How to make a sticky trap for mice? - briefly
Cut a piece of cardboard or thin plastic to the desired size, apply a layer of strong, non‑toxic adhesive, and position the trap along known mouse routes, checking it frequently. Dispose of any captured rodents promptly and replace the adhesive surface when its stickiness diminishes.
How to make a sticky trap for mice? - in detail
Creating an adhesive mouse trap requires careful selection of components, precise assembly, and strategic placement. The following guide outlines each stage in detail.
Materials
- Strong, non‑toxic adhesive sheet or industrial‑strength glue pad
- Rigid backing board (e.g., thin plywood, cardboard, or plastic sheet)
- Protective gloves and safety glasses
- Scissors or utility knife
- Double‑sided tape or adhesive‑resistant sealant
- Small bait items (peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit)
Preparation
- Cut the backing board to a size of approximately 15 × 20 cm, providing a stable surface for the adhesive layer.
- Trim the adhesive sheet to match the board dimensions, leaving a 2‑mm margin to prevent edge exposure.
- Apply a thin strip of double‑sided tape along the board’s perimeter, securing the adhesive sheet firmly and eliminating gaps where rodents could escape.
- Wear protective gloves while handling the adhesive to avoid skin contact.
Baiting and Activation
- Place a modest amount of bait at the center of the adhesive surface; excess bait may attract non‑target species.
- Press the bait lightly into the glue to ensure it adheres without contaminating the surrounding area.
Placement
- Position the trap along established mouse pathways: near walls, behind appliances, or within concealed corners.
- Maintain a distance of 30‑45 cm from each other when deploying multiple traps to maximize coverage.
- Ensure the trap remains flat on a stable surface; avoid locations where vibrations could dislodge the adhesive.
Monitoring and Disposal
- Inspect traps daily; remove captured rodents using a disposable tool, then seal the trap in a rigid container for disposal.
- Replace the adhesive sheet after several captures or when the surface becomes saturated.
- Store unused adhesive sheets in a cool, dry environment to preserve stickiness.
Safety considerations
- Keep traps out of reach of children and pets; label the area as “restricted.”
- Use only non‑toxic adhesives to prevent environmental hazards.
Following these steps yields an effective, low‑cost solution for controlling mouse infestations while minimizing risk to non‑target organisms.