You’re definitely not alone if you’ve been having more uninvited visitors in your house than usual. This explains why the issue is so severe in 2024.
READ MORE: One of the Nation’s Most Rodent-Infested Cities is Indiana
I grew up in the Midwest’s rural areas, so field mice are nothing new to me. Over the years, I’ve caught a few stealing crackers, cat food, and even coffee grounds. But it appears I’ve been catching a lot of these bugs in the second half of 2024. Actually, I can’t think of a year where I saw that many in such a short period of time. Similar circumstances have been reported by other friends of mine. What’s going on with these tiny creatures this year, then?
Why Are Mice So Bad in 2024?
The latest rodent spike can be attributed to several major factors, according to Pest Agent. Other causes, including climate change, have also had an impact, even if the typical suspects, such crumbs or an open garage, undoubtedly play a contribution. The wetter and warmer winters in Indiana have produced the perfect circumstances for mice to flourish, with plenty of food and water available. The mouse season has even been prolonged due to fewer severe winters, which has caused a major change in mouse populations and behavior.
These changes have been exploited by the white-footed mouse in particular, increasing mouse activity in suburban dwellings. However, mice are becoming a greater nuisance for causes other than climate change. For instance, urban sprawl has contributed significantly since mice can find more places to nest in the new homes and workplaces. In the meantime, these animals might have even greater chances to thrive as a result of evolving farming methods.
How to Combat a Mice Problem
Pest control professionals advise a mix of tactics impacted by the previously described circumstances in order to address the expanding problem of mouse infestations. According to Pest Agent, these are the things you should concentrate on.
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Eliminate food sources
: Secure your trash, store food in airtight containers, and keep your kitchen clean to remove any potential food sources for mice. Also, check your water pipes, as mice only need a small opening to survive for a long time.
Identify entry points
: Inspect your home for cracks in walls, holes, and gaps that mice could use to get inside, and seal them with appropriate materials.
Utilize rodent bait stations
: Strategically place bait stations around your property to safely lure and eliminate mice. Remember, it s crucial to address these infestations promptly due to the public health risks, including the spread of illnesses like Lyme disease.
I should also mention that I wouldn’t use glue traps to capture mice. They can injure other animals in and around your house in addition to causing a mouse to suffer for hours on end until it can be appropriately disposed of. Click HERE to learn more about the hazards of glue traps.
