Mice are an important species in our environment and a vital part of the food chain. They’re a food source for many other animals, help disperse seeds while foraging, and aerate the soil when outdoors in their natural habitat.
However, during mouse season, they seek shelter indoors and infiltrate our homes in search of food and warmth.
So, what time of year do mice come inside?
The extermination pros at Precise Termite & Pest Control answer this question to help you survive mice season without risking your home and health.
When is Mouse Season?
Here in New Jersey and elsewhere in our region, mouse season is typically considered to be during the fall and winter months. Due to the changing weather patterns, September to November is prime time for mice to start seeking shelter inside and invade homes, businesses, and other warm structures.
The winter months of December through February are the peak infestation period because mice are already inside homes and have found their comfortable new residences behind appliances and inside walls, attics, and basements. In the spring, mice begin to move back outside when temperatures rise and food becomes more readily available.
Reasons for Mice Season
In the fall, mice look for indoor habitats because they are warmer and more likely to have consistent food supplies. Mice are nocturnal animals that generally prefer warm environments.
Their primary food sources, insects and seeds, are less abundant outdoors during this time. Therefore, they gravitate towards human food left out as crumbs or in unsecured containers.
Signs That It’s Mouse Season
You’ll know it’s mouse season when you start hearing scratching and scurrying sounds inside your walls or ceiling, especially at night. You might also notice small fecal droppings near entry points and along baseboards in your home.
During mouse season, nests made from insulation and shredded paper may be found around your home. Chewed wires and gnawed packaging are also signs that mice have entered.
Preventing Pests during Mice Season
Before mice season hits, it is essential to seal up any potential entry points, such as window cracks and gaps around pipes and vents. Ensure all food is stored in tightly sealed containers, and don’t leave pet food out overnight.
It may also help to trim back your trees and bushes so they don’t provide easy access for mice to enter your home. Keeping attics, basements, and closet areas tidy can also help prevent mice from moving into dark and cozy areas of your home when the weather turns cooler.
Get Professional Help This Mice Season
As we are currently in the height of mice season, it’s important to stay vigilant about the warning signs of mice and be proactive about extermination. Taking preventative action in the fall can secure your home from mice and reduce the likelihood of a full-blown infestation during the winter.
Precise Termite & Pest Control offers experienced, prompt, and affordable mouse control during mice season and all throughout the year. To get ahead of any potential mouse situation in your home, please contact us today for your free inspection.
You can call us at 866-971-2847 to schedule or fill out our online form to tell us about your mice season concerns.