Common Signs of Mice Infestations

Common Signs of Mice Infestations


Infestations can start with just two mice in or around your home. These little critters are capable of breeding up to 10 times each year, so the problem can get out of hand very quickly. Here's what to watch out for so that you can stop the infestation as quickly as possible.

Droppings
Mouse droppings are similar in size and shape to chocolate sprinkles, but don't try to eat them! You'll often find droppings in corners and under furnishings. As the infestation grows, so will the amount of droppings. Each adult mouse can produce more than 50 droppings each day.

Gnaw Marks
Mice love to chew on just about anything in order to keep their constantly growing teeth at a manageable length. They frequently chew wooden items, food packages and drywall, but they are also known for eating through electrical wires, newspapers and even towels.

Nocturnal Noises
Mice are more active at night than during the day, so listen out for the pitter-patter of little feet when you go to bed. You may also hear scratching noises and the occasional squeak. If you have pets, like dogs or cats, watch for any unusual behaviour from them. Their senses are sharper than yours, so they will likely hear or smell the mice long before you do.

Grease Marks
As mice creep along the edges of your home, they leave oily trails behind them, so be on the lookout for greasy tracks, particularly along your baseboards and the back edge of your kitchen bench. Mice typically follow similar pathways, so look for emerging patterns to figure out where they are coming from.

Ammonia Smell
Mice pee frequently, and over time, this can lead to a strong odour of ammonia in the areas that the mice hang out most often. Even after you get rid of the infestation, the smell can continue to linger, so your best bet is to catch the problem as quickly as possible to prevent the stench from soaking in too much.

Solve Your Mouse Problem Right Away
Of course, if you happen to see a mouse in your home, the infestation is probably already well underway. As soon as you notice any signs of mice, you should immediately call an exterminator, like Dependable Pest Control. The sooner you can address the issue, the less risk of damage to your home and bacterial contamination.