Mice attack W. Sumatra harvest

PADANG, West Sumatra: Mice have been attacking the rice fields in the province, causing farmers to suffer at least Rp 846 billion (US$81 million) in losses since last year, reports said.

According to the Protection Board for Horticulture and Food Supply (BPTPH), the mouse attacks were at an alarming level, as the pests have 'raided' some 50 regencies.

Syamsir, a farmer, told The Jakarta Post on Thursday that farmers had tried many things to stop the attacks.

"We have hunted down the mice and blocked their holes. This hasn't worked so far.

"I usually earn Rp 1.5 million from selling unhusked rice at one harvest. Lately I have earned nothing since the mouse attacks," Syamsir said. (28/dja)