Local Philadelphia residents started seeing more rodents in the early rise of the pandemic as more people were working from their homes and less food waste was being generated by restaurants. Unfortunately, according to 2019 Census Bureau housing data released this year, the Philadelphia metropolitan area took the undesirable distinction among the 15 most populated areas as having the highest percentage of residents who spotted rodents in their homes during the last 12 months even prior to the pandemic. Rodent sightings are more common in homes in the Northeast. Those more likely to report pests are people who live within half a block of trash or abandoned buildings. Also, according to the Census Bureau, people with lower incomes and who live in homes with structural defects and water leaks are more vulnerable. The biggest issue with rats and mice is that they can spread diseases to humans. The destruction they can do on your home can also be extensive as well. Though rats are equally a problem, at this time, we at Stewart Termite & Pest Control would like to discuss the mice issue in Philadelphia.
How to Keep Mice Away
Before you dive into mouse control, prevention is the best way to keep away pests. The basics include in keeping food sealed and stored, dispose of garbage often and securely, maintaining a clutter-free environment, and regularly clean your home. Make sure to inspect your home for cracks and rot frequently and repair any found issues as soon as possible. Deer mice are the most common mice found in Philly.
How to Identify a Deer Mouse
Deer mouse are usually a gray to reddish-brown back coloring and feature white underbellies. These mice have white feet and a long tail in addition to the underbellies. They have a pointy nose and large, very distinct black eyes, large ears and the fur is sparse. Deer mice average between 4 to 8 inches long and weighing less than one ounce. Their bodies are long and sleek with hind limbs that are shorter than the forelimbs.
What Does a Deer Mouse Eat?
Seeds are a favorite among deer mice. By consuming all of the seeds that are naturally dropped by trees and plants where larger populations of this rodent, they are known to have prevented forests from re-seeding. In addition to eating pet food bird feeder food, and any of your scraps, they will eat other things like insects as well.
What is a Deer Mice Habitat?
Deer mice can survive virtually anywhere from the mountains to the desert and they are highly adaptable prefer prairies, pastures and meadows. Unless those areas are found close to parks, crops or natural spaces because the deer mouse prefers these wilder areas, it is not common to see it in residential or commercial areas. When the deer mouse finds a place to live, deer mice construct a nest that is shaped like a cup. Nest materials include feathers, fur and shredded plant fibers in the wild. They often use paper, upholstery and furniture stuffing indoors.
Why is a Deer Mouse Infestation?
Because they also have an appetite for flowers, fruits and vegetables, they are a plague to forests, agricultural areas, and residential gardeners due to their voracious appetite for seeds. all sorts of gardens are not safe from an infestation. The real risk presented by these rodents is to human health though they are nuisance for farmers and gardeners. When they enter a space that is occupied by deer mice people may be exposed to a deadly disease as they are known carriers of the hantavirus. It is vital these rodents are eliminated when they intrude into human homes and businesses.
Rodent Control
Whether you have mice or rats, call Stewart Termite & Pest Control and let our professionals assist you today!