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DEER MOUSE

The deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) is a common rodent here in Ontario, and across Canada. Deer mice (also called ‘field mice’) are nocturnal outdoor pests in rural areas, especially fields, grasslands or densely wooded areas where they can eat small insects, worms, fungi, fruit, nuts and seeds.

a field mouse sitting on the ground

Deer mice are typically small rodents, but can range in length from 8 cm to 17 cm. They have large ears, huge eyes and soft tawny brown (like deer) or grey fur. Unlike the house mouse, they have a white belly and tail bottom, and white colouring on their feet. Their tail is typically the length of their body. Like other rodents, they need to constantly chew and gnaw to maintain their teeth.

A deer mouse standing on its back feet

While preferring to live outside in underbrush, tree cavities, shrubs, tall grasses and crevices in rocks, they do at times invade nearby homes, garages, sheds, barns, warehouses and factories. This commonly occurs in the fall when colder weather moves in, and they are searching for warm shelter, food and water. Once indoors, the deer mouse seeks refuge in basements, attics and crawl spaces where human activity is minimal. They will eat what humans do, including discarded food waste, and they create food reserves in holes close to their nesting areas.

Deer mice are a major concern to humans. They cause damage to property through biting, chewing, foraging and burrowing. They can and will chew through vinyl, wiring, insulation, drywall, plastic and books. Deer mice are one of the main carriers of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a respiratory disease, which is dangerous to humans. This disease is spread to humans through encountering their urine, droppings or from direct contact with live or dead deer mice. Deer mice can also transmit to humans Salmonellosis, a bacterial disease which affects the intestinal tract. Salmonellosis bacteria is common in deer mouse droppings. It is passed on to humans through contaminated food that contains infected deer mouse droppings.

a deer mouse hiding in a wooden structure

Deer mice populations grow rapidly which can quickly lead to a deer mouse infestation. Active breeding occurs from March to October resulting in female deer mice birthing 2 to 4 litters a year. Litter sizes vary, ranging from 5 to 12 babies. Within 2 months post birth, deer mice are capable of breeding. The average lifespan of deer mice is 1 year; however, they can live longer if they are able to survive winter months when food is scarce and environmental conditions are harsh.

Learn the common signs of a deer mouse infestation and how to get rid of mice.

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Trevor Dixon

I want to thank Sarah! She really did a amazing inspection! I had a issue with mice. Sarah cover the inside and outside taking care of holes/gaps above the front and back doors. attics and garage. And has a very caring attitude towards her clients! I have know about Environmental Pest control for many years as they looked after issues with a school board I worked for.


Margo Dixon

We just had a fall treatment done at our country property. We never hesitate to call this company to protect us from ladybugs, cluster flies and more. You can count on them for punctuality, professionalism and thoroughness. Shout out to Cody who went above and beyond today: on his own accord, he brought our garbage/recycling bins to our garage door from the road and was able to retrieve a helium balloon that had floated up to the top of our cathedral ceiling. We are seniors, so these gestures of kindness were most appreciated. Highly recommend!


Sherrie Lee Hawley

I cannot rate this company high enough. I first talked with Thomas on the phone. He was so polite and patient with this 79 year old lady animal advocate. He talked me through everything and I made my choice of the service I desired. I got an appointment the next day. Craig was right on time and he went through everything again and made sure I understood the whole procedure. I feel I got a very fair price for the work done. Do not hesitate to call Environmental Pest Control if you need help with wasps as I did!


Heather Lundberg

I recently had the bait boxes refilled to avoid having mice move into my house as the weather turns colder. Mike and Jake arrived at the appointed time. Both gentlemen were polite, friendly and very professional. When they left, I contacted Kassandra to arrange payment. She was lovely, pleasant and polite, a pleasure to speak with. I have used the services of this company for years and have always been pleased.