Deer Mouse

Rodent—Deer Mouse

Size

Deer mouse adult's head+body length is 2.75-4 in (7-10 cm); tail length is about 2-5 in (5-13 cm); weight is about 1 ounce (10-35 g).

Characteristics

Tail is longer than half of head+body length, sharply bicolored, and covered with short hairs or fur. Hind feet have six pads each.

Color

The deer mouse is bicolored, pale gray/buff to deep red/brown above, and white below.

Where

Western U.S. from Mexico to southern Yukon and Northwest territories of Canada; eastern U.S. from Hudson Bay to Pennsylvania, southern Appalachians, central Arkansas and central Texas.

Habitat

Outside in tree hollows, old fence posts, log piles, abandoned nests and burrows, or in their own old burrows. Inside in wall voids, corners, small places in basements and attics, storage boxes, stuffed furniture. Home range is 1/2 to 3 acres, with up to 10-15 deer mice per acre in summer.

Diet

Insects, seeds, nuts, berries, fruits, underground fungus. Food is stored in protected places for winter use.

Biology

Litters have about 3-5 young. With a gestation period of 21-24 days, females have 2-4 litters per year, mostly in the spring. They begin breeding at 5-6 weeks of age.

Damage

During the cold months deer mice enter garages, sheds and homes that border on wooded areas. They may get into stored food, or nest in upholstered furniture. They are primary carriers of hantavirus, which is transmitted mainly by the inhalation of dust particles that are contaminated with the urine or feces of infected mice.

Invasion

Deer mice can enter through holes about a pencil's diameter in size. They are excellent climbers and can use high areas in buildings. During cold months they enter homes, garages, and stored vehicles. They are not usually present in cities or suburban residences, except bordering parks or other wooded areas. They are common in rural areas.

Control

1. Identify the genus (Peromyscus).

2. Place baited snap traps in corners, along walls and behind objects.

3. In unoccupied structures registered rodenticide baits work well, but few are labeled for deer mice. Always read entire label, and follow all directions, restrictions and precautions.

4. Seal all entry holes with 1/8 inch hardware cloth. Store bird seed and dry pet foods in places other than garages or sheds.