House Mice

Description

Size: 10 cm head and body length. Tail about 3/4 of body length.

Colour: Grey-Brown fur, slightly lighter undersides.

Biology and Habitat

House mice can be found anywhere humans are. Reproduction rates can be in the region of up to 2000 offspring in one year for a pair of adults. The babies are born after only 3 weeks and they themselves may breed after only 8-12 weeks. Each female can have up to 10 litters of 5-6 young each year. House mice tend to live less than 1 year.

Importance

Mice are important with regard public health problems as they can destroy or contaminate large amounts of food and material. They can carry diseases, which may be spread by their urine when running over food preparation surfaces.

SO WHAT MEASURES CAN I TAKE?

Traps and poisons may be used by householders, but an experienced pest control operator will be able find where mice are living or gaining entry and treat accordingly. We offer a free service for mice in residential premises.

To avoid mice problems keep all pet food and human food in sealed containers when mice activity is found. Mice produce about 80 small droppings a night. They will find their way through a very small gap, so ensure all gaps around waste pipes for instance are sealed.

Safety

To protect yourself and others and to minimise damage to the environment. Always read and follow the application and use instructions printed on the container when using poisons or traps.

Clean all kitchen surfaces whenever mice are found regularly.