The Lachlan Shire community is being urged to remember how to safely bait mice, as reports of rodents in the local area grow.
Recent reports of increased mouse numbers in regional communities have NSW farmers on high alert and ready to take swift action after last year’s devastating mouse plague.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) understands the community want to act quickly to protect their properties and families if mouse numbers increase but warn baiting should be done with care.
EPA Executive Director Regulatory Operations Carmen Dwyer said some people may have already started mouse baiting to get numbers under control ahead of the breeding season in Spring.
“We’ve seen the advice that farmers should monitor and act but anyone baiting should ensure they are doing it safely and correctly. Be vigilant and take care to follow the directions on the label,” she explained.
“Misusing baits can put your family, neighbours, pets and wildlife at risk – especially the practice of mixing and blending pesticides.”
All pesticide users should only use the recommended amount of bait and think carefully about where they are placed.
Anyone with a concern, knowledge of an incident involving pesticide misuse, or seeking further information can contact the EPA’s Environment Line on 131 555.
If you suspect a family member has been affected by a pesticide product, call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
Avoid touching sick or dead wildlife and if more than five dead animals of the same species are identified where baiting has occurred, you can make a report to the EPA’s 24-hour Environment Line.