Use enough traps to eliminate the rodents quickly. Traps can be set on ledges or on top of pallets of stored materials if mice are active in such locations. Place them so that mice will pass directly over the triggers as they follow the natural course of travel, usually close to a wall. Set traps close to walls, behind objects, in dark corners and in places where evidence of mouse activity is seen. Multiple-capture live traps, which can capture several mice once set, are also available in some hardware and feed stores. Set them so that the trigger is sensitive and will spring easily. Bait traps with peanut butter, chocolate candy, dried fruit or a small piece of bacon tied securely to the trigger. The simple, inexpensive wood-based snap trap is effective and can be purchased in most hardware and grocery stores. Trapping has several advantages: (1) it does not rely on inherently hazardous poisons, (2) it permits the user to make sure that the mouse has been killed and (3) it allows for disposal of the mouse carcasses, thereby avoiding dead mouse odors that may occur when poisoning is done within buildings. When only a few mice are present in a building, it is usually the preferred control method. Traps. Trapping is an effective control method. Plastic sheeting or screen, wood, rubber or other gnawable materials are unsuitable for plugging holes used by mice It may be necessary to cover the edges with metal to prevent gnawing. Doors, windows and screens should fit tightly. Seal cracks and openings in building foundations and openings for water pipes, vents and utilities with metal or concrete. Patching material needs to be smooth on the surface to prevent mice from pulling out or chewing through the patching compound. Steel wool mixed with caulking compound makes a good plug. Seal any openings larger than 1/4 inch to exclude mice. Dried grain and meat products should be stored in glass jars, metal canisters or other resealable airtight containers. All places where food is stored, processed or used should be made mouse-proof. ![]() Mouse-Proof Construction. The most successful and permanent form of house mouse control is to "build them out" by eliminating all openings through which they can enter a structure. If they have few places to rest, hide or build nests and rear young, they cannot survive in large numbers. Pay particular attention to eliminating places where mice can find shelter. Good sanitation will also reduce food and shelter for existing mice and in turn make baits and traps more effective. Although good sanitation will seldom eliminate mice, poor sanitation is sure to attract them and will permit them to thrive in greater numbers. Consequently, no matter how good the sanitation, most buildings in which food is stored, handled or used will support house mice if not mouse-proofed. ![]() Sanitation. Mice can survive in very small areas with limited amounts of food and shelter.
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