Deer Mice in Atlanta, GA
Deer mice are small rodents found across North America, including here in Atlanta, GA. They’re easily identified by their white underbelly and feed, which give them the nickname ‘white-footed mice’. Though these small pests usually live in wooded or rural areas, they may try to access your home or business for warmth in the cold wintertime. Since these mice can carry the potentially fatal Hantavirus in their droppings and urine, they are a threat to your health if they nest near your property.
Deer Mouse Habitat
Deer mice are most active at night and spend the day resting in small cup-shaped nests, which they build from fibrous materials like stems or leaves. These mice may also line their nests with soft materials such as feathers or shredded cloth. Their nests are usually located in sheltered outdoor areas, including tree hollows or beneath fallen logs. If deer mice sneak indoors, they tend to prefer dark and low-traffic areas like basements and garages. Since they don’t hibernate, deer mice are most likely to try to access your home in the wintertime when temperatures are low.
Deer Mouse Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
During most of the year, deer mice make cozy nests in tranquil, dim, and secluded outdoor spots. As winter chills set in, these mice often find their way into homes, garages, sheds, and sometimes even vehicles. Indoors, they frequently take up residence in basements or attics. One significant danger of deer mice is their potential to carry the possibly lethal hantavirus. This disease can spread through contact with mouse remains or by inhaling airborne urine droplets from infected deer mice. Since deer mice pose a threat to your health, it’s important to contact a licensed rodent removal company if you suspect you have an infestation.
