Do you think you hear mice scurrying around in your walls? Or have you had this problem in years past? If you’ve dealt with mice before, you surely know that a mouse infestation is no quick fix. Mice, along with other rodent species living in Illinois & Indiana, have a special ability to reproduce at blazing rates. This means that mouse populations grow exponentially and become more difficult to control with each passing day. Looking to learn more about how mice proliferate and what you can do to stop them? Read on for advice from the Anderson Pest Solutions technicians!
How Fast Do Mice Reproduce?
Mice reproduce at rates that far exceed many other animal species’. Here are some facts about mouse reproduction from our technicians:
- Female mice can have up to 10 litters a year, with up to 14 pups in each. On average, a mother produces 40-50 pups per year.
- Mothers are ready to mate again right after giving birth and have a 25 day gestation period, which means that litters can come within a month of each other.
- Mice reach sexual maturity within 4-6 weeks of being born
It is clear from these numbers that if mice find their way into your home in the late fall months, your home could be overflowing with mice by spring.
How Can I Keep Mice from Breeding in my Home?
Of course, the best way to avoid dealing with mice in your home this winter is to ensure that they can’t find their way in. However, we understand that mice are cunning creatures with the ability to sneak in through gaps that we can’t find. We have advice for those trying to be preventative and those with ongoing problems:
- Preventing mice: Look around your home for small gaps in the foundation, walls, plumbing fixtures, roofing, and anywhere else there is access to your home’s interior. You should also seal and distance your garbage cans, keep your lawn cut short, and get rid of yard waste to prevent outdoor hiding places that could lead to indoor visits.
- Getting rid of mice: When diluted with water, apple cider vinegar and peppermint oil can both drive mice out of your home. We’ve heard of people having success spreading kitty litter and fabric softeners, but we recommend that you use these as supplemental, targeted tactics. If your infestation is large enough to necessitate traps, talk to your local rodent exterminators about the best choices for your home.
Professional Help for Mice Extermination in Illinois & Indiana
If your mouse control or removal strategies are falling short of facing your problem, talk to your local pest control company. At Anderson Pest Solutions, we always prioritize the most humane, eco-conscious, and effective solutions to keep our customers’ homes mouse-free for good. For a free quote or to ask any questions about DIY mouse control, contact us today!
