Unlike the house mouse, which is most commonly found in urban areas, the white-footed mouse prefers life in the countryside or in sparsely populated suburban areas. However, they are marvelously adaptable, which means that they can survive in almost any conditions.
While typically seen in barns or other outbuildings when living in close proximity to humans, white-footed mice will also nest in homes as well.
White-footed mice are a serious concern for farmers and amateur gardeners alike. Moreover, because this species is a vector for numerous potentially life-threatening diseases, it is wise for homeowners to quickly act whenever an infestation is suspected.
Adept at hiding and escaping notice, it is not always easy to identify a white-footed mouse infestation. It similarly is confounding to try to locate the pests' nests, which is critical to putting an end to the infestation.
Accordingly, it always makes sense to hire a licensed exterminator to handle the infestation. This can be done quickly, efficiently and in a manner that is respectful of the environment. By working with a pest management professional, it is possible for people to once again enjoy peace of mind in their homes.
WHAT DO WHITE-FOOTED MICE LOOK LIKE?
Classified as omnivores, white-footed mice can survive on almost anything. They demonstrate general preferences for seeds, grains, fruits, berries, nuts and flowers, but they also will eat leaves, bark, wood and fungus. Insects may form a large part of their diet as well.
White-footed mice are well-adapted for eating food that is intended for people. They will consume grains, pasta, rice, fruit, vegetables, peanut butter, honey, baked goods, meat and a wide variety of other common kitchen items. Because this species does not hibernate even in the coldest winters, it has a habit of caching food in or near its nest, which can cause a major problem when that nest is located inside a human habitation.
WHAT DO WHITE-FOOTED MICE EAT?
Classified as omnivores, white-footed mice can survive on almost anything. They demonstrate general preferences for seeds, grains, fruits, berries, nuts and flowers, but they also will eat leaves, bark, wood and fungus. Insects may form a large part of their diet as well.
White-footed mice are well-adapted for eating food that is intended for people. They will consume grains, pasta, rice, fruit, vegetables, peanut butter, honey, baked goods, meat and a wide variety of other common kitchen items. Because this species does not hibernate even in the coldest winters, it has a habit of caching food in or near its nest, which can cause a major problem when that nest is located inside a human habitation.
WHERE DO WHITE-FOOTED MICE LIVE?
Members of the species tend to prefer to live at low to middle elevations in brushlands or dry forests. Still, they are highly adaptable, which means that they also can do well at higher elevations, in semi-desert climates, agricultural areas and suburban settings. The greatest numbers of these pests are found in brushy regions that are close to farms and in forests. Nests may be found in an abandoned bird's nest or a hollow tree, though anywhere that is dry and warm will suffice.
It is not as common for the white-footed mouse to build a nest inside a human habitation as it is for other mouse species. Nonetheless, nesting within homes has been known to occur. These nests typically are found in places where people are the least likely to be, such as sheds, garages, attics, basements and crawl spaces. White-footed mice also may be found in wall or soffit voids.
The species also may nest close to human homes in places like fallen trees, woodpiles and yard debris piles.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY WHITE-FOOTED MICE
Like other rodents, white-footed mice cause extensive damage in homes. They chew or gnaw on almost everything that they encounter, including siding, roofing tiles, sheetrock, window frames and doors. In homes where an infestation is underway, it is not unusual to find gnaw marks on furniture, windowsills and cupboards.
Similarly, rodents chew on electrical wiring, causing serious problems and, on occasion, fires. Plumbing pipes also may be damaged by white-footed mice.
The species will use items from the home to line their nests. Insulation, upholstered furniture, clothing, linens, books and documents all may be shredded and carried away as nesting material.
Additionally, white-footed mice are known to cause damage in kitchens and pantries as they forage for and exploit food sources. This can lead to damage to cupboards, drawers and shelves, and it is a certainty that any infested food must be disposed of.
ARE WHITE-FOOTED MICE AGGRESSIVE?
White-footed mice are determined to avoid contact with people in most circumstances. This is demonstrated by their isolated nesting habits. Nonetheless, they will stand their ground and attack if a person purposely or inadvertently corners them. It is always best to avoid such confrontations if possible, instead relying on an exterminator to rid the property of these pests.
DO WHITE-FOOTED MICE CARRY DISEASE?
Unfortunately, white-footed mice are known vectors for many illnesses, some of which can prove to be life-threatening. The most common of these is Lyme disease. This illness is spread through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick, a pest species that often seeks a white-footed mouse as a host. The early symptoms of Lyme disease include aches in the muscles and joints, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, headache, chills and fever. A rash may appear, sometimes assuming the shape of a bull's eye or target. If these symptoms are not addressed by a doctor, then they can become more pronounced, and additional symptoms, such as facial palsy, may ensue.
On rare occasions, white-footed mice have been known to spread Hantavirus. Transmission occurs when people inhale or otherwise come into contact with the droppings, saliva or urine or an infected rodent. It is vital that people with symptoms like muscle aches, fatigue and fever get medical attention.
HOW TO DETECT WHITE-FOOTED MICE
Indications of a white-footed mouse presence include:
• Droppings and urine stains discovered on surfaces anywhere in the house • Signs of plants having been dug up in the garden • Discovering gnaw marks on construction materials or household goods • Signs of shredding on upholstered furniture, mattresses or linens
HOW TO PREVENT WHITE-FOOTED MICE
To help prevent issues with white-footed mice the following precautions should be taken:
• Use metal or glass containers with tight lids for food storage • Wipe up spills or crumbs immediately after they occur • Do not keep food on counters • Put pet food out only at meal times • Keep garbage cans clean • Clear brush and foliage away from building foundations • Get rid of fallen trees and rotting stumps • Eliminate standing water from the property • Identify and seal up all holes and cracks in the home's exterior
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.
