How to set your traps

Carefully read the instructions on the box before setting the trap. When setting the trap, place a small amount of bait (chunky peanut butter or mutton fat works best) on the bait pan of the snap trap. Place the trap on the floor against the wall. Put the baited end of the trap next to the wall so it forms a “T” with the wall. Rodents prefer to run next to walls or other objects for safety and do not like being out in the open.

Place traps in areas where you have seen mice or rats, nesting materials, urine and droppings, nibbled food, or gnaw marks. Remember that poison baits are dangerous for people and animals. Place baits out of reach from children and pets. Place traps in closed areas, such as behind the stove and refrigerator, and in the back of cabinets and drawers. Put traps near other areas where you think rodents are coming into your home, such as attics, basements, crawlspaces, and other areas without regular human traffic. Also place traps in outbuildings and in areas that might likely serve as rodent shelters.

Check traps daily and immediately dispose of any dead rodents. Some rodents, particularly rats, are very cautious and several days may pass before they approach the traps. Pre-baiting traps to get rats used to the new traps in their environment can help. Other rodents, such as house mice and deer mice, are less cautious and may be trapped more quickly. Reset traps until rodent activity has stopped.

Check bait every week and re-fill or move it as needed for at least 15 days. Leave the bait out longer if you still have mice and rats. If the infestation continues to persist, seek professional help