This year, Australia’s wet weather conditions have resulted in increased availability of food sources for mice. The increase in food leads to a risk of rapid growth of mouse populations and mouse infestation on farms.
Since March 2021, Central-West New South Wales (NSW) has been experiencing a significant mouse infestation event. Western Australia has also reported much higher increases in mouse numbers this winter. While mouse numbers elsewhere in Australia are still relatively low due to cooler winter conditions, numbers are still higher than this time last year.
If you are in an area affected by increased numbers of mice, you are encouraged to act quickly. Late winter to early spring is the best time to start, before populations grow rapidly in the warmer months.
About mice
A small number of mice can turn into a large infestation within weeks. This is because mice start breeding at 6 weeks of age and produce a litter of up to 10 pups every 19-21 days.
Unlike any other animal, mice can become pregnant again within two to three days of giving birth, creating a constant reproduction cycle.
Your physical and mental health
Supporting your physical and mental health during a mouse infestation