Boston’s encyclopedic history isn’t its only claim to fame. It boasts a varied ecosystem, including a diverse rodent population. Though not typically the focus of effusive city pride, understanding the nuances of local mice species is a valuable pursuit for homeowners and conservationists alike. Join us in an exploration of the common mice of Boston, and learn how to cohabitate (comfortably, from a distance) with these tiny city-dwellers.
The Topography of Boston Mice
In a city as storied as Boston, mice are as much a part of the urban fabric as red brick and cobblestone streets. Their presence is ubiquitous but often unseen. The city shelters several mouse species, each with distinct traits and habitation behavior.
The House Mouse (Mus musculus)
The quintessential city-dweller, the house mouse, has evolved to live alongside humans. Its diet is varied, its curiosity unbounded, and its fecundity unparalleled in the species. The house mouse is a prolific breeder, with a single female capable of producing dozens of offspring in a year. Their adaptability to different environments has made them one of the most widespread mammals on Earth.
The Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)
Less common within the city limits but found on the outskirts, deer mice are known for their agility and field-like coloring. They tend to shun human habitation in favor of the outdoors. Unlike their house-bound cousins, deer mice are more solitary in nature, only occurring in pairs during the breeding season. They primarily feed on seeds and insects, and around Boston, they can be potential carriers of the hantavirus.
The White-Footed Mouse (Peromyscus leucopus)
Often confused with the deer mouse, the white-footed mouse shares a similar distribution on the fringes of the city but shows a greater tolerance for human-impacted habitats. It is a carrier of Lyme disease, as it is a primary reservoir for the bacterium that causes the illness. Like the deer mouse, it is an adept climber and jumper, often found in forested areas and can invade homes in search of food and shelter.
Coexisting with Urban Mice
For most Bostonians, the intersection of life with city mice can be unsettling. However, understanding their presence can lead to solutions that benefit both parties.
Home Inspections and Exclusion
In order to peacefully coexist with mice, it’s essential to secure your home against intruders. Regular inspections for cracks, holes, and other entry points can help prevent infestations. Exclusion is key, as simply sealing mice out is often more effective than trying to evict them once they’ve taken up residence.
Sanitation and Food Storage
A messy home is an open invitation to mice. Proper sanitation can discourage their presence. This includes storing food in airtight containers, promptly cleaning up crumbs, and removing any potential food or water sources. Mice can survive on remarkably little, so thoroughness is paramount.
Dealing with an Infestation
Sometimes, the best efforts at prevention are not enough, and an infestation can develop. In these cases, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly and effectively.
Professional Pest Control
For severe infestations or for those who simply prefer not to handle the issue themselves, professional pest control services are available. They can assess the extent of the infestation and offer targeted solutions that are both effective and safe for you and your home.
Trapping and Removal
Live traps can be used to catch and release mice back into the wild. However, without addressing the root cause of the infestation, the problem may recur. Trapping and removal should be accompanied by thorough exclusion efforts to prevent further invasions.