How can you make a mouse trap that doesn't kill the mouse? - briefly
Use a humane live‑catch trap that secures the mouse without harming it, then release the animal outdoors away from the building. Bait the device with peanut butter or seeds and inspect it regularly to minimize stress.
How can you make a mouse trap that doesn't kill the mouse? - in detail
A humane mouse catcher can be built from simple, readily available components. The device must trap the animal without causing injury, allow easy monitoring, and enable safe release far from the home.
First, select a container that provides enough space for a mouse to enter but prevents escape once inside. A clear plastic box (approximately 12 × 8 × 8 cm) with a hinged lid works well because the animal can see the interior, reducing stress. Drill a small entry hole (about 2 cm in diameter) near the bottom of one side. Attach a spring‑loaded latch to the opposite side of the lid; the latch should snap shut when the mouse pushes a trigger lever.
The trigger mechanism can be fashioned from a lightweight wooden dowel or a plastic strip. Position the trigger so that when the mouse moves toward the bait, it pushes the lever downward, releasing the latch and closing the lid. Secure the latch with a small piece of elastic or a rubber band to ensure rapid closure.
Bait selection influences success. Peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of cheese attract rodents without creating mess. Place a pea‑sized amount on a small platform just inside the entry hole, ensuring the mouse must step on the trigger to reach it.
After assembly, test the trap with a non‑target object (e.g., a small ball) to verify that the latch engages reliably. Once functional, set the trap in areas where mouse activity is observed: along walls, behind appliances, or near stored food. Position the trap perpendicular to the wall, with the entry hole facing the baseboard, as mice prefer traveling close to surfaces.
Check the trap at least twice daily. When a mouse is captured, wear disposable gloves, cover the container with a towel, and transport it to a release site at least 200 m from the residence, preferably in a wooded or field area. Open the lid gently, allow the mouse to exit, and close the container promptly to prevent escape.
Maintenance includes cleaning the interior with mild soap and water after each capture, inspecting the latch and trigger for wear, and replacing bait as needed. Regular upkeep ensures consistent performance and humane outcomes.