8 Signs You May Have Mice

Mouse feces are found in areas where mice are most active, near feeding, breeding, and nesting areas. Droppings are black, cylindrical in shape, and between three to six millimeters (about 1/4 inch) in length. Mouse droppings resemble small grains of rice and are commonly mistaken for cockroach droppings. Always wear protective gloves when disposing of mouse droppings; in heavily infested areas, also wear a respirator. Don’t sweep or vacuum the droppings—disturbing them could release bacteria and virus particles. Droppings should be carefully picked up and disposed of in sealed plastic bags.

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A regular pattern of dirty smudges along floors and baseboards could be a sign of mouse traffic. Mice tend to run along walls and follow the same route night after night. Over time, the dirt from their fur and feet will create a distinctive streaking or smudging tracery along the path. You may also find small patches of urine or droppings along the route.

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If you find unexpected holes, tears, or signs of gnawing in bedding, clothing, insulation, fabrics, or other materials, it is a good bet that mice are present. Mice use shredded materials to build nests, which are usually located in dark corners, drawers, cabinets, or storage boxes, or behind fridges and other large, seldom-moved appliances. Mice will often chew small holes in the bottom of drawers, cabinets, and furniture and fill the holes with shredded material.

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One adult mouse can consume between three and four grams of food per day, and mice like many of the same foods we do: cereals, grains, seeds, nuts, fruits, meats, chocolate, and candy. Mice especially like foods that are high in fat, such as bacon, cheese, and butter. They'll make up to 30 visits a day to an identified food source, such as a pantry or cupboard. Strange holes or tears in packages are indications that mice may be raiding your pantry. If you think you've been sharing food with mice, throw it away—food that has been contaminated by mice may cause dangerous illnesses in humans, including salmonella, hantavirus, and fever.

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