Mice

The house mouse (Mus musculus) is one of the most widespread rodents in the world. With extraordinary reproductive capacity and the ability to infiltrate through openings as small as 6 mm, they represent a persistent pest in homes, businesses, and industries.

Identification

• Size: Body 6 to 10 cm, plus 7 to 10 cm tail.
• Weight: Between 12 and 30 grams.
• Color: Light gray to brown, with lighter belly.
• Ears: Large and rounded in proportion to the body.
• Droppings: Small (3-6 mm), pointed at both ends, scattered in large quantities (up to 80 per day).
• Habitat: Indoor spaces near food sources: pantries, drawers, behind furniture and appliances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it difficult to eliminate mice? Mice can reproduce from 6 weeks of age and a female can have up to 10 litters per year. Additionally, they are neophilic: they are attracted to new objects, which facilitates the use of traps.

Can a mouse become a rat? No, they are different species. House mice (Mus musculus) are genetically distinct from rats (Rattus spp.).

Hazards

Mice contaminate up to 10 times more food than they consume through droppings, urine, and hair. They transmit diseases such as salmonellosis, hantavirus, and leptospirosis. They gnaw electrical wires, documents, and packaging materials, causing economic damage and fire risk.

Control and Prevention

• Exclusion: Seal any opening larger than 6 mm with steel wool or metal mesh.
• Order and cleanliness: Eliminate hiding spots and nesting sources (cardboard boxes, fabrics, paper).
• Traps: Multiple mechanical traps in activity areas for rapid capture.
• Professional control: Comprehensive program with traps, monitoring stations, and rodenticides applied by certified personnel.