House mouse (Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries)

House mouse

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House mouse
House mouse
House mouse (Mus domesticus)
Photograph of one mouse
Dalby mouse plague, 1995
Photograph showing a number of mice huddled together

Dalby mouse plague, 1995



General information

Mice (Mus domesticus) are considered pests because of their diet, reproductive capacity and gnawing behaviour. When seasonal conditions are favourable, their numbers can increase to a level where they become a serious pest, causing damage to crops, stored products and equipment.

Although mice are not declared animals under Queensland legislation, their control is recommended.

Scientific name

Mus domesticus
Impacts
  • cause serious damage to crops during plagues
  • can transmit Salmonella (which causes food poisoning) to human food stuffs
Description
  • brown, grey or black short-haired pelt and may appear white, pale yellow or grey underneath
  • notched upper incisors distinguish them from other species
  • omnivorous and opportunistic feeders
Habitat and life cycle
  • present in agricultural areas around long grass and crops
  • may be found in and around sheds and homes
  • field breeding occurs mostly in spring and early summer, however, breeding may occur at any time
  • females can produce a litter each month during the breeding season
  • litters consist of up to six pups
  • gestation lasts from 19-20 days
  • first breeding commences from five weeks
Control
  • a combined approach of different control methods including chemical, baiting, trapping, barrier fencing, habitat modification, ultrasonic devices, repellents, biological control integrated with land management practices is most effective
Declaration details
  • not a declared animal under Queensland legislation but may be declared under local government law
Further information
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Page maintained by Sonia Jordan
Last reviewed 15 October 2008

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