How do you make a trap for mice?

How do you make a trap for mice? - briefly

Build a snap trap by attaching a spring‑loaded bar to a wooden base, baiting it with peanut butter or cheese, and positioning it perpendicular to walls along mouse pathways. Inspect the trap daily, refresh the bait as needed, and dispose of captured rodents promptly in accordance with local regulations.

How do you make a trap for mice? - in detail

Creating an effective mouse capture device requires careful selection of materials, precise assembly, and strategic placement. The goal is to design a mechanism that lures the rodent, ensures swift immobilization, and allows safe disposal.

Materials commonly used include:

  • Wooden board or sturdy cardboard, dimensions 30 cm × 20 cm × 2 cm
  • Spring‑loaded snap bar or a sturdy clothespin
  • Thin wire or a strong rubber band for tension
  • Bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or a small piece of cheese
  • Protective gloves for handling live specimens

Construction steps:

  1. Cut the board to the specified size; sand edges to prevent injury.
  2. Attach the snap bar to one short side using the wire, ensuring the bar pivots freely.
  3. Secure the rubber band or wire to create tension that pulls the bar shut when released.
  4. Drill or cut a small opening near the opposite side of the board, large enough for a mouse to enter but not to escape.
  5. Place the bait on a small platform positioned just inside the opening, aligning it with the trigger mechanism.

Placement guidelines:

  • Position the trap along walls, behind appliances, or in areas showing droppings.
  • Keep the device away from children and pets; use a protective cover if necessary.
  • Check the trap at least twice daily; dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.

Maintenance recommendations:

  • Replace the bait every 24 hours to maintain attraction.
  • Inspect the tension mechanism for wear; replace the snap bar or rubber band when elasticity diminishes.
  • Clean the board with mild detergent after each capture to prevent odor buildup.

«A well‑constructed trap eliminates the need for chemical poisons and reduces the risk of secondary poisoning.» Proper execution of the steps above yields a reliable, humane solution for rodent control.