The Mouse
The Mouse (rodent)
House mouse, Mus domesticus
History
Originated in the steppes of Central Asia.
Reportedly found in this country as early as the 9th Century, when and how will continue to remain unsolved.
Certainly as agricultural practices improved man's harvests, the need for greater storage facilities were created thus providing more food and nest sites for mice and rats.
Habits
M. domesticus will drink water if available but can survive on food with a moisture content of 15%. It is omnivorous, feeding from a number of different points.
Whole wheat, which has been partly eaten by mice, has a kibbled appearance whilst whole grain, partly eaten by rats, has a cut or chopped appearance.
Signs of Rodents
These will include:
- Holes
- Droppings
- Runs
- Smear marks
- Damage
- Tracks
- Nests
- Dead and live rodents