How can mice be removed from a cellar with potatoes in winter? - briefly
Seal all openings, transfer potatoes to airtight containers, and place snap or live traps baited with peanut butter near suspected pathways. Remove any exposed tubers and maintain low humidity to deter further rodent activity.
How can mice be removed from a cellar with potatoes in winter? - in detail
Mice entering a winter storage space where potatoes are kept must be eliminated quickly to protect the crop and prevent disease. The process begins with inspection. Walk through the cellar, note any holes, cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and the foundation. Seal every opening with steel wool, hardware cloth, or expanding foam that resists chewing.
Next, reduce the food source. Remove any damaged potatoes and discard them in a sealed container. Sweep the floor and shelves to eliminate crumbs and droppings. Store remaining tubers in airtight bins or heavy‑duty plastic containers with tight lids.
Deploy trapping devices. Place snap traps along walls, behind pallets, and near suspected pathways. Use a small amount of peanut butter, cheese, or a piece of raw potato as bait. Check traps daily; dispose of captured rodents promptly and reset traps as needed.
If live capture is preferred, set humane cage traps with the same bait. Release captured mice at least 10 kilometers from the property to prevent re‑entry.
Consider a short‑term chemical approach only if other methods fail. Apply a rodenticide in bait stations that are tamper‑proof and placed out of reach of children and pets. Follow label instructions precisely, and monitor for non‑target exposure.
Maintain environmental conditions that deter rodents. Keep the cellar temperature as low as possible without freezing the potatoes; colder air reduces mouse activity. Ensure adequate ventilation to lower humidity, which makes the environment less attractive.
Finally, establish a regular monitoring schedule. Inspect seals weekly, replenish bait, and rotate trap locations to cover new activity zones. Consistent vigilance prevents a recurrence throughout the winter months.