VietNamNet Bridge – Field mice are the number-one enemy of rice farmers, but they are also the source of living of many poor people, at least those in Bay Nui of An Giang province.

During the peak season, there are approximately 10 mouse trading “shops” along the road through the commune of Vinh Gia of Tri Ton district, An Giang. Each shop purchases several tons of rats each day.

From these shops, field mice are sold to markets and restaurants in many southern cities.

As a favourite food of the southern people, the price for field mice is quite high compared to other kinds of meat, from VND35,000 to VND50,000 ($1.3-2.3) per kilo.

Hunting field mice in the fields of Bay Nui.     This is a “job” of many children in Bay Nui.       This is a favorite food of southern people.     Field mice at a mouse shop in Vinh Gia.       A trader “bathes” mice before taking them to a restaurant.

Dan Viet