5 Clear Signs You Have a Mouse Infestation in Your Brookfield Home

Mice are common invaders in Brookfield, WI homes, especially as the weather changes. They seek warmth, food, and shelter, and once inside, they can multiply rapidly, causing damage and posing health risks. Early detection is crucial for effective removal. Here are five clear signs that indicate you might have a mouse infestation:

### 1. Droppings

This is often the most obvious and common sign of mice. Mouse droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped, typically about 1/8 to 1/4 inch long. They resemble black rice grains. You'll usually find them near food sources, in drawers, cupboards, under sinks, along baseboards, or in secluded areas like attics and basements. Fresh droppings are soft and moist, while older ones are hard and dry. The more droppings you find, the larger and more active the infestation.

### 2. Gnaw Marks

Mice constantly gnaw to keep their incisors trimmed. They will chew on almost anything, including food packaging, electrical wires, plastic pipes, wooden furniture, and even structural elements of your home. Look for small, parallel grooves in damaged items. Gnaw marks on wires are particularly dangerous as they can lead to electrical fires. If you notice unexplained damage to food containers or structural elements, it's a strong indicator of rodent activity.

### 3. Nests

Mice build nests in secluded, hidden areas using shredded materials like fabric, paper, insulation, and other soft debris. Common nesting sites include inside walls, attics, basements, crawl spaces, behind appliances, and in storage boxes. If you find a collection of these materials in an unusual spot, it's likely a mouse nest. These nests often contain droppings and a musky odor.

### 4. Scratching Noises

Since mice are nocturnal, you're most likely to hear them at night. Listen for scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds coming from inside your walls, ceilings, attics, or basements. These noises are often most noticeable when the house is quiet. The sounds might be faint at first but can become more pronounced as the infestation grows.

### 5. Musky Odor

A distinct, stale, musky odor can indicate a significant mouse infestation. This smell comes from their urine and droppings, and it can be particularly strong in enclosed areas like cupboards or pantries. If you notice an unexplained, unpleasant odor that seems to linger, especially in areas where food is stored or where you suspect activity, it could be a sign of mice.

If you observe any of these signs in your Brookfield, WI home, it's important to act quickly. A professional pest control service like Pest Control Brookfield can accurately identify the extent of the infestation and implement effective, safe removal strategies. Don't let mice compromise your home's safety and hygiene; call us today.