Telling different mouse species apart can be hard when you see them standing next to each other, but it’s even harder when you try to identify them based on the signs they leave behind during an infestation. However, being able to do this can help you find better control options that you can use against them. The two most common mouse species in home infestations are the field mouse and house mouse. Let’s take a look at how these two species are different.
Physical differences
The two species differ slightly in size, with the field mouse being about one inch longer at 4 inches. They also have different tails. Field mice have shorter tails, with no hair on them, while house mice do have hair on their tails. The biggest physical difference is in the coloring of the coat, with house mice having a single colored, lighter coat, and field mice having dark brown or gray fur with a light underbelly.
Behavioral differences
There are several behavioral differences between the two species as well. For example, field mice will gather food and store it in their nests. They also have different nesting habits, with field mice burrowing underground, and house mice building their nests beneath shrubs or vegetations. House mice tend to be more curious by nature, while a field mouse avoids social interaction and tries to stay as hidden as possible.
Damage in the home
Both species are known to be dangerous pests. Not only will they cause damage to the home with their constant gnawing, they will also spread diseases, with the only difference between the two being the diseases that they are able to spread. For example, field mice are best known for spreading the hantavirus, while house mice can spread leptospirosis and Lymphocytic choriomeningitis.
Infestation characteristics
When it comes to the characteristics of their infestations, field mice and house mice are not that different. However, you can tell which species is in the home by the droppings that they leave behind. The droppings of a field mouse have pointed ends, while the droppings of the house mouse have a shape similar to that of a grain. It’s important to keep in mind that these droppings will be tiny. If the droppings are about half an inch in length, then you are dealing with rats.
If you notice the signs of a mouse infestation in the home, it’s important to act fast. Contact us today if you suspect that you have a mouse infestation, and we will remove it for you.
