Mice are the most common rodents found in homes. They are pests that people tend to find unpleasant and come in various shapes and sizes, but the one thing they all share is the ability to wreak havoc on any house or business they wish. Mice typically take up residence near food, water, and nesting material. By seeking out these items to consume, mice can quickly become a nuisance.
House mice can breed several times throughout the year, so one mouse in your home is capable of producing a large number of offspring every four weeks and about 20 young each. After birth, house mice reach sexual maturity in 2-3 months, and the breeding season is during spring and fall. That is why it is crucial to take action before the population grows.
Why Are House Mice Such A Big Problem
House mice are a significant problem in Riverside County, CA, because they can adapt quickly to living in human environments. They will use human hair to build nests for their babies to have a safe place to grow and develop, and that is why you will often find hairballs clumped together behind walls.
Another reason why this rodent has become dependent on humans is that they can survive on the same types of foods that humans eat. Mice eat almost anything - fruits, vegetables, nuts, as well as seeds and pet food. They have become so accustomed to our presence and habits that they search for things like cheese, flour products, and candy found in homes and businesses.
Signs To Look Out For
House mice are known to carry diseases such as Leptospirosis, Hantavirus, and Salmonella. Mice also tend to chew on electrical wires, leave droppings or urine wherever they go, nibble on tires, upholstery, and even food in your pantry. Noticing the following signs will alert you of their presence:
- Mouse droppings that are the size of a grain of rice
- Partially eaten food
- Gnawed at plastic, wood, or rubber items
- Shredded paper, clothes, or fabric
- Oily rub marks from the fur of mice against walls
- Scratching noises at night
How House Mice Enter Your Riverside County Home
The shape of house mice allows them to fit through much smaller spaces, some as small as 1cm. There are multiple entry points from which mice can enter your home, including:
- Holes in vents
- Openings in exterior walls
- Poorly fitted doors
- Gaps in the roof and windows
- Drainage pipes
- Sewer lines
Effective Mouse Prevention Tips For Riverside County Homeowners
The best way for you to stay ahead of this little rodent is by being proactive about getting rid of them before the problem gets worse - making your home less appealing as possible. Here are some suggestions on how you can reduce their presence in your home:
- Store food in airtight containers or place it in the fridge.
- Keep trash and compost bins tightly sealed.
- Don't leave uneaten pet food lying around.
- Declutter your garage, yard, and shed to deter mice from making a home.
- Trim tree branches to avoid contact with the roof and walls.
- Seal openings, cracks, and holes on the exterior of your home.
- Ensure doors and windows close properly.
The key to preventing house mice in Riverside County, CA is starting with good sanitation practices such as keeping your home and yard clean and clear of clutter and not leaving trash lying around outside because this can become a spot where mice gather.
While it's near impossible for you to get the entire mouse infestation once they enter the home, you can contact the professionals at Power Pros Pest Control. Get started with a free inspection, a customized, eco-friendly home pest treatment, and regular follow-up services to guarantee a mice-free home. Reach out to us today to learn more about our rodent control options!