How can I catch mice with a bottle and oil? - briefly
Apply a thin layer of oil to the interior wall of a clear bottle, position a piece of attractive bait near the opening, and set the bottle upright so a mouse slips on the oil and falls inside; then quickly seal the mouth to contain the capture.
How can I catch mice with a bottle and oil? - in detail
To trap a rodent with a glass or plastic bottle and a thin coating of oil, follow these precise steps.
First, select a bottle with a wide mouth (at least 5 cm in diameter) and a smooth interior surface. Clean the container thoroughly to remove residues that could repel the animal. Apply a uniform layer of vegetable oil or mineral oil to the inner walls, concentrating on the upper half where the mouse will climb. The oil reduces friction, preventing the creature from gaining traction and allowing it to slip and become immobilized.
Next, create an entry point. Cut a small opening near the bottle’s base, large enough for a mouse to enter but too narrow for it to turn around. Secure the cut edge with tape or a rubber gasket to maintain a smooth transition into the oil‑coated interior. Position the opening at ground level, aligning it with the animal’s natural travel routes—along walls, behind appliances, or near food sources.
Bait the trap with a strong attractant such as a piece of cheese, peanut butter, or a grain pellet. Place the bait directly on the oil‑slicked surface, ensuring it does not slide out of reach. The scent will draw the rodent into the bottle, where the slick surface causes loss of grip. Once the mouse slides down, it will become trapped against the bottle’s interior.
Check the trap regularly, at least once every 12 hours, to prevent prolonged suffering. When a capture occurs, wear thick gloves, cover the bottle with a lid, and release the animal at a suitable distance from the premises, or dispose of it according to local regulations.
Troubleshooting tips:
- If the mouse avoids the trap, relocate it to a higher‑traffic area or replace the bait with a more potent scent.
- Excessive oil can cause the bait to drift; apply just enough to create a slippery surface.
- A bottle that is too tall may allow the animal to climb out; choose a container whose height does not exceed the mouse’s reach when standing on its hind legs.
Safety considerations:
- Avoid using petroleum‑based oils near open flames.
- Keep the trap out of reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of used oil responsibly to prevent environmental contamination.
By adhering to this method, a simple bottle combined with a thin oil layer can serve as an effective, low‑cost rodent capture device.