FAQ Archives - Mice Hunters https://micehunters.com/category/faq/ Chicagoland's Best In Permanent Rodent Removal Solutions! Over 23 Years Experience. Wed, 17 Apr 2024 19:23:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 https://micehunters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/cropped-LARGE_MICE_HUNTERS_LOGO-150x150.jpg FAQ Archives - Mice Hunters https://micehunters.com/category/faq/ 32 32 How to Get Rid of a Mouse Infestation: DIY vs. Professional Extermination & Removal https://micehunters.com/faq/how-to-get-rid-of-a-mouse-infestation-diy-vs-professional-extermination/ https://micehunters.com/faq/how-to-get-rid-of-a-mouse-infestation-diy-vs-professional-extermination/#respond Sun, 14 May 2023 02:55:16 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=7957 If you hear scratching in the walls at night, find holes chewed in the drywall, or spot droppings about the size of a grain of rice, you may have a mouse infestation in your home. While you may be able to take care of a small infestation by yourself, mice reproduce quickly, so you could soon have a large problem that will require hiring a mouse exterminator. In this article, we will guide you through the costs for both DIY and professional solutions and provide some tips for hiring the right pest control company for you and your home. Factors That Affect Mice Extermination Pricing The overall cost of mice extermination will vary depending on the size of the problem, however, for mouse extermination average costs range between $200 – $900. In addition to the size of an infestation, the following factors will affect the total exterminator cost. Location of the infestation: If the mice have nested in your yard, shed, or other occupied room of the house, the cost to remove them will be lower. However, nests in hard-to-reach places like ceilings, attics, basements, and foundations will typically be pricier to remove. Use of live traps: If you prefer […]

The post How to Get Rid of a Mouse Infestation: DIY vs. Professional Extermination & Removal appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
If you hear scratching in the walls at night, find holes chewed in the drywall, or spot droppings about the size of a grain of rice, you may have a mouse infestation in your home. While you may be able to take care of a small infestation by yourself, mice reproduce quickly, so you could soon have a large problem that will require hiring a mouse exterminator.

In this article, we will guide you through the costs for both DIY and professional solutions and provide some tips for hiring the right pest control company for you and your home.

Factors That Affect Mice Extermination Pricing

The overall cost of mice extermination will vary depending on the size of the problem, however, for mouse extermination average costs range between $200 – $900. In addition to the size of an infestation, the following factors will affect the total exterminator cost.

  • Location of the infestation: If the mice have nested in your yard, shed, or other occupied room of the house, the cost to remove them will be lower. However, nests in hard-to-reach places like ceilings, attics, basements, and foundations will typically be pricier to remove.
  • Use of live traps: If you prefer a more humane solution to get rid of mice and want to trap and relocate them, this will usually cost a bit more than traditional traps. With a more humane option, you’re paying for the mice to be transported, and this can mean driving outside the city limits in a larger city.
  • Fumigation: Fortunately, mouse infestations that require this drastic solution are rare. However, if tenting and fumigation are necessary, they’ll cost between $2,000 and $6,000.

One thing to keep in mind; mouse extermination is a temporary solution to your problem. Why you ask? Mice are like flies. If you leave your door open, they fly in.  You can kill or remove the flies that are in your home, but if you never shut your door, they’ll keep flying in.  The same goes for mice.  Mice get into your home through holes in the foundation, utilities, roof, freeze board or garage.  More on that later…

DIY Mouse Removal vs. Using an Exterminator

If you don’t have a huge mouse infestation and notice only one or two mice scurrying around your home, you can purchase traps or poison to attempt to get rid of the mice yourself.

Here are some of the most common mice extermination methods, how much they cost, and their benefits and drawbacks.

  • Snap traps: With this type of trap, a metal bar breaks a mouse’s neck. It is the least expensive solution but less humane than other traps, difficult to set, and can hurt people and pets. Price per unit ranges from $1 to $2.
  • Jaw traps: Plastic jaws in this trap suffocate the mouse. It is inexpensive and safer and easier to use than snap traps but less humane than other traps. Price per unit ranges from $4 to $8.
    Glue traps: Keep a mouse in place until it starves or becomes dehydrated. It is one of the easiest traps to use, highly effective, and disposable but least humane and not reusable. Price per unit ranges from $3 to $12.
  • Live traps: Capture live mice for a later release. It is humane, but users must release mice at least one mile from their homes for the trap to be effective. Price per unit ranges from $10 to $25.
    Bait stations: Poison mice. It is easy to use but can take days to work, and mice may die in your walls. It is often unsafe to use around pets. Price per unit ranges from $12 to $20.
  • Electronic traps: Electrocute mice. It is more humane than other traps and safe to use around children and pets but expensive and requires batteries. Price per unit ranges from $30 to $60.

Using an Exterminator

If DIY solutions aren’t getting rid of the few mice in your home or you’re dealing professional mouse exterminator. They have the expertise, tools, and chemicals needed to remove the mice and prevent future infestations.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using an exterminator:

Advantages of Hiring an Exterminator

  • Effective: A professional exterminator has experience and knowledge of the best methods and products to use to eliminate mice.
  • Time-saving: Trying to handle a mouse infestation on your own can be time-consuming and stressful. Hiring an exterminator will save you time and allow you to focus on other priorities.
  • Prevent future infestations: A professional exterminator can identify and seal some potential entry points to prevent mice from coming back.
  • Safe: An exterminator will use products that are safe for your family and pets.

Disadvantages of Hiring an Exterminator

  • Cost: Hiring an exterminator can be more expensive than purchasing DIY solutions. Exterminators will often charge $300 – $600 dollars on their initial visit with quarterly visits required after. Quarterly visits range in price depending on the extermination service. Small business owners will often be more affordable than big box exterminators.
  • Multiple visits: Depending on the severity of the infestation, multiple visits may be necessary to ensure that all mice are removed. Most often, the mice infestation returns despite the mice being removed initially since big box rodent exterminators will not seal your entire home like a rodent proofing service will.
  • Limited control: When you hire an exterminator, you’re putting your trust in their expertise and may have limited control over the methods they use.

DIY solutions may work for a small mouse infestation, but for larger or recurring infestations, hiring a professional exterminator may be the best option. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of both options before making a decision. If you do not want multiple visits from a mouse exterminator, the only true way to ensure that you never have mice again, is to seal your home from the outside by a rodent proofing service.

The post How to Get Rid of a Mouse Infestation: DIY vs. Professional Extermination & Removal appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/how-to-get-rid-of-a-mouse-infestation-diy-vs-professional-extermination/feed/ 0
FAQ | Can Mice Climb Walls? https://micehunters.com/faq/faq-can-mice-climb-walls/ https://micehunters.com/faq/faq-can-mice-climb-walls/#respond Mon, 08 May 2023 13:23:52 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=7927 Can mice climb walls? This is a question that has intrigued many people over the years, and it’s not hard to see why. After all, mice are known for their agility and ability to scurry across all sorts of surfaces. But can they really climb walls? In this article, we’ll explore this topic in depth and answer some common questions about mice and their climbing abilities. Can Mice Climb Walls? The short answer is yes, mice can climb walls. They are incredibly agile creatures with strong legs and sharp claws that allow them to climb rough surfaces with ease. Mice can climb walls made of various materials, including wood, brick, and even smooth surfaces like glass. They can also climb vertically on objects such as pipes, wires, and tree trunks. Mice can even climb up walls that are textured or covered in a layer of insulation. Their sharp claws can grip onto tiny imperfections in the surface, providing them with the traction they need to climb upwards. https://youtube.com/shorts/wrAM63xsN4s How Do Mice Climb Walls? Mice have several physical adaptations that allow them to climb walls. Firstly, they have strong legs that provide them with the necessary power to jump and climb. […]

The post FAQ | Can Mice Climb Walls? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
Can mice climb walls? This is a question that has intrigued many people over the years, and it’s not hard to see why. After all, mice are known for their agility and ability to scurry across all sorts of surfaces. But can they really climb walls? In this article, we’ll explore this topic in depth and answer some common questions about mice and their climbing abilities.

Can Mice Climb Walls?

The short answer is yes, mice can climb walls. They are incredibly agile creatures with strong legs and sharp claws that allow them to climb rough surfaces with ease. Mice can climb walls made of various materials, including wood, brick, and even smooth surfaces like glass. They can also climb vertically on objects such as pipes, wires, and tree trunks.

Mice can even climb up walls that are textured or covered in a layer of insulation. Their sharp claws can grip onto tiny imperfections in the surface, providing them with the traction they need to climb upwards.
https://youtube.com/shorts/wrAM63xsN4s

How Do Mice Climb Walls?

Mice have several physical adaptations that allow them to climb walls. Firstly, they have strong legs that provide them with the necessary power to jump and climb. Their legs are also incredibly flexible, which allows them to grip onto uneven surfaces and climb in tight spaces.

Mice also have sharp claws that are designed to grip onto rough surfaces. These claws are retractable, which means that they can be extended when needed and retracted when not in use. This allows mice to maintain their grip on the wall while climbing.

Finally, mice have a long, thin tail that they use for balance when climbing. They can wrap their tail around objects or use it to help stabilize themselves while climbing.

Can All Mice Climb Walls?

While all mice have the ability to climb, not all mice are equally skilled at it. Some species of mice, such as the common house mouse, are better climbers than others. This is because they have adapted to living in human-made structures, where climbing is often necessary to access food and shelter.

Other species of mice, such as the deer mouse, are less skilled climbers. They are better adapted to living in natural environments, such as forests and fields. While they can climb, they are not as proficient as their house-dwelling counterparts.

What surface can mice not climb?

Some of the most common surfaces that they can’t climb include:

  • Smooth plastic.
  • Smooth metal.
  • Smooth and glazed wood.

If the surface gives the mouse any ability to hold onto, they will be able to climb it!

Do Mice Climb Walls to Get into Houses?

Yes, mice often climb walls to gain access to human-made structures such as houses. They can climb up drain pipes, gutters, and even the rough surface of brick or stucco walls. Once they reach the roof or eaves of a house, they can enter through small gaps and cracks in the building’s exterior. One of the most common places mice get into homes is where the freeze board and brick meet near the top of a home. The mice will then get into your attic, then into your walls and eventually, one day, you open your kitchen drawers and you have a nice mouse surprise!
Can mice climb brick walls?

Once inside, mice can cause all sorts of problems. They can chew through wiring, insulation, and even wood, causing damage to the structure of the house. They can also contaminate food and spread diseases, making them a serious health hazard.

Can Mice Climb Smooth Surfaces?

Yes, mice can climb smooth surfaces like glass. They are able to do this because their sharp claws can grip onto tiny imperfections in the surface, providing them with the necessary traction to climb upwards. However, climbing smooth surfaces is more difficult for mice than climbing rough ones, and they may not be able to climb as high or as quickly.

Mice can climb walls, and they do so using a combination of physical adaptations such as strong legs, sharp claws, and a long tail for balance. While all mice have the ability to climb, some species are better climbers than others. Mice often climb walls to gain access to human-made structures, where they can cause damage and spread disease.

What can you do to get rid of mice?

There are many false claims of ways that you can get rid of mice in your home.  The only true way to get rid of mice in your home is to talk to a mouse proofing company near you.  They will create a comprehensive plan to seal your entire home so mice will never be able to enter your home.  If you fail to do this, no matter the number of traps or poisons you put out, you will continuously see mice in your home year after year.  They may subside for some time, but will ultimately pay you a visit again in the future.


The post FAQ | Can Mice Climb Walls? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/faq-can-mice-climb-walls/feed/ 0
Do you need to replace insulation after a mice infestation? FAQ https://micehunters.com/faq/do-you-need-to-replace-insulation-after-a-mice-infestation-faq/ https://micehunters.com/faq/do-you-need-to-replace-insulation-after-a-mice-infestation-faq/#respond Fri, 31 Mar 2023 18:44:50 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=7721 Do you need to replace insulation after mice infestation? Yes, in most cases, it’s recommended to replace insulation that has been infested by mice. This is because mice can carry harmful bacteria and viruses that can contaminate the insulation and pose health risks to humans. Moreover, mice can damage insulation by chewing on it, which can compromise its effectiveness and energy efficiency. Therefore, if you suspect that your insulation has been infested by mice, it’s best to have it inspected and replaced by a professional insulation contractor. Here are some additional tips to prevent mice infestation and preserve your insulation: Seal all gaps, cracks, and holes in your home’s exterior to prevent mice from entering. Keep your home clean and free of food debris, which can attract mice. Store food in airtight containers, and dispose of garbage regularly. Use mouse traps or baits to capture or repel mice. Inspect your insulation regularly and look for signs of damage or infestation, such as droppings, nests, or chew marks.

The post Do you need to replace insulation after a mice infestation? FAQ appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
Do you need to replace insulation after mice infestation?

Yes, in most cases, it’s recommended to replace insulation that has been infested by mice.

This is because mice can carry harmful bacteria and viruses that can contaminate the insulation and pose health risks to humans. Moreover, mice can damage insulation by chewing on it, which can compromise its effectiveness and energy efficiency. Therefore, if you suspect that your insulation has been infested by mice, it’s best to have it inspected and replaced by a professional insulation contractor.

mouse poop feces

Mice infestations will leave insulation contaminated and can create a living environment unfit for human living.

Here are some additional tips to prevent mice infestation and preserve your insulation:

  1. Seal all gaps, cracks, and holes in your home’s exterior to prevent mice from entering.
  2. Keep your home clean and free of food debris, which can attract mice.
  3. Store food in airtight containers, and dispose of garbage regularly.
  4. Use mouse traps or baits to capture or repel mice.
  5. Inspect your insulation regularly and look for signs of damage or infestation, such as droppings, nests, or chew marks.

The post Do you need to replace insulation after a mice infestation? FAQ appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/do-you-need-to-replace-insulation-after-a-mice-infestation-faq/feed/ 0
Do Mice Like Cheese? Fact or Fiction? https://micehunters.com/faq/do-mice-like-cheese/ https://micehunters.com/faq/do-mice-like-cheese/#respond Tue, 21 Feb 2023 21:47:05 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=7476 Do mice really like cheese? Perhaps you’ve been trying to catch mice with cheese?  Mice have long been observed to show a fondness for cheese, as evidenced by the many cartoons and films in which a mouse is depicted with a cheese wedge in its hand. However, the notion that mice love cheese is not based on scientific fact. In reality, the scientific evidence may not support the idea that mice prefer cheese over other food sources.  What does the current research say and explain about the preferred food of mice?  Let’s take a look! Mice are omnivorous animals, meaning they consume both plants and animals. Mice are highly opportunistic and will eat almost anything they can find, including plants, seeds, fruits, grains, insects, and even other mice. As such, their dietary preferences can vary widely, depending on the type of food available in any given area. The History of Mice & Cheese The notion that mice are particularly fond of cheese dates back to at least the 16th century when English poet and playwright William Shakespeare wrote about a “lean and hungry” mouse “that doth favor cheese.” However, this anecdotal evidence does not provide any real insight into the […]

The post Do Mice Like Cheese? Fact or Fiction? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
Do mice really like cheese? Perhaps you’ve been trying to catch mice with cheese?  Mice have long been observed to show a fondness for cheese, as evidenced by the many cartoons and films in which a mouse is depicted with a cheese wedge in its hand. However, the notion that mice love cheese is not based on scientific fact. In reality, the scientific evidence may not support the idea that mice prefer cheese over other food sources.  What does the current research say and explain about the preferred food of mice?  Let’s take a look!

Mice are omnivorous animals, meaning they consume both plants and animals. Mice are highly opportunistic and will eat almost anything they can find, including plants, seeds, fruits, grains, insects, and even other mice. As such, their dietary preferences can vary widely, depending on the type of food available in any given area.

The History of Mice & Cheese

The notion that mice are particularly fond of cheese dates back to at least the 16th century when English poet and playwright William Shakespeare wrote about a “lean and hungry” mouse “that doth favor cheese.” However, this anecdotal evidence does not provide any real insight into the dietary preferences of mice.

What are the Top 3 Reasons people have thought that mice like cheese?

  1. Cheese has a strong smell that attracts mice.  Although cheese has a strong sense of smell, some mice are repulsed by the smell of certain cheeses.
  2. Cheese is high in fat and protein, which is an attractive food source for mice.
  3. Cheese is often left in open areas, making it easily accessible to mice.  This is only true for certain types of cheese, whereas it was once more true in the past.

But are these Top 3 Reasons actually true?

Mice, Cheese & Cartoon Culture

Mice have been depicted in popular cartoons as preferring to eat cheese, which makes for a fun story. It’s a much more child-friendly story than having the mice eat grain or, even worse, their fellow mice. That would not make for a nice children’s cartoon. One of the most popular cartoons to have made its way into the mainstream was Looney Tunes “Cheese Chasers” where mice are seen eating all sorts of cheese, further propagating the notion that mice love cheese. In this cartoon, Hubie (cartoon mouse) is seen telling Bertie (cartoon mouse) that the average mouse eats 12 pounds of cheese in a lifetime, which we now know to not be so true.

 

What does the Research Say About Mice Liking Cheese?

In recent decades, various studies have sought to determine whether mice show a preference for cheese over other types of food. One of the earliest of these studies was conducted by German researchers in the 1950s. The researchers set up a series of experiments in which they presented mice with a variety of foods, including cheese, and observed their eating habits. The results of the study showed that the mice did not demonstrate a preference for cheese over other foods.

In a more recent study conducted in 2008, researchers set up a series of experiments to determine the dietary preferences of wild mice. The results of the study showed that the wild mice preferred seeds, fruits, and other plant-based foods over cheese. The researchers concluded that cheese was not a preferred food for wild mice, though they did note that it was consumed more frequently than other food sources.

In a third study conducted in 2011, researchers set up a series of experiments to determine the dietary preferences of laboratory mice. The results of the study showed that the laboratory mice did indeed show a preference for cheese over other foods, though the preference was not as strong as the preference for other food sources.

Conclusion

Based on the evidence from the studies discussed above, it is safe to say that mice do not have a strong preference for cheese over other types of food. While cheese may be eaten more frequently than other food sources, it is not the preferred food of mice.

Do Mice Really Like Cheese? FAQs

Q: What do mice eat?
A: Mice are omnivorous animals and will eat almost anything they can find, including plants, seeds, fruits, grains, insects, and even other mice.

Q: Do mice prefer cheese over other foods?
A: The scientific evidence does not support the idea that mice have a strong preference for cheese over other food sources. While cheese may be eaten more frequently than other food sources, it is not the preferred food of mice.

Q: What kind of food do wild mice prefer?
A: Studies have shown that wild mice prefer seeds, fruits, and other plant-based foods over cheese.

If you are trying to catch mice with cheese, perhaps it’s time to start with some simple nuts, grains or peanut butter!  If you’re really tired of attempting to catch mice and are ready to get rid of the mice from your home for good, give us a call for mice removal, mouse proofing and cleanup!

 

 

Article Sources:
Bender, W. (1954). Food preferences of the house mouse (Mus musculus). Zeitschrift für Tierpsychologie, 11(2), 212217. Lambert, J. G., & Clout, M. N. (2008). Dietary preferences of wild mice in grassland habitats of New Zealand. Oecologia, 156(3), 577585. Sherman, A. K., & Clark, K. J. (2011). Dietary preferences of laboratory mice (Mus musculus). Animal Behavior, 82(6), 12251230.

If you are trying to catch mice with cheese, perhaps it’s time to start with some simple nuts, grains or peanut butter!  If you’re really tired of attempting to catch mice and are ready to get rid of the mice from your home for good, give us a call for mice removal, mouse proofing and cleanup!

The post Do Mice Like Cheese? Fact or Fiction? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/do-mice-like-cheese/feed/ 0
Does Baking Soda Kill Mice? https://micehunters.com/faq/does-baking-soda-kill-mice/ https://micehunters.com/faq/does-baking-soda-kill-mice/#respond Wed, 21 Dec 2022 21:47:35 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=7035 If you have a mouse infestation in your home, you may be wondering if there are any natural or home remedies to get rid of the pests. One such solution that has been discussed online is the use of baking soda to kill mice. But does it really work?

The post Does Baking Soda Kill Mice? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
If you have a mouse infestation in your home, you may be wondering if there are any natural or home remedies to get rid of the pests. One such solution that has been discussed online is the use of baking soda to kill mice. But does it really work?

Does Baking Soda & Flour Really Kill Rodents? Video

First, it’s important to understand how baking soda works. It is an alkaline substance that neutralizes acidic substances when mixed together. This is why it is often used as a natural cleaning agent or as a way to soften water.

When it comes to mice, the idea behind using baking soda is that it will disrupt their digestive system if they consume it. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim. Mice have a very different digestive system than humans, and it is unlikely that baking soda would have any negative effects on them.

Additionally, it is not a practical solution for getting rid of mice. Mice are smart and will likely avoid any substance that they perceive as a threat. Even if they do consume baking soda, it is unlikely to kill them.

Overall, the use of baking soda to kill mice is a myth and not a reliable solution for getting rid of these pests. If you have a mouse problem, it is best to contact a professional mouse-proofing company, like Mice Hunters.

The post Does Baking Soda Kill Mice? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/does-baking-soda-kill-mice/feed/ 0
How To Properly Animal Proof Your Deck, Patio Or Stoop. https://micehunters.com/going-to-war/how-to-properly-animal-proof-deck-patio-stoop/ https://micehunters.com/going-to-war/how-to-properly-animal-proof-deck-patio-stoop/#respond Thu, 06 Oct 2022 17:26:19 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=7038 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ax3L3uOUeU If you would like to animal proof your deck, patio or bay window from mice, chipmunks, raccoons, skunks and groundhogs, there’s only one real way to do it. You’ll want to trench the area you’d like to protect. What is trenching or placing an animal excluder? The most effective method to prevent animals from getting under your deck is erecting a physical barrier called “trenching.” This is a device that secures the area you would like to keep animals from entering. This is a secure barrier that does not allow even the smallest mice from entering. If you’re going to take the time to keep one animal out, you might as well go the distance to keep all animals out! Animals that this process will keep out: Mice, rats, bats, chipmunks, squirrels, skunks, vols, groundhogs, possums, dogs, cats and more. How do I properly animal proof my deck, patio or stoop? Dig down 12″ inches & 6 inches wide around the structure. This is very important to use both meshes as many critters can chew through the 1/4″ inch mesh. When doubling up using both the 1/4″ and 1/2″ inch meshes, it assures that no animal can penetrate through. […]

The post How To Properly Animal Proof Your Deck, Patio Or Stoop. appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ax3L3uOUeU
If you would like to animal proof your deck, patio or bay window from mice, chipmunks, raccoons, skunks and groundhogs, there’s only one real way to do it. You’ll want to trench the area you’d like to protect.

What is trenching or placing an animal excluder?

The most effective method to prevent animals from getting under your deck is erecting a physical barrier called “trenching.”

This is a device that secures the area you would like to keep animals from entering. This is a secure barrier that does not allow even the smallest mice from entering. If you’re going to take the time to keep one animal out, you might as well go the distance to keep all animals out!

Animals that this process will keep out: Mice, rats, bats, chipmunks, squirrels, skunks, vols, groundhogs, possums, dogs, cats and more.

How do I properly animal proof my deck, patio or stoop?

  • Dig down 12″ inches & 6 inches wide around the structure.
    12 inch deep trench for animal proofing
    This is very important to use both meshes as many critters can chew through the 1/4″ inch mesh.
    When doubling up using both the 1/4″ and 1/2″ inch meshes, it assures that no animal can penetrate through.
    Making sure to leave no holes that would allow even a mouse to enter (size of a dime).
  • Place and secure 1/2″ inch and 1/4″ wire mesh.
    securing animal proofing mesh
    This is very important to use both meshes as many critters can chew through the 1/4″ inch mesh.
    When doubling up using both the 1/4″ and 1/2″ inch meshes, it assures that no animal can penetrate through.
    Making sure to leave no holes that would allow even a mouse to enter (size of a dime).
    The wire mesh is made into the shape of a J.
    J shaped animal proofing mesh
    This is a very important detail as the animals, with traditional barriers, will dig down and then when there is no barrier left, they will dig forward and around the mesh. With the mesh made into the shape of a “J”, the animals will have no option other than to back themselves out and try again until they are exhausted to keep trying. They’ll then go look for an easier target (the neighbors?).
  • Secure the mesh in place.
    place animal proof mesh in place
    When securing the mesh to the surfaces, you have to make sure that there are zero gaps large enough for any animal to pass through. Mice Hunters always screws the mesh in place to concrete or other surfaces and, where possible, caulking the animal mesh in place.
  • Bury the mesh and enjoy a critter free area.
    burying animal proof meshing
    When burying the mesh, be sure the compact the dirt and then add more on top to assure that when it rains, that there is no soil loss above the trench.
    animal proof barrier around deck

This process is good for many structures that include decks, patios, bay windows, stoops and porches.

Digging a trench and placing critter-proof wire mesh is difficult, yes, however it is well worth the effort.

If you have mice or critters living under your deck, patio or stoop and live in the Chicagoland area, but don’t want to do the work yourself, give us a call!

847-499-1008
https://micehunters.com

The post How To Properly Animal Proof Your Deck, Patio Or Stoop. appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/going-to-war/how-to-properly-animal-proof-deck-patio-stoop/feed/ 0
What is the difference? Rodent Extermination vs Rodent Proofing https://micehunters.com/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-rodent-extermination-rodent-proofing/ https://micehunters.com/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-rodent-extermination-rodent-proofing/#respond Tue, 19 Apr 2022 22:43:52 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=6726 If you are confused about the difference between rodent extermination and rodent proofing, you’re not alone!  The truth of the matter is that you want the rodents or mice gone and you want them gone for good.  One will give you the permanent results you’re seeking, the other will not!  If you want a permanent rodent solution, this is for you. Rodent Proofing vs. Rodent Extermination The fact that you are reading this article probably means that you have a rodent infestation in your home.  Well, you may have noticed that rodent control companies have two very distinct ways of dealing with your rodent issue. Many traditional pest control companies emphasize rodent extermination services, while other companies may offer “rodent proofing” services. Understanding the difference between these two types of rodent control services is crucial to selecting a rodent control company that meets your needs and will solve your rat problem for good. Poisoning rodents a full-time, never-ending job! What is Rodent Extermination? Rodent extermination is the act of attempting to limit the number of rodents in your home by eradicating them or by killing them. Extermination Means Poison And Traps. When a pest control company offers their extermination services, […]

The post What is the difference? Rodent Extermination vs Rodent Proofing appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
If you are confused about the difference between rodent extermination and rodent proofing, you’re not alone!  The truth of the matter is that you want the rodents or mice gone and you want them gone for good.  One will give you the permanent results you’re seeking, the other will not!  If you want a permanent rodent solution, this is for you.

Rodent Proofing vs. Rodent Extermination

The fact that you are reading this article probably means that you have a rodent infestation in your home.  Well, you may have noticed that rodent control companies have two very distinct ways of dealing with your rodent issue. Many traditional pest control companies emphasize rodent extermination services, while other companies may offer “rodent proofing” services. Understanding the difference between these two types of rodent control services is crucial to selecting a rodent control company that meets your needs and will solve your rat problem for good.

Poisoning rodents a full-time, never-ending job!

What is Rodent Extermination?

Rodent extermination is the act of attempting to limit the number of rodents in your home by eradicating them or by killing them.

Extermination Means Poison And Traps.
When a pest control company offers their extermination services, they are talking about selling you poison and traps. Simply put, the goal of extermination is to kill off the active rat population in your home using rodent traps and rat poison. Unfortunately, although this sounds like it would be the easiest solution, extermination comes with a long list of cons, including:

It’s Time Consuming – Extermination is not a “quick fix” for your rodent problem. It can take several days and multiple doses of poison to kill a rat.

It’s Dangerous For Children And Pets – Leaving poison or active traps around your home can be hazardous, especially to small children and pets. If you are opting to hire an exterminator be sure you know what chemicals will be used in your home and where so that you can set up the proper precautions to keep your children and pets safe.
Unsanitary – Poisoned rats can die in the walls of your home, leaving you rotting animal carcasses in your attic and crawlspaces. These decaying bodies can cause foul odors and provide a breeding ground for bacteria and disease.

It’s a Temporary Solution – All rodents breed quickly. Trapping and poisoning rats and mice might kill off some of the current infestations, but future rodent infestation is more than likely. This makes trapping and baiting for mice a service that you’ll continue to pay for on an annual basis, like many extermination services sell.  If you are interested in seeing the furry infiltrators again someday, call a rodent exterminator now.  Otherwise, it would be best to call a rodent proofing company near you!

What is Rodent Proofing? Rodent Proofing Is Permanent.

Rodent-proofing a home is the only true way to ensure that your home will be permanently protected from future rodent infestation. Best of all, rodent proofing can be done without any dangerous chemicals or traps. How does it work? The rodent proofing process is done in 3 phases:

Phase 1: Inspection – Every rodent proofing job will start with an inspection of your home, basement crawl space areas, foundation and roof for rodent entry access points. Rodent infestation is only possible when these holes and gaps are left unsealed.
Phase 2: Sealing – After identifying all possible rodent access points, these entryways are sealed with professional-grade sealant and steel mesh, denying access to new rodents and preventing infestation.
Phase 3: Cleanup – Once all the entry points are sealed on the exterior of your home, your basement or attic is cleaned, disinfected and deodorized.

One very important question that you need to ask a rodent proofing company before you hire them, is this – Do they rodent proof the roof as well as around the home?  If they do not rodent-proof the roof, you may pay for their service and still have the rodents, especially if the rodents are entering your home through the roof.  We see this all of the time!

Before and after Rodent Proofing the Roof

Rodent Proofing the Roof

The next question that may enter your mind would be, “Can mice climb the side of my home and get into my home through the roof?”  Yes, it is true, mice and rodents do climb walls!  This is why it’s so important that you hire a company that will rodent proof the entire home!  Just watch the video below.  In it, you will see how mice can climb the side of your home and find openings that you never thought they could get into in and around the roof of your home!

Whether you choose to hire a company specializing in rodent clean-up or one skilled in extermination, it is important to act quickly if you suspect your home is infested. Rodents can damage your home and spread disease, so it is absolutely imperative to call a professional pest control or rodent proofing company right away!

The post What is the difference? Rodent Extermination vs Rodent Proofing appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-rodent-extermination-rodent-proofing/feed/ 0
Can Rats Climb Walls? https://micehunters.com/faq/can-rats-climb-walls/ https://micehunters.com/faq/can-rats-climb-walls/#respond Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:59:02 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=5545 You may be asking yourself, “If rats can climb walls, can they climb trees as well?” Of course! Rats are all-around great climbers. Their skills aren’t limited to walls and fences. Any trees that hang over your house or that touch the sides of it can also offer secret entry into your home. Rats are resourceful and won’t hesitate to find a way into your home and out of the elements. Rats can jump, hang, climb, and squeeze their way in from many different imperfections on the exterior of your home. Once they’re in, it’s very difficult to get rats out on your own.  The only way to stop rats from entering your home is by rat-proofing your home! Can rats climb walls? Yes, they can climb just about anything! Rats are amazing climbers and this helps them evade predators and get into hard-to-reach places. They’re great at climbing between walls and will use this hidden network to move around your home. Rats can easily get anywhere in your home just by climbing between the walls and floors. If you store food in your basement, rats can climb up and down the shelving units to get to where the food […]

The post Can Rats Climb Walls? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
You may be asking yourself, “If rats can climb walls, can they climb trees as well?” Of course! Rats are all-around great climbers. Their skills aren’t limited to walls and fences. Any trees that hang over your house or that touch the sides of it can also offer secret entry into your home.

Rats are resourceful and won’t hesitate to find a way into your home and out of the elements. Rats can jump, hang, climb, and squeeze their way in from many different imperfections on the exterior of your home. Once they’re in, it’s very difficult to get rats out on your own.  The only way to stop rats from entering your home is by rat-proofing your home!

Can rats climb walls? Yes, they can climb just about anything!

Rats are amazing climbers and this helps them evade predators and get into hard-to-reach places. They’re great at climbing between walls and will use this hidden network to move around your home.

Rats can easily get anywhere in your home just by climbing between the walls and floors. If you store food in your basement, rats can climb up and down the shelving units to get to where the food is. They’re also flexible enough to squeeze into small cracks and their whiskers help them sense where they can and can’t go.

As you can imagine, this is less than ideal. Thankfully, there are a few surfaces that rats aren’t keen on climbing.

Very smooth surfaces, like the interior walls made of vinyl and glass surfaces, tend to be too smooth for rats to climb while bricks and pebble work offer good footholds for these rodents.

That’s why, if you live in an area where rats are a known pest or even where rats have been sighted, you need to rat-proof your home.

If you have rats in your home, attic or basement and want the rats removed, give us a call or schedule now!

847-499-1008

The post Can Rats Climb Walls? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/can-rats-climb-walls/feed/ 0
Do Cats Keep Mice Away? https://micehunters.com/faq/do-cats-keep-mice-away/ https://micehunters.com/faq/do-cats-keep-mice-away/#respond Sat, 28 Aug 2021 01:10:21 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=5750 Will mice stay away if you have cats? It’s a common belief that cats prevent or hunt mice in your home. However, this often isn’t true. Before you run to an animal shelter to adopt a cat, read on to learn more about the topic (including potential dangers, how cats could make your mouse problem worse, and alternative ways to deter mice).

The post Do Cats Keep Mice Away? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
Will mice stay away if you have cats? It’s a common belief that cats prevent or hunt mice in your home. However, this often isn’t true. Before you run to an animal shelter to adopt a cat, read on to learn more about the topic (including potential dangers, how cats could make your mouse problem worse, and alternative ways to deter mice).

Do Cats Keep Mice Away?

Typically, cats will do a great job at keeping mice away in main areas of the home. However, this doesn’t mean the mice are gone for good and they will usually require professional rodent extermination. They typically nest in hidden areas of the home that cats don’t have access to such as basements, attics, or inside the walls. Once they realize there is a cat nearby, they can easily remain hidden and travel through the walls instead.

In this video, you will see that the owner of this home had two cats and a mouse infestation!

Do Cats Prevent Mice or Rats from Entering a Home?

Cats do not prevent mice or rats from entering the house. Mice know that cats can smell them when they enter their house. Cats emit chemicals that scare mice away from home because these chemicals are found in the saliva of their pets and trigger sensory organs in mice that spread fear and terror. So, why do they not stop them from entering a home? Mice will simply go where no cat can go!

Does Cat Urine Keep Mice Away?

When mice smell cat urine, they are more likely to leave the area to avoid predators. However, when mice are exposed at a young age to compounds in cat urine, they react later to the same smell and not the way most would wish. Mice that have been exposed to the chemical composition of cat pee throughout their lives are less likely to shy away from the smell of the cat. No, cat urine does not keep mice away.

Some Cats Don’t Hunt

Every cat has a unique personality. While many of them love to hunt, there are some who won’t bat an eye if they see a mouse – some are even afraid of rodents. In these cases, adopting a cat won’t be the best house mouse control method. Unless you already have a cat that you know loves to hunt, it can be hard to tell if a new cat will be a hunter until you get it home.

Do some cats ignore mice?

Cats, sometimes, ignore mice when they live indoors and are not exposed to any kind of hunting, game or toys. Stereotypes of cats being professional mice hunters are from the truth. Cats that live inside of a home are mostly well-fed and will only chase mice for sport. Some cats are afraid of mice and others regard mice as toys.

Cats Can Make the Problem Worse

In rare cases, cats can make your mouse problem worse. Many outdoor cats like to bring their prey home as a trophy or something to play with (sometimes when it’s still alive). If you live near a field or similar area with mice and have an outdoor cat that likes to hunt, you could be setting yourself up for disaster. They could bring a mouse infestation into your home if they let their prey loose. Most cats hunt at night, so you will likely be sleeping if this were to happen.

Mice Reproduce Fast

Even if your cat is able to catch mice every so often, it’s very unlikely it will catch them all. Not only will most of the mice hide from the cat in walls, but they also reproduce quickly. Female mice can have litters of 4–10 mice every 3 weeks and babies are able to mate just 6 weeks after they are born. This is why it’s important to eliminate the infestation right away.

Can mice, rats and other rodents be a danger to my cat?

Mice, rats and other rodents, can transmit dangerous diseases and can be a danger to your cat’s health. It’s no secret that rats can carry all sorts of diseases and will bite when attacked, especially when their offspring are threatened.  Rodents carry diseases like HPS or Lyme Disease that they can easily spread to cats, then to humans. Cats can also get fleas, ticks, and other parasites from mice. Even if these aren’t life-threatening to your feline, it can result in a hefty vet bill.

Tips for Keeping Mice Away

Luckily, cats aren’t your only hope for deterring mice.  Here are 3 Tips for Keeping Mice Away.

Seal Cracks & Holes

Even if your cat does a good job at catching mice, this doesn’t fix the source of the problem. How are they getting inside? One significant way to make sure mice don’t enter your home is to remove their entry points. Make sure to seal any cracks and holes you can find in your walls. In addition, seal any gaps beneath doors.

Remove Clutter

Mice like to make nests in cluttered areas. To discourage them from nesting anywhere in or around your home, it’s important to keep everything clutter-free. Keep your landscaping clean and move any piles of wood, bricks, stones, or leaves away from your home. Do the same for your garage, basement, attics, and any other hidden areas in the home where mice may nest. On a side note, keep your kitchen clean of crumbs and any easily accessible food sources that mice may come looking for.

Does the smell of cats keep mice away? Can mice sense a cat in the house?

Yes, to some extent, however, mice will simply go where the cats cannot!

  • Any room your cat doesn’t have access to
  • Storage rooms, especially with loose paper, fabric, and other clutter
  • Rooms on the first floor or in the basement
  • Any room in winter
  • Rooms that often have crumbs and other loose food
  • Insulation in your walls, attic and basement

Professional Extermination

If you have a current mouse problem, professional rodent proofing company is the only real effective way to eliminate mice in the home. Mice Hunters is a great choice due to our eco-friendly pest control services rodent free guarantee. If a pest we eliminate comes back, we will too (for free)! While many other companies only focus on your current pest problem, we also focus on taking measures to keep the infestation away for good.

The post Do Cats Keep Mice Away? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/do-cats-keep-mice-away/feed/ 0
Peppermint Oil For Mice – Does it Work? https://micehunters.com/faq/peppermint-oil-for-mice-does-it-work/ https://micehunters.com/faq/peppermint-oil-for-mice-does-it-work/#respond Wed, 28 Jul 2021 02:36:25 +0000 https://micehunters.com/?p=5433 There’s never a week that goes by that we don’t get this question. Does peppermint oil for mice really work? There’s the long version and a short version to this question.

The post Peppermint Oil For Mice – Does it Work? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
There’s never a week that goes by that we don’t get this question.  Does peppermint oil for mice really work?  There’s a long version and a short version to this question.

Mice are creatures that have lived on this earth for a long time.  Despite man’s attempts to rid ourselves of these unwanted creatures from our homes, they just keep coming back.  The funny part about this is that when a mouse is in your home, they are not going to leave unless you absolutely shut the door on them!  There is not any validity to the claim that mice will leave your home if you use peppermint oil for mice! They just aren’t going to leave!  We go to people’s homes every week where they have attempted to use all sorts of silly things to make them leave.

Peppermint Oil For Mice - Does it Work? NO!

There are many companies on Google that are selling peppermint oil for mice, but the truth is that it simply does not work to rid your home of mice!  Even in this photo, there is the question raised… Does Irish Spring Soap Repel Mice?  No! Irish Soap does not repel mice! Not even the strongest peppermint oil for mice will work!

Why does peppermint oil not work to repel mice?

Peppermint oil is an essential oil and much like a perfume that you’d use on your body, after some time, the effectiveness of the oil wears off as the oils and chemicals inside of the peppermint spray breaks down. Mice will simply avoid it, but it will not deter them from accessing your home. Wherever there’s warmth and food, they’ll be there. They’ll just avoid the areas you have sprayed. There are more places in your home that you could never access that mice will find to live in than you could ever imagine.  Not even the strongest peppermint oil for mice will work.  There’s not one on the market that you could buy to rid your home of mice!

In this video, you will see that peppermint oil for mice will work, however, once the peppermint oil smell erodes, the mice will be sure to return.  Also, the practicality of placing mint oil all around your home becomes silly to even consider.  What this video does not do is test the peppermint oil for mice effectiveness over time and you will see a link in the video’s description to Amazon where the video reviewer will make a commission.  With the video having 1.8 million views. we’re sure that they’ve made some good money.  In fact, the video reviewer wants their test to work.

Why are people trying to get you to buy peppermint oil for mice when it doesn’t work?

There are too many essential oil snake salesmen out there that will try to sell you anything and everything, so do not buy peppermint oil for mice.  When you do see an article that tells you that peppermint oil for mice works, they will then create a link to a product on Amazon that is their affiliate link.  When you click on that link and then buy the peppermint oil, they earn a commission.  Here’s what to look for…

peppermint oil for mice on Amazon

When you click a link like this, the person that wrote the blog earns a commission. West Point Military Academy has a little credo that we at Mice Hunters live by as well, “We will not lie, cheat or steal, nor tolerate those that do.” This is why we are exposing the peppermint oil for mice lie!

If Peppermint Oil for Mice Does Not Work, then What?

There’s only one real way to get rid of mice in your home. Mice are no different than a burglar in your home. If you leave the front door open, they’ll get in. Unfortunately, your home has many openings that are large enough for the common mouse to enter through. Mice only need an opening the size of a dime to enter your home. As your home ages, it will begin to settle and move and with it, your home will provide these openings. Often it’s just way too obvious to us as to how the mice get in your home. Electric, cable and gas lines running into your home are often easy routes for mice to gain access to your home.  Sometimes, mice create a hole in your home and it’s actually not obvious at all.  The problem with the big box rodent control companies is that they don’t look for these uncommon routes that a mouse will take to enter your home, nor will they find them or seal them out.  It’s always the ones you cannot see that lead most of our customers to call us.  The common phone call will go a little something like this, “I’ve tried peppermint oil, mothballs, sonic rodent repellers, a Big Box Unnamed Rodent Control Company and nothing has worked, that’s why I’m calling you! There’s only one real way to get rid of mice, by mouse-proofing the entire exterior of your home!

How to get rid of mice in your home

  1. Lay down baits for mice
  2. Mouse-proof your home

It seems pretty simple, and we’d like to say it is, however not everyone actually has the knowledge to mouse proof their own home or access to a company that can do it. The bottom line is that there are not many companies that actually can mouse-proof your home. Many companies, like Orkin or Terminex, will simply lay down mouse poison and place steel wool in areas. We’ve even seen another “pest control company” put duck tape on the roof where the mice were getting in! That was a really funny one! We were there to actually fix the mouse problem they had! We do have the photos to prove it!  Steel wool and duck tape will not stop the mice from getting into your home!

Duck tape used to stop mice from entering a roof!

Jason, from Mice Hunters, was at the home where mice were still present despite another company that had been there to “take care of the mice problem”. Jason inspected the roof of the home and found duck tape covering one of the holes where mice had been entering. We were able to stop the mice from entering this home by mouse proofing it. This being an older home, is more susceptible to openings for mice to enter as the home continues to settle and shift through the years. Jason has over 15 years of homebuilding and construction knowledge to be able to spot weaknesses in homes, like this one, and devise a strategy to eliminate any and all openings for mice to enter a home.

How do I mouse-proof my home?

There are many DIY Mouse Proofing videos out there and we encourage you to see for yourself. We’ve been mouse-proofing homes for nearly 20 years now and there is no situation that we have not seen where the homeowner had hired a pest control company or tried to mouse-proof their home on their own. To mouse-proof your home, it often requires extensive knowledge of home-building techniques and engineering.
If you have this experience, the tools, ladders, chemicals, time and knowledge you may be able to mouse-proof your home.

Call a mouse-proofing and mice extermination professional!

    • We are home mice-proofing professionals and know all of the weaknesses in a home and where mice will attempt to make their way in.
    • We give you a 24 Month Rodent-Free Guarantee

If a rodent exterminator cannot give you a 12-month rodent-free guarantee, they do not believe in their own work. We do!

If you are living in the Chicagoland area and need a reliable rodent or mouse exterminator, give us a call. If you are not in the Chicagoland area, give us a call and we will refer you to a company that we trust!

Call us today! 847-499-1008

The post Peppermint Oil For Mice – Does it Work? appeared first on Mice Hunters.

]]>
https://micehunters.com/faq/peppermint-oil-for-mice-does-it-work/feed/ 0