Why are mice considered pests?

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Why are mice considered pests?

Mice have a rather paradoxical reputation; though they are cute and can make affectionate pets, they are also often deemed vermin on account of their worrying abilities to destroy property and crops and spread disease. Here is a closer look at why you need to watch out for mice on your estate.

Examples of pest mice species

Mice are small rodents who, thanks largely to popular culture, are quickly recognisable from their pointed snout, small rounded ears and body-length tail. In the UK, many species of mice exist, though only a few – those posing a threat to homes and businesses – are classified as pests.

Of the pest species, the most common include the field mouse, which tends to target trees’ seed crops rather than anything in inhabited buildings; the house mouse, which looks for cereals in homes and commercial properties; and the yellow-necked field mouse, which chews through electrical wiring.

What damage can mice cause?

Mice have a compulsive need to gnaw their teeth to maintain them at a constant length. Consequently, mice can cause significant damage to woodwork, packaging, water and gas pipes and other physical aspects of your property, whether it is a home or corporate premises.

How can mice adversely affect human health?

Mice urinate where they wish to mark their territory – and it is through their urine, droppings and bedding that mice can spread diseases like Salmonella and Listeria to humans.

Mice eat sporadically, and so build their nests close to food sources. These rodents can also take dirt and bacteria with them as they scurry over counter tops, cabinets and other places where you may keep or prepare food. Therefore, a mouse infestation in your property would put you at risk of food poisoning.

Warning signs of a mouse infestation

You could detect the presence of mice from the sight of mice droppings, especially beneath the kitchen sink and in roof spaces; nests, such as in lofts and airing cupboards; and gnaw marks on materials like wood, paper and carpets.

If you fear that your Essex, Norfolk or Suffolk estate may be infested with mice, call us on 07535 979866 and we will investigate the situation for you.