What do mice look like?
Mice have grey-brown fur and a long pink tail. They are small in body size measuring only 2 inches, which means they can get through spaces of just a quarter of an inch. They have large ears with good hearing and small black eyes that see better in the dark than in the day.
How quickly do mice multiply?
A female mouse will live for a year, during which she will produce 10 litters of up to 12 pups. Mice start reproducing at two months.
Where do mice live?
Mice feed throughout the day and so always build their nests near food. Kitchens in the home or in offices are attractive propositions for mice, as are restaurants, supermarkets, food storage facilities and any other place where food litter might be found.
What are the signs of a mouse infestation?
- Droppings, these are small dark pellets which they scatter everywhere. A single mouse can produce between 50 to 75 droppings per day.
- Holes and teeth marks on food packaging, plastic bin bags, and skirting boards.
- If you see a mouse, then you can guarantee that it has a family and nest nearby.
- Check your toaster! Mice love the crumbs that collect in them. Tip your toaster out regularly to check for droppings.
- A musky, foul smell that you can’t get rid of? A male mouse will use its noxious-smelling urine to mark out its territory.
- Shredded paper or material. Mice use these shreds to make their beds.
- Scratching, scampering and shredding sounds, day or night, are the telltale sounds of a mouse infestation.
Does a mouse infestation need controlling?
Yes. Mice are unhygienic and pose a serious health risk. As they multiply so speedily, it is important that the infestation is addressed immediately. Here are specific reasons why:
- Mice carry life-threatening diseases including, Murine Typhus, Salmonella and Hantavirus.
- Mouse urine, which dries on dust, is inhaled by humans and causes asthma and allergies. This is particularly dangerous for small children.
- Once a mouse has entered your food store, it will defecate all over your food and contaminate it.
- Mice often chew through electricity cables and wires causing fire hazards and extensive damage.
- Mice carry fleas, ticks and mites.
- Mice are attracted to warmth and you can find their nests in sofas and mattresses as well as behind walls and under floorboards.
- Merlin specialise in commercial pest control. Get in touch today for help.
