How to Prevent Mice from Invading Your Home This Fall

As summer winds down and we get ready to welcome the cool relief of fall weather, critters are also starting to prepare for the change in seasons. The gradual decline in temperatures serves as a biological cue, signaling the shift from abundant summer pastures to leaner winter conditions. In response, animals employ a variety of strategies to ensure their survival. For instance, bears start to bulk up for their winter slumber, while some species of birds gear up to fly south. Some animals look to us as a resource – whether or not we’re on board with it.

Mice are a year-round pest and you can experience mouse trouble at any point. However, you may notice an uptick in activity in areas of your home when the calendar flips to fall. After spending the bulk of the summer breeding, they’ll look to nest indoors where they’ll get to enjoy easier access to food and warmth. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait until they move in to tackle the problem. Instead, schedule an appointment with Smash Pest Control and we’ll help you take the appropriate measures to protect your home from these rodent invaders. Call us today at 615-581-7473 or request an appointment online. 

Why Do Mice Come Indoors in the Fall?

The changing seasons have a big impact on the behavior and activities of house mice. During the warmer months of spring and summer, mice reach their reproductive peak, capitalizing on favorable conditions for breeding and food availability. As the chill of autumn approaches, mice often seek refuge indoors. The declining temperatures limit their access to natural food sources outside, forcing them to search for other consistent sources of sustenance. Buildings – like our homes and office buildings – become irresistible havens due to their cozy interiors and endless supply of food. 

Mice are nimble and surprisingly agile, so it doesn’t take too much for them to be able to slip into your home. Small cracks, crevices, and gaps are typically all they need to gain entry. Once inside, they can quickly establish nests and reproduce at an alarming rate. Before you know it, you could have a serious mouse infestation on your hands in a relatively short span of time. 

What Are the Signs of a Mouse Infestation?

Mice can be sneaky and often hide in plain sight. Here are some common indicators that you may have a mouse problem:

• You see droppings. Look for small, dark pellets that are similar in size to grains of rice. They may be more present near food sources or along baseboards. These droppings can be a strong sign of a mouse infestation, especially if they are found in multiple areas of your home.
• Look for gnaw marks. Mice have strong teeth and leave behind chew marks on food packaging, wood, and other materials. These marks can be an early precursor of damage to your property.
• You hear new noises. Listen for scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night. These noises can be attributed to mice being present in the walls, ceilings, or under your floors.
• Food in odd spots. Mice often stash food in unusual places, such as inside cabinets, drawers, or appliances. If you find small piles of food items in unexpected locations, it could be a red flag.
• Unpleasant odors. A strong, musky smell can point to a mouse infestation, particularly if it’s coming from a specific area of your home. This odor is often caused by the buildup of mouse urine and feces.
• You see mice. Seeing a live or dead mouse is the most obvious sign of a growing issue. It’s possible to see a stray mouse occasionally but if you are seeing multiple mice or if they are appearing regularly, you likely have a larger infestation that needs to be addressed.