5 Things That Are Attracting A Mice Invasion
Mice are one of the most challenging house pests to deal with as they can reproduce quickly and tend to hide in impossible-to-reach areas. The best course of action is to never attract them in the first place. If you do have mice, an exterminator combined with the removal of mice attractants can solve the issue.
1. Foundation Cracks
Mice begin to seek out warmth as winter approaches, and your home can provide just the shelter they are looking for. Small cracks anywhere near the ground level can provide easy access to a mouse, an animal that can sometimes fit through spaces that are smaller than the width of your pinkie finger. Cracks in concrete foundation or between foundations and siding must be sealed, as should any openings in crawlspace venting or around basement windows.
2. Perimeter Debris
Don't let debris pile up against the walls of your home. Rake up leaves and cut back plants so that nothing that could provide shelter to a mouse is right against the house. Wood piles should be set some distance from walls, and even porch and outdoor items should be stored in locations that don't have them resting right against the foundation.
3. Kitchen Crumbs
Food, like warmth, is one of the basics that will attract a mouse into your home. You may think there is no food out to tempt the pests, but even a clean house can have some hidden crumbs. Likely areas are in those seldom cleaned areas beneath appliances, such as behind the stove or underneath the refrigerator. If you have seen any signs of mice, then moving everything and cleaning thoroughly is a must.
4. Pantry Issues
Proper food storage is a must if you don't want mice ruining everything. Don't store things in their cardboard or thin plastic store packaging. All items must be kept in heavy-duty plastic or glass containers with tight lids. Mice can chew through thinner plastic, including plastic bags. Wipe down pantry shelves often, as well, so that crumbs and residue don't attract pests.
5. Pet Stations
Your pet's food and water bowl may be inadvertently feeding unwanted mice as well. If possible, use elevated dishes that are harder for a mouse to reach. Keep feeding stations clean and put away the pet food in a mouse-proof container between meals. Wildlife feeding stations, such as bird feeders, may also attract mice, so don't hang these too close to the home.
Contact a mice control service if you suspect the rodents have invaded your home.