How can I pull a mouse out of a burrow? - briefly
Insert a thin, stiff rod to gently widen the tunnel opening and coax the mouse toward the surface. Capture it with tweezers or a small live trap for safe removal.
How can I pull a mouse out of a burrow? - in detail
Extracting a small rodent from its underground passage requires careful handling to avoid injury to the animal and damage to the surrounding soil. Begin by locating the entrance; observe the size of the opening and the depth of the tunnel. If the hole is shallow, a gentle hand can reach in, but deeper burrows demand a tool such as a thin, flexible rod or a small garden trowel.
- Assess the situation – Determine whether the mouse is trapped, injured, or simply hiding. Look for signs of distress (scratching noises, rapid movement).
- Prepare the extraction device – Use a smooth‑finished wooden dowel, a plastic spoon, or a bent coat hanger. The tip should be rounded to prevent bruising.
- Create a clear path – Loosen loose soil around the opening with a fingertip or a soft brush, keeping the tunnel walls intact. Avoid compacting the earth, which could block the animal’s exit.
- Guide the rod – Insert the instrument slowly, following the natural curve of the burrow. When the tip contacts the mouse, apply gentle pressure to coax it toward the surface.
- Support the animal – As the rod brings the creature up, use the free hand to cup the mouse, supporting its body and preventing it from falling back into the hole.
- Release safely – Place the mouse on a flat, dry surface away from predators. Allow it to recover before releasing it into a safe, open area with cover and food sources.
If the mouse appears injured, contact a wildlife rehabilitator rather than attempting further manipulation. In cases where the burrow is extensive or the animal is uncooperative, consider sealing the entrance temporarily and providing an alternative shelter nearby, encouraging the rodent to relocate voluntarily.