Cholecalciferol for mouse (Mus musculus) control: limited effectiveness and the challenges of tracking tunnels for density monitoring
In New Zealand, predation on endemic biota by house mice (Mus musculus) is a pressing conservation issue. While rodenticides are commonly used, efficacy and bioaccumulation are a concern. Cholecalciferol (vitamin D) offers a reduced risk of bioaccumulation. Our 14-month field study assessed the effectiveness of cholecalciferol-laced bait, which reduced mouse density by up to 59% from peak levels, yet was insufficient for sustained suppression of mice to the low levels required for conservation management.