How can I evict mice without killing them? - briefly
Use live traps baited with peanut butter or oats, then release the captured mice at least a mile away from your residence. Seal all gaps, store food in airtight containers, and keep the area clean to discourage future infestations.
How can I evict mice without killing them? - in detail
Humane mouse exclusion relies on three principles: denial of shelter, removal of attractants, and safe capture for release.
First, seal entry points. Inspect walls, foundations, and utility openings for gaps as small as ¼ inch. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or silicone caulk to fill cracks. Install metal flashing around vent pipes and replace damaged weather stripping on doors and windows. A continuous barrier prevents re‑entry after the animals are removed.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in sealed containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and keep trash in bins with tight lids. Remove pet food after each feeding and avoid leaving birdseed outdoors. Reducing available nutrition forces mice to seek alternative habitats.
Third, employ live traps. Snap‑type devices are prohibited for this purpose. Choose multi‑catch or single‑catch humane traps made of plastic or metal. Bait with high‑energy items such as peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or bits of cheese. Position traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known runways. Check traps at least twice daily; release captured individuals at least one mile from the property, preferably in a wooded or agricultural area where they can find shelter.
If traps prove insufficient, consider ultrasonic repellents. Place devices in rooms where activity is observed; emit frequencies that deter rodents without harming them. Verify manufacturer specifications for coverage area and power requirements.
Maintain a clean environment to discourage re‑infestation. Regularly inspect the exterior for new gaps, remove clutter that offers nesting material, and keep vegetation trimmed at least 12 inches from the building foundation. Rotate trap locations periodically to cover new pathways.
By combining structural exclusion, attractant management, and non‑lethal capture, mice can be removed effectively while preserving their lives.