How to Get Rid of Mice & Rats

Mice and rats can be a serious problem. In this video, Tricia shares her tips on how to deal with these little rodents effectively and organically!

Take a look at our companion article found in our Resource Center.

Why Control Mice & Rats?

Mice and rats can cause serious damage by contaminating food, chewing through wires, and spreading diseases like salmonella and hantavirus. They can also wreak havoc in your garden by eating crops like tomatoes and squash. Learn how to manage these rodents safely and effectively.

Preventing Rodent Infestations

  • Seal entry points: Mice can fit through holes as small as a dime, and rats through holes the size of a quarter. Seal any gaps in walls, doors, and windows with caulk or metal sheeting.
  • Reduce nesting sites: Keep your property tidy by removing clutter and debris that could provide shelter for rodents.
  • Protect food sources: Store seeds and food in sealed, rodent-proof containers to prevent access. Use airtight jars or bins to secure your food.
  • Minimize attractants: Avoid free-feeding pets and clean up food spills promptly. In the garden, use repellents like Ropel to deter rodents from damaging your crops.

Controlling Mice & Rats

Once you have a rodent infestation, you can use biological, mechanical, or chemical controls:

  • Biological controls: Cats and certain dog breeds like Jack Russell Terriers are excellent hunters. American Shorthair cats are especially skilled at catching mice.
  • Traps: Mechanical traps are effective and safer than poisons. Options include live traps like the multiple-catch mouse trap and the Raticator Plus, which uses electricity to quickly and humanely kill rodents. Place traps along walls where you see droppings or other signs of activity.
  • Bait stations: For severe infestations, consider using bait stations with OMRI-listed baits like Agrid3, a concentrated vitamin D3-based product. Ensure bait stations are used safely, especially around children and pets.

Tips for Effective Trapping

  • Use multiple traps and place them 10 feet apart in areas of high rodent activity.
  • Bait traps with seeds, bacon, cheese, peanut butter, or raisins for best results.
  • To increase success, bait the traps without setting them initially. Once the rodents trust the traps, rebait and set them.

Conclusion

Control mice and rats effectively by combining preventive measures with safe and humane trapping methods. Keep your home and garden rodent-free and grow organic for life!

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