Types of Mice in South Carolina

If you’ve spotted small gnaw marks, droppings, or heard scratching noises at night, chances are you’re dealing with mice. South Carolina’s warm climate and mix of urban, rural, and wooded areas create an ideal environment for several types of mice—and a few rat species—that may invade homes and businesses. Knowing which type of rodent you’re dealing with is the first step toward effective control.

This guide will cover the most common types of mice in South Carolina, how to identify them, the risks they pose, and what you can do to keep them out of your home.

House Mouse (Mus musculus)

The house mouse is the most common rodent pest in South Carolina.

• Appearance: Small (2.5–4 inches), gray to light brown fur, large ears, and a pointed nose.
• Habitat: Highly adaptable; nests inside walls, attics, and basements.
• Risks: Contaminates food, gnaws on electrical wiring, and spreads diseases.

Why it matters: Once established indoors, house mice can breed quickly, making infestations difficult to eliminate without professional help.

Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)

The deer mouse is found across much of the U.S., including South Carolina’s forests and rural areas.

• Appearance: Brown or gray upper body, white belly, and a bicolored tail.
• Habitat: Prefers woods, brush, and fields but may enter homes during colder months.
• Risks: Known carriers of hantavirus, which can be dangerous to humans.

Why it matters: Their presence near homes increases health risks, even if they primarily live outdoors.

White-Footed Mouse (Peromyscus leucopus)

Often confused with deer mice, the white-footed mouse is another common species.

• Appearance: Brownish upper body, white feet, large dark eyes.
• Habitat: Found near forests and brush; nests in attics or sheds when shelter is needed.
• Risks: Can carry ticks and fleas that transmit diseases.

Why it matters: Their habit of nesting close to human structures makes them a persistent nuisance.

Cotton Mouse (Peromyscus gossypinus)

Native to the Southeast, the cotton mouse thrives in South Carolina’s swamps and wooded areas.

• Appearance: Similar to the white-footed mouse but slightly larger with a long tail.
• Habitat: Wooded areas, hollow logs, and roots.
• Risks: Potential food contamination and property damage if they find their way indoors.

Why it matters: Though less common in homes, they’re a concern for rural properties.

Field Mice / Meadow Voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus)

Often mistaken for mice, voles are short-tailed rodents that live in grassy habitats.

• Appearance: Stockier body, short tail, brown fur.
• Habitat: Meadows, fields, and gardens.
• Risks: Known for damaging lawns, gardens, and crops.

Why it matters: While less of an indoor pest, voles can cause significant landscaping damage.

Other Rodents in South Carolina

While not technically “mice,” two types of rats are also common across the state and often invade homes:

• Norway Rat (Brown Rat): Larger, ground-dwelling rat that nests in crawl spaces and basements.
• Roof Rat (Black Rat): Sleeker and more agile; often nests in attics and rooflines.

Both species can cause severe property damage and pose serious health risks.

How to Prevent Mice in South Carolina Homes

Dealing with a mouse infestation starts with prevention. Here are a few effective tips:

• Seal entry points: Close gaps around pipes, vents, and foundations.
• Eliminate food sources: Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs.
• Reduce clutter: Remove woodpiles, debris, and tall vegetation near your home.
• Use traps: Place snap traps or bait stations in high-activity areas.
• Call a professional: For recurring infestations, professional rodent control is the most reliable solution.

Learn more about Handling a Rodent Infestation with our complete guide.

From the common house mouse to more specialized species like the cotton mouse or meadow vole, South Carolina is home to several types of mice that can create problems for homeowners. Proper identification helps determine the best prevention and control strategy.

If you suspect a rodent infestation, don’t wait—the sooner you act, the easier it is to protect your family and property.