by Bill Crabtree, 4Farmers R&D Agronomist
Mouse control is still worth a look this spring, with the latest CSIRO survey showing mice remain active across parts of WA and are building in the SA and Vic Mallee.
Why mouse control still matters heading into spring
The mice plague that many WA growers experienced earlier this year has abated, but the most recent CSIRO survey shows they are still out there and a couple of areas in WA even had high levels till mid-August, and the SA/Vic Mallee and Eyre and Yorke Peninsulas are now experiencing high levels of mice.
My time in Esperance during the 1990’s taught me that a mild or moderate winter with lower rainfall allows low numbers of mice to survive which can then build up again very quickly in spring.
I have witnessed mice in spring time eating heads of wheat and pods of lupins. This year others have seen mice eating the pods of canola. The photo was taken by Chris Wilkins of Synergy Consulting over a month ago.
When in Esperance I saw some very creative ways farmers used to control the mice. I would imagine that drone technology could be very good for ZnP50 at 1 kg/ha. Recently I came across a petrol drone that can carry a good load and fly for 3 hours. Remember once pods get bitten, they can easily shatter, similar to the damage from caterpillars.
So, it would seem smart to inspect your crops, and talk amongst yourselves to keep on this situation. If you need mice bait contact us as we are making fresh supplies, either your local 4Farmers agent or an email to sales@4farmers.com.au.
—————————————————————————————————————————-
For all enquires, call the team at 4Farmers on or send an email to sales@4farmers.com.au.
Not yet receiving the 4Farmers newsletter? Subscribe here to get 4Farmers updates direct to your inbox.