Reasons for control
- House mice can spread disease.
- They contaminate our living environment with droppings and fur.
- They can damage property by gnawing through woodwork, wires and pipes.
Biology
- The two most common types of mice in Britain are the Wood mouse Apodemus sylvaticus and the House mouse Mus musculus. The Harvest mouse Micromys minutus can also be found in Britain although it is not as common.
- House mice are the most common mice to infest your home.
- House mice weigh 12-22g and have a body length of approximately 6.5-10cm.
- They are brown-grey with a lighter underside, with large ears, a pointed snout and a long tail.
- Their tails are 80% of the length of their body.
- They have a life span of up to two years.
- Females produce about 5-10 litters a year, which consist of approximately 4-8 young.
- They are mostly found in areas near human habitation and open fields.
- They build a system of tunnels, which can contain several chambers.
- They are nocturnal.
Prevention & control
- Avoid leaving out excessive amounts of food for birds.
- Control the disposal of waste food on compost heaps. Only dispose of garden and vegetable matter NOT meat or cereal products on compost heaps.
- Make sure dustbin lids fit probably and that household waste is properly disposed of.
- Avoid accumulations of rubbish, overgrown garden areas, piles of wood and brick rubble.
- Avoid access holes into buildings, e.g. broken windows, damaged airbricks, badly fitting doors, etc.
Treatment
If you suspect you have a mouse problem, the pest control officer can advise you on the best action. It may be suggested that poison be put down to eradicate the mice. This treatment will be carried out under strict control; children and pets must be kept away from poison baits. If poison bait is used on your premises, you will be advised of the type of poison and action in case of accidental poisoning. Revisits will be made until the infestation is cleared. The poison used by Guildford Borough Council is an anticoagulant containing either 0.005% Bromadiolone or 0.005% Difenacoum.
For specific information on mammals, please go to www.abdn.ac.uk/mammal (this page opens in a new window).
Environmental Health and Licensing Services
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444371
Fax: 01483 444546
Email: environmentalhealth@guildford.gov.uk