How did the mouse get onto the balcony? - briefly
It most likely slipped in through an open window or a gap in the screen, then climbed the railing onto the balcony. Small rodents commonly exploit such minor openings in residential structures.
How did the mouse get onto the balcony? - in detail
The rodent reached the balcony by exploiting structural gaps and behavioral cues typical of small mammals. First, the animal entered the interior through an opening such as a cracked window frame or a poorly sealed vent. Once inside, it followed a scent trail toward the kitchen, where food remnants attracted it. From the kitchen, the mouse found a narrow conduit—often a gap between the wall and the floorboard or a loose floorboard—that led upward.
The upward conduit connected to the balcony via one of the following routes:
- A small opening beneath the balcony railing, created by weathering or inadequate sealing.
- A vent or utility shaft that runs from the interior to the exterior, large enough for a mouse to squeeze through.
- A gap between the balcony’s flooring boards and the supporting joists, where the mouse can climb using its claws.
After locating the opening, the mouse used its agility to climb the vertical surface, employing its claws and tail for balance. It then entered the balcony space, where it may seek shelter, food, or a route back to the building. The entire process typically occurs unnoticed because the mouse moves quickly and the entry points are often concealed by debris or vegetation.