A Mouse in the House? How to Know if You Don’t See Them

Sometimes you see them, sometimes you don’t. But, you are pretty confident that mice have taken up residence in your home or office.
What are the signs, and how do you know for sure?

• Smell: Mice use their urine to communicate with each other, mark their territory, and to attract mates. If you have a large mouse population in your home, the smell may eventually become noticeable. Dead rodents also have a distinctive odor that a pest professional will be able to immediately identify. The smell may even be coming from the attic or behind the walls.
• Noises: You may hear noises, especially at night when it is quiet. Mice are nocturnal and tend to become active once it gets dark, scampering in the attic, in your walls or along the floor in your kitchen. The noises may be movement, gnawing or squeaking. Take note of when and where you hear them. It will help later.
• Pellets: Homeowners often see evidence of a mouse infestation but don’t always know what it means. A few small droppings in back of your kitchen draws or cabinets can mean a big problem. If you notice pellets around, don’t just assume that they are old.
• Chewed up items: Finally, rodents chew things. Their teeth never stop growing so it’s their way of keeping them in check. Chewed wires, shaving or debris may be an indication that you have a mouse problem. And, if the problem goes unchecked, you may eventually have a fire hazard.

If you think you could have mice, you’re not alone. Call Alexandria Pest Services at 703-923-0925 to schedule a professional evaluation. We can help you get rid of the furry invaders in your home or office!