I have mice at home—what should I do? - briefly
Seal cracks, gaps, and utility openings to block entry. Use snap traps or licensed bait stations, and contact a professional pest‑control service if the infestation continues.
I have mice at home—what should I do? - in detail
Mice in a residence require immediate, systematic action to prevent damage, disease transmission, and population growth.
Identify entry points. Walk the interior and exterior, inspecting gaps around pipes, vents, doors, windows, and foundation. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based caulk; larger holes may need hardware cloth or sheet metal.
Eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, keep countertops clear, and clean crumbs or spills promptly. Waste should be placed in sealed bins and removed regularly.
Reduce shelter. Declutter storage areas, move boxes off the floor, and keep landscaping trimmed to limit outdoor harborage.
Deploy control measures. Choose one or more of the following, based on preference and local regulations:
- Snap traps positioned perpendicular to walls, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit, checked daily.
- Electronic traps delivering a rapid, humane kill, also placed along travel routes.
- Live‑catch traps, released at least 10 m (30 ft) from the dwelling, complying with local wildlife statutes.
If using poison, follow label instructions precisely, place baits in tamper‑resistant stations, and keep them inaccessible to children and pets.
Maintain a monitoring routine. After initial placement, record captures, replace bait, and reassess for new activity. Continue until no evidence of rodents appears for at least two weeks.
Consider professional assistance if infestation persists, if structural damage is evident, or if safe handling of toxic baits is uncertain. Certified pest managers can conduct thorough inspections, apply advanced control methods, and provide guarantees.
Prevent recurrence by repeating the sealing, sanitation, and monitoring steps annually or after any renovation that could create new entryways. Regular vigilance sustains a rodent‑free environment.