About House Mouse
The house mouse (Mus musculus) is the third most abundant mammal on Earth, distributed globally through human commerce and agriculture. Measuring just 12–20 cm including the tail, it enters structures through openings as small as 6 mm and contaminates 10 times more food than it actually eats through droppings and constant light urination. Females reach sexual maturity in 6–7 weeks and produce 5–10 litters of 5–6 pups per year. In the United States, mouse infestations are associated with hantavirus, salmonellosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, and rickettsialpox. Snap trapping combined with thorough exclusion work is the gold standard of control.
Geographic Distribution
This rodent is found across North America, with notable populations in Canada and surrounding regions.
Management
If you suspect a House Mouse problem, consult our recommended exterminator services or browse our full pest species database for related species and control guidance.