Mice

Top

Last revised: 6 October 2008

A Picture of a Mouse

Description

An adult house mouse usually weighs about 1oz or 25g. The colour of its fur is usually brown on its body and grey on its under parts. The ears are large in relation to its body, whilst the tail is the same length as the head and body combined.

Distribution

The house mouse appears to have originated in Central Asia. In this country it is found in a wide range of urban and rural buildings. Although mainly a house dweller it may live outdoors for part or all of the year.

If it gains entry into the house it may be found in kitchen cupboards, under floors, in roof spaces, in pipe or cable ducting or in airing cupboards. Mice are most active at night.

Life Cycle

Mice breed efficiently and a female mouse of eight to twelve weeks old can produce five to ten litters of young a year, with a litter size on average of five to six young.

If conditions are favorable for the survival of the young the female can conceive again soon after the litter is born.

The young are born blind and helpless but by fourteen days old they are covered in fur, the eyes are open and the incisor teeth are showing.

Mice generally live for less than one year and only a very small percent will live to a year or longer.

Significance

Mice can be hazardous to health. They are responsible for the spread of many diseases. They will also contaminate food with urine, droppings and fur. They can also cause considerable damage by gnawing at woodwork, water pipes, electric cables and household items.

Control Methods

If you think you have a mouse problem then you will need professional help in controlling the infestation. The first indications of a problem are scuffling noises, live sightings and droppings (small spindle shaped up to ¼” long), gnawed foods and musky smells. Nesting materials can also sometimes be seen.

Mice can be particularly difficult to control because of the rate at which they breed.

However the following simple rules may help to minimise the risk of an infestation:-

  • Do not leave any excess food waste outside overnight.

  • Make sure food preparation areas and work surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.

  • Place all household rubbish in the dustbin, keep the lid shut.

  • Ensure any holes around waste pipes, under doors or in air vents are less than 6mm.

The Council does offer a service to treat mice, further information on charges can be found on the Council website or follow this link.  Mice

Independent pest control companies also offer professional treatment of mice and their details can be found in local telephone directories and Yellow Pages.