Rodents
Field mice (voles) prefer a habitat with abundant ground cover. They usually establish a system of surface runways and underground tunnels.
Mice begin feeding on vines when cool weather reduces their summer food supply. Vine injury can begin in late summer and continue through fall and winter. Damage to roots is often worse than visible damage above the ground.
Management
- Mow the cover crop and remove tall weeds and grasses to discourage mice from breeding within vineyards.
- Remove brush piles and other trash adjacent to vineyards to discourage mice from migrating into vineyards.
- Destroy all vegetation at the base of vines with herbicides or by cultivation to discourage mice from feeding on the bark. However, retain vegetation where snow cover may be inadequate to protect vines from cold temperature change.
- Place wire or plastic mouse guards around the base of vines, especially young vines, to exclude mice. Mouse guards should extend to at least 45 cm above soil level and 5-10 cm below.
Other Resources
Visit the Province's IPM page for managing rat and mouse pests
