House Mice in Cleveland
The house mouse is prevalent throughout the United States and is considered the top rodent pest in most urban areas. These mice are commensal, meaning they live closely with humans, relying on human habitats for food and shelter. They thrive year-round and are commonly found in homes, commercial buildings, open fields, and agricultural areas. As they forage, house mice contaminate human and pet food with feces and urine. Additionally, they cause significant structural damage by gnawing through walls and spreading diseases such as salmonella, a type of food poisoning.
House Mouse Habitat
Outside, house mice create nests in fields and under trees or shrubs. Inside, they build nests in quiet, undisturbed areas such as wall voids, kitchen cabinets, attics, and garages. Areas where mice are active can be identified by droppings, fresh gnaw marks, and tracks. Their nests, usually crafted from finely shredded paper or fibrous material, are often found in voids and other protected places. House mice emit a characteristic musky odor that indicates their presence. Mice are active mostly at night but can be seen occasionally during daylight hours.
House Mouse Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
House mice transmit pathogens, such as those causing salmonella, through their droppings and urine, leading to foodborne illnesses in humans and pets. They can cause damage to walls, electrical wiring, and insulation through their constant gnawing, posing the risk of fires and necessitating costly repairs. Furthermore, their presence can exacerbate allergies and asthma due to the allergens in their droppings and urine. The combination of health risks, property damage, and contamination makes house mice a serious pest concern.
If you have a house mouse infestation in your Cleveland property, always contact a licensed rodent control company.
