Why Are There So Many Mice Infesting Homes in Indiana This Year?

If you've been encountering a higher-than-normal number of uninvited guests in your home, you're certainly not alone. Here's why the problem is so bad in 2024.

READ MORE: Indiana City is One of the Most Rodent-Infested in the Country

Growing up in the rural Midwest, I'm no stranger to field mice. I've caught several over the years pilfering pet food, crackers, and even coffee grounds at one point. However, in the latter half of 2024, it seems I've been trapping an abundance of these pests. In fact, I don't recall a year when I've seen so many in such a short time. Many of my friends have reported similar situations. So what's the deal with these little critters this year?

Why Are Mice So Bad in 2024?

According to Pest Agent, there are a few key reasons behind the recent rodent surge. While the usual suspects—like crumbs or an open garage—definitely play a part, other factors, like climate change, have also had an impact. Indiana's warmer winters and wetter conditions have created ideal environments for mice to thrive, providing ample food and water sources. With fewer harsh winters, the mouse season has even been extended, resulting in a significant shift in mouse behaviors and populations.

The white-footed mouse, in particular, has been taking advantage of these shifts, leading to more mouse activity in suburban homes. However, there are other reasons, aside from climate change, why mice are becoming a bigger problem. Urban sprawl, for example, has played a big role, as new homes and offices offer more nooks and crannies for mice to nest in. Meanwhile, changing farming practices may be giving these critters even more opportunities to flourish.

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How to Combat a Mice Problem

To tackle the growing issue of mice infestations, pest control experts recommend a combination of strategies influenced by the aforementioned conditions. Here’s what you should focus on, according to Pest Agent.

• Eliminate food sources: Secure your trash, store food in airtight containers, and keep your kitchen clean to remove any potential food sources for mice. Also, check your water pipes, as mice only need a small opening to survive for a long time.
  Identify entry points: Inspect your home for cracks in walls, holes, and gaps that mice could use to get inside, and seal them with appropriate materials.
  Utilize rodent bait stations: Strategically place bait stations around your property to safely lure and eliminate mice. Remember, it’s crucial to address these infestations promptly due to the public health risks, including the spread of illnesses like Lyme disease.

I'll also add that I would avoid using glue traps to catch mice. Not only do they leave a mouse suffering for hours on end until it can be properly dispatched, but they can also harm other animals in and around your home. You can read more about the dangers of glue traps by clicking HERE.