It is estimated there are 20 billion mice in the world, although no one knows the exact figure. For the most part, these mice go about their business and stay out of the way of humans. However, that doesn’t mean they are not present in your home or a possible threat. You only have to look at the current mouse issue in Australia to see how dangerous mice can be.
In general, mice don’t bite humans. But, they are known to carry an array of diseases that can be passed on when one touches their urine or feces. Unfortunately, you won’t always realize you have done this. It is important to realize that mice live in colonies, so if you see one in your house there is a good chance there are plenty more. In fact, seeing one mouse is a good enough reason to call the exterminators and get the problem dealt with.
A pest control company will assist you with a mouse infestation in your home. They have the expertise and the tools to locate the mice and get rid of them. At the same time, they will help you to take measures to prevent them from returning. This is just as important as eradicating the issue. Don’t forget mice are very good at gnawing almost anything, including electrical wires. A colony in your house will increase the risk of electric shocks and even electrical fires. Lets take a look at some precautionary measures one can take......
Traps
Your chosen professional will handle the mice for you but there is no harm in placing traps and bait stations. The traps need a small amount of bait, this encourages the mouse into the trap which closes and contains them. You can opt to be humane and not kill the mice but rather re-home them, but you will need to make sure you release them a long way from your home, otherwise, they will simply come back.
Bait Stations
Bait stations consist of poisoned bait. The mice will think it is food and take it back to their colony. In theory, you can poisen more than one mouse with each piece of bait but it depends if they share or not.
Cats
Cats and even dogs are known to be good at hunting mice and killing them. If you don’t have a cat but you do have a mouse problem it is a good idea to get one! They can also help you to identify a mouse issue.
Precautionary Measures
With professional help, you can eliminate the mice in your house surprisingly quickly. The professionals may use a pesticide to help with this, so be sure to evacuate the house for the necessary toxic period, and be informed about what chemicals the professional is using.
After all this effort, you need to keep the mice from coming back. That means blocking all potential entry points around your home. Remember, mice can get through very small gaps, so seal every crack you find. Additionally be sure to adopt good sanitary habits. That means wiping down surfaces, storing open food in containers, and generally making sure there is no food debris for a mouse to enjoy. If there is nothing to attract them to your home they will go elsewhere.