A mouse on the table—what should be done? - briefly
Capture the mouse with a humane trap and release it outdoors, then seal any gaps or openings that allowed it onto the surface. This eliminates the immediate problem and prevents recurrence.
A mouse on the table—what should be done? - in detail
A rodent has appeared on a work surface. Immediate response should eliminate the animal’s access to food, liquids, and equipment while preventing damage.
- Close windows and doors to limit escape routes.
- Remove any exposed food or crumbs; store items in sealed containers.
- Turn off electronic devices that could be chewed or short‑circuited.
- Use a humane trap or a container with a lid to capture the mouse without injury.
- Release the captured animal outdoors, at least 100 m from the building, following local wildlife regulations.
After removal, assess the area for signs of entry.
- Inspect walls, floorboards, and baseboards for holes or gaps larger than 1 cm.
- Seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh.
- Install door sweeps and window screens to block future ingress.
- Maintain a clean environment: wipe surfaces daily, vacuum corners, and store waste in sealed bins.
Long‑term control includes monitoring and habitat reduction.
- Set up additional snap‑free traps in adjacent rooms to detect hidden activity.
- Keep vegetation trimmed away from the building’s foundation.
- Schedule periodic inspections by a pest‑management professional to verify that preventive measures remain effective.
Following these steps removes the immediate threat, addresses the source of infestation, and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.