Mice identified as leading pests in Cork last year by Rentokil

Mice and rats led the way in the pest activity tracked by Rentokil in Cork in 2024, representing nearly 70% of all pests tracked.

Nationally, mice, rats, and garden ants ranked highest in the activity tracked in 2024. Mice represented 49% of pests recorded, followed by rats (19%) and garden ants (3%).

The distribution of the type of pest activity recorded varied by region. Cork recorded mice as the leading pest at 38%, with rats making up 29% of recorded activity.

Dublin saw mice dominate at 52%, while Limerick saw mice accounting for 42% of pests tracked.

In the Border, Midlands and West (BMW) and North West regions, mice represented an overwhelming 65% of pests tracked.

Rentokil is encouraging home and business owners to remain alert to potential rodent activity, particularly during colder months when pests may seek shelter and food indoors.

They advised that rodents can damage property, contaminate stored goods, and spread diseases such as hantavirus and salmonellosis.

Dr Colm Moore, regional technical manager for Rentokil explained: “The colder weather fosters increased interactions between rodents and humans, highlighting the importance of taking proactive pest management measures.”

• For more information see www.rentokil.ie..