Minnesota mice didn't go south for winter

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Creatures have been stirring in Minnesota this winter, according to exterminators who report a spike in mice infestations in recent weeks.

Todd Leyse, president of Adam's Pest Control in Medina, told the Minneapolis Star Tribune that January has been a particularly busy month so far for his anti-rodent team.

"Normally people say, 'We're seeing some mice,'" Leyse told the newspaper. "Now, they're describing how they caught 25 mice in their house and they're at the point of frustration and want professional help."

The Star Tribune said Monday that wildlife experts agree 2011 has thus far been the year of the mouse.

A string of relatively mild winters allowed populations of wild mice to increase. This year's early snows not only drove the critters to seek shelter inside homes, but also provided cover from predators.

Experts say the best course of action is to seal up cracks and holes, put pet chow and other food away at night and unplug appliances so the wires can't be used for climbing.