Given that mice are considered to be the most common-home invading pests, you’ve probably come across them, at some point, in your Houston home. And your first instinct was likely to set out traps. After all, mouse traps are one of the most common go-to’s when it comes to dealing with mouse infestations.
However, did you know that mouse traps are not the most effective method of mouse control? When it comes to eliminating mouse infestations, traps aren’t all that effective. So why do people still reach for mouse traps at the first sign of mice? Maybe it’s history, maybe it’s what they were taught, or maybe they just don’t know that there’s a better way.
Identifying Mice
Mice are small rodents that grow anywhere from 2 ½ inches to 3 ¾ inches long. They are primarily gray in color, but their bellies are often cream-colored. They have large ears that are covered in fur, and furry tails that double their overall body length. Mice have two large incisors that grow constantly throughout their lives. Because of this, they are always trying to find things to chew on so that their teeth don’t grow too large.
The Dangers Of Mice
There are several reasons why mice infestations are bad. Primarily, mice spread many diseases with their droppings, urine, and saliva. They can contaminate countertops, dishes, silverware, and even food if it is left out or stored improperly. The diseases that mice have been known to spread include hantavirus, dysentery, and salmonellosis.
In addition to spreading diseases, mice, as mentioned, are always chewing on things so that their teeth do not overgrow. As such, they can damage your property. This could be drywall, electrical wires, furniture, or anything else in your house that they choose to gnaw on. For these reasons, you should take immediate action if you spot mice around your home.
The Pros And Cons Of Mouse Traps
If you do spot mice in your home, and you choose to use traps, you may catch a few mice. However, mice are prolific breeders which means a mouse infestation consists of many mice. Therefore, while mouse traps might take care of some mice, they are mostly ineffective when it comes to dealing with infestations as a whole. Mice are smart animals. They will go out of their ways to avoid traps if they spot them. They are also nimble which means they are able to eat the bait off the trap without setting off the mechanism.
Overall, there are many reasons mouse traps come up short when it comes to mouse infestations. Unfortunately, not getting rid of the entire infestation means you’re still exposed to the potential diseases and destruction of mice.
The Most Effective Way To Eliminate Mouse Infestations
If you have questions about mouse control or if you are currently dealing with a mouse infestation, don’t delay, give the trained pest professionals here at Romney Pest Control a call. Our certified pest control experts have the knowledge and experience required to eliminate any mouse infestation with which you may be dealing. And we will work with you to take the necessary precautions to help prevent future infestations.
If you have a mouse problem, don’t get trapped relying on traps. Give the professionals a call today!
