As a homeowner, finding evidence of a mouse infestation in your house can be alarming and distressing. However, by understanding the techniques used by professional exterminators, you can feel reassured that eliminating your rodent problem is achievable. Exterminators have the proper training, tools, and pesticides to get rid of mice safely.
How Exterminators Inspect and Assess for Mice
As an exterminator, the first step is conducting a thorough inspection of the property to determine the scope of the mouse infestation and entry points.
Upon arriving at the location, walk around the exterior of the building and look for any holes or cracks leading into the structure, especially around foundations, attics, basements, and roofs. Mice can enter through openings as small as 1/4 inch in diameter. Note the location of any damage from gnawing or droppings.
Getting Rid of Mice
Next, survey the interior and check for signs of an active infestation like droppings, gnaw marks, nests, or sightings of live mice. Look behind and under furniture and appliances where mice like to hide. Droppings are a key indicator – the more droppings, the larger the population is likely to be.
Inspection of Attics and Basements
Attics and basements should be thoroughly checked since mice often nest in these areas. Look for holes or cracks in the walls, especially where utility pipes enter the building. Check insulation for signs of damage or droppings. Look in dark, undisturbed corners for nests which are usually made of shredded paper, cloth, or fibrous insulation.
The information gathered from the initial inspection is used to determine the best course of action, whether that be trapping, poisoning, exclusion to seal entry points or a combination thereof. An effective eradication plan should eliminate access to food sources, remove access to the building, and control the existing population. With persistent effort, a mouse infestation can be eliminated, but continued monitoring and exclusion are required to prevent the mice from becoming a problem again in the future.
How Exterminators Get Rid of Mice
Exterminators have several tried-and-true methods for eliminating mice infestations in homes and businesses.
Exclusion
Trapping
With access points sealed, the exterminator will then place traps or bait throughout the space, especially in areas where there are signs of mouse droppings, damage, or activity. Snap traps, electronic traps, or poison baits are commonly used options. The specific approach will depend on the severity of the issue and personal preferences. It can take several days or weeks of trapping and baiting to fully eliminate an infestation. The exterminator will return periodically to check and replace traps and bait as needed during this time.
Rodenticides
As a last line of defense, exterminators may deploy rodenticides or poisoned bait. Rodenticides containing acute toxins cause mice to die shortly after ingestion. Anticoagulant rodenticides, though slower-acting, are more humane and pose less risk of accidental poisoning to children and pets. Poisoned bait is placed in tamper-resistant bait stations in areas inaccessible to non-target animals.
Follow-up
Once the trapping and baiting phase is complete and no new signs of mice are detected, the exterminator will schedule a follow-up visit about 2 weeks later to re-inspect the entire area. They will seal up any new holes found and remove the remaining traps. If additional mice or recent activity are spotted, they will continue trapping and sealing access points until no signs remain. Only after a successful follow-up evaluation will the infestation be considered fully resolved.
How Long Does it Take an Exterminator to Get Rid of Mice
In summary, eliminating a mouse infestation in a home will typically take an exterminator around 3 to 4 weeks to fully complete through a multi-phase process of evaluation, sealing, trapping, and follow-up visits. Homeowners can expect multiple trips to the property during this period to systematically and thoroughly get rid of unwanted rodents. With professional pest control, a mouse problem can be solved humanely and effectively.
How Does an Exterminator Get Rid of Mice?
As you have seen, getting rid of mice is a multi-step process that requires patience and persistence. While mice may seem harmless at first, their droppings and parasites pose risks to health and home. By taking a proactive approach in sealing up entry points, clearing food sources, and using live traps or baits, you can eliminate an infestation and prevent the pests from returning. Though the work may be difficult, the reward of a mouse-free living space is well worth the effort. Stay vigilant in your prevention measures and don’t hesitate to call a professional if the problem persists or overwhelms you. With time and consistency, you can declare victory over your unwanted rodent roommates.
