Homeowners usually only think of rodents in terms of one thing: mice removal. No one wants the tiny creatures scurrying through their attic spaces or kitchens, causing all types of problems. The problem with only viewing species as trouble is you need to see their significance in the grand scheme of things.
Why Are Mice Important to the Ecosystem?
To be clear, mice do not belong in your Milwaukee home. Rodents carry various bacteria and diseases that they can transmit to humans and pets. Also, mice are notorious chewers. They will chew through attic insulation and electrical wires, causing fire hazards and other issues.
Despite the potential hassles of a rodent infestation, mice are essential to the ecosystem. Small animals play critical roles in food chains and the propagation of plants. While many homeowners seek out harmful DIY removal and elimination methods for rodent populations, it is crucial to understand the role mice play outside of the occasional nuisance.
1. Aerate Soil
Mice and other small rodents tunnel or burrow into the ground. They use these tunnels to hide from predators and store food for winter months or later consumption. The burrows may even become homes for other small creatures when mice vacate or abandon them.
While digging is second-nature to mice, it is an essential process for the health of the soil and plants of the area. The digging aerates the soil and mixes vital nutrients into the earth. Also, rainwater will penetrate and flow through the tunnels mice make. The water transfers oxygen to the sediment layers, further contributing to aeration and the future growth of plants and root systems.
2. Food for Other Animals
Wildlife control services in Milwaukee understand the ecological pyramid and the delicate balance between prey and hunter species. The pyramid depicts natural food chains, showing what animals can eat. The lowest level of the pyramid is for plants, and the second level is for herbivores — animals that only eat plants. Mice are herbivorous.
The animals in the upper regions of the pyramid are omnivores and carnivores. Omnivores eat a mix of plant and animal products. Carnivores primarily eat animal protein. Each of these layers is above herbivores, meaning herbivores are a food source for these layers.
Whether the ecosystem is a desert or a lush jungle, mice are a primary food source for many wildlife. Hawks, owls, snakes, bobcats, and even skunks eat mice. Some predatory animals would struggle to survive without an adequate rodent population. Mice are even a delicacy in some human societies.
3. Spreads Seeds
Mice also contribute to the spreading of essential seeds and nuts. Mice primarily consume wild seeds but do not eat everything they gather. Mice will stash many seeds and forget about them or lose interest in them. Depending on the conditions, these seeds can germinate and take root.
A residential rodent infestation might even contribute to the growth of plants and crops. Mice often nest in houses because they can access food sources like cereals or nuts. A mouse may hide their hoard outside in the garden or a field. The grain, nuts, or seeds may germinate if the temperature and conditions are right.
Who Can Help Prevent Mice From Nesting on Your Property?
While mice are beneficial and play a significant role in the ecosystem, they still do not belong in your Milwaukee home. The risks to families and their homes are too large to ignore a rodent infestation. Still, it is not necessary to kill animals; you can use more humane methods. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to discuss rodent removal solutions.
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