Mice are extremely common in Ireland during autumn and winter, often spotted nipping into gardens, sheds, garages and houses at night when they hunt for food
It’s that time of the year when darkness seems to dominate, and the evenings are becoming increasingly chilly. While we all begin to hunker down indoors more frequently during the winter months, various creatures are also scurrying into our gardens and frequently, into our homes as well.
Mice are exceptionally prevalent across Ireland, regularly seen darting into gardens, sheds, garages, greenhouses and our actual houses, particularly during night time hours. Mice, whether dormice or field mice, don’t hibernate, meaning they can pose an issue throughout the entire year.
During the colder periods, when sustenance becomes harder to find, you may discover them foraging for food within your home, having sneaked in through a fissure in a wall or a space in floorboards.
According to gardening website Polytunnel Gardening, you’re more prone to encounter mice during autumn and winter, so you must remain ‘particularly vigilant’ at this time.
The site states: “Wood mice and field mice can easily get in your home since they are small enough to squeeze in almost anywhere,” reports the Express.
“However, they are more likely to shelter in garages, sheds, and outhouses because they provide easier access to the outside world. So, although the mice you see in your garden may come into your home, they are more likely to take refuge in your outhouses instead. You’re more likely to see mice inside during the autumn and winter months, so you should remain particularly vigilant around this time.”
To deter mice from your garden and home, there are several natural items you can use, taking advantage of the fact that mice have a highly developed sense of smell.
Any one of these items placed in your garden can help to repel mice and prevent them from entering your house:
- Cinnamon
- Vinegar
- Peppermint
- Teabags
- Mint
- Ammonia
- Cloves
- Cayenne pepper
The experts explained: “There are plenty of scents that deter mice because their sense of smell is so strong. Spread these smells around your garden, with particular focus on troublesome areas like food sources and nesting spots, regularly to notice a difference.”
However, it’s important to remember that mice play a crucial role in the food chain, serving as prey for other wildlife such as foxes and owls. Therefore, you should only take measures to deter mice if they’re causing issues in your garden or home.
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