Recognizing Signs of a Mouse Infestation in Your St. Louis Business

Droppings

Mouse droppings are one of the most apparent signs of an infestation. They are small, dark, and resemble grains of rice. You’ll typically find them near food sources, along walls, inside drawers, and under furniture.

• Where to Look: Check areas like kitchenettes, storage rooms, and any place where food is stored or consumed.
• What to Do: Clean up droppings immediately using gloves and a disinfectant, and monitor for new droppings to assess the extent of the infestation.

Gnaw Marks

Mice constantly need to gnaw on objects to keep their teeth sharp and manageable. Gnaw marks can be found on various materials, including wood, plastic, cables, and food packaging.

• Where to Look: Inspect the edges of desks, chairs, baseboards, and storage containers. Also, check electrical wiring and cables for damage.
• What to Do: If you find gnaw marks, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent further damage, especially to electrical wiring, which can be a fire hazard.

Nests and Nesting Materials

Mice build nests using shredded paper, cardboard, insulation, and fabric. These nests are usually hidden in secluded areas close to food sources.

• Where to Look: Search behind appliances, inside wall cavities, storage boxes, and other hidden corners.
• What to Do: Remove and dispose of nesting materials carefully, and clean the area thoroughly to prevent attracting more mice.

Noises

Mice are nocturnal, so you’ll most likely hear them at night. Listen for scratching, squeaking, or scampering sounds, especially from walls, ceilings, and underfloors.

• Where to Listen: Listen to quiet times in the late evening and early morning.
• What to Do: If you hear these noises, it’s a strong indicator that mice are present, and you should contact a pest control professional for a thorough inspection.

Tracks and Smudge Marks

Mice often leave greasy smudge marks along walls and floors as they navigate their established routes. You might also see tracks in dusty or dirty areas.

• Where to Look: Examine baseboards, corners, and along the edges of floors.
• What to Do: Clean the areas and monitor for new marks to determine active routes and hiding spots.

Strong Odors

A strong, musky odor often accompanies a mouse infestation, particularly in enclosed spaces. This smell comes from their urine and can be pretty noticeable.

• Where to Smell: Pay attention to storage areas, closets, and under sinks.
• What to Do: Identify and clean the source of the smell to reduce the attraction for mice and prevent health issues.

Taking Action

Acting quickly is crucial if you observe any of these signs in your St. Louis business. Here’s what you can do:

1. Inspect Thoroughly: Conduct a detailed inspection to confirm the presence of mice and locate their entry points and nests.
2. Seal Entry Points: Use materials like steel wool and caulk to seal cracks, gaps, and openings that mice might use to enter.
3. Maintain Cleanliness: Keep food stored in sealed containers, dispose of garbage regularly, and maintain a clean environment to deter mice.
4. Professional Help: Contact a pest control service to assess the situation and implement an effective extermination plan.

At Titan Pest & Wildlife Solutions, we specialize in identifying and eradicating mouse infestations to keep your business safe and operational. Our tailored pest control solutions ensure that we not only remove your current infestation but also prevent future ones, protecting your business from potential damage and health risks. Contact us today for a thorough inspection and professional pest management services.