|
|
 |
Peromyscus
leucopis
Characteristics –
Size: Body is up to two inches in length.
Color: This species has several closely related cousins
that are colored similarly. All species are bicolor -- the top is
light brown to red-brown and the feet and underbelly are pure white.
The white-footed mouse has a tail that is covered with short, fine
hairs.
Behavior –
Unlike the house mouse, the white-footed mouse is not found in
cities but is associated more with rural areas and buildings located
in or near wooded areas. It does not commonly invade homes, but on
occasion, one or more white-footed mice may invade a particular
building.
The white-footed mouse is a medically important species because it
is a key host for blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis and Ixodes
pacificus), which carry and transmit Lyme disease. In at least one
case in New York, this species was also documented with hantavirus.
A closely related cousin to this species, the deer
mouse, is the primary carrier of hantavirus.
Habitat – White-footed mice prefer the outdoors
where they nest in tree holes, hollow logs, under logs, and in piles
of stones, branches or logs. If inside, they are most often found in
areas where the least human activity occurs, such as attics,
garages, basements and crawl spaces.
Tips for Control – If you live in an area where
white-footed mice have been seen or could be present, it may be
prudent and desirable to hire an experienced professional to control
the mice.
Remember, the risk of actually encountering hantavirus-infected
white-footed mice is very remote, but taking the following steps can
minimize any potential health risk:
 | Never
sweep or vacuum mouse droppings and dust or debris in mouse
activity areas.
|
| Wear
a respirator equipped with a High Efficiency Purifying Air (HEPA)
filter as well as non-vented protective goggles, and impermeable
latex or rubber gloves.
|
| Soak
mouse droppings and dusty areas with an EPA-registered
disinfectant then wipe up with paper towels. Place the soiled
towels in a sealed plastic bag and dispose in an outdoor trash
receptacle.
|
| Clean
protective equipment with the EPA-registered disinfectant, then
again with soap and water, and allow to air dry before the next
use.
|
| Spray
dead white-footed mice with EPA-registered disinfectant before
disposal. Handle traps wearing protective latex or rubber gloves
and a HEPA-equipped respirator. Try to avoid touching or
handling the carcass. Dispose of the carcass in a sealed plastic
bag in an outdoor trash receptacle.
|
| | | | |
|
