Mice are said to be the most successful invasive species in history. Originating in Southeast Asia, they migrated along with people from Asia to Europe and then to the New World.
Mice are part of the Muridae family of rodents, which also includes true rats and gerbils, among others. Confirmed as living alongside humans 15,000 years ago, mice gravitate toward our homes to gain access to food, water, and a warm, protected space to raise their young. Because of the mouse lifecycle, they are one of the most common pests found in homes as well as one of the most serious.
Mice contaminate our food and gnaw through wood and electrical wires, creating costly damage. One of the reasons their activities are so serious is their high reproduction rate. One or two mice can quickly turn into a large infestation when left unchecked.
Mouse Reproduction
Mice reproduce at an alarming rate. And that rate is multiplied when they live in our homes because it means they can reproduce year-round. The safety from predators and warmth of our homes also means that more of their offspring will survive and thrive. If you’ve seen one mouse in your home or office, it usually means there are many more.
How Fast Do Mice Multiply?
The gestation period for mice is 19-21 days, and they will breed anywhere from five to ten times per year. A single mouse has approximately five babies per litter and can produce about 35 babies within one year. In addition, while rabbits need six months to sexually mature, mice become sexually mature only 25 days from birth. So the babies quickly start having babies! Mature mice can breed again within 12 hours of giving birth all year round. You can see how a mouse infestation can quickly get out of control.
When Are Mice Most Likely to Enter Your House to Give Birth?
What makes mice one of the worst home invaders is that they will make your home theirs any time of year. Mice can fit through a gap as small as one-fourth inch. But they will especially look towards entering homes in fall and winter as the weather turns cold.
Signs of a Mouse Infestation
Fortunately for homeowners, mice leave visible and unmistakable signs of their presence right out in the open.
- Droppings: You’ll find droppings in pantries, drawers, on shelves, and countertops. They will leave their droppings anywhere food or crumbs are.
- Sounds: Mice are nocturnal, so listen at night for scurrying beneath floors or in the walls, scampering in cabinets, and squeaking sounds. If you have a pet, you might find it staring at a wall for no apparent reason, but it might be hearing or smelling something behind that wall.
- Grease marks: Mice have oil in their fur that leaves behind dark, greasy smears on surfaces where they travel. Look for these marks on floorboards and molding.
- Gnaw marks: Mice have incisor teeth that keep growing throughout their lives. This makes them excellent gnawers. They chew to create passageways through a house and to keep their teeth at a manageable length. Look for gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture, and walls, especially near outlets.
How WMS Solves Mice Problems
WMS specializes in mouse eradication. We start by conducting a comprehensive rodent inspection inside and outside the home, including the attic and basement. We also search for entry points.Once we establish how severe the infestation is, we create a custom mice control plan that includes:
- Bait Stations: Our specialist will determine the quantity and placement of bait stations based on the inspection results. Bait stations contain a rodenticide to control the population on the property.
- Exclusion: To best prevent mice from coming into your home again, WMS finds and seals all entry points.
- Habitat Modification: WMS will recommend any changes homeowners should make to their home, such as removing clutter, cutting back tree branches too close to the home, and keeping all food in sealed plastic containers.
- Sanitizing: The last step is to apply sanitizing agents to contaminated areas to disinfect wherever necessary.
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