Using MOUSEOFF ZP

Application rates for MOUSEOFF^® ZP

The prescribed application rate is 1kg/ha regardless of the stage of crop development, type of crop or number of mice. A single grain is lethal to a mouse, and application at this rate has the theoretical potential to kill over 25,000 mice/ha or about 2-3 mice per square metre.

However, some mice may have time to eat several grains before being killed by the first grain eaten. Thus, the 1kg/ha application rate provides for control of gluttons and high local densities of mice in most circumstances.

How to apply MOUSEOFF^® ZP

MOUSEOFF^® ZP is broadcast by ground spreaders or aircraft. Usually ground spreading is best suited to small areas and newly sown crops whereas aerial application is recommended for larger areas and developed crops. Most aerial contractors are approved and equipped for MOUSEOFF^® ZP application.

Do not apply the bait in heaps or trails.

It is important to ensure that spreaders can evenly apply at the rate of 1kg/ha. Many ground spreaders are suitable.

When to use MOUSEOFF^® ZP

Where mouse numbers are high, or significant mouse damage to crops is threatened, baiting provides the only effective means of mouse control.

MOUSEOFF^® ZP can be used to reduce mouse numbers before or after sowing and at any stage of crop development up to 2 weeks before harvest.

THE DECISION TO APPLY BAIT IS RELATED MORE TO THE RISK OF CROP DAMAGE THAN TO ABSOLUTE NUMBERS OF MICE.

Landholders should balance the cost of baiting against the expected crop loss, taking into account grain price and yield. Note that serious crop damage can occur with moderate mouse densities that are sometimes ignored.

Be aware of mice and initiate control actions early, before crop damage occurs.

Typically the benefits of application of MOUSEOFF^® ZP exceeds the costs of application if crop damage exceeds 1-2%.

MOUSEOFF^® ZP and rain

MOUSEOFF^® ZP remains active for several days even after dew or light rain. However, bait application should be delayed if heavy or sustained rain is forecast.

Where to use MOUSEOFF^® ZP

MOUSEOFF^® ZP may be broadcast in crops, pasture and ploughed land.

MOUSEOFF^® ZP is not approved for use in towns or residential areas or around farm buildings. Anticoagulant baits, such as MOUSEOFF^® Bromadiolone Rodent Bait, can be used in bait stations around and within farm buildings to control mice.

Most anticoagulant baits are not suitable for use in crops due to possible residues and non-target wildlife impacts. Check with your local agronomist.

Baiting 'hot spots'

Baiting hot spots with MOUSEOFF^® ZP is acceptable if they are well defined and localised. However small baited areas are more likely to be re-infested quickly from surrounding areas. As with most pest animal management, it is preferable to achieve large areas of control for best protection from reinvasion.

Safety directions for MOUSEOFF^® ZP

MOUSEOFF^® ZP is a Schedule 7 poison product. It is available in all States from approved rural merchant stores, some government agencies and some contractors. When there is no demand for the bait the stores generally do not hold stock, so allow a few days for delivery and give early warnings of requirements.

Some states require an Agricultural Users Permit (ACUP) to purchase, possess and/or use MOUSEOFF^® ZP.

To see the state regulations and how to obtain an Agricultural Users Permit (ACUP) visit: http://www.animalcontrol.com.au/regulations2.htm

Although zinc phosphide is very toxic if consumed, the diluted bait has no dust, is slow to react, has only 2.5% zinc phosphide on the grain and is well packaged.

SAFETY DIRECTIONS ARE PROVIDED IN DETAIL ON THE PRODUCT LABEL.

Zinc phosphide is not an irritant and is not readily absorbed through skin, however users must wear protective clothing including PVC or nitrile gloves and overalls when handling bait. Wash off ZP residues with soap and water if contamination occurs.

Phosphine gas is poisonous. A small quantity of phosphine gas is trapped in the headspace of containers, and people handling bait should avoid breathing the gas (garlic-like odour). It is imperative that containers are only opened outdoors where the gas can dissipate. The gas trapped in containers dissipates within seconds of opening and degrades in air. However, the momentary concentration exceeds the allowable limits for phosphine, therefore users must wear full-face respirators, fitted with gaseous and particulate filter cartridges conforming to AS1715, to prevent exposure.

MOUSEOFF^® ZP does not require placement of signs on access points to treated properties or notification of neighbours. However, good neighbourly etiquette is to let others know. This may also encourage large-scale treatment on a number of farms providing better protection from reinvasion.

MOUSEOFF ZP^® – Protecting Australia's crops.

Animal Control Technologies