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Mice may be small, but they can create big problems when they invade your home. From structural damage to health hazards, a mouse infestation is something no homeowner wants to deal with. The tricky part? These pests are experts at hiding. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs early before a minor issue turns into a major problem.
1. Droppings in Hidden Areas
One of the most common—and unpleasant—signs of a mouse infestation is the presence of droppings. Mouse droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped, usually about a quarter inch long. You’ll typically find them in areas where mice are active: behind appliances, inside cabinets, in pantries, or along baseboards.
Fresh droppings are dark and moist, while older ones appear dry and brittle. The presence of both may indicate an ongoing infestation.
2. Scratching and Scurrying Noises
Mice are nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night. If you hear scratching, squeaking, or scurrying sounds—especially in the walls, ceiling, or under the floorboards—it could be a sign that mice are moving through your home.
These sounds often become more noticeable at night when your home is quiet and the mice are out searching for food.
3. Chewed Wires, Packaging, and Furniture
Mice have a constant need to gnaw in order to keep their teeth from overgrowing. This habit can lead to damage in several areas of your home. Look for:
Chewed electrical wires (a serious fire hazard)
Torn food packaging
Bite marks on furniture, walls, or baseboards
You may also find shredded materials like paper or insulation—used by mice to build their nests.
4. Foul or Musky Odors
A persistent, unpleasant odor can also indicate a mouse infestation. The scent comes from their urine and nesting areas and often lingers even after the mice have left. In enclosed areas, like cabinets or crawl spaces, the smell can become especially strong.
Pets often notice these smells before humans do—if your cat or dog is sniffing obsessively at certain spots, it's worth investigating further.
5. Tracks and Smudge Marks
Mice often travel the same paths each night, leaving behind greasy smudge marks from their fur along walls and baseboards. You might also notice faint footprints or tail marks in dusty areas such as attics or garages.
A good way to test for activity is to sprinkle flour or baby powder in suspected areas overnight and check for tracks the next morning.
6. Nesting Materials and Entry Points
Mice create nests in quiet, undisturbed areas using shredded paper, fabric, insulation, and other soft materials. Check behind appliances, inside wall voids, or in attic corners for signs of nesting.
Also inspect your home for tiny holes or cracks around the foundation, doors, windows, and roofline. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime.
Stop Sharing Your Space with Mice
If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s time to act quickly. Mice reproduce rapidly, and a small problem can turn into a serious infestation in a matter of weeks.
Contact High Country Pest Control at (719) 294-0279 today for professional rodent inspection and removal services. Our expert technicians will help you reclaim your home—safely, effectively, and without the stress.