Deer Mouse

Deer Mouse Facts

Deer mice can be found all over North America. These mice won’t live beyond one year in the wild, but they can live up to eight years in captivity. As omnivores, they eat plants, animal matter, insects, seeds, fruits, nuts, and other plant products. Deer mice are also known to eat their own feces from time to time, a behavior called coprophagy. In the fall, these mice will begin to look for food to store it away so they can eat it during the winter months. Deer mice can be dangerous because they are known carriers of Hantavirus.

Deer Mouse Infestation

It is possible for deer mice to get into grain and other stored foods. These items can become contaminated with other pests and fecal matter that transmits diseases. However, they can also help to transport seeds and spores to develop plants and foliage. These mice are carriers of Hantavirus, a virus that can cause a variety of illnesses like Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). Humans contract this by coming into contact with the fecal matter or urine of deer mice. Those infected will develop flu-like symptoms like a fever, coughing, and headaches. Shortness of breath may also occur. The disease spreads quickly, so early detection is key because it can be fatal if left untreated.

Deer Mouse Damage

You’ll find these mice hiding in hollow logs, in tree holes, or under piles of stones. If they find their way indoors, they prefer dark, warm spaces where they won’t be disturbed like attics, basements, and crawl spaces. You might see them scampering across your yard or kitchen floor. Small nests may be found around the house or yard. These will be made of fur, weeds, seeds, and paper. If you’ve got deer mice, objects around your house may have bite marks or appear to have been gnawed on. Smooth droppings with pointed ends may show up around your home if deer mice are around.

Types of Deer Mice

Deer Mouse Identification

Deer mice can grow anywhere between five to eight inches long. Deer mice have dark fur on their backs and white fur on their legs and undersides. Their coloring is resembles that of a deer.

Deer Mice in the Home & Attic

Deer mice are tiny and are commonly found in kitchen cabinets, under sinks, or in pantries. They prefer to travel the same routes every day, so follow the path of their droppings. In most cases, the deer mouse will try to nest as close to a food source as possible. Deer mice build nests in your walls that consist of loosely bundled fibers such as clothing or paper. You might notice teeth marks on packages, electric cables, or cabinets.