What should I do if mice have infested a garden shed? - briefly
Seal all openings, set traps or bait stations, and eliminate food and nesting materials; regularly inspect and repeat the process until activity ceases. If the problem continues, contact a professional pest‑control service.
What should I do if mice have infested a garden shed? - in detail
A mouse invasion in a garden storage structure requires immediate, systematic action. Begin with a thorough inspection. Identify all openings larger than a quarter‑inch, including gaps around doors, vents, pipe penetrations, and cracks in the foundation. Mark each entry point with tape or chalk.
Next, seal the access routes. Use steel wool or copper mesh to fill small holes, then cover with caulk, expanding foam, or hardware cloth. For larger gaps, install metal flashing or durable weather‑stripping. Ensure the exterior sheathing is intact and that any damaged siding or roofing is repaired.
After exclusion, reduce the available food and shelter. Remove all stored feed, seeds, and pet food from the shed. Store these items in airtight containers made of metal or heavy‑wall plastic. Sweep the floor, vacuum corners, and discard droppings with a disinfectant solution of bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to eliminate disease risk.
Deploy control devices strategically. Place snap traps or electronic kill traps along walls, behind stored items, and near identified runways. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractant. Space traps 10–12 inches apart and check them daily, disposing of captured rodents promptly. If preferred, set up multiple‑catch live traps, but be prepared to release or humanely euthanize the catch according to local regulations.
Consider supplemental bait stations if the infestation is extensive. Install tamper‑proof stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticide, positioning them out of reach of children and pets. Follow label instructions precisely, and monitor usage.
Maintain the shed in a clean, dry condition to deter future colonization. Keep the floor free of debris, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, and perform regular inspections for new entry points. Rotate stored items periodically, and avoid leaving cardboard boxes or fabric sacks that provide nesting material.
If the problem persists despite these measures, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. They can conduct a detailed assessment, apply targeted treatments, and advise on long‑term prevention strategies.