House Mice

Order: Rodentia
Family: Muridae
Scientific Name: Mus musculus
Color: Light brown to black
Legs: Four
Shape: Round
Size: 3"
Antennae: No
Flight: No

The house mouse is the most common and economically important commensal rodent pest in most parts of the world. It can breed rapidly and adapt quickly to changing conditions. They damage, contaminate and eat foodstuffs.

Habits
House mice can breed throughout the year and can share nests. They receive most of their moisture from the food they eat. Seeds are their preferred food but mice will eat a wide variety of food.

Habitat
House mice live in structures, but they can live outdoors. Their preferred nesting sites are in dark secluded areas.

Threats
Micro droplets of mouse urine can cause allergies in children. Mice can also bring fleas, mites, ticks and lice into your home.

Control
To keep mice and other rodents out, make sure all holes of larger diameter than a pencil are sealed. Mice can squeeze through spaces as small as a nickel(1/4"). Seal any cracks and voids. Don't overlook proper drainage at the foundation and always install gutters or diverts which will channel water away from the building.

(Source: National Pest Management Association, et. al.)