SEARCH FOR A PEST

House Mice and Field Mice are generally the species that we encounter as pests, both in business and domestic dwellings. Active and breeding year round house mice can soon reach seriously high numbers.

Because the House Mouse is a small mammal only being about 60-90mm in body length it can easily fit through the smallest of gaps infact a 5mm gap would enable a mouse to access a building or area. Mice are also excellent climbers and this along with their small size enable them to range freely in most structures.

Mice are rapid breeders and have an average of 5-10 litters a year with an average litter size of 5-6 young which are then sexually mature and able to produce their own offspring at 8-12 weeks of age. Unlike most animals mice and also rats don’t have to wait until the original litter is weaned which can mean a female is ready to breed again soon after the original litter is born. In theory therefore rats and mice can give birth every 24 – 28 days, this can lead to a very rapidly increase in numbers.

Mice and rats are known as commensal meaning they have a close association with man and may be dependent on him for food. This dependency has evolved over centuries.

Mice can cause significant issues in both commercial and public health situations. Property owners have a legal obligation under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 to keep premises rodent free. Food businesses need to be more vigilant to mouse infestation as they are subject to the Food Hygiene Regulations 2006.

Mice can ruin an organisation’s reputation. If clients and customers spot evidence of rodent infestation in the premises you manage, they are unlikely to want to do business with you.

How do I know if I have Mice

The surest sign of an infestation is actually sightings of mice and if seen in daylight this often indicates higher densities. Other common signs are:

• Droppings look like black grains of rice and are often found in areas of activity.
• Noises and scratching sounds, more often heard at night when mice are more active.
• Grease marks can sometimes be found were mice have regularly moved through or passed over an area and brushed against it leaving a dirty mark, more easily noticed on light coloured surfaces.
• Mice urinate frequently and this leaves a characteristic ammonia smell particularly noticed when entering closed off spaces such as attics and sheds.
• Gnawed and chewed items.

Treatment and control

After the initial conversation with the client we would carry out a site survey to establish the extent of your current problem. We will then tailor the treatment to suite your property taking into account the infestation and all Health & Safety requirements such as the presence of children and pets. After the treatment commences the client would be kept fully informed at all stages of treatment.