York Wildlife Control: Field Mice in the Winter

Field mice are not one particular species of mice; the name actually represents several species, including brown mice and deer mice. The term field mouse represents small, tan, or brown mice that cannot hibernate —think of a hamster with a long tail. Since field mice cannot hibernate, they must find unique ways to survive in the winter, which may include coming inside, which is why you should always keep the contact info for wildlife control in York handy.

What Do Field Mice Do in the Winter?

Field mice are tiny and fragile creatures, but they know how to survive. Unlike many animals, mice do not hibernate and remain active all winter. However, when severe weather hits or when it is too cold, the mice will remain in their nests, trying to stay as warm as possible for as long as possible. Do not take their hiding as a sign they are gone. The animals just know that to survive the winter means remaining adaptable, even if that means going without for a few days. Field mice will do different things in the winter depending on their specific species.

1. They Burrow

Deer mice are excellent diggers, and they use their skillset to construct underground burrows. The mice may also dig into existing structures, such as rocks or tree stumps. While the animal can dig through some durable materials, it cannot dig into the frozen ground. Burrowing field mice will usually create their burrows in the warmer months of the year. If they manage to dig the burrows deep enough, they might be able to stay warm enough even on the most frigid days. Unfortunately, the animals' burrowing habits can wreak havoc on a property, and it is relatively common for field mice to burrow into manmade structures.

2. They Climb

Unlike deer mice, brown mice are not avid diggers, but they are excellent climbers. Because these field mice love to climb, they often have access to warmer areas that other animals cannot reach in the winter. Some nesting locations for deer mice include tree hollows, roof vents, and other vent systems. Like deer mice, brown mice can inadvertently find their way into your attic. When the mice are looking for shelter, they might find a loose shingle on your roof that provides a pathway to the inside of your attic or at least access to insulation.

3. They Enter Your Home

On many occasions, field mice have found their way inside homes by performing one of the above activities. Unfortunately for York homeowners, once mice find their way inside, it is challenging to get rid of them. Also, because mice have a quick reproductive cycle, it does not take long for a few mice to turn into a few hundred. It is vital to take precautions to keep mice out of your home and away from your property. However, if the animals find their way inside, you will need to correct the issue quickly by hiring a professional wildlife control service.

How Can You Keep Mice Out of Your Home?

You can take several steps to keep mice out of your home or at least deter them from entering. Mice will primarily enter your home for food, water, and warmth. In the winter, mice do not have a lot of options outside, so they are encouraged to move inside. If you want to keep them out, do the following:

• Seal access points
• Store food correctly
• Maintain landscaping
• Maintain the house
• Declutter living spaces

Why Should You Hire Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control?

If you have an infestation, you need one of York's most recognized mice removal services. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control and schedule an in-person visit. The technicians who arrive will evaluate your situation and offer services to resolve your problem quickly, ensuring your home is safe and clean for the holidays.