MICE
House mice sport a sleek brown or grey coat, with a lighter underside, while deer mice flaunt a similar hue but with white bellies and tail tips. Both types have oversized ears that make them look quite adorable, and they typically measure between 150mm and 170mm in length. The house mouse’s tail is impressively long, often twice the length of its body, whereas the deer mouse’s tail is shorter, making up less than half its body length. Plus, deer mice have charming white feet, unlike the pinkish-buff feet of their house counterparts.
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Habitat, Diet, and Lifecycle
Habitat: Mice are masters of concealment, preferring to hide in dense vegetation outdoors or cozy up in human structures like homes, businesses, and sheds. They thrive in environments that offer food, water, and warmth, especially as winter approaches.
Diet: These little omnivores munch on everything from insects and fruits to human leftovers. They can nibble through just about anything, including books and aluminum cans, and can feast up to 30 times a day!
Lifecycle: Mice are prolific breeders, giving birth to litters of five to six after a quick 20-day gestation. They can produce up to a dozen litters a year, with females reaching maturity in just a month. Indoors, they can breed year-round, making a mouse invasion a rapidly escalating issue.
Why Do I Have Mice?
The two most common culprits in Canada are deer mice and house mice. They invade homes seeking food, water, and warmth, especially as temperatures drop. They love to nest in dark corners like attics and garages, raiding pantries for tasty treats. House mice are particularly fond of grains and scraps, while deer mice prefer insects and seeds.
How Worried Should I Be About Mice?
Mice can be more than just a nuisance. Their droppings and urine can contaminate surfaces, and deer mice can carry Hantavirus, a serious respiratory disease. House mice can spread illnesses like salmonellosis and bring along parasites like fleas. They also have a knack for chewing through wires, which can lead to costly repairs and even fire hazards.
How Can I Prevent Mice from Invading?
To keep these pesky intruders at bay, check for chew marks on wiring, look for droppings, and maintain a clean kitchen. Seal any cracks, fix leaks, and ensure trash is tightly covered. Regularly trim back vegetation near your home and install weather strips around doors and windows.
Do Mice Hibernate?
Mice don’t hibernate; instead, they seek shelter in nests to escape the cold. Your home provides the perfect cozy retreat, complete with food and warmth.
What’s the Difference Between a Deer Mouse and a House Mouse?
Deer mice have a distinctive brown or grey coat with a white underbelly and feet, and their tails are about the same length as their bodies. They also have larger eyes and ears compared to house mice, which are generally grey with some brown shading and have longer, semi-naked tails.
For effective pest control and to keep your home mouse-free, consider professional services. Don’t let these little invaders take over your space!
