What should be done if mice appear? - briefly
Seal all gaps and openings, place appropriate traps or bait stations, and, if the problem continues, enlist a licensed pest‑control service.
What should be done if mice appear? - in detail
When rodents are detected in a building, immediate action prevents damage, disease transmission, and population growth.
First, locate the infestation. Follow mouse trails, droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting material. Use a flashlight to inspect hidden areas such as under appliances, inside cabinets, and behind walls.
Second, eliminate access points. Seal cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, and doors with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens.
Third, reduce food and water sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs promptly, and fix leaks. Remove pet food after each feeding and keep garbage bins tightly covered.
Fourth, implement control measures. Choose one or more of the following, based on the severity of the problem and safety considerations:
- Snap traps placed perpendicular to walls, baited with peanut butter or chocolate, and checked daily.
- Electronic traps delivering a lethal shock, requiring minimal handling of carcasses.
- Live‑capture traps, released far from the property, complying with local regulations.
- Rodenticides applied in tamper‑proof stations, reserved for professional use to avoid accidental poisoning.
Fifth, monitor and maintain. Continue inspections for at least two weeks after trapping to confirm the absence of new activity. Replace or reposition traps as needed.
Finally, consider professional pest‑control services if the infestation persists, if structural damage is extensive, or if toxic baits are required. Certified technicians can conduct comprehensive assessments, apply advanced control methods, and provide a long‑term management plan.