Why Autumn is Mouse Season

It's now Autumn and October is just days away. While it is one of my favourite months (Halloween is second only to Christmas in our house) it is also prime season for mouse infestations here in Nova Scotia. When temperatures drop, these small rodents start looking for warmth, shelter, and food. Any guess what offers all three? 

October is Mouse Move-in Month
Mice are incredibly adaptable creatures, but like the rest of us they are not fans of the biting Maritime cold. As the fall chill sets in, mice start scouting for a cozy place to nest. We have generally older homes in our province and it takes just a 6mm round hole for a mouse to squeeze through: something most homes have in an obscure location. They can also enter through gaps around utility pipes, foundation cracks (especially block foundations), poorly sealed doors and garage door gaps. 

They may be cute, but are also dangerous vermin to homeowners.

Signs You Might Have a Mouse Problem
One reason why I am not a dedicated pest inspector is that it's really hard to detect mice in homes. While literally every commercial building I have worked has had visible mice or rats at one point I have never seen one during a home inspection. I have however seen lots of evidence to suggest there is a high probability of unwanted house guests. Here are a few signs:

• Small droppings (that are the shape of rice), especially along baseboards. 
• Chewed food packaging or wiring (which is a serious fire hazard). 
• Scratching or rustling noises in walls, ceilings, or under floors. 
• Nesting materials such as shredded paper or insulation. ​

Tips to Keep Your Home Mouse Free 
Living in Nova Scotia means enjoying four distinct seasons, but that doesn't have to mean sharing it with rodents. Here are some quick tips to keep mice out: 

• Seal all cracks and holes.
• Install door sweeps or weatherstripping.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Declutter storage areas. 
  

Final Thoughts
As a home inspector, I constantly preach to my clients the importance of being proactive and taking action before issues happen. When it comes to keeping rodents out the advice remains the same: the best way to get rid of mice (as it is with any pest) is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Have a warm, safe and mouse-free autumn season!