What you may notice

Scratching sounds, damaged packages, or droppings can raise concern about rodents. These signs deserve careful attention, but they do not identify the species or where it entered.

Common signs

  • Droppings or fresh gnawing on packaging, wood, or other materials
  • Nesting material, tracks, or repeated activity along walls and sheltered edges
  • Scratching sounds or sightings, especially around storage, kitchens, attics, or basements

Why it happens

Rodents look for food, water, and shelter. Small openings, cluttered storage, and accessible food can make buildings easier to enter or use. Mice may move indoors as outdoor conditions cool.

Seasonal context in Wisconsin

Rodent sightings can become more noticeable as fall and winter approach, when mice may seek indoor shelter. Buildings can have activity at any time of year.

Why it matters

Rodents can contaminate food and their droppings or nesting material may carry germs. Cleanup needs care: CDC advises against sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings.

Steps you can take

  • Store food and waste in closed containers and reduce accessible water or nesting material.
  • Look for likely gaps from a safe position and note where signs appear; do not disturb nests.
  • For droppings or nesting material, follow CDC cleanup instructions and use extra precautions for heavy infestations.

How we can help

Tell us what signs you noticed, where they appeared, and whether they keep returning. We will review your request and confirm whether we can help. Any inspection or treatment depends on the property and signs.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to vacuum mouse droppings?

CDC says not to sweep or vacuum dry rodent droppings. Read the current CDC cleanup steps before cleaning, and seek professional help for a heavy infestation.

Why do mice show up in fall?

As outdoor conditions cool, mice may look for food and shelter indoors. An entry point and access to food or nesting material can also matter.