Pest Control - Mice

The house mouse has been identified from pre-Roman Iron age deposits and is believed to have arrived in Britain in the 10th Century BC. It is likely that it was once a wild species somewhere on the borders of Russia and Iran, and has gradually spread with the practice of agriculture.

It is common in a wide range of urban and rural buildings all over Britain. Although mainly a house dweller, it may live outdoors for part or all of the year. IT IS NOT FOUND IN SEWERS.

Mice are rodents and need to keep their front teeth in shape through grinding on hard materials. One of the dangers of mice living in buildings (houses) is the possibility of fires being started because of gnawed cables.

Mice do not have the ability to control their bladder and constantly dribble urine that can contaminate food.

Because mice are so small they can be carried into homes unnoticed in boxes, and laundry baskets.

It is possible for a young mouse to get through a gap as small as 6mm (if you can get a ballpoint pen through the gap a mouse can get in) so it's a good idea to check around waste pipes that go through the wall such as those from the sink, and washing machine and seal any gaps.

Mice will build nests in hard to find places such as under floorboards, in wall cavities and loft spaces.

Mice reach sexual maturity 42 days after birth, so it is important to deal with mouse activity as quickly as possible.

Mice are very inquisitive and like to go exploring they also like warmth so check in airing cupboards and behind cookers and fridges for signs of activity such as droppings.

• Adult weight: 15g
• Length (head and body): 60-90mm
• Length (tail): 80-100mm
• Fur, colour: Brownish grey. Lighter shades occur
• Hearing: Excellent sense of hearing large ears
• Sight: Small eyes poor sight and colour-blind
• Feeding habits: Nibbles. Prefers cereals. Eats 3g per day.
• Life cycle: Span 9-12 months
• Sexual maturity: 6 weeks.
• Litter size: 5-6 offspring.
• Max reproduction rate: 8 litters per year.

Oxford City Council's Pest Control team provide a treatment service for mice. Please call us on 01865 249811 to find out when we can visit and how much it will cost.