Mice are an irritating nuisance to both homeowners and business owners alike. Not only do they spread diseases, but they’re known for damaging property as well as food sources.
Fortunately, there are several methods for controlling a mouse infestation. These include traps, baits and extermination.
Traps
The most traditional method for mouse control is traps. Snap traps are one of the most efficient rodent control solutions and can quickly catch and eliminate mice or rats from a home environment.
They are often placed in areas where rodents live, travel and feed – such as baseboards, corners or near holes/cracks where rodents have been observed entering or exiting.
Mouse and rat traps often include a lure to attract rodents to the trap. Food-based lures work best for mice, while non-food lures work better on rats.
Glue traps are another type of mouse control trap that can be utilized. They should not be used near children or pets as the glue may adhere to them.
Traps should be checked daily and cleaned out from dead mice, hair, and feces. A daily inspection will allow you to see if any live mice remain trapped and release them if needed.
For larger infestations, it is suggested to place multiple snap traps around the affected area. This will enable you to effectively kill a large number of rodents without needing to reset traps each time one is caught.
Baits
Mice control uses a variety of baits. These usually grain-based products with active substances added. Most are dyed to prevent rodents from ingestion.
Mice are often attracted to nut and seed products such as peanut butter or hazelnut spread, which contain protein and fat in high amounts, making them harder for rodents to consume due to their sticky consistency.
Other types of baits include chocolate, deli meats and pet food, fruit jam, and soft cheese. These attract mice due to their strong, nutty aromas which attract them out of hiding places.
When trapping mice, use a pea-sized amount of bait on the trap. This will not only attract them to it, but it will also trigger the trap and set off its release mechanism.
If your trap has been running for weeks without any results, try changing the bait. This can help ensure the device works more effectively and quickly eliminates mice.
Extermination
If you have a mouse infestation, hiring a pest control company to get rid of the rodents is your best bet. A qualified exterminator will inspect your home or business, identify nesting areas and entry points, then treat them accordingly.
The cost of mice extermination varies based on the size and location of your property. The larger the space, the longer it will take to clear out the infestation and require additional time and traps.
Removing rats and mice from your New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland or Delaware home or business is essential to prevent damage. These pests have the potential to chew through wires, devour food items and eat insulation in walls and ceilings.
They can spread diseases that affect humans, pets and wildlife alike. Examples include hantavirus, salmonellosis and listeria.
Pest control companies in NJ, PA, MD or DE can prevent rodents from entering your home or business by identifying and sealing all potential entry points. Furthermore, they will remove any trash that has been left outdoors.
Exterminators can also help you protect your property against future mouse and rat infestations by installing mouse-proofing devices inside of your home. This includes making sure the foundation, exterior walls, and roof are free from cracks or holes where mice could access.