Fool-Proof Tips For Setting a Mousetrap

Mousetrap in Everett WA home - Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest provides tips on setting a mousetrap properlyMice infestations are any homeowner’s worst nightmare. In addition to being gross, rodents cause destruction and spread filth. Because they reproduce at such a rapid rate, it’s crucial to act quickly as soon as you notice a problem in your property. One of the most common ways to control an infestation is with a mousetrap. In order for them to work properly, it’s important to educate yourself on setting a mousetrap properly. Keep reading for expert tips from Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest.

Which Mousetrap is Best?

Electronic, glue, and catch-and-release mousetraps are some of the most common types. All of these have a number of advantages and disadvantages with varying degrees of success. However, the most common—and likely the most popular—trap is the spring-loaded mousetrap. This classic design has been used for decades to catch mice, and is easier to set up than you may think. Still, there are several tips to keep in mind when setting a mousetrap in order for them to work effectively.

Expert Tips for Setting a Mousetrap

Mousetraps take more effort than setting and forgetting them. Some of the top tips for setting a mousetrap include:

  1. Using the best mousetrap bait
    1. Not all mice like cheese!
    2. You only need to use a small amount of bait that cannot be reached unless mice step on the trap. If they can swipe it without standing on the trap, they will!
  2. Starting with unloaded mousetraps
    1. Try setting traps out with bait (without loading them) for a couple of nights. This will trick mice into a false sense of security with the mousetraps.
  3. Setting more than one trap
    1. Always place more than one trap out—each two to three feet apart each—to have a better chance at catching as many mice as possible at once.
  4. Setting out mousetraps strategically
    1. Place mousetraps where mouse activity is common, including along walls and behind furniture, with the bait placed nearest to the wall.
  5. Checking the mousetraps on a regular basis
    1. Mice can, in some instances, grab bait without setting off the trap. They can also set the trap off without getting caught! Get in a habit of checking on the traps for efficiency.

Professional Mice Extermination

Mousetraps may work to lessen the population of rodents in your property. However, they aren’t always a long-lasting solution to a serious mouse infestation. If you’re noticing growing numbers of rodents in your property, it’s time to call the mice exterminators at Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest. Our mice exterminators know how frustrating these tiny rodents can be and have the experience needed to get rid of them. For more tips on setting a mousetrap or to learn about our removal methods, call us today!

Protect Your Home from Rodents in the Winter

Winter window in Everett or Arlington WA home - Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest provides rodent prevention checklist.Rodent infestations are a problem throughout the entire year, but they’re especially common during Washington winters. When the weather cools down, rats and mice look to escape the weather outdoors by entering homes and businesses. According to The National Pest Management Association (NPMA), 21 million homes in the U.S. are invaded by rodents each winter! To protect your property from rodents this time of year, it’s important to thoroughly inspect your home and make repairs to keep them from getting indoors. Keep reading for top tips on rodent prevention from the exterminators at Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest.

Do Rats & Mice Hibernate?

Although many types of animals and even some pests hibernate in the winter, rats and mice do not. In fact, they likely will appear more active than ever as they try to escape freezing temperatures outside. Once inside, a rodent infestation can cause a lot of destruction with their gnawing and nesting habits.

In addition to being destructive, rodents are known to carry dangerous bacteria and pathogens. To protect you and your family from rats and mice in the winter, it’s important to learn how to seal your home from them.

8 Spots to Check for Rodent Prevention

Rodent prevention checklist for your Snohomish or Everett WA home this winter - Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest

As with any type of pest, the best way to prevent an infestation is to know how to prevent them in the first place. By thoroughly inspecting your property, you can locate the spots that could possibly invite rodents inside. The eight areas to inspect include:

  1. Roof: Replace and repair shingles or any other roof damage
  2. Gutters: Clean debris from gutters and downspouts
  3. Outside: Securely seal trash cans and keep a clean yard
  4. Garage: Make sure your garage closes flush to the ground
  5. Foundation: Seal any cracks or crevices larger than a dime
  6. Vents: Cover all vents securely
  7. Screens: Fix or replace any damaged window, door, or porch screens
  8. Vegetation: Keep a tidy yard and cut tree limbs back away from your home

Year-Round Rats & Mice Control

Rodent infestations may be at their highest in the winter, but they’re a problem throughout the entire year in Washington. If you’ve done all you can to prevent rats or mice and still find them inside your property, it’s best to call the professional rodent exterminators at Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest. We specialize in preventing pest problems before they begin, making us your local leaders in rodent control and removal. For more information on how we can keep you rodent-free, give our team a call today!