Although mice are commonly found in a range of urban and rural buildings, they may live outdoors for part of the year. The average wild mouse will live to about 4 months, and range in size from 11cm-21cm in length.
Where do they live?
Mice live mainly in nests, which are often built inside houses, especially during the winter. Nests are built wherever there is access to a good source of food, and are generally built out of cloth, wool and paper. Spaces under the floor and lofts are also favoured nesting places. Mice are good climbers so nests may be situated at any level. Where no nesting place is available, mice tend to burrow outdoors in soil as they can easily adapt to different surroundings. They huddle together in colder climates, and can even squeeze through cracks as small as 5mm. Mouse holes are normally 2cm-3cm in diameter.
Do mice cause any real harm?
Most of the damage caused by a mouse infestation will be by gnawing and ripping at food stuffs and belongings. Mice have also been known to gnaw through electric cables and can therefore pose a fire risk to your property.
How do I know if I have an infestation?
- footprints or tail swipes in muddy areas or dusty surfaces
- gnaw marks on any food or non-food material
- sightings of live or dead mice
- presence of burrows or nests, or mice droppings
- unusual stale odours indoors.
Call Masons Pest Control now for free advice on mice, or to book a qualified pest control technician to deal with your mouse problem quickly and safely.
