What to Do When Your Current Method of Getting Rid of Field Mice Isn’t Working

If you live in a country setting, then you’ve probably seen a field mouse or two. Many people confuse this mouse with other varieties and getting rid of field mice can be quite a chore. Also called the meadow vole, a field mouse looks a little different from the common house mouse. It’s a small, stocky rodent, with a short tail and legs. Its ears are barely visible and small eyes. The fur of this mouse is very thick and darker than that of a house mouse. It can range from red to brown to dark gray, but usually has an abundance of black-tipped hairs. Shorter in length than other mice, it’s only about 2 ½ to 3 ¾ long. The tail is seldom longer than two inches.

Since this mouse does not climb walls, it is seldom seen any higher than ground level. It does create numerous underground tunnels, with many entrances and runways. This rodent carries as many diseases as the common house mouse, including rickettsialpox, hantavirus, and salmonellosis. The Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome can be deadly to humans if left untreated. Mice are also carriers of roundworms and tapeworms, which can infect household pets and humans.

Effective Means of Getting Rid of Field Mice

You can reduce the likelihood of a field mice problem by eliminating weeks and another cover from around buildings, lawns, and cultivated areas. Regular mowing is also important. Seal up holes and openings that are any larger than a quarter of an inch in the foundation of buildings. If you already have a problem with getting rid of field mice, then you’ll need to take further action.

Toxicants and Poisons

Rodenticides are chemicals used as a solution for getting rid of field mice. These chemical compounds are found in most of the commercially available mouse poisons and are a very effective means of preventing infestations. They are offered in liquid and solid forms. Some of the newer poisons are lethal with only a single feeding but should be used with caution around small children, pets, and livestock.

After long periods of use, it’s best to change poisons, as mice can build up a tolerance to many of these products. It may take longer feedings and more bait to be effective. By alternating the type of poison you use every few weeks, it’s more likely to produce the results you want.

Commercial Field Mice Removal

Fumigants work well when it comes to getting rid of field mice. However, their use is usually restricted to commercially licensed Pest Control Hobart personnel. Carbon monoxide, such as from vehicle exhaust, often keeps many mice out of garages, but simply closing the garage door and running the motor is certainly not recommended!

Glue traps are effective if they are placed properly – that is in areas of high mouse activity. These traps need to be checked frequently, as it can take a day or two for the mouse to die. Some mice will go so far as to chew off their legs in an attempt to free themselves.

Dogs and Cats as Mousetraps

Many rural property owners stick with dogs and cats as an effective means of getting rid of mice. It’s a good way to control the field mice population, but usually won’t completely get rid of the problem.

Other Things to Consider

Getting rid of field mice may seem like an impossible task. However, with the right type of poisons, traps, and prevention methods, it can be done. Be prepared to fight a continuous battle!

Getting Rid of Field Mice Tip #1

Field mice are most commonly found close to their sources of food. If you have livestock, keep the food tightly enclosed in a mouse-proof container. Otherwise, you are likely to have a lot of mouse activity where the food is stored.

Getting Rid of Field Mice Tip #2

If you have a storage building, keep boxes stored up high. Since these little creatures do not climb walls, your stored items should be safe.

Getting Rid of Field Mice Tip #3

If you are using a bait trap, consider using peanut butter for the bait. It’s much more effective than cheese. It’s also a little easier to get it to stick to the trap trigger. Chocolate also works well.