Mice can be such elusive critters that, after many failed attempts to get rid of them, you might think there’s nothing you can do. But, don’t give up hope — it is possible to rid your home of mice, and it is absolutely necessary. Giving up isn’t going to solve your mouse problem. In fact, it’ll only get worse. So, what should you do when your mousetraps aren’t working? Likely, the problem isn’t with the mousetraps themselves, but in how you use them. Here are some tips which might bring you more success.
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Don’t handle the bait
Mice have an acute sense of smell. If they think anything fishy is going on with the bait, they’ll trust their cautious instincts and stay away. They can detect a human scent on bait, so only handle food with gloves.
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Try a new spot
Maybe you’ve been placing traps in areas not frequented by the mice or in areas that are too open. Put them where you know the mice will come into contact with them frequently, like up against a wall or in tight crawlspaces where they can’t avoid them.
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Target more specifically
Setting traps outside where you have noticed mice before might seem like a good idea, but it can be hit or miss. That’s because there are several different types of animals that have access to the bait. Try to restrict access to the bait so that only mice will be able to get to it.
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Use a different kind of bait
Mice can get used to a certain bait and won’t fall for it any more. And, there are some foods they just aren’t as attracted to. Stick with sweet and fatty foods like peanut butter, bacon, hot dogs, maple syrup, and marshmallows.
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Use a smaller amount of bait
If you’ve ever been fishing, you know that putting too much bait on the hook isn’t a good idea — the fish can pick apart the bait and steal it right off the hook. The same principle applies here. The more bait you put on the trap, the easier it is for mice to snatch it without getting caught.
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Go bigger
Catch mice off-guard by setting a bunch of traps on the first night before they become cautious of them. Don’t start slow, since they will only become more wary of traps as time goes on.
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You aren’t dealing with mice
Maybe you think you have an infestation of mice, but if you’ve tried all of the above and still nothing works, it’s possible there is a different type of critter in your house. For example, a bat will never get stuck in a mousetrap, but can leave similar signs.
Leaders in Mice Removal
When all else fails, it might be time to call a professional like the industry experts in wild animal removal at Critter Control® of Tampa. And, there are several reasons why you should call us as soon as you notice mice in the house. We can get the job done more safely and more quickly than any homeowner, simply because we have performed mice removal hundreds of times in every conceivable situation. We know what works, and what doesn’t, for any situation.
Book a free home inspection for a mice infestation today by calling us at 813-948-0870.
