How To Tell If Your House Has A Problem With Mice
Do you have a suspicion that there are mice within your home, but you have yet to actually see one? If so, it helps to know what signs to look out for so you know when to call a local pest control service for help.
Droppings
A common sign of having a mice infestation is going to be their droppings hidden in places around your home. Mice droppings resemble small black pellets, and they are often found in piles in places where there is food for them to eat. You may see the droppings in your garage, kitchen, pantry, or even bathroom if they are finding water to drink. You should not touch the mouse droppings with your bare hands since they are known to carry disease. Make sure you wear gloves and cover your mouth so that you do not breathe anything in.
Streaks
Mice will have a lot of dirt and oil on their bodies. When they are moving around your house, all of this dirt and oil can leave streaks on your floor. These streaks can even show you the path that they are traveling and can let you know how they are getting into your home. This is a good reason to call a local pest control service — they might have better luck tracking the entrance down.
Noises
Sometimes you will hear mice before you see them since they can make scurrying sounds as they travel behind walls and in other places where you cannot see them. Mice tend to be nocturnal creatures, as well, so they will do most of their moving at night or the early morning when you are sleeping. You may not hear a lot of noise from a single mouse, but it will get loud if they travel in a pack.
Damage
Mice tend to create a lot of damage that is easy to identify. You'll typically see their chew marks as they try to get through wood or other organic materials to get to food they want to eat. You may notice damage on kitchen cabinets, near your baseboards, or on materials made out of fabric.
If you suspect you have a pest infestation, reach out to a local pest control service for their assistance. It is the best way to ensure that the mice are not only removed from your home but that any potential entrances are sealed off, as well.