How to catch mice with bait? - briefly
Place attractive food such as peanut butter, cheese, or grain on a snap trap or live‑catch cage, locate the device along walls or near known rodent pathways, and inspect it frequently to remove captured mice.
How to catch mice with bait? - in detail
Capturing rodents with attractants requires a systematic approach that addresses bait selection, trap type, placement strategy, and post‑capture handling.
Choose a food that appeals strongly to the target species. Common options include peanut butter, dried fruit, cheese, and small pieces of cooked meat. The bait should be moist enough to cling to the trap mechanism but not so liquid that it drips and contaminates surrounding surfaces. Adding a scent enhancer, such as a few drops of vanilla extract or a pinch of powdered garlic, can increase effectiveness.
Select a device that matches the environment and the level of control needed. Snap traps provide rapid kill and minimal mess; live‑catch cages allow relocation; glue boards offer passive capture but generate distress. Ensure the trap is calibrated for the size of the animal to prevent misfires or injury to non‑target species.
Place the traps along established pathways. Rodents travel close to walls, behind appliances, and within 30 cm of food sources. Position each device perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the expected direction of travel. Secure the bait on the trigger mechanism so that the animal must interact with the spring or door to obtain the reward.
Maintain a consistent inspection schedule. Check traps at least once daily to reduce suffering and to prevent bait spoilage. Remove captured individuals promptly, wearing disposable gloves to avoid disease transmission. Dispose of dead rodents in sealed bags within a waste container, or release live captures at a location far from human habitation, adhering to local regulations.
Monitor the area for signs of continued activity, such as droppings or gnaw marks. If captures decline, rotate bait flavors, relocate traps to new hotspots, or increase the number of devices. Regular sanitation—sealing food containers, repairing entry points, and eliminating clutter—reduces reinfestation risk and enhances the overall success of the baiting method.