Many homes and neighbourhoods are located near fields and wild vegetation, which is the natural habitat for mice and other rodents. While rodents tend to avoid human contact and environments in warm and vegetation-producing months, as the weather shifts and temperatures begin to plummet, the animals seek food and shelter. Unfortunately for many homeowners, garages make suitable homes for a mice infestation in Vaughan. The spaces are protected from the elements and rarely visited by people, making them cozy to wait out the winter.  

Why Are Mice Attracted To Garages? 

While people rarely see mice scurrying about, the animals have become accustomed to a human presence, so much so that they understand human structures mean safety and nourishment. Garages make the perfect nesting site for mice because they protect against the elements and predators and provide a stable food source — bird and grass seed. If that wasn’t enough, many people can become lax about the barrier and connection between a garage and their house, meaning that mice might find routes allowing them to travel into the interior of your home where they can find more food and security. 

What Are the Signs of a Rodent Problem? 

One of the most evident signs of mice is their droppings. From the time the animals wake at night to when they return to their nests, they eat constantly. The constant eating and rapid digestion lead to many droppings, which look like black or brown rice grains. Additionally, because mice rarely live alone, there will likely be piles of droppings all along the edges of the garage. 

While mouse droppings are the most common sign of an infestation, you can also look for small holes in seed bags, pet food bags, and other storage containers. Mice are messy eaters, so you will probably find scraps strewn about. 

How Do You Keep Mice Out of Your Space? 

Preventing mice from entering and nesting in your garage is about making the space as unattractive as possible. Since the animals come to the area looking for food and shelter, you need to find ways of eliminating those options. For practical tips, consider the following: 

• Keep birdseed, grass seed, and pet food off the floor and in sealed bins or containers 
• Keep clutter off the floor and organize cabinets and shelving 
• Keep trash bins outside with a lid 
• Keep firewood outside and away from the garage and house 
• Seal any cracks and gaps along the garage foundation, walls, and windows 

When Is the Best Time To Check for Mice?

While mice are present all year long, it is in the colder months that the animals begin seeking indoor shelter. The fall is likely the time of year that mice will start actively seeking out the warmth in manufactured structures. Therefore, before the colder weather rolls in, you will want to perform a thorough inspection of your garage, making sure to seal all holes and cracks and possibly renew weather stripping. However, if you suspect you already have a rodent problem, sealing all vulnerable entries and exits could worsen an infestation because it traps the animals in the garage.  

When Should You Call a Professional? 

You want to call in a professional wildlife removal expert at the first sign of rodents on your property or in your garage. Mice populate quickly and will nest in large groups. While rapid removal is key to minimizing damage, it is essential to focus on using humane professionals. Mice are not violent animals, and they are only trying to survive. While you do not want to cohabitate with the wildlife, there is no reason to resort to inhumane practices to eliminate them. 

When you are searching for humane ways for how to get rid of mice, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. The professionals from Skedaddle will assess your property and find solutions you can live with.