People who have a fear of mice and even find them repulsive may find it interesting to know that they are considered by the Department of Public Health to be one of the more troublesome and economically impacting pests in the United States. Mice and other rodents carry many health threats and clearly make it dangerous for anyone to allow for an infestation of mice to occur inside the home.
These concerns become even more prevalent this time of year as the internal calendar of rodents turns on, letting them know it is time to prepare for cold weather. With the weather changing and temperatures dropping, deer mice and the infamous house mouse will begin migrating inside in their quest of food, water, warmth, and shelter.
Mouse droppings, chewing and gnawing, and a disturbance of food items will quickly alert homeowners to an infestation of rodents in the house. There is also a unique odor very characteristic of mice that confirm their presence. The disturbance of food items is often seen first as the hungry mouse begins foraging for food. They love grains and cereals but will feast on many kinds of food. They may chew into the corner of a loaf of bread, break into a cereal box, and finish off with a sweet pastry.
Health issues quickly become a problem as mice forage and climb in their quest for food and water. Their hearing and smelling abilities are very keen. This causes them to be inquisitive and climb over many items in the home; dishes, silverware, plates, countertops, and food containers. Unfortunately, feces and urine are tracked onto dishes and in food containers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns people to be aware that mice are carriers of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and multiple diseases. Simply breathing dust that is polluted with mouse droppings and urine, for example, can be enough for humans to contract lymphocytic choriomeningitis.
In addition to health issues, mice become a risk to the physical components of the home. Chewing is a habit that is second to none with the house mouse. They will chew through wooden baseboard, drywall, and insulation while building nests inside the walls of the home. Mice will also chew through the electrical wiring and drastically increase the potential of a house fire. They can also cause motors to short out or burn, all of which cause astronomical expense in repairs.
For assistance and guidance in making your home mouse proof, contact Thomas Pest Services. Begin with simple prevention techniques of eliminating food and water sources and sealing all points of entry. Thomas Pest Services offers a complete care program and quarterly services to control rodent infestations and protect your home and family from mice inflicted damages and diseases.