FARMERS are warned to get on top of mice as soon as possible to combat plague numbers after the winter reprieve.
Higher than normal mice numbers are being reported in all cropping areas and some growers in the Mallee have already been baiting.
The CSIRO has advised growers to get out in their paddocks and look for mouse activity that they may miss from the tractor.
Late winter to early spring is the best time to start your preparation, before populations grow rapidly in the warmer months.
The main signs of mice as crops develop are chewed heads, chewed flowers and pods, and damage at the node.
One way to monitor the presence of pesky visitors is through chew cards, with even moderate chewing indicating a problem.
To ensure mice take bait, other sources of food need to be limited.
Those impacted by the plague may be eligible for payments or other support from www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/mouse-infestation.
