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Facts About the Deer Mouse

Deer Mouse Illustration
Deer Mouse Illustration

Deer mice are small rodents whose fur coloration closely resembles that of the whitetail deer.  Dark at the back, these mice lighten in color at the underside and legs. They measure approximately six inches from nose to tail. The tail and body of the deer mouse are approximately the same length. Their tails are brown at the tip and white near the base. The deer mouse's ears are large, round and almost hairless. Their eyes are also comparatively large.

Although they also invade homes, deer mice are prominent in rural areas with weeds, tall grass and plentiful vegetation. Deer mice create burrows and tunnel systems, which are much simpler than those created by other species. They use dry grass, weed stems, fur and feathers to construct their nests.

Deer mice may appear harmless, but they are known carriers of dangerous diseases such as Hantavirus. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is transmitted when urine and feces are disturbed.  Utmost care should be employed when disposing of deer mouse droppings. They should be sprayed with disinfectant before sweeping them up.  

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