How can you catch a mouse with a glass jar? - briefly
Place a glass jar upright, attach a short ramp that leads to the opening, and bait the interior with a modest amount of peanut butter or cheese; when the mouse climbs in, quickly cover the rim with a lid or a piece of cardboard to trap it.
How can you catch a mouse with a glass jar? - in detail
A transparent container can be employed as an effective trap for a small rodent when combined with a simple baiting and placement strategy.
First, select a jar with a wide mouth (at least 5 cm in diameter) and a smooth interior surface. A lid is unnecessary; the opening will serve as the entry point. Clean the jar thoroughly to remove any residues that might deter the animal.
Second, prepare an attractant. Suitable options include a small portion of peanut butter, cheese, or a seed mixture. Apply a thin layer to the inner rim of the jar, just below the edge, ensuring the scent is strong enough to draw the mouse from a distance of 1–2 m.
Third, position the jar on a stable surface near known activity zones—along walls, behind appliances, or close to droppings. To prevent the rodent from escaping after entry, create a one‑way barrier:
- Place a lightweight, smooth wooden or plastic plank (approximately 1 cm thick) across the jar’s opening, leaving a narrow gap (about 0.5 cm) on one side.
- The gap should be large enough for the mouse to squeeze through but too small for the plank to be pushed aside once the animal is inside.
Alternatively, use a tilted board: lean a thin strip against the jar’s rim so that the mouse must climb upward to reach the bait. Once inside, the animal’s weight will shift the board, sealing the opening.
After setting the trap, monitor it at regular intervals (every 30 minutes). When a capture occurs, approach calmly, cover the jar with a lid or a thick cloth, and gently invert it onto a release container if relocation is intended, or dispose of the animal according to local regulations.
Key considerations:
- Ensure the jar is sturdy enough to withstand the mouse’s attempts to escape.
- Keep the bait fresh; replace it if it becomes contaminated.
- Position the trap in low‑light conditions, as rodents are more active during dusk and nighttime.
By adhering to this method, a simple glass vessel can reliably secure a mouse without the need for complex mechanisms or lethal devices.