Advice about mice

field-mouse
As we are hearing reports of mice in homes again, we are repeating the council's advice which was issued at the beginning of the year.

The pest control officer at Huntingdonshire District Council has provided the following advice:

If you've spotted a mouse, there's some information here which will help identify if it's a field mouse. If identified as field mice, then any rodenticide must not be used as this against BPCA guidelines so only traps are allowed.

As the weather gets colder field mice that are currently surviving outside will look for warmer places to harbour and nest and try to move inside buildings and houses. Food is also scarce for them outside hence another reason why infestations are more noticeable especially this time of year.

Due to the design and lay out of most modern properties mice can easily access inside if the gap is more than 4mm.

The council's advice to residents is as follows:

Cover household waste, close dustbin lids and cover compost bins where possible
Store food in airtight containers and clear up any food spillages/debris straight away
Install brush strip on exterior doors if the gap is more than 4mm ( width of a pencil)
Fit mesh air vent/brick covers
Any gaps around the outside of properties e.g pipes, windows, doors and walls of 4mm or more should be filled with wire wool then silicone/expanding foam over the top
Remove any long standing items piled up in gardens
If control is required then use traps inside where mice have been active but ensure the traps are placed away from children and pets.

Hunts District Council can offer a course of treatment or survey if required. Booking details can be found on the website.