How can you fight mice in winter? - briefly
Seal all exterior cracks, store food in sealed containers, and eliminate clutter that provides shelter; then set snap or live‑capture traps along walls and near suspected entry points, checking them regularly.
How can you fight mice in winter? - in detail
Winter conditions push rodents into homes in search of warmth and food, making proactive measures essential for effective control. Begin by sealing entry points; inspect foundations, walls, and utility penetrations, then apply steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam to gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Install door sweeps on all exterior doors and ensure windows have tight-fitting screens.
Next, eliminate attractants. Store pantry items in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs and spills, and keep garbage cans sealed with tight lids. Reduce indoor clutter such as cardboard boxes and fabric piles, which provide nesting material. Outside, remove fallen fruit, birdseed, and compost piles, and keep firewood stacked away from the house foundation.
Implement trapping strategies. Deploy snap traps or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected runways. Position traps perpendicular to the wall with the trigger end facing the rodent’s travel path. Use a small amount of high‑fat bait—peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit—to increase capture rates. Check traps daily, dispose of carcasses, and reset with fresh bait.
Consider chemical controls only when necessary. Apply rodenticides in tamper‑resistant bait stations placed along exterior walls, avoiding areas accessible to children or pets. Follow label instructions precisely, monitoring for signs of activity and replacing stations as required.
Maintain environmental vigilance throughout the season. Conduct monthly inspections of sealed openings, replace damaged caulking, and reset traps after any capture. Regularly clean storage areas and keep outdoor vegetation trimmed to reduce shelter opportunities. Consistent application of these practices limits winter infestations and protects the interior environment from rodent damage.