What should you do when mice are entering the house? - briefly
Seal cracks, gaps, and openings; place snap traps or live‑catch devices; and keep food storage sealed and surfaces free of crumbs. If activity continues, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional for comprehensive treatment.
What should you do when mice are entering the house? - in detail
Rodent intrusion into a dwelling requires immediate, systematic action to prevent damage and health risks.
Identify and eliminate access routes. Conduct a thorough visual inspection of walls, foundations, windows, doors, and utility penetrations. Seal gaps larger than a quarter‑inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or appropriate caulking; larger openings demand hardware cloth or concrete patches.
Implement control measures. Choose from the following options, depending on the severity of the infestation and local regulations:
- Snap traps positioned along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity zones.
- Live‑catch traps for humane removal, placed in concealed areas and checked frequently.
- Electronic traps delivering rapid electric discharge.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant poisons, secured in tamper‑resistant containers and positioned out of reach of children and pets.
Maintain a hostile environment for rodents. Store food in airtight containers, promptly clean spills, and remove standing water. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins and regularly sanitize countertops, floors, and cabinets.
Monitor progress. Keep a log of trap captures, bait consumption, and new sightings. Adjust placement and type of control devices as patterns emerge.
When infestation persists despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. They can conduct a comprehensive assessment, apply advanced control techniques, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Overall, prompt detection, exclusion of entry points, strategic trapping or baiting, rigorous sanitation, and continuous monitoring constitute an effective response to rodent entry in a residential setting.