Mice
What do they look like?
The common mouse found in buildings is the house mouse. The
fur colour varies between light brown and grey. Body length varies
between 60 - 90mm and the tail can add an additional 100mm. The
droppings are usually black, rod-shaped and 3 - 6mm long.
Where do they live?
Mice live in nests, which are often built inside houses,
especially during the winter. Nests are built wherever there is
access to a good source of food. Spaces under floors and lofts are
favoured places for nests, which are built out of cloth, wool and
paper.
Mouse holes are normally 20 - 30mm in diameter. Mice are
mainly active at night and can be heard running about as they
search for food. Mice can squeeze through cracks as small as
5mm.
What do they eat?
Their favourite foods are cereal products, although they will
eat almost anything. Most of the damage they do is by gnawing and
ripping open packets. They also foul food with urine and droppings.
Mice will gnaw their way through wood to get to sources of
food.
How can I control them?
It is important to get rid of mice quickly, before they damage
pipe cables and insulation. It is possible to carry out the work
yourself.
To get rid of mice yourself you
can do the following:
Set Traps
- Traps may be used and these should be placed next to walls
where mice tend to travel.
- The trap should be baited with
chocolate, biscuit or cereal.
- Use several traps and examine them daily, removing dead mice as
soon as they are discovered.
- All traps should be handled with
care.
- Wash your hands and any equipment thoroughly in hot soapy
water.
Lay Poison
- Mouse poison can be bought from hardware stores and most garden
centres. Always select the most suitable type.
- Put the poison in a safe and secure place to ensure children
and pets cannot get to it and eat it.
- Wash your hands and any equipment
thoroughly in hot soapy water.
- Carry out mouse proofing at your premises to prevent mice
gaining access
When using pesticides
always follow the instructions on the label.
Can we help?
Yes. We will lay a rodenticide that will kill the mice. There
is no charge for this service.
Last Updated on 6/25/2012