What characteristic makes the house mouse particularly troublesome in the U.S.?

The house mouse is particularly troublesome in the U.S. primarily because it thrives in a wide variety of conditions. This adaptability enables the house mouse to inhabit diverse environments, from urban areas to rural settings, allowing it to coexist closely with human populations. Their ability to utilize a range of resources, including food and nesting materials found in homes and buildings, contributes to their success in infesting properties. This adaptability not only supports large populations but also makes eradication efforts challenging, as they can exploit niches that may be overlooked in pest management strategies.

While rapid reproduction and a short lifespan play roles in their population dynamics, it is the house mouse's exceptional versatility in habitat that truly amplifies its impact as a pest in human environments. It can adjust to various temperature ranges, food sources, and shelter options, which means it's often present even in less-than-ideal conditions, further complicating control efforts.