How can I catch a mouse in a bottle? - briefly
Place a bait such as cheese at the base of a clear bottle, set a funnel or inverted cup to channel the mouse inside, and seal the opening immediately after entry. Verify local wildlife regulations before attempting any capture.
How can I catch a mouse in a bottle? - in detail
To capture a rodent with a glass container, follow a systematic approach that maximizes success while minimizing stress for the animal.
First, select a bottle that holds at least one liter of liquid and has a wide opening (minimum 5 cm diameter). Clear glass allows visual monitoring; a smooth interior prevents the mouse from gaining traction. Ensure the bottle is free of cracks and has a tight‑fitting lid that can be modified.
Second, create an entry mechanism. Cut a small section (≈2 cm) from the lid and replace it with a flexible flap of rubber or silicone. The flap should open outward when the mouse pushes against it but snap shut due to its elasticity, trapping the creature inside. Reinforce the flap with a thin wire loop to prevent tearing.
Third, prepare bait. Use high‑energy food such as peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or a small piece of cheese. Apply a thin layer to a piece of cardboard or a wooden block that fits snugly against the bottle’s interior wall, positioning it just beyond the flap. The scent will attract the mouse, and the bait’s placement forces the animal to push through the flap to reach it.
Fourth, set the trap in an area with known rodent activity. Place the bottle on a stable surface, preferably a low‑profile platform that aligns the bait with the mouse’s typical travel path. Ensure the surrounding floor is free of obstacles that could allow the mouse to escape before reaching the bottle.
Fifth, monitor the trap. Check at regular intervals (every 15–30 minutes) without disturbing the bottle. Once the mouse is inside, the flap will remain closed, preventing exit.
Sixth, release or dispatch the animal according to local regulations. If release is intended, transport the bottle to a suitable outdoor location, open the lid slowly, and allow the mouse to exit. If humane euthanasia is required, use an approved method such as CO₂ exposure in a sealed container, following veterinary guidelines.
Safety considerations:
- Wear gloves to avoid direct contact and reduce scent transfer.
- Keep the bottle away from children and pets.
- Dispose of any used bait to prevent secondary infestations.
By adhering to these steps, the capture process becomes predictable, efficient, and humane.