commonly found in urban and rural areas. They have a gray or brownish fur with a lighter belly and are usually smaller than the deer mouse. House mice are excellent climbers and can squeeze through very small openings, making it easy for them to enter homes and buildings.
Deer mice are also common throughout North America and are often found in rural areas or suburban settings near fields, forests, and grasslands. They have a bicolored appearance with a distinct line of demarcation between their dark brown or grayish-brown upper body and white underbelly. Deer mice are known for their large, prominent eyes.
DANGERS OF AN INFESTATION
For Carolina homeowners faced with a mice infestation, most will want to know the immediate dangers posed by the situation. Indeed, a mouse infestation in your home can pose several dangers, ranging from health risks to property damage. Here are some of the main dangers associated with a mouse infestation
Spread of Diseases: Mice can carry various harmful pathogens and bacteria in their droppings, urine, and saliva. When they contaminate surfaces and food items in your home, they can transmit diseases to humans. Some of the diseases associated with mice include hantavirus, salmonellosis, leptospirosis, and Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM).
Allergens and Asthma Triggers: Mouse droppings and urine can become airborne, leading to respiratory issues and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals. These allergens can worsen asthma symptoms and cause respiratory distress.
Property Damage: Mice are prolific chewers, and they will gnaw on various materials to keep their teeth from growing too long. This behavior can lead to damage to furniture, insulation, electrical wires, and even structural components of your home. Chewed wires also create a significant fire hazard.
Contaminated Food: Mice are scavengers and will seek out food sources in your home. They can chew through food packaging, leaving it exposed to contamination, or directly consume and contaminate food items.
Foul Odors: The presence of mice in your home can create unpleasant odors due to their droppings, urine, and the mice themselves. These smells can be challenging to get rid of without eliminating the infestation.
Reproduction and Population Growth: Mice reproduce rapidly, and a small infestation can quickly escalate into a large one if not addressed promptly. The more mice present, the greater the dangers they pose to your health and property.
Flea and Tick Infestations: Mice can carry fleas and ticks, and when they are present in your home, they can introduce these pests, leading to additional problems and discomfort for both humans and pets.
Psychological Impact: Dealing with a mouse infestation can be stressful and anxiety-inducing for many individuals, affecting the overall comfort and well-being of the household.
PREVENTING MICE IN YOUR HOME
So now we know the types of mice we can commonly see in Carolina homes, and we also know many of the dangers associated with an infestation. So how can a diligent homeowner prevent mice in their home in the first place?
Preventing mice from entering your home involves a combination of proactive measures to make your property less attractive to them and sealing off potential entry points. Here are some steps that are recommended by your Nelon-Cole professionals to help keep your home safe and secure from mice
Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or holes in the foundation, walls, and around utility lines. Seal these openings with caulk, steel wool, or other suitable materials to prevent mice from squeezing through.
Make sure all doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and weather stripping to prevent mice from sneaking in.
Regularly clean your home, especially the kitchen, and dining areas, to remove food debris and spills that might attract mice. Store food in airtight containers.
Keep your living spaces tidy and organized, reducing potential hiding spots for mice.
Use secure trash cans with lids that mice cannot easily open. Dispose of garbage regularly, and keep outdoor trash areas clean.
If you have pets, avoid leaving their food out overnight, as it can attract mice.
Trim shrubs and tree branches away from your home, as mice can use them as pathways to access your house.
Keep firewood and other potential nesting materials away from the house.
Place mouse traps in strategic locations around your home, especially near potential entry points. Live traps can also be used to catch mice for relocation.
If you're an animal lover and it fits your lifestyle, having a cat can act as a natural deterrent to mice.
Periodically inspect your home for signs of mice, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or chewed wires, so you can address any potential infestation early.
By implementing these preventative measures, you can reduce the likelihood of mice finding their way into your home and avoid the associated problems and dangers of an infestation. If you suspect a mouse infestation is already underway, call the professionals at Nelon-Cole for help. We offer no-obligation quotes and consultations and can help you diagnose possible infestations in your home. Our affordable solutions have helped thousands of homeowners across the Carolinas keep their homes mice and pest-free. We look forward to hearing from you! Charlotte Pest Control - Gastonia Pest Control - Asheville Pest Control - Spartanburg Pest Control - Hendersonville Pest Control - Lincolnton Pest Control
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