Texas is home to many forms of wildlife that often encroaches on our homes and businesses. One particular little pest is the Deer Mouse. They are often found scurrying around woodland areas or farms and often, they find their way into our home or business. Although not a common invader, a deer mouse does pose a serious threat to human health. Deer mice are known for carrying Hantavirus which is life-threatening to humans. A-Tex Pest Management will share how to identify deer mice and how to prevent and control them from invading your home.
Deer Mice Identification
Deer mice received their name because of the short light brown fur and white underbelly which is similar to deer coloring. Deer mice also have big eyes and ears which is another common trait that deer have. Deer mice are between 5 to 8 inches long including their tails. Deer mice become most active during the dawn or dusk hours where they feed on insects, fruits, berries, nuts or seeds.
Deer Mice Damage & Hantavirus Disease
Deer mice prefer rural areas. However, they do like to nest in tight areas that can provide shelter from predators. It isn’t completely uncommon for them to use sheds, homes, or barns for nesting grounds. One of the biggest problems, when deer mice invade human domains, is the deadly viruses they carry. Hantavirus is passed to humans through the nests, urine, and feces of deer mice. If a person comes in contact with or breathes in particles of the Hantavirus, the result can prove life-threatening. Once deer mice invade, it is important to control and safely and properly clean the infected area.
Deer Mice Habitat; Where Do They Live?
Deer mice like to live in wood or piles of debris or in holes found in trees, fencing, and in between rocks. When they invade a home, they can be found nesting in walls, attic spaces, and even gutter systems. Some have even found deer mice in fabric upholstery, drawers and in storage areas. Because of the potential threat deer mice pose it is important to take the time to make sure your home is secure from rodents.
Rodent Proofing Your Home for Deer Mice
Securing your home means to prevent them from entering which is a difficult task. Mice can fit through a gap the size of a pencil, which means you must look for the smallest of cracks. When sealing up holes or gaps found around your home, use a cement mix over caulking glue when possible. Mice can eventually chew through caulking glue where cement mix is a solid material. Additionally, use metal netting or mesh material to cover chimneys and vents. It helps to keep deer mice from intruding into your home if you keep the property around the home clear of debris. Overgrown plants should be kept trimmed and gutters should also be kept clean and cleared out regularly.
How to Clean Mouse Droppings
Pest control is essential when deer mice are found in your home. It is important to clean and sanitize the area when deer mice are found. Make sure to first use bleach when it comes to deer mice clean up. In so doing, always wear masks and proper protective clothing. Never sweep up deer mice feces. Before removing mice feces, nests, or urine spots, bleach the area first. After the bleach has had time to absorb and dry, vacuum up the particles. Finally, mop or wipe the area clean with bleach.
Mice Rodent Inspections, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
A-Tex Pest Management offers pest control for deer mice. Additionally, we help prevent deer mice or other wildlife with our exclusion services where we can come and help protect your home from wildlife invasion. Contact A-Tex Pest Management for all your pest control needs.