Why Mice Are an Issue in Flowery Branch, GA

1. Health Hazards: Like rats, mice are carriers of various diseases, including hantavirus, salmonella, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV). They can contaminate food and surfaces with their droppings, urine, and saliva, posing serious health risks to humans.

2. Property Damage: Mice have strong teeth that continuously grow, so they gnaw on various materials to keep them trimmed. This behavior can cause significant damage to structures, furniture, and electrical wiring, increasing the risk of fire hazards.

3. Food Contamination: Mice are opportunistic feeders and can infiltrate food storage areas, contaminating food supplies with their droppings and urine. This contamination can lead to foodborne illnesses and significant financial losses.

4. Rapid Reproduction: Mice reproduce quickly, with a single pair capable of producing up to 60 offspring in a year. This rapid reproduction can lead to a small mouse problem becoming a full-blown infestation in a short time.

5. Allergen Concerns: Mice shed fur, droppings, and urine, which can contribute to indoor allergens. This can trigger allergic reactions or worsen asthma symptoms, particularly in sensitive individuals.

Common Signs and Symptoms

1. Droppings: Mouse droppings are small, dark, and resemble grains of rice. They are usually found near food sources, in drawers, cupboards, and along baseboards. Fresh droppings are shiny and black, while older droppings are gray and crumbly.

2. Gnaw Marks: Mice need to gnaw continuously to keep their teeth sharp. Look for chew marks on food packaging, furniture, wires, and wooden structures. Fresh gnaw marks will appear lighter in color.

3. Nests: Mice build nests from shredded paper, fabric, insulation, and other soft materials. Nests are usually hidden in dark, secluded areas like attics, inside walls, or behind appliances.

4. Noises: Mice are nocturnal and often make scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds at night. These noises typically come from within walls, ceilings, or under floors.

5. Tracks and Smudge Marks: Mice often travel along the same routes, leaving behind dirty smudge marks from their fur along walls, baseboards, or other surfaces. You might also notice small footprints or tail marks in dusty areas.