Large Populations Of Deer Mice Can Slow Crop Growth

Deer mice are harmless-looking, but have been known to carry dangerous and easily transmitted diseases like hantavirus. They are commonly about twelve to twenty-eight centimeters in length and are named for their fur’s notable coloration, which is remarkably similar to that of deer fur.

At birth, deer mice are blind, pink, hairless, and scarcely more than three grams. They begin to change color within twenty-four hours. Their eyes open within two weeks, and they are weaned at about four weeks. When their characteristic fur begins to come in, it has a bluish coloration which gradually darkens with age.

These pests typically nest in the hollows of trees or under piles of stones or logs. Deer mice are most commonly found in rural, wooded areas and tend to avoid humans, preferring quiet, out-of-the-way nesting grounds. If around a human habitation, they’ll typically be found in attics, basements, or crawl spaces. These rodents do not hibernate, which means that finding a means of shelter during unforgiving winter months is of the utmost importance, and they’ll choose human habitations if no other option is available.

Because of their small size, they can easily gain entry into homes and commercial spaces in search of heat and shelter. They can damage upholstered furniture, mattresses, clothing, paper, cardboard boxes, and basically any other material they deem suitable for their nest-building endeavors. Deer mice have a tendency to stockpile food near their nests during the winter months, which may aid in their identification and subsequent extermination in the event of an infestation.

Deer mice are uniquely responsible for the slow growth of forested and agricultural areas, because of the high degree of seed predation. Many experts agree that the deer mouse is responsible, more so than any other species of rodent or bird, for destroying nearly entire populations of Douglas-fir seeds. Accordingly, high populations have been known to completely derail reforestation efforts in some areas.

Deer mice are prime vectors for pulmonary hantavirus syndrome, which can be fatal. The most effective way to avoid contracting hantavirus from deer mice is to keep them out of human dwellings using proofing and exclusionary methods and to avoid working or sleeping in already where they are already present. Call your local Dallas pest control professional immediately if you suspect that deer mice have entered your home.

Cantu Pest & Termite is proud to be the first company in Texas to offer a Cantu Green Service to our customers in search of a more prevention-based solution to their pest removal while minimizing the use of pesticides.

If deer mice or other pests have made unwanted appearances around your home or business, call Cantu Pest & Termite to schedule an appointment today with one of our friendly, experienced deer mice removal experts.