Deer Mice Peromyscus maniculatus

Deer mice typically live in rural, outdoor environments and are less common in urban areas. Common areas where deer mice liveinclude:

• Open grasslands
• Brushy country
• Cliffs
• Forests
• Pasturelands
• Sheds
• Summer/vacation homes
• Suburban homes near wooded areas.

Deer mice often build nests in old fence posts, tree hollows, log piles, and beneath decks. During the winter months, they seek shelter in homes, garages, sheds, or rarely used vehicles.

Once indoors, deer mice may nest in storage boxes, drawers, wall voids, basements, attics and other tight spaces.

Deer mice tend to feed on:

• Insects 
• Seeds 
• Nuts 
• Berries 
• Small fruits 

They are most active at dusk and dawn when searching for food. 

Yes. Deer mice can pose a serious medical concern because they can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans.  
 
One of the most significant health concerns associated with deer mice is Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a potentially fatal respiratory disease.

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is a severe respiratory disease caused by a virus that can be spread by infected deer mice. The virus is mainly transmitted when people inhale airborne dust particles contaminated with the urine, feces or saliva of infected deer mice. Hantavirus can also be contracted through direct contact with infected deer mice carcasses, including baby deer mice, and in rare cases, through a bite. 
 
Learn more about Hantavirus by watching our Medical Minute: Hantavirus & the Flu video, or read What You Need to Know About Hantavirus in 2026 for the latest information and prevention tips. 

These rodents rarely infest residential homes, but they can be a problem in farming areas, vacation homes, outbuildings, and sheds. 

Yes, deer mice can bite humans, but bites are uncommon.

According to the  CDC, Hantavirus is primarily spread when people breathe in air contaminated with the virus. While infected deer mice can potentially transmit the disease through a bite, this form of transmission is rare.

Common signs of a deer mouse infestation include:

• Droppings 
• Gnaw marks 
• Nests 
• Damaged food goods 

If you notice any of these signs, inspect your property promptly to determine whether deer mice are present. 

• Mice can squeeze through a hole as small as a dime. Seal any cracks larger than ¼ inch wide around your home to prevent deer mice from entering. Pay special attention to areas where utilities and pipes enter the home.
• Replace loose mortar and damaged weather stripping around basement foundations and windows where deer mice could sneak inside.
• Keep food in sealed, rodent-proof containers to ensure you’re not attracting intruders.
• Make sure your home and storage areas are clean and dry.
• Dispose of all garbage cans frequently.
• Since deer mice hide in clutter, keep areas clear, and store boxes off the floor.
• Keep shrubs and tree branches cut back and away from the house.
• Avoid storing pet food or bird seed in garages or storage sheds.
• Regularly inspect basements, attics, outbuildings and rarely used cars/RVs for signs of a deer mice
• Use heavy gloves and protective breathing gear when working in an area populated by deer mice.

Even though these are good tips for how to get rid of deer mice, you should contact a licensed pest control professional for help if you suspect an infestation.

If you suspect a deer mouse infestation, contact a licensed pest control professional  for help. Deer mice can be difficult to locate and may nest in hidden areas throughout a property. Use our ZIP code locator to find a qualified pest control professional in your area.