House Mouse

Mus musculus

Small gray rodent that invades homes seeking food, water, and shelter.

Rodent High Risk

About House Mouse

House mice are the most common rodent pest in homes and buildings. Adults are small (2.5-3.5 inches body length) with gray or brown fur, large ears, pointed nose, and a long, nearly hairless tail. They're excellent climbers, jumpers, and swimmers. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as 1/4 inch. They nest in hidden areas using soft materials and typically have 5-10 young per litter, up to 8 litters per year. Mice are curious and explore their territory nightly. They contaminate 10 times more food than they eat through urine, droppings, and gnawing.

Identification

Small (2.5-3.5 inches body, 3-4 inches tail). Light brown to gray fur. Large ears relative to head. Pointed nose. Small, dark eyes. Long, thin, nearly hairless tail. Weighs about 1/2 ounce.

Signs of Infestation

Mouse droppings (1/4 inch, dark, rice-shaped). Gnaw marks on food packages or baseboards. Scratching sounds in walls at night. Nests made of shredded material. Grease marks along walls. Mouse sightings, especially at night. Musky odor. Tracks or runways in dusty areas.

Health & Safety Risks

Mice spread over 35 diseases through droppings, urine, saliva, and nesting materials. Hantavirus, Salmonella, and plague are serious concerns. They contaminate food and trigger allergies. Gnawing on wires causes fire hazards. Damage insulation and stored items.

Prevention Tips

Seal holes and cracks larger than 1/4 inch. Store food in sealed containers. Keep areas clean and clutter-free. Fix water leaks. Keep garbage in sealed containers. Trim vegetation away from building. Install door sweeps. Remove food sources.

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