What should I do if mice have appeared in compost? - briefly
Remove food scraps, secure the bin with a tight‑fitting lid, and place traps or humane catchers to eliminate the rodents. Keep the compost dry, add carbon‑rich material, and turn it regularly to discourage future infestations.
What should I do if mice have appeared in compost? - in detail
When rodents infiltrate a compost bin, immediate action prevents population growth and protects the quality of the material. Begin by sealing all entry points. Inspect the container for gaps around lids, vents, and the base; patch holes with metal flashing, hardware cloth, or heavy‑duty mesh. If the bin rests directly on soil, elevate it on a platform or place a barrier of wire mesh beneath.
Next, eliminate food sources that attract the animals. Remove any exposed kitchen scraps, especially fruit, bread, or meat residues. Cover fresh additions with a thick layer of carbon‑rich material such as shredded newspaper, dry leaves, or straw. Maintain a carbon‑to‑nitrogen ratio of roughly 30:1 to keep the pile hot enough to deter mice.
Implement physical deterrents. Place a flat stone or a piece of plywood on the surface of the compost; rodents prefer to burrow beneath loose material, and a solid barrier discourages digging. Install a motion‑activated ultrasonic device or a low‑frequency vibration plate near the bin; these emit sounds or pulses that are uncomfortable for rodents but harmless to humans.
If the infestation persists, consider trapping. Use snap traps or live‑catch traps positioned along the bin’s perimeter, baited with peanut butter or sunflower seeds. Check traps daily, dispose of captured animals according to local regulations, and reset traps until activity ceases.
Finally, maintain the compost’s temperature. Turn the pile regularly—every one to two weeks—to promote aerobic decomposition and raise internal heat to 55‑65 °C (130‑150 °F). High temperatures kill mouse eggs and reduce the attractiveness of the environment.
Summary of steps:
- Seal all gaps with metal flashing or mesh.
- Cover fresh waste with a thick carbon layer.
- Elevate the bin or add a wire barrier underneath.
- Place a solid surface on top of the compost.
- Use ultrasonic or vibration deterrents.
- Deploy baited traps and monitor them closely.
- Turn the pile frequently to sustain high internal temperatures.
By following these measures, the compost will remain a productive, rodent‑free resource.