Winter is here in full force! According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, we’re in for a cold one. Kansas residents are supposed to expect a long, cold winter this year. Unfortunately, we humans aren’t the only mammals who prefer to spend the season indoors. As the temperature turns colder, mice are on the lookout for shelter and warmth.
Here at Green Pest Solutions, we want to make sure you have everything you need to identify and treat for mice this season.
Identification
Unlike many mammals such as squirrels, chipmunks, and bats who hibernate in the winter, mice remain active all season. Mice wander their way onto your property for many reasons. Most commonly in search of food, water, and shelter. They have the remarkable ability to fit into any small crevices or holes you have around your house. They commonly find entrance through things like cracks in garage doors, utility access points, holes in siding, and on roofing.
Common signs of mouse activity include:
- Droppings 1/8”-1/4” long
- Gnaw marks. Mice chew on everything to keep teeth filed down.
- Holes chewed in stored food items
- Tracks/footprints (4-toed front foot in front of 5-toed back foot)
- Burrows in soft materials such as insulation
- Runways (mice use the same travel paths that will be clear of dust and cobwebs, with fresh droppings)
Treatment
How can you treat for mice?
One very simple way to prevent mice is to block any exterior holes around your home. Using materials such as steel wool sealed with caulking, quickcrete, or foam to block holes will keep mice from being able to gnaw through those spaces. Another way to protect from mice is to set traps or bait in and around places mice are most likely to enter. Setting traps and bait in places like the garage, attic, pantry, and around the exterior can be a highly effective way to get rid of mice.
We are here to help answer any treatment questions you have in any season! You can learn more about our pest control services and get in touch with us here.
