How can a mouse be caught without harming it? - briefly
Use a live‑capture trap baited with a strong attractant such as peanut butter, and release the mouse outdoors away from your home. Check the trap regularly and relocate the animal promptly to minimize stress.
How can a mouse be caught without harming it? - in detail
Capture a mouse safely by using humane devices and proper handling techniques.
Select a live‑capture trap made of sturdy wire or plastic, equipped with a hinged door that closes when the animal enters. Ensure the trap size matches the target rodent; a 4‑inch square chamber accommodates most house mice.
Prepare bait that appeals to rodents—peanut butter, cheese, or small pieces of fruit. Apply a thin layer to the trigger platform, avoiding excess that could allow the mouse to bypass the mechanism.
Place traps along established pathways: behind appliances, near wall baseboards, and in dark corners where droppings or gnaw marks are visible. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the entry side facing the rodent’s travel direction.
Check traps at least twice daily. When a mouse is secured, wear disposable gloves, cover the trap with a cloth, and transport it to an outdoor release site at least 100 meters from the building. Release the animal near natural cover such as shrubs or a wooded area, allowing it to escape quickly.
If live traps are impractical, consider exclusion methods: seal gaps larger than 1 cm with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing; install door sweeps; and maintain a clean environment to reduce food attractants.
Maintain these practices continuously to prevent re‑infestation while ensuring the animal remains unharmed.