Where do Mice Hide and Live?
Because of their small size, mice are among the hardest rodents to find, catch, and exterminate. They have the ability to eat common building methods, including drywall, insulation, certain types of caulking, and even wiring. With this ability at their disposal, it is no wonder mice are able to hide and live in a number of places unseen by humans: Many times, it is possible for humans to find signs of infestation, such as droppings or destroyed food boxes, without actually seeing a mouse.
Where do mice live and hide inside the home? Mice can make their homes in just about any small, dark corner, including areas inside the walls. Common problem areas for mice include the areas around plumbing, especially if pipes were not properly insulated, behind cabinets, in cardboard boxes, or in piles of trash. If you are someone who leaves shoes, clothing, laundry, plastic bags, or blankets around the home and you suspect you have mice, shake out or move the item prior to use. While mice prefer to find dark corners to hide in, they will use anything as a bed if they have the chance.
Storage areas are also favorite places for mice to hide. They are drawn to boxes containing sheets, clothing, decorations, or any kind of paper, and may use the area to hide in. As a result, boxes of Christmas decorations or old yearbooks could be ruined by these rodents. Mice are smart enough to know cardboard is not food, but may use the material to make a nest, especially if they are about to give birth. To avoid providing this kind of hiding place, be sure your attic is well-sealed. You may also want to change your storage containers from cardboard boxes to plastic storage containers, sold at most major retailers. These containers will help to keep out not only rodents, but other types of pests, including bugs.
Garages and attics should also be properly sealed to prevent rodents from entering in the first place. While filling cracks with steel wool is a popular fix, it will only work temporarily. While mice do not like to chew through steel wool, they are able to. Consider consulting a professional for additional help with sealing your garage or attic.
The most difficult place that mice hide, however, is in the foundation or walls of a home. You may have mice in this area if you frequently find droppings in food cabinets or destroyed food, or if you hear mice at night. Any kind of scratching or scraping in the ceiling, walls, or under the floor boards may suggest the presence of mice. This same kind of activity could indicate an infestation of mice that could be damaging wiring or insulation.
Even knowing where mice are hiding can be difficult. If you suspect you have an infestation but cannot find the mice, consider obtaining a free quote from a local exterminator. Whether the mice are hiding in plain sight or deep within the foundation, a professional will be able to help you reverse the damage and have a home that is safe and mouse-free.