KEEPING feed areas as clean as possible is an important strategy in controlling rodent numbers in winter. The last thing you want to do is provide them with food, as well as shelter. Clean up every scrap of feed from the floor, tidy and clean feed utensils. Remember less clutter means less places to hide.
Rodents will chew through feed bags in the blink of an eye. Keep grain and other feeds in rodent-proof containers, such as drums or metal bins with snug fitting lids. Rubbish bags should also be put in metal bins with securely fitted lids to stop them feeding from contents.
It would be great if we could make every building rodent-proof, but this may prove too difficult. Try, where possible, to keep hay away from stables and feed rooms, as the seeds can provide a goodsource of food for rodents.
Remember, if you can get a pencil through a gap, there’s every chance a mouse can get through too. Once your feed room has been cleaned, check around to see what options you have for rodent-proofing the room.