Field Mice as Farm and Orchard Pests

The bulletin explains the biology, identification, and geographic range of short-tailed field mice, distinguishing surface-running meadow mice from subterranean pine mice, and describes their nests, runs, and breeding habits. It documents the agricultural and horticultural damage they cause, including girdling and bark removal on trees and consumption of grain, forage, bulbs, roots, and tubers, and cites instances of heavy losses. It summarizes field signs and differences from mole activity, notes natural enemies, and outlines practical methods for detection, control, and prevention aimed at farmers, orchardists, and foresters.