Common types of mice

Mice are nocturnal creatures and are rarely seen by homeowners. This can make the job of identification quite difficult. They often forage for food at night or during dusk, when most of the other residents of the house are asleep. Even if homeowners do catch a sight of their mouse invader, it may only be for a split second and not enough to identify the species.

Luckily, Ehrlich’s rodent experts however have the expertise and know-how to help with identification, which will help to establish the right control method for your home or business and your particular mouse species.

Need help identifying which species of mouse is in your house? Call Ehrlich at 800-837-5520.

There are some species of mouse which are more commonly found in homes than others. There are certain characteristics you can look for, to help to identify the mice in your property. Alternatively, you may wish to learn more about the common signs of mice, which can also help to confirm if you do actually have a problem.

There are many different types of mice present in the U.S. The top 3 species considered to be a major pest in this country are the House Mouse, Field Mouse and White-Footed Mouse.

House Mouse

(Mus musculus)

House mice are active all year round, which means you could find them invading your home or business at any time.

Deer Mouse

(Peromyscus maniculatus)

Deer mice, or field mice, are pests that prefer to live in wooded areas. They will, however, venture into homes, sheds, and outbuildings during in the winter months to seek warmth. They can be destructive to wood structures as well as carrying with them a number of potential health concerns, particularly hantavirus. This disease is often transmitted through contact with mouse carcasses, or by breathing in air-borne urine droplets from infected deer mice.

Deer mice are nocturnal and spend their days in cup-shaped nests made of stems, leaves, and fibrous materials. Nests are lined with feathers or shredded cloth and can be found in tree hollows, fence posts, abandoned squirrel and bird nests, and the underside of logs and rocks. In homes, deer mice construct nests in low activity areas such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Deer mice do not hibernate and may invade homes during winter months seeking shelter in storage boxes, wall voids, and upholstered furniture.

White-Footed Mouse

(Peromyscus leucopus)

The White-footed Mouse can be found in the eastern U.S. from mid-Maine south to North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama; west to Montana, Colorado, and Arizona.

Dealing with mice infestations

Mice can create serious problems. Ehrlich is an expert in mouse control and provides effective solutions for getting rid of these rodents from your home or business.

Control methods may involve trapping or bait stations. Our specialists are well-trained and will make sure the appropriate method is used to eliminate the infestation.