1. How do I know if I have a mice infestation in my home?

Mice are nocturnal pests, so they are most active at night. Common signs of a mice infestation include scratching or scurrying noises in walls, ceilings, or attics, especially at night. You may also find small, pellet-shaped droppings near food storage areas, in cupboards, or along baseboards. Mice often leave gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture, and electrical wires. If you notice a musky odor, especially in enclosed areas like basements or crawl spaces, it may indicate a large mouse population. Identifying these signs early can help prevent a full-blown infestation.

2. Are mice dangerous to humans and pets?

Yes, mice pose serious health and property risks. They are known carriers of diseases such as Hantavirus, Salmonella, and Leptospirosis, which can spread through contact with their droppings, urine, or saliva. Mice also bring fleas, ticks, and mites into homes, increasing the risk of secondary infestations. Another major concern is their constant gnawing, which can damage electrical wiring and create a fire hazard. Pets may chase or eat mice, which can expose them to parasites and diseases. Professional mice removal ensures a safe, sanitary, and rodent-free home.

3. What attracts mice to homes in Michigan?

Mice enter homes searching for food, water, and shelter, especially during Michigan’s cold winters. They are attracted to accessible food sources, including crumbs, pet food, garbage, and improperly stored pantry items. Unsealed entry points, such as gaps around doors, cracks in foundations, and open vents, allow mice easy access to homes. Cluttered spaces, like attics, garages, and basements, provide ideal hiding and nesting spots. To prevent mice, it’s important to seal entry points, store food properly, and eliminate nesting areas.

4. How do professionals remove mice from homes?

Professional mice removal involves a comprehensive approach to eliminate current infestations and prevent future ones. The process starts with a detailed inspection to identify entry points, nesting sites, and food sources. Experts then use a combination of bait-free, humane traps and rodenticides to remove active mice populations. After removal, professionals seal entry points with steel mesh, caulking, or weather stripping to prevent reinfestation. Some services also include attic cleanup and sanitization to remove mouse droppings and reduce health risks.

5. Is it legal to trap and remove mice in Michigan?

Yes, it is legal to trap and remove mice in Michigan, as they are considered common pests rather than protected wildlife. Property owners are allowed to use snap traps, live traps, and bait stations to control mice populations. However, certain rodenticides are regulated to prevent harm to non-target animals. Professional pest control companies follow state and federal guidelines for safe, legal, and humane rodent removal. If you’re dealing with a severe infestation, hiring a licensed expert ensures proper handling and compliance with Michigan regulations.

6. How can I prevent mice from returning?

To prevent mice from returning, focus on exclusion, sanitation, and habitat modification. Start by sealing all small holes and gaps with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing, as mice can squeeze through openings as small as ¼ inch. Keep food stored in airtight containers, clean up crumbs, and remove standing water sources. Decluttering storage areas and using tight-fitting lids on trash cans can also help. Routine inspections and seasonal pest control treatments can ensure long-term protection against mice infestations.

7. When are mice most active in Michigan?

Mice are active year-round, but infestations tend to increase in fall and winter when outdoor temperatures drop. During these months, mice seek warmth and shelter inside homes, attics, and basements. However, because mice reproduce rapidly—with a single female capable of having 60 offspring per year—infestations can develop at any time. Mice are most active at night, so homeowners often hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds in walls and ceilings when infestations are present.

8. How much does mice removal cost in Michigan?

The cost of professional mice removal in Michigan varies depending on the severity of the infestation, the size of the home, and the level of exclusion work needed. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $150 and $600 for a complete mice removal service. More extensive infestations, requiring multiple visits, sealing entry points, and attic decontamination, can cost $800 or more. Many pest control companies offer inspection services to provide a customized estimate based on the specific needs of your property.