What are the mice that live inside houses called? - briefly
House mice (Mus musculus) are the rodents that typically inhabit residential buildings. They represent a domesticated subspecies of the common field mouse, adapted to indoor environments.
What are the mice that live inside houses called? - in detail
The rodent most commonly found inside residential buildings is the house mouse (Mus musculus). It belongs to the family Muridae and the subspecies Mus musculus domesticus, which has adapted to human environments worldwide.
Key characteristics
- Body length 6–10 cm; tail roughly equal in length.
- Gray‑brown dorsal fur, lighter ventral side.
- Large ears and a pointed snout.
- Rapid breeding: up to 10 litters per year, each 5–8 pups.
Habitat preferences
- Occupies wall voids, attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
- Seeks warmth, food sources, and shelter from predators.
- Frequently enters through gaps as small as 6 mm.
Signs of infestation
- Small droppings, 3–5 mm long, dark and pellet‑shaped.
- Gnaw marks on wires, wood, and plastic.
- Greasy smears along walls and baseboards.
- Nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation.
Distinguishing from other indoor rodents
- House mouse is smaller than the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) and has a more delicate skull.
- Unlike the roof rat (Rattus rattus), it prefers lower levels and cooler areas.
Control measures
- Seal entry points: install steel wool or caulk in cracks and gaps.
- Reduce food availability: store dry goods in airtight containers, clean spills promptly.
- Use traps (snap, electronic, or live‑catch) placed along walls where activity is evident.
- Apply rodenticides according to local regulations, ensuring safety for non‑target species.
Understanding the biology and behavior of this species enables effective management and prevents damage to structures, wiring, and stored goods.