The most commonly known member of the family of field mice is the deer mouse. Similar to the house mouse in both appearance and tendencies, the deer mouse is different in one crucial aspect—he is a carrier of the virus that causes hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a respiratory illness that is potentially fatal to humans.
Deer mice are recognizable because of their brownish-tan fur on their heads and backs with white fur on their bellies, legs, and feet, with this two-toned pattern running all the way to the tips of their tails. (House mice have hairless ears and tails) Like other mice, they will reside in woods or grassy areas near homes until cooler weather sets in, when they then seek out nesting areas in garages, basements and attics. Look for chewed wood, insulation, wiring, and small rod-shaped droppings as signs of field mice in your home.
Homes in open areas with fields or parks nearby are at greater risk of experiencing problems with deer mice, as they will tend to avoid urban areas.