Hydrex Pest Control - The Deer Mouse

The Deer Mouse

The deer mouse is common in rural areas, and occasionally found in suburban settings near rustic settings. Recently they have become a concern because they are carriers of hantavirus, which can be spread to humans. They are also a host for ticks that carry Lyme disease. They live both indoors and out, with cold weather causing them to come indoors more often. Deer mice are around 6" long, with half of the length being the tail. They are colored gray to brown on the top half of their body and tail, with a white underside. Nests are in the ground, in stumps, or sheltered areas outside. When they move inside, nests can be in boxes, furniture, or in house voids. Whether their nests are inside or out, they will be lined with whatever soft materials are available. Sometimes shredded items are evidence of this mouse scavenging for nesting material. Droppings are present in the nest, and urine close by. This practice causes deer mice to make new nests when the old ones are too soiled. Like other mice, they can climb very well and get into all sorts of areas. They can contaminate food, and destroy property by nesting. Things in your home, or even electrical wires can be chewed on. Being desirable prey, they are nocturnal and secretive. Some things they eat include nuts, seeds, fruits, or insects. These foods are placed in caches in various places for later consumption.

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