How can a mouse be caught from a bottle?

How can a mouse be caught from a bottle? - briefly

Place attractive bait at the bottle’s mouth, tilt the container so the rodent climbs inside, and then turn it upside‑down so the neck seals the entry. Slide a thin card under the neck to open the bottle and free the mouse.

How can a mouse be caught from a bottle? - in detail

Capturing a mouse that has entered a glass container requires a calm approach, appropriate tools, and attention to the animal’s welfare.

First, assess the situation. Determine whether the mouse is alive, its position inside the bottle, and any obstacles that could impede extraction. If the mouse appears injured, handle it with extra care to avoid further harm.

Gather the following items:

  • Thick rubber gloves or disposable nitrile gloves
  • A small, sturdy cardboard tube or PVC pipe that fits snugly over the bottle’s opening
  • A soft cloth or towel
  • A release container with ventilation (e.g., a ventilated box)
  • Optional: a gentle scent such as a drop of peanut oil on the cloth to encourage movement

Procedure:

  1. Put on gloves to protect both yourself and the mouse from bites and scratches.
  2. Place the soft cloth over the bottle’s mouth, pressing gently to create a seal that prevents the mouse from escaping while you work.
  3. Slide the cardboard tube or PVC pipe over the bottle’s neck, ensuring a tight fit. The tube should extend a few centimeters inside the bottle without touching the mouse directly.
  4. Slowly tilt the bottle forward, allowing gravity to guide the mouse onto the tube’s interior surface.
  5. As the animal reaches the tube’s edge, use the cloth to coax it onto the tube, applying light pressure from behind if necessary.
  6. Once the mouse is on the tube, lift the bottle and tube together, keeping the mouse secured against the cloth.
  7. Transfer the mouse into the pre‑prepared release container, covering it briefly to reduce stress.
  8. Transport the mouse to a suitable outdoor location, preferably near vegetation or a shelter, and release it gently.

After the capture, disinfect gloves and any reusable tools. Observe the mouse briefly to confirm it regains mobility before leaving the area. If the animal shows signs of injury or does not recover quickly, consider contacting a wildlife rehabilitator for professional assistance.