What should you put in a trap for field mice? - briefly
Use a small amount of high‑fat, aromatic bait—peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or dried fruit—positioned at the trigger end of the trap. Avoid bulky or heavily scented foods that might repel the mouse.
What should you put in a trap for field mice? - in detail
Choosing effective bait is essential for capturing field mice. The most attractive foods are high‑fat, high‑protein items that mimic natural foraging sources. Common options include:
- Peanut butter, spread thinly on a small piece of cardboard or directly on the trigger mechanism.
- Sunflower seeds, especially black oil seeds, presented in a loose pile.
- Dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries, cut into bite‑size pieces.
- Small pieces of cooked meat or fish, chilled to remain firm.
- Commercial rodent lures formulated with attractants and scent enhancers.
Live‑catch traps benefit from soft, pliable baits that allow the animal to enter without triggering prematurely. For snap or kill traps, firmer baits that stay in place under pressure work best.
Placement of bait influences success. Position the lure on the trigger plate or inside the tunnel, ensuring it does not obstruct the mechanism. Secure the bait with a tiny dab of adhesive (e.g., a drop of non‑toxic glue) if it tends to shift.
Environmental considerations improve capture rates. Deploy traps along established runways, near walls, or close to food storage areas. Set traps in the late afternoon; mice are most active at night, increasing the likelihood of encounter.
Safety measures are straightforward. Wear gloves to avoid transferring human scent, which can deter rodents. Check traps regularly—at least once every 12 hours—to prevent unnecessary suffering and to remove captured individuals promptly.
In summary, optimal bait combines strong odor, high caloric content, and appropriate texture for the trap type. Peanut butter, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, and specialized lures meet these criteria, while proper placement, timing, and hygiene maximize effectiveness.