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Mice in the Walls? Signs of a Fall Rodent Infestation

Monday, September 8, 2025

Mice in the Walls? Signs of a Fall Rodent Infestation

As the temperatures drop in the Denver Metro Area, mice and other rodents begin searching for warmth, and homes become prime targets. Walls, basements, attics, and crawlspaces offer the ideal protection from the elements. Unfortunately, mice don’t just sneak in quietly. Once inside, they can chew through insulation, contaminate food, and even pose fire hazards by gnawing on electrical wiring. Understanding the early signs of a rodent invasion can help stop a small issue before it turns into a full-blown infestation.

Why Fall Is Prime Time for Mice

In late September and October, the sudden shift in weather drives rodents to seek refuge indoors. Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as a dime, making it easy for them to access a property unnoticed. Once inside, they reproduce quickly—just one female mouse can give birth to dozens of offspring in a single season.

Common Signs You May Have Mice in the Walls

Rodents are nocturnal and often remain hidden, but there are a few telltale signs they’ve settled in:

  • Scratching or scampering noises at night, especially behind walls or in ceiling
  • Droppings in kitchen cabinets, under sinks, or near food storage areas
  • Grease marks or rub trails along baseboards and walls
  • Chewed wires, cardboard, or fabric—classic signs of nesting activity
  • A musty, ammonia-like odor, especially in enclosed spaces

If you’re noticing more than one of these signs, it’s time to act.

How Mice Get Inside Denver Homes

Rodents exploit every structural weakness they can find. The most common entry points include:

  • Foundation cracks and gaps around utility lines
  • Poorly sealed garage doors
  • Vents, chimneys, and uncapped pipes
  • Broken weather stripping and damaged door sweeps

Mice don’t need an open door—just a slight gap is enough.

Preventive Tips for Rodent Control

Before calling in a professional, take these preventative steps to reduce the chances of an infestation:

  • Seal cracks and holes around your home’s exterior
  • Store food in airtight containers
  • Keep garage and crawlspace doors closed
  • Declutter attics and basements regularly
  • Fix any water leaks that create ideal nesting conditions

FAQs About Mice in the Walls

How can I tell the difference between mice and squirrels in the walls?
Mice create lighter, faster scurrying sounds, while squirrels tend to make louder thumps and daytime movement.

Do mice leave during warmer months?
Mice may venture outside, but once inside, they often stay year-round unless removed.

Are store-bought traps effective for infestations?
Traps may catch a few mice, but infestations typically require professional inspection and sealing.

Can mice really cause fires?
Yes—chewing on electrical wires is a fire hazard and one of the top concerns of indoor rodent activity.

How fast do mice reproduce?
A single mouse can produce up to 60 offspring per year, making quick action essential.

Call Denver’s Trusted Rodent Control Experts

Don’t let mice take over your home this fall. At Animal & Pest Control Specialist, Inc., we use proven, humane methods to inspect, remove, and prevent rodent infestations. Our local technicians understand Denver-area homes and the seasonal behaviors of pests that affect them. Whether you’re hearing scratching in the walls or have spotted droppings, we’ll get to the source—fast.

Call today at 303-987-0842 to schedule a rodent inspection and protect your home before the cold weather sets in.

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