What should you do if there are mice in a zoo? - briefly
Immediately notify the zoo’s pest‑management team, secure animal enclosures and food sources, and implement humane trapping and exclusion measures to remove the rodents and prevent recurrence.
What should you do if there are mice in a zoo? - in detail
If rodents are found within a zoological facility, staff must act swiftly to protect animal health, visitor safety, and the institution’s reputation.
First, isolate the affected area. Close off enclosures, pathways, and any adjacent rooms. Post signage to prevent accidental entry and notify security personnel.
Second, conduct a rapid assessment. Identify the species present, estimate population size, and locate entry points such as gaps in walls, ventilation ducts, or utility conduits. Use visual inspection, trap counts, and, if available, infrared cameras.
Third, implement control measures. Deploy a combination of humane live traps and bait stations, placing them along walls, near food storage, and in dark corners. Select rodenticides approved for use in animal facilities and follow dosage guidelines to avoid secondary poisoning. Seal identified ingress routes with steel wool, metal flashing, or concrete.
Fourth, protect resident animals. Remove or secure feed, water, and enrichment items that could attract rodents. Conduct health checks on animals in the vicinity, looking for signs of disease transmission (e.g., leptospirosis, hantavirus). Isolate any animal showing symptoms and consult veterinary staff.
Fifth, inform stakeholders. Issue a brief notice to visitors explaining temporary restrictions and safety precautions. Provide staff with clear instructions on trap handling, waste disposal, and hygiene protocols, including mandatory hand washing and use of disposable gloves.
Sixth, document the incident. Record dates, locations, species identified, control actions taken, and outcomes. Store reports in the facility’s pest‑management log for future reference and regulatory compliance.
Seventh, establish preventive measures. Conduct quarterly inspections of building envelopes, maintain vegetation clearance around structures, and enforce strict waste‑management practices. Train new employees on rodent‑recognition signs and response procedures.
By following these steps, a zoo can eliminate a rodent problem efficiently while safeguarding animal welfare, public health, and operational integrity.