SBS NEWS | 'Ultimate breeding machines': The rodent boom is back - and Aussie farmers are scrambling

Rising mouse numbers across key grain growing regions are again putting pressure on growers, with conditions favouring rapid population growth.

Reporting from SBS News highlights how strong seasons and abundant grain are driving increased mouse activity, particularly in Western and South Australia.

Grain Producers Australia RD&E spokesperson Andrew Weidemann said the current situation reflects broader changes in farming systems and seasonal conditions.

“It’s a direct consequence of how we farm today, with more food and better conditions allowing mice to build quickly,” Mr Weidemann said.

“Growers can start sowing and think numbers are manageable, but come back days later and find the seed has been taken.”

Mouse populations can escalate rapidly, with breeding cycles allowing numbers to surge within weeks, increasing the risk of crop establishment losses during seeding.

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