Mice have appeared in the house; how can they be eliminated at home? - briefly
Seal all possible entry gaps, install snap or electronic traps, and place bait stations in hidden corners; avoid chemical poisons if children or pets are present. Keep food stored airtight, eliminate clutter, and regularly inspect for new activity to prevent re‑infestation.
Mice have appeared in the house; how can they be eliminated at home? - in detail
Rodent intrusion in a residence requires immediate, systematic action to protect health, property, and food supplies. Identify all signs of activity—droppings, gnaw marks, nesting material, and audible scurrying—to determine the extent of the problem. Conduct a thorough inspection of walls, cabinets, attics, and basements, focusing on potential entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and windows.
Implement exclusion measures first. Seal openings larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or concrete; use expanding foam only when combined with a metal barrier to prevent chewing. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to block gaps beneath doors. Repair damaged screens and repair any cracks in foundation walls.
Deploy control devices after exclusion is in place. Choose from the following options, considering safety for children and pets:
- Snap traps: positioned perpendicular to walls, baited with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit; set at night when activity peaks.
- Electronic traps: deliver a lethal shock; reusable and reduce risk of secondary poisoning.
- Live‑catch traps: monitor frequently; release captured rodents far from the property or hand over to authorities.
- Glue boards: effective for monitoring but not recommended for humane eradication.
Bait stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides should be placed in tamper‑resistant containers, away from food preparation areas, and labeled according to local regulations. Rotate bait types to prevent resistance development.
Maintain sanitation to deter re‑infestation. Store dry goods in sealed containers, promptly clean crumbs and spills, and dispose of waste in closed bins. Reduce clutter that offers shelter, especially in basements, garages, and storage rooms.
If activity persists after these measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can conduct thermal imaging to locate hidden nests, apply rodenticides under strict compliance, and provide a customized management plan.
Regularly review the exclusion and monitoring system. Re‑inspect entry points monthly, replace worn traps, and adjust bait placement according to seasonal changes in rodent behavior. Consistent vigilance prevents recurrence and secures a rodent‑free environment.