How can I make a live trap for mice? - briefly
Use a sturdy container (e.g., a 5‑gal bucket) with a smooth interior, place a ramp leading up to a small opening, and bait the far end with peanut butter or cheese; when a mouse enters, its weight tips a trigger that closes the lid, trapping it unharmed. Release the captured mouse outdoors, several hundred meters from the building, to prevent re‑entry.
How can I make a live trap for mice? - in detail
A live‑capture device for rodents can be assembled from inexpensive, readily available materials. The design relies on a trigger mechanism that releases a door when the animal enters, allowing the creature to remain inside without injury.
Materials
- Sturdy cardboard box or plastic container (approximately 12 × 8 × 6 in).
- Thin wooden or plastic strip (1 × 6 in) for the lever.
- Spring‑loaded latch or a piece of stiff wire bent into a hook.
- Peanut butter or small piece of cheese as bait.
- Tape or glue for reinforcement.
- Optional: mesh screen for ventilation.
Construction steps
- Cut an entrance hole 2 in wide on one side of the box, near the bottom edge.
- Attach the lever to the interior side of the lid so that it rests against the latch, keeping the door closed.
- Position the latch at the rear of the entrance, allowing the lever to be displaced when the mouse pushes against the bait.
- Secure the latch with tape or glue, ensuring it snaps shut quickly once the lever is released.
- Place a small amount of bait on the far side of the entrance, directly in line with the trigger mechanism.
- Test the trap by gently pressing the lever; the door should open, the mouse enter, and the latch should close automatically when the lever returns to its original position.
- Add a ventilation mesh to the top of the container if prolonged holding is anticipated.
Operation and maintenance
- Position the trap along walls, behind appliances, or near known activity corridors, as mice travel close to surfaces.
- Check the device every few hours; release captured rodents at least 100 ft from the building to prevent re‑entry.
- Clean the trap with mild detergent after each use to remove scent markers that could deter future captures.
- Replace worn latches or levers promptly to maintain reliability.
Safety considerations
- Avoid using toxic baits; food‑based attractants prevent accidental poisoning of non‑target animals.
- Ensure the enclosure is smooth on the interior to prevent injuries.
- Wear gloves when handling captured rodents to reduce disease transmission risk.