What should be placed in a mouse trap to catch a mouse? - briefly
A highly aromatic bait—peanut butter, cheese, or sunflower seeds—applied in a pea‑sized amount to the trigger will reliably attract a mouse. Use this small, enticing food piece to ensure the trap activates.
What should be placed in a mouse trap to catch a mouse? - in detail
Effective bait for a rodent trap must attract the animal quickly, sustain interest long enough for the mechanism to activate, and be safe to handle.
Solid foods with high fat or protein content work best. Examples include:
- Peanut butter, applied in a small pea‑size amount.
- Small pieces of cooked bacon or sausage.
- Bits of cheese, preferably strong‑smelling varieties such as cheddar or gouda.
- Sunflower or pumpkin seeds, lightly toasted.
Soft, aromatic substances complement solid bait by providing scent cues. Suitable options are:
- A dab of vanilla extract mixed with the primary bait.
- A few drops of almond or hazelnut oil.
- A smear of honey or syrup to increase stickiness.
For traps that rely on scent rather than visual lure, consider:
- Commercial rodent attractants formulated with pheromones.
- Ground-up dried mouse droppings, used sparingly to avoid contamination.
When selecting bait, observe the following guidelines:
- Use a minimal quantity to prevent the mouse from removing the bait without triggering the trap.
- Ensure the bait adheres to the trigger platform; a sticky medium like peanut butter secures it.
- Rotate bait types if capture rates decline, as rodents may become desensitized to a single scent.
- Store bait in airtight containers to maintain potency and prevent spoilage.
By employing high‑fat, aromatic, and securely attached bait, a trap maximizes the likelihood of a successful catch.