When you see a mouse scurry across your kitchen counter or backyard patio, the last thing you probably wonder is what type of mouse it is. At that point, you just know you want it gone! However, identifying the type of mouse you have can make a difference when it comes to rodent control.
Here we take a closer look at the deer mouse and the house mouse and what makes them different. Being able to identify which mouse you have can help you better understand their behavior and how to eliminate the pest problem best.
Key takeaways
- Identifying the type of mouse you have can help with effective rodent control.
- Deer mice are primarily nocturnal, reproduce rapidly, and are good climbers and jumpers.
- House mice are social, adaptable to various environments, and can cause damage to structures and food supplies.
- Prevention and control strategies include sealing entry points, storing food securely, decluttering spaces, and considering professional rodent control services.
What is a deer mouse?
A deer mouse, also known as Peromyscus maniculatus, is a small rodent species found in North America. Deer mice are commonly found in diverse habitats such as forests, grasslands, and brushy areas. However, they are adaptable and can thrive just as well in suburban and rural areas. Deer mice are primarily nocturnal and omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant matter and insects. Their diet includes seeds, nuts, fruits, berries, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates.
These mice are known for their ability to reproduce rapidly. They have a relatively short gestation period of around 23 days and can have multiple litters per year, meaning if you see one, there are likely to be many more.
What is a house mouse?
A house mouse, scientifically known as Mus musculus, is a small rodent species that is closely associated with human habitation. It is one of the most common and widespread rodents worldwide. These mice have a remarkable ability to adapt to various environments and can be found in urban, suburban, and rural areas worldwide. They are considered commensal rodents, meaning they have a close association with humans and benefit from the resources and shelter provided by human structures.
House mice reproduce rapidly, with a short gestation period of about 19 to 21 days. A female can give birth to 5 to 10 liters per year, each with an average of 5 to 6 young.
How to differentiate deer mouse and house mouse
Differentiating between a deer mouse and a house mouse can be challenging as they share some physical similarities. However, there are a few key characteristics that can help distinguish between the two species.
Physical appearance
Deer mice have a relatively slender body with a length of around 5 to 7 inches, excluding the tail. The tail can add an additional 2.5 to 4 inches (6.5 to 10 cm) to their overall length. They have large, black eyes and large, prominent ears. Their fur is soft and dense. The deer mouse is named for its coloration, which resembles that of a deer, with a brownish-gray or reddish-brown back and white underparts.
House mice have a compact and slender body, typically measuring around 2.5 to 4 inches in length, excluding the tail. The tail adds an additional 2.5 to 4 inches. They have large, rounded ears and small, black, and protruding eyes. The fur color can vary but is often gray or light brown, with a lighter underbelly.
Habitat
Deer mice are commonly found in diverse habitats such as forests, grasslands, and brushy areas throughout North America, from Canada to Mexico. Deer mice construct nests in concealed areas such as tree hollows, burrows, or underground tunnels.
House mice are named for their close association with human dwellings. They commonly inhabit homes, apartments, offices, warehouses, and other structures. Within these buildings, they can establish nests in wall voids, attics, basements, crawl spaces, and hidden areas such as behind cabinets and appliances.
Behavior
Deer mice are known for their agility and excellent climbing and jumping abilities. As nocturnal animals, they are most active at night. Deer mice have territorial tendencies and mark their territories with urine and scent secretions. Males are generally more aggressive and may defend their territories against other males. Deer mice are adept climbers and jumpers, thanks to their strong hind limbs and long tails. They can navigate trees, shrubs, and other vegetation with agility, using their climbing skills to access food sources and escape potential predators.
In terms of behavior, house mice are highly social creatures. They typically live in small family groups consisting of a dominant male, several females, and their offspring. House mice are omnivorous, with a diet that includes a wide range of food sources. They feed on grains, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and various human food items. They are known to be voracious eaters and can contaminate stored food supplies.
Potential risks
Deer mice are carriers of hantavirus, a potentially dangerous virus that can be transmitted to humans through contact with their urine, droppings, or saliva. It’s important to exercise caution and proper hygiene when dealing with deer mice or their habitat to minimize the risk of exposure to Hantavirus.
House mice can cause damage by gnawing on structures, chewing through electrical wires, and contaminating food supplies with their droppings and urine. They can carry salmonellosis and leptospirosis, posing a possible health risk.
Control and Prevention
Controlling and preventing deer mice and house mice infestations involves a combination of measures to eliminate existing populations and prevent future invasions. Here are some effective strategies for control and prevention:
- Seal all potential entry points
- Install door sweeps and weatherstripping
Store food in secure containers - Declutter spaces in your home where mice may nest
- Keep garbage in sealed containers away from home
- Trim landscaping away from home
- Set kill or no-kill traps
- Apply rodenticides
- Consider professional rodent control
Keeping your home mouse-free
Whether you have deer mice moving in or a house mouse outsmarting your tom cat, as a homeowner, your goal is to eliminate these pests and keep you and your family safe from potential health risks. Knowing which mouse you have can be important when working to keep them out of your home. Eliminating a mouse problem right away is essential in order to avoid a widespread infestation. If you believe you have a serious mouse problem, it may be time to call in the professionals.
When you need to eliminate a mouse problem
At Arrest A Pest, our professionals understand mouse behavior and are here to help. Our expert technicians will provide a thorough inspection, identifying the mouse species, how they are getting in, and where they are nesting. They are then able to create a personalized treatment plan to eliminate the mice as well as prevent their return. To learn more, schedule an appointment today.
