What should you do if mice have infested a country house? - briefly
Seal all openings, install appropriate traps or bait stations, and promptly engage a licensed pest‑control professional to eradicate the mice.
What should you do if mice have infested a country house? - in detail
A mouse infestation in a rural residence requires immediate, systematic action.
First, confirm the presence of rodents by looking for droppings, gnaw marks, shredded materials, and audible activity, especially at night. Document the locations to target treatment efficiently.
Second, eliminate all sources of food and water. Store grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers; clean up spilled crumbs; fix leaky pipes and remove standing water. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins away from the building.
Third, locate and seal entry points. Inspect the foundation, walls, roof, vents, and utility penetrations for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based sealant to block openings. Repair damaged screens and install door sweeps.
Fourth, deploy control devices. Choose a combination of snap traps, live‑catch traps, and electronic traps, positioning them along walls, behind appliances, and near identified activity zones. Bait with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit for rapid capture. Replace traps regularly and dispose of carcasses according to local regulations.
Fifth, consider bait stations for severe infestations. Place tamper‑resistant stations in concealed locations, following label instructions for dosage and safety. Keep stations out of reach of children, pets, and non‑target wildlife.
Sixth, maintain a clean environment to prevent re‑infestation. Sweep floors, vacuum corners, and wash storage areas weekly. Rotate seasonal clothing and bedding to discourage nesting.
Seventh, monitor progress. Check traps and bait stations daily for at least two weeks. Record captures to assess whether additional sealing or device placement is needed.
Eighth, when DIY measures fail or the population is large, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Request an integrated pest‑management plan that combines exclusion, trapping, and, if appropriate, low‑toxicity rodenticides applied by certified technicians.
Finally, conduct a post‑treatment inspection. Verify that all entry points remain sealed, food sources stay protected, and no new signs of activity appear. Schedule periodic checks, especially before and after harvest seasons, to sustain a rodent‑free environment.