How to get rid of field mice
Field mice are rodents often found in grasslands, fields and forests where they are of no harm to us or our homes.
As food sources dry up and cold weather approaches they may find a way into our homes causing distress and damage.
Find out how to get rid of field mouse effectively.
What are field mice?
Field mice are small rodents commonly found in outdoor areas such as grasslands, fields and forests. They are a sandy brown colour, with a white underside and a long scaly tail.
Whilst they do most of their feeding outdoors sometimes they invade homes in search of food sources becoming pests and a nuisance to homeowners.
What causes field mice to enter your home?
As like other rodents, field mice usually invade homes in search of warmth, shelter and food, particularly in colder months.
If your home is easily accessible these mice can easily enter in search of supplies.
You are more likely to encounter field mice if your home is located within close proximity to fields and woodlands.
How to get rid of field mice
Getting rid of field mice can be fairly tricky due to their location but with perseverance and the use of effective traps and poison they can quickly be eliminated.
Using traps
Unlike rats, mice quickly accept new objects in their territory and will use carefully positioned traps within hours of placement.
When placing traps try to avoid minimal disruption to habitats to not alarm the mice.
Our highly effective mouse traps will be more than up to the job, baited with some specially formulated mouse attractant for best results.
Traps can also be placed within mouse bait stations for protection from non-targeted species. Please check any traps at least twice a day.
Using poison
For the control of an established mouse population by non-professionals, mouse poison bait is the most effective option.
Our pre-baited mouse bait stations are perfect for eliminating field mice as they can be placed directly along walls, on roof beams or in high spaces safely.
Alternatively, our mouse poison block bait can be placed down loosely in targeted areas where mouse activity is high.
Signs of a field mouse infestation
It’s important to look out for common signs of a field mouse infestation so you can control a problem before it escalates. Common signs include;
Visible sightings
Spotting a field mouse in your home is a good sign of an infestation. A sighting is usually more common at night however a daytime sighting may indicate increased activity and a bigger infestation.
Noises
If you have field mice in your home it’s very common to hear scurrying, scratching or squeaking noises, especially at night as they move about in lofts, cavity walls, under floorboards etc.
Droppings
Field mice droppings are likely to be found in kitchens, cupboards, lofts, garages and other areas of shelter.
They are often small, black and the size and shape of a grain of rice. These are a tell tale sign of a rodent problem.
Nests
Field mice often build nests using soft materials such as paper, fabric and insulation.
You may find a nest in common nesting areas such as lofts, attics, basements or even inside wall cavities.
Damage
Field mice like any rodent are constantly gnawing on pretty much anything in particular wood, pipes, insulation, cables, plastic.
If you notice damage to property or gnaw marks around your home it could be a sign of a field mouse infestation.
How to prevent field mice
Preventing field mice is just like preventing any other rodent. However, since field mice are so small you will need to be extra vigilant with your proofing approach.
Seal entry points
Mice can gain access through the smallest of holes around 1cm (1/4 inch), but usually they quickly open holes to about 2 cm (3/4 inch).
Go round your home looking for obvious entry points and seal them using expanding foam, steel wool, caulk or other materials.
Also consider blocking up vents or chimney openings using wire mesh grills or metal vents.
Dispose of food and garbage
Remove any potential food sources by disposing of food and garbage regularly, ensuring any rubbish is disposed of using tight, sealed bags.
Make sure any other food is properly stored using airtight food containers.
Regularly wipe down food surfaces to clean up crumbs or spills.
Tidy home exterior
Field mice are likely to invade homes where shrubbery or gardens have overgrown around the house.
Regularly maintain your home exterior and keep any vegetation short and tidy. Mice are very good climbers and can use this to gain entry.
Use natural repellents
Proactively using mouse repellents can be a very effective way to keep mice away from your home.
Peppermint and other forms of natural repellents can be placed in less frequented areas for long lasting protection.
Conduct regular inspections
We recommend regularly checking for signs of field mice, especially in less frequented areas such as cellars, attics, lofts, garages etc.
Look for signs of droppings, gnawing, nests or other rodent activity.