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Deer Mice Information

The deer mouse is one of the most familiar rodents found in North America. Deer mice are named for their coats, which resemble the coat of the white-tailed deer. Deer mice have white bellies, with dark gray or brown backs and heads.

Deer mice are known to be the most significant reservoir of Hantavirus, which is transmitted through feces and urine. Hantavirus is extremely dangerous and is inhaled when it becomes airborne. Disturbance of droppings leads to release of Hantavirus particles. For this reason, vacuuming droppings is not recommended. The droppings should be sprayed with disinfectant before sweeping.

Deer mice are primarily herbivorous, but will also consume caterpillars, spiders and grasshoppers on occasion. They are particularly fond of grains, seeds, nuts and berries. As such, deer mice are formidable pests on farms and in the crop-yielding countryside.

In winter, deer mice enter domestic spaces in search of food and warmth. Their nests are constructed of fur, weeds, seed and paper. Although they become sluggish during cold months, deer mice do not hibernate. Deer mice hoard food supplies and actively forage for food near their nesting sites. 

Facts About the Deer Mouse

How to Get Rid of Deer Mice

Deer Mouse Droppings

What Do Deer Mice Look Like?