The ubiquitous deer mouse is found throughout Levittown and Pennsylvania. The species can easily survive in forests, on mountainsides and even in desert conditions. With a rapid rate of reproduction and omnivorous tendencies, this particular rodent is designed to succeed.
Deer mice are adept at seeking out advantageous conditions. This is why they are drawn to human habitations and other dwellings. Unfortunately, a deer mouse problem can have serious ramifications. From structural damage to buildings to dangerous health risks, these rodents pose a host of problems. The only reliable way to end the infestation is with professional rodent control.
WHAT DO DEER MICE LOOK LIKE?
The adult deer mouse body is usually between three and four inches long. Their tail typically adds about two to five inches to their overall length. Adults may weigh in at just one ounce. The fur on their backs may range anywhere from gray to a red-brown color, while their stomachs are white. It is this distinctive coloration, which is similar to mule deer and white-tailed deer, that give this rodent its name. Deer mice also are notable for their long whiskers and large, upright ears.
WHAT DO DEER MICE EAT?
Deer mice prefer seeds and nuts, but they are opportunistic feeders. Accordingly, a variety of plant materials, grains, fruits and vegetables are all potential food items. Deer mice frequently feed on insects, and they are considered to assist with controlling the population of these pests.
When deer mice make their way into human habitations, they will assiduously explore cupboards and pantries in search of food. Seeds, grains and nuts are particularly vulnerable, but deer mice may nibble on many other human foods in an attempt to find things they like.
WHERE DO DEER MICE LIVE?
Typically, deer mice live in underground burrows. In forested areas, they may prefer to build a nest in a hollow tree, log or stump as they are relatively adept climbers. When they infest buildings where people live and work, they tend to locate their nests in hard-to-reach areas. Attics and basements are frequent nesting sites, but deer mice will also nest in wall voids, within eaves and overhangs and inside soffits. In order to ensure quick access to food, some deer mice will build a nest in a cabinet or pantry.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY DEER MICE
Deer mice are inquisitive creatures, and much of their exploration is accomplished by chewing. Gnawing on various objects give the rodent access to food, water, nesting material and buildings. Accordingly, an infestation can result in the need for costly repairs.
The loss of food often is the first sign that an infestation is present. Discovering bags and cardboard cartons of food that have been gnawed on is a telling sign. All of this food must be disposed of because it is contaminated and may cause illness.
Similarly, deer mice will gnaw through all sorts of material to find a reliable water source. This may involve chewing directly into pipes, resulting in the need for expensive plumbing work. The search for nesting material is virtually constant. Deer mice will shred a variety of linens, fabrics, upholstery and even insulation in their quest. Gaining access to a building additionally may cause damage. Deer mice may chew through siding, insulation, drywall and other materials to gain access to a likely place to nest or find food.
ARE DEER MICE AGGRESSIVE?
Deer mice are not aggressive toward people. They tend to avoid confrontation, and generally will only bite or scratch when they feel threatened. Pets are more likely to have a violent encounter with these rodents, and any injuries they receive should be reviewed by a qualified veterinarian.
DO DEER MICE CARRY DISEASE?
Like most rodents, deer mice are known to carry and transmit a variety of illnesses. Exposure to the feces of the deer mouse may be particularly threatening if it is infested with Hantavirus. This illness is rare in the U.S., but not unheard of. Chills and fever, muscle pain, headaches and vomiting all are symptoms of this potentially deadly sickness.
Other illnesses that deer mice may transmit to humans include rat-bite fever, the plague, salmonellosis, trench fever and others. Any unexplained symptoms experienced by people who have been in a structure where deer mice are present should be investigated by a medical professional.
HOW TO DETECT DEER MICE
Indications of a deer mouse infestation include:
• An ammonia-like smell • Small, dark droppings scattered on counters, in cupboards or on floors • Scratching or squeaking noises beneath floorboards, in false ceilings or behind walls • Small footprints left in dusty surfaces • Live or dead mice seen in and around property • Nests found behind refrigerators, under ovens, in cupboards or behind walls
HOW TO PREVENT DEER MICE
The following precautions may be taken to help avoid an issue with deer mice:
• Put pet food out only at meal times • Repair plumbing leaks as soon as they are discovered • Keep kitchen counters clean and free of crumbs • Store food in rodent-proof containers made of glass or metal • Put dirty dishes directly into the dishwasher • Block access to the structure by sealing small holes and cracks with caulk • Metal mesh can be placed over vents, chimneys and other larger openings • Make certain that outdoor trash receptacles have tight lids • Prevent brush and yard debris from building up around foundations
HOW TO TREAT FOR RODENTS
Successful rodent control typically involves a series of steps, including trapping, poison baits, along with proper species identification.
Those who suspect a rodent problem should contact Newtown Termite & Pest Control. Our experienced pest control professionals know how to inspect a structure to determine the type and scope of the infestation involved. They will then execute the appropriate plan of action to resolve the specific rodent issue plaguing your home or business while identifying entry points to help protect against future problems.
