How to make a house for mice? - briefly
Use a small wooden box, cut a 2‑inch opening, line the interior with shredded paper or cotton, and position it near food sources. Seal gaps to block predators and clean regularly for hygiene.
How to make a house for mice? - in detail
A functional mouse dwelling can be assembled from inexpensive, readily available components. Begin with a solid base: cut a piece of untreated plywood or thick cardboard to a size of about 15 × 20 cm. Secure the edges with non‑toxic glue to prevent splintering.
Next, create the walls. Use four short lengths of PVC pipe, each 5 cm in diameter and 8 cm long, or fashion rectangular frames from thin wooden strips. Attach the walls to the base with a hot‑glue gun, leaving a 1‑cm gap at the top for ventilation. Reinforce the corners with small wooden dowels or zip ties.
For the roof, cut a second piece of plywood or cardboard to match the base dimensions. Drill a small central hole (≈1 cm) to serve as an entrance tunnel. Position the roof on the walls and secure it with hinges made from small metal brackets, allowing easy access for cleaning.
Interior furnishings improve habitability. Place a few pieces of shredded paper, cotton balls, or dried leaves on the floor to provide nesting material. Add a shallow dish of water and a tiny pellet of dry seed or seed mix as food. Ensure all items are free from chemicals and pesticides.
Installation considerations:
- Locate the structure in a quiet, low‑traffic area away from direct sunlight.
- Keep the temperature between 18 °C and 25 °C; avoid drafts.
- Position the entrance tunnel close to a wall or corner to mimic natural shelter.
- Check the dwelling daily for moisture buildup, mold, or damage; replace any compromised parts promptly.
Maintenance routine:
- Remove old nesting material weekly and replace with fresh, clean substrate.
- Clean the water dish daily; refill with fresh water.
- Inspect the glue joints and hinges for wear; reapply adhesive or tighten brackets as needed.
- Rotate the structure occasionally to prevent the mouse from becoming overly accustomed to a single orientation.
By following these specifications, the constructed shelter will provide a safe, comfortable environment that encourages natural behavior while remaining easy to monitor and upkeep.