Gross! When I went into the kitchen to make breakfast, there was black “rice” on the counter — mouse turds. Disgusting! A trip to my in-laws’ cottage is supposed to be a relaxing weekend, not a scubfest. Nevertheless, out came the scrub brush and bucket. Before breakfast I scoured down every surface and checked every cupboard and closet. We definitely had a mouse, (at least, I was hoping there was only one).

Not native to North America, mice arrived with early European settlers and quickly spread throughout the country. Typically nocturnal, mice eat grains, fruits, vegetables and refuse. Only two to three inches long (with a tail nearly twice that length), they can squeeze through the tiniest holes to gain entrance to your home and the “gourmet buffet” waiting in your kitchen.

Mice are inexhaustible breeders which means that my single mouse will soon be joined by a growing family. Though mice only live about a year (rats up to 2 years), a single female mouse can produce more than 70 offspring in her lifetime! A typical mouse can produce 60 droppings in a day. You do the math; even a single mouse equals a big problem. Mice spread disease, E. coli, fleas, microbes, and other nasty things that you don’t want in your house or near your children.

Stern Environmental Group uses a revolutionary new Track & Trap system to eradicate mice. Using UV light, the system pinpoints where mice are entering your home so they can be trapped and all entry points sealed. (See our May 10, 2007 blog post for more info and pictures.) Visit our website to learn about Stern’s pest and wildlife control services; just click the post title. Call our experienced professionals to find out about the new Track & Trap solution to your mouse problem. You’ll sleep well tonight when you get “Stern” with your pests.