Professional Glis Glis (Edible Dormouse) Control Services in the UK

The Glis glis, also known as the Edible Dormouse, is an invasive, nocturnal rodent that has become a real issue across parts of the Chilterns and nearby areas. If they enter lofts, attics, or wall cavities, they can cause significant damage and ongoing disturbance. Shire Pest Solutions provides safe, legal, and effective control and proofing to remove Glis glis and prevent repeat entry.

What Is a Glis Glis?

The Glis glis is a small rodent originally from mainland Europe. It was introduced to the UK in 1902 after escaping from a private collection in Tring. Since then, it has spread across the Chilterns and into parts of Oxfordshire and Berkshire, where it is now considered an invasive pest.

Why Glis Glis Are a Problem in Homes

Although they may look harmless, Glis glis can be extremely destructive when they get into roof spaces. They:

• Gnaw through wood, plastics, and cables
• Create serious fire hazards by chewing electrical wiring
• Contaminate insulation and stored items with droppings and urine
• Leave strong odours and ongoing hygiene concerns

Common Signs of a Glis Glis Infestation

Because they’re nocturnal and agile, infestations can be hard to confirm without experience. Typical signs include:

• Scratching or scurrying noises at night (often from loft voids or cavity walls)
• Droppings in roof spaces and a strong urine smell
• Gnawed materials, nesting debris, and chewed electrical cables
• A larger rodent profile than mice/rats, with a squirrel-like tail and rounded body

Are Glis Glis Dangerous to Health?

Yes — they can spread disease and parasites through droppings, saliva, and urine. Risks may include leptospirosis, salmonella, and parasites such as fleas and ticks (which may be linked to infections like Lyme disease). Even if you don’t come into direct contact, contamination in insulation and loft voids can create long-term hygiene issues.

Legal Status and Why Professional Control Matters

Glis glis are classed as a Destructive Introduced Species. It is illegal to release a captured Glis glis back into the wild. All control work should be carried out by trained professionals to comply with the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019.

Why Glis Glis Are Difficult to Remove

These rodents are agile climbers and can squeeze through small gaps around roofs, eaves, and soffits. They’re territorial and typically return to the same location if access points aren’t sealed properly. That’s why removal without full proofing often leads to repeat problems.

How We Help

Shire Pest Solutions takes a thorough approach to resolve Glis glis issues safely and legally:

• Inspection: Identify entry points, activity zones, and risk areas (including wiring damage).
• Control & monitoring: Use appropriate, compliant methods suited to the site.
• Proofing: Seal access points using durable materials such as metal mesh and professional-grade barriers.
• Prevention advice: Reduce access routes (tree branches/structures) and remove potential nesting materials.

Professional Glis Glis Control with Shire Pest Solutions

If you suspect Glis glis activity in your loft or roof space, contact Shire Pest Solutions for fast support. We’ll assess the situation, carry out legal control measures, and implement long-term proofing to protect your property.