Does One Mouse Mean an Infestation?
You’re lounging on your sofa, with the fireplace crackling, enjoying a good read when out of nowhere a mouse scurries by. Suddenly, you aren’t so relaxed anymore. With a million thoughts running through your mind, the biggest one that lingers, is probably, “Does one mouse mean an infestation?”
Simply put, no one mouse doesn’t mean an infestation, but it surely can lead to an infestation. This is because mice can give birth to at least half a dozen babies every three weeks. But don’t worry, Antworks is here to help. Because we work and live in the same community as you, we understand the challenges you may face when it comes to pest control. In this blog post, we’ll look at ways you can help keep mice out of your home.
What Kind of Mice Live in Portland?
The most common mice in the Portland/Vancouver metropolitan area are house mice and deer mice. However, you are more likely to encounter house mice. House mice are small, about 2 ½” to 3 ¾” long and are grayish in color with a cream underside. These rodents will live in dark, secluded areas using insulation, paper products, and any other materials they can find to build their nests. While they prefer to feed on insects and seeds, they’ll eat a variety of foods.
How to Help Keep Mice Away
Cooler temperatures bring everyone inside, including mice. Given the fact mice can fit through openings the size of a dime and are very skilled climbers and swimmers, you’ll want to make sure to follow these helpful tips when pest-proofing your home.
- Eliminate clutter
- Use a silicone-based caulk and steel wool to seal holes on your siding, paying particular attention to areas where utilities enter your home
- Keep food in airtight containers, including pet food
- Maintain cleanliness
- Remove bird feeders
- Add steel mesh in your downspout openings
- Trim back shrubs away from your house
- Replace weather stripping
- Install door sweeps
- Replace window screens
- Cap your chimney
- Regularly inspect your home
Mice are not only a nuisance, but they can pose serious threats. They can contaminate food, spread diseases, and damage your property. Mice damage can also lead to house fires. If you believe you have mice, contact a licensed pest control professional, like us at Antworks. Mice can produce up to 35 babies a year. Don’t let them grow up in your home, give us a call today for effective, affordable, and environmentally friendly pest control.
