How can a mouse be caught with a jar? - briefly
Place bait (e.g., cheese) at the bottom of a shallow jar, then position a smooth, inclined board so the mouse climbs up to reach the food and slips into the container, which can be quickly sealed with its lid.
How can a mouse be caught with a jar? - in detail
Capturing a mouse with a glass or plastic jar requires a simple yet effective trap that combines bait, a one‑way entry, and secure containment.
Select a jar with a wide mouth (at least 5 cm diameter) and a tight‑fitting lid. Clean the interior to eliminate odors that might deter the rodent. Drill or cut a small opening (≈2 cm) near the top edge, then attach a flexible flap of thin cardboard or plastic that hinges inward. The flap should close automatically when the mouse pushes through, preventing escape.
Prepare bait that appeals to the target species: a pea, a piece of cheese, or a dab of peanut butter placed on a small platform just inside the opening. Position the jar on a flat surface where mouse activity is observed, such as near walls, behind appliances, or along known runways. Ensure the jar sits level; an inclined surface may allow the animal to slip out.
Monitor the trap regularly, checking at intervals of 30–60 minutes to avoid prolonged confinement. When the mouse is inside, secure the lid tightly, then transport the jar to a release location at least 200 m from the original site, preferably in a wooded or field area. Release the animal by lifting the lid away from the ground to allow an unobstructed exit.
Key considerations:
- Use a transparent jar to allow visual confirmation without disturbing the trap.
- Keep bait fresh; replace if it dries or becomes contaminated.
- Avoid using strong scents (e.g., cleaning agents) that could repel the mouse.
- Ensure the entry flap is sensitive enough to open under the mouse’s weight but strong enough to snap shut quickly.
Following these steps yields a humane, low‑cost method for capturing a mouse with a jar while minimizing stress to the animal and reducing the risk of damage to property.