Mouse Facts
Important Mouse Facts to Know
There cannot be many who have not seen the cartoons which portray mice as adorable little creatures continually in search of cheese; however, mouse facts depict an entirely different picture of these furry rodents.
Mice are among the most feared creatures for humans, yet rank within the smallest. There is no specific basis for the fear, and many consider it to be a socially induced conditioned response brought on by those cartoons, stories and depictions of women standing upon chairs, shrieking in fear at the mere mention of a mouse scurrying across the floor. Since they do spread disease and can create quite a bit of damage from their chewing habits, mice should cause some concern but not fear. Knowing a few mouse facts can help to understand the creature’s habits and help to dissipate the inordinate fear while also preventing them from encroaching on your territory.
Sight ability of mice is best when the lighting is dim, as they have poor sight. In contrast, their other senses are quite acute. Sensitive whiskers of the mouse, facts show, are used to determine surface features, temperatures and changes in the breeze. With large ears that funnel sounds to the interiors, the mouse has good hearing as well. When it comes to dietary habits of the mouse, facts point to the preference of grains and seeds rather than the cheese wedge we’ve come to associate with the rodent.
Any mouse facts that hint at the rodent being cute and cuddly are wrong. Mice are known to contaminate human work surfaces and food with their feces, which is abundantly left in any area that the mouse has visited. This evidence of fecal matter may be the first indication that you have a mouse living underfoot. Mice have been linked to diseases such as salmonellosis, rickettsial pox, ratbite fever, leptospirosis and more. While these disease names may sound foreign, they are very real possibilities and threats to humans.
Prevention is best when it comes to dealing with a mouse; facts, however, show that even the cleanest of households can become their target. If evidence of the rodent is found, setting snap bait works best for catching them. When disposing of the bodies caught, be sure to wear gloves when handling the dead mouse. Facts indicate that disease can be spread by the mere handling. Place them in a plastic bag and then in your trash container. Wash hands thoroughly with hot water and antibacterial soap.
Mouse facts that can help you to understand and identify mouse habits can help to eradicate their presence from your home. Far from the cute critters shown in cartoons, mice can create a harmful environment in your home.