Australia is currently battling a significant mouse plague, with a forecast from the Grains Research and Development Corporation and CSIRO indicating high rodent numbers across Western Australia and South Australia. As of April 2026, communities like Morawa are facing severe impacts from these plagues, which occur approximately every 3-5 years.
Understanding Mouse Plagues in Australia
Mouse plagues are not new to Australia; they have been a recurring issue for over a century. These outbreaks typically follow periods of dry weather followed by substantial rainfall, creating optimal conditions for rapid mouse reproduction. In 2021, a plague in New South Wales resulted in over $1 billion in damages.
The unique phenomenon of mouse plagues is largely confined to Australia and China. The exact reasons behind these plagues remain unclear, but factors such as farming practices, environmental changes, and food supply fluctuations are likely contributors.
Current Trends and Statistics
As the mouse population surges, pest control services are experiencing a surge in inquiries. For instance, Daniel Bremer from Swatapest reported a 125% increase in rodent-related inquiries since March 2026. Bremer predicts that by year-end, every household in Perth will have encountered mice.
- 125% increase in rodent inquiries in Perth since March
- Last major plague in 2021 caused $1 billion in damage
- Plagues occur every 3-5 years in grain-growing regions
Innovative Solutions to Tackle Mouse Infestations
Despite the challenges posed by mouse plagues, researchers are exploring innovative solutions. One promising approach involves using misinformation to confuse mice. Peter Banks, a conservation scientist at the University of Sydney, led a study where the scent of wheat germ was sprayed over freshly sown crops. This technique significantly reduced damage by 70% during trials.
Current methods for controlling mouse populations include baiting, but the effectiveness can be inconsistent. In May 2026, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority approved a new double strength bait, but challenges remain in significantly reducing mouse numbers.
Ultimately, while there is no definitive solution for ongoing mouse plagues, innovative strategies like misinformation may provide new avenues for farmers to protect their crops.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Phys.org. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
