What are Mice?

Mice are small rodents that commonly invade homes, businesses, and farms in search of food and shelter. The most common species in North America is the house mouse, which is light brown to gray with a pointed nose, large ears, and a long tail. They are skilled climbers, chewers, and nest-builders, making them highly adaptable to human environments. While they may appear harmless, mice reproduce rapidly, and even a small infestation can quickly become a serious problem.

Signs of Mice Infestation

• Small, dark droppings often found in cupboards, drawers, or along walls
• Gnaw marks on food packaging, wires, or wood
• Scratching or scurrying sounds inside walls or ceilings at night
• Nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden areas
• A musky odor in rooms with heavy infestations
• Grease marks or tracks along baseboards from frequent travel paths

Why They are a Problem

Mice are more than a nuisance. They contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine, which can spread diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus. Their constant gnawing can damage wires, insulation, and structural materials, increasing the risk of electrical fires. Mice also reproduce quickly, with a single female capable of producing dozens of offspring per year. Left untreated, an infestation can escalate into a major health and property risk.

Where Do They Come From?

Mice often enter homes and businesses through small openings as narrow as a dime. They are attracted to warmth, shelter, and easy access to food sources. Common entry points and attractants include:

• Cracks in foundations or walls
• Gaps under doors and around windows
• Utility lines, vents, and pipes
• Poorly sealed garages, attics, and basements
• Accessible food left in pantries, kitchens, or pet bowls

How to Get Rid of Mice at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of mice, here are some effective steps you can try:

• Seal all cracks, gaps, and entry points with steel wool or caulking
• Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs promptly
• Keep garbage bins tightly sealed and remove waste regularly
• Reduce clutter in storage areas where mice may hide or nest
• Place snap traps or bait stations in areas where activity is noticed
• Use peppermint oil or other natural deterrents to discourage mice temporarily

These methods may help reduce activity, but long-term elimination typically requires professional pest control.

Mice vs Rats

Mice are often confused with rats, but there are distinct differences:

• Mice are smaller, with bodies around 3 to 4 inches long, while rats can reach 7 to 9 inches or more
• Mice have larger ears and longer tails in proportion to their bodies, while rats have thicker bodies and shorter tails relative to their size
• Mice droppings are small and pointed, while rat droppings are larger and blunt-ended
• Rats are more cautious, while mice are more curious and explore new environments quickly

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we provide comprehensive rodent control solutions designed to eliminate mice and prevent them from returning. Our team identifies entry points, applies safe and effective treatments, and sets up exclusion measures to protect your home or business. We also provide advice on long-term prevention strategies tailored to your property. With our professional expertise, you can rest assured that your mouse problem will be solved quickly and effectively.