Mice Identification Guide

Mice Identification Guide

Physical Characteristics

Mice are small rodents, typically ranging from 2-4 inches in body length, with a tail often as long as their body. They have pointed snouts, large ears, and small black eyes. Their fur can vary in color but is usually brown or gray. One of the most telltale signs of mice activity is their droppings, which are about 1/4 inch long, dark, and pointed at both ends.

Common Species

• House Mouse (Mus musculus)

• Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)

• White-Footed Mouse (Peromyscus leucopus)

Mice Behavior and Biology

Mice reproduce rapidly, with a single female capable of producing up to 10 litters per year, each containing 5-10 pups. They reach sexual maturity in as little as 6 weeks, meaning infestations can escalate quickly. Mice are primarily nocturnal and excellent climbers, often nesting in wall voids, attics, and storage areas. They can squeeze through gaps as small as a dime.

How We Treat for Mice

Our approach follows a 4-step rodent protocol:

• Inspection: Every job starts with a full inspection to locate “hot spot” areas, including signs of activity (droppings, gnaw marks, nests) and potential food sources.

• Rodent Bait Stations: We place tamper-proof bait stations with rodenticide near high-activity areas.

• Follow-Ups: We conduct follow-ups early in the process, often at 1 and 3 weeks, to assess treatment effectiveness.

• Long-Term Maintenance: We recommend quarterly visits to ensure rodents don’t return. Adjustments to frequency may be made based on location and severity.

Additional control methods include:

• Snap traps for quick knockdown, especially indoors.

• Exclusion (sealing entry points) when necessary, but only after the primary infestation is controlled.

• Alternative baits like peanut butter, candy, or meat to adapt to feeding preferences.