What should be done if there are many mice in an apartment? - briefly
First, locate and seal all cracks, gaps, and openings, and store food in airtight containers. Then, use snap traps, bait stations, or a licensed pest‑control service to eradicate the infestation.
What should be done if there are many mice in an apartment? - in detail
A heavy mouse infestation in a residence requires a systematic approach that combines immediate control with long‑term prevention.
First, eliminate food sources. Store all pantry items in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and empty trash daily into sealed bags. Next, identify and seal entry points. Inspect walls, floors, cabinets, and utility openings for gaps larger than a quarter inch; fill them with steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam, then cover with metal mesh or cement where appropriate.
Implement physical removal. Deploy snap traps or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected runways. Position bait—peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractant—on the trigger mechanism. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents in sealed bags, and reset devices. For extensive populations, consider multiple traps per room and rotate bait types to prevent trap shyness.
If chemical control is warranted, apply rodenticide baits in tamper‑resistant stations, placing them out of reach of children and pets. Follow label instructions precisely, monitoring consumption and replacing stations as needed. Maintain records of bait locations and dates of application.
When self‑administered measures fail to reduce activity within a week, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Experts can conduct a thorough inspection, apply integrated pest‑management techniques, and provide warranties for future infestations.
Finally, sustain an unfriendly environment for rodents. Keep clutter to a minimum, repair leaking pipes, and maintain regular cleaning schedules. Conduct periodic inspections of sealed openings and replace deteriorated barriers promptly.
By executing these steps—sanitation, exclusion, trapping or baiting, professional intervention when necessary, and ongoing maintenance—an occupant can effectively eradicate a severe mouse problem and prevent recurrence.