GRAIN growers are again being reminded to remain alert for mice during sowing.
CSIRO mouse researcher Steve Henry said it was unlikely mouse populations would reach the numbers observed last season, but growers should remain vigilant to address any potential issues early.
Grains Research and Development Corporation has invested in a number of CSIRO’s mouse management research projects.
Mr Henry said, while there’s certainly been a reported increase in mouse activity across the regions, the presence of mice seems to be dependent on paddock history and the availability of food and shelter.
“Mouse numbers are patchy in most parts of the country; however, there are widespread reports of high mouse activity in Western Australia,” he said.
“A lot of regions in the north have reported mice sightings but recent, widespread rain will help drive those numbers down.”
Mr Henry said the most effective way for growers to gauge mouse numbers at this time of year was to walk through paddocks and look for active burrows.
“After last year’s season there are lots of big stubbles which can easily hide the signs of mouse activity,” he said.
“Burrows can be patchy in their distribution, so growers should walk through different parts of the paddock and look for signs of mice.”
GRDC has produced mouse chew cards which are a highly effective yet simple tool to measure activity in the paddock.
These can be downloaded along with more information about mouse control at the GRDC Mouse Management page.
Growers and advisers are also encouraged to report and map mouse activity using the MouseAlert website.
