Norwegian homeowners face a dramatic surge in mouse infestations this season. Insurance data reveals a 120 percent increase in mouse extermination cases compared to the same period last year. One major insurance provider recorded 450 extermination cases in October alone, up from 205 cases during October last year.
Ragna Byrkjeland, a biologist and specialist at the insurance company, confirms the troubling trend. 'Last October indicated the start of a mouse year, but current numbers suggest an even more pronounced peak this season,' she stated. The Eastern Norway region reported the highest number of cases at 233, while Western Norway recorded 111 cases.
The situation extends beyond insurance statistics. Pest control companies report overwhelming demand for mouse-related services this autumn. Jens Galby, a biologist at a major pest control firm, explains the biological mechanism behind the surge. 'When mice have a peak year, you typically expect a population decline the following year. But sometimes that decline doesn't happen. Then you have extra many mice ready to reproduce come spring, creating a super mouse year.'
Researchers note significant geographical variations in mouse populations across Norway. Magne Neby, a university researcher, confirms that while last year showed increased numbers mainly in Eastern Norway, current monitoring indicates widespread high populations this year. 'Based on Eastern Norway monitoring, we're seeing signs of many mice this year,' he said, while acknowledging the challenge of precise predictions due to regional differences.
National monitoring programs using camera tunnels in mountain areas provide additional insight. Eivind Kleiven, who leads the small rodent monitoring program, observes that while mountain populations have been smaller than expected, forest areas in Eastern Norway and southward show large populations. 'A mouse year often occurs across large areas simultaneously. This year, some regions appear to have particularly large populations with substantial local variation,' he explained.
The northernmost regions present a different picture entirely. Troms and Finnmark counties currently sit at the bottom of the small rodent cycle, with population increases not expected until next year.
Norwegian mice aren't typically considered pests, but they seek warm shelter as temperatures drop. Homes, cabins, winter-stored cars, and even campers become attractive nesting spots. The timing for prevention has largely passed, according to experts. 'You need to start the work in summer,' advised an insurance spokesperson. 'Now many mice have already moved in, which explains why we're receiving these damage reports.'
For the many Norwegians with winter cabins, experts recommend periodic winter visits to detect unwanted guests before they cause substantial damage. Once mice establish themselves indoors, traditional snap traps remain the most effective removal method. The current infestation levels suggest homeowners should prepare for increased mouse activity throughout the winter months, with potential implications for property damage and public health concerns.