Northern birch mouse

The Northern birch mouse (Sicista betulina) is a small rodent belonging to the Sminthidae family. While it is a natural part of forest ecosystems, it can act as a pest in forest nurseries and young plantations by feeding on seeds, buds, and the delicate bark of young seedlings.

The diet of this rodent is diverse, consisting of seeds, berries, plant tissues, and insects. In an agronomic context, the damage occurs primarily when the animal consumes planted seeds or gnaws the root collar of seedlings, which can lead to the stunting or death of young forest crops.

Its biological cycle is distinct due to a long period of hibernation during the winter months. Activity starts in spring, followed by a breeding season. Given that these mice have a high metabolic rate and specific habitat needs, their population density usually peaks in undisturbed or edge forest areas near human-altered landscapes.

The damage caused by the Northern birch mouse is characterized by precise gnawing on the stems or roots. In high-density years, this activity can significantly reduce the establishment rate of new plantations, making it a concern for forestry managers who need to ensure the survival of young trees in nursery plots.

Control strategies should focus on an integrated approach to minimize habitat suitability and physical access:

• Maintaining clear buffer zones around nursery plots to limit rodent nesting.
• Implementing regular monitoring of seedling health during late summer and autumn.
• Utilizing physical guards for individual high-value saplings.
• Encouraging the presence of natural predators like raptors to manage local populations.