Mice
 Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have mice in my house?
Mice can climb and enter spaces less than 1cm wide, about the width of a ballpoint pen. It can be easy for them to enter your home to find warmth, shelter and food.
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Do mice have diseases?
Yes - Mice may deposit salmonella and other bacteria on food and food preparation areas in their droppings and urine.
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Is there more than one species of mouse?
Yes. The house mouse is sometimes confused with other species of mouse found in Britain; the wood mouse (long-tailed field mouse), the yellow-necked field mouse and the harvest mouse; but these prefer to live outdoors and are more commonly found in sheds, garages or outhouses.
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How do I stop mice living in my home?
Proof the home against entry - attach a fine wire mesh over airbricks and block up any obvious holes around pipes etc.
Remove any obvious food supply around dustbins and make sure your cupboards are secure. Keep loose food in containers.
Once you have stopped any more getting in and have removed the food supply you then need to dispose of the mice already in your home.
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Can I treat them myself?
Yes. Poison or back breaker or humane traps can be purchased from DIY shops, hardware stores or garden centres.
Most poisons work by preventing the blood from clotting which causes the mouse to die from internal bleeding. If it dies in a place where you cannot access it, it will rot and may give off a very unpleasant smell for up to 2 weeks.
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Are poisons dangerous?
Yes. All poisons are dangerous and must be kept away from children and pets at all times, and removed once the infestation has gone.
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Are there kinder methods?
Yes. You can use a humane trap. Put some chocolate or peanut butter (mice do not like cheese) into the plastic trap, which will close behind the mouse leaving it trapped but not dead. It is then up to you to release it. Mice will return if not released far enough away from your home.
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Will the Council Help?
Yes - Arrangements can be made with the Call Centre on 020 8303 7777 Option 2.
For cost of this service please see pricing table
For Commercial properties please see pricing table
Alternatively, you can contact a private pest control company and arrange your own treatment. Numbers for these companies can be found in the Yellow Pages. |
