Mouse Guide

1. THE DANGERS: WHY WE CONTROL MICE

PATHOGENS AND DISEASE

While some find mice cute, they pose a significant public health threat.

Mice can transmit harmful diseases like Salmonella and Listeria through their urine, droppings, and bedding. Their territorial marking and nest-building habits near food sources increase the risk of food poisoning for those dealing with an infestation.

As they move around, mice carry dirt and bacteria, contaminating surfaces like countertops and cabinets. Additionally, their compulsive gnawing can lead to substantial property damage, affecting electric cables, pipes, packaging, and woodwork, contributing to incidents like electrical fires and floods.

2. The impact

MICE AROUND BUSINESSES

Property owners are legally obligated under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 to maintain premises free of rodents. If rodents pose a threat to health or property, owners must report infestations to the local authority.

If a company or organisation faces a widely publicised mouse issue, it can significantly harm its reputation. Negative reviews of businesses or products can be easily accessed and shared online. A mouse seen in a restaurant might lead to the closure of the establishment.

In addition to the reputational consequences, businesses discovered to have a pest problem may also incur fines. Such fines typically involve considerable costs, and repeated offenders are at risk of facing legal action. Business owners lacking sufficient pest management procedures may receive enforcement notices from Environmental Health Officers.

If customers observe signs of a mouse infestation on your premises, they may be hesitant to engage in business with you.

3. Pest Facts

MATING & LIFESPAN

Mice follow a straightforward breeding cycle: 21 days. Each stage of the cycle averages 21 days. When a female mouse is impregnated, the gestation period lasts about 21 days, and they give birth to live young, usually between five and seven pups, but up to 12. Weaning these pups takes 21 days, and they reach full maturity in another 21-38 days.

The female mouse experiences a fertile postpartum estrus 14 to 24 hours after birth, allowing them to become pregnant almost immediately after giving birth. This rapid reproductive cycle contributes to the quick growth of a mouse infestation, with a female mouse capable of producing 5 to 10 litters a year.

In the wild, mice typically have a short life expectancy of around 9 to 12 months.

4. MANAGING MICE

PREVENTING MICE

Be cautious of gaps Mice require only a 5mm gap (approximately the diameter of the eraser end of a pencil) to gain entry. To prevent their access, carefully inspect for potential entry points and seal them with wire wool embedded in quick-setting cement. Begin by addressing low-level gaps, as these are the most probable entry points for mice.

Pay attention to areas around pipes and windows, and thoroughly inspect the basement. Once the lower areas are secured, move on to higher vents or gaps. Proofing all potential entry points as thoroughly as possible will significantly contribute to preventing a mouse infestation.

Combat Nesting - Eliminate potential nesting sites by maintaining
clean and tidy yards and gardens. Trim overgrown areas and clear any piles of wood or debris. Compost heaps, if not managed, can become nesting sites; consider protecting them with wire mesh to prevent rodents from creating a harbour.

Storing Food - Ensure that food is stored in airtight containers and make sure any food debris is cleaned up straight away.

Keep Doors Closed - Install door sweeps or door brush strips on exterior doors if the gap is larger than 4mm.

While good hygiene practices won't completely eliminate a mouse problem, poor practices can attract them. Taking steps to seal potential entry points is essential for effective prevention.

DIY MOUSE CONTROL

Mice possess inherent survival instincts, displaying adaptability, high mobility, and rapid breeding. Managing mouse infestations can prove challenging for the untrained. For effective resolution, we recommend you use professional services by Contego.

You may choose a DIY approach by purchasing amateur-use mouse poisons and traps from hardware stores or garden centres. Careful consideration is vital when placing poisons or traps to guarantee they are secure and out of reach of non-target animals, children, and pets. It’s crucial you adhere to label instructions and properly disposing of any deceased rodents.

WARNING - Mouse traps must be handled carefully and patiently. They are very sensitive to trigger, and can cause injury to hands or fingers caught in them.