Deter rodents humanely

[casportpony]

I just finished reading this thread and have cleaned it up.

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[JacinLarkwell]

What are snap traps?

The ones where the bar is triggered and comes down to snap the neck. The stereotypical mouse trap like in Tom and Jerry

 

[CabritaChicks]

I believe constructive feedback is valuable, and I appreciate the discussion here. However, I’d like to point out a critical concern regarding vitamin D synthesis (which refers to the process by which the body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight). This vitamin plays a vital role in calcium absorption, which is essential for bone health and overall physiological function. In chickens, a deficiency can lead to severe health issues, including weakened bones, deformities, and even death due to metabolic disorders.

While all the previous points in this discussion are important, the most urgent question is: Where are you keeping the chickens? Natural sunlight is essential for their well-being, and even a window may not provide enough UVB (not UVA) exposure, as glass significantly filters it out. Keeping them in a low-light environment long-term could have serious consequences.

If space or outdoor access is a challenge, perhaps consider connecting with a local farmer? Many would be happy to supply you with fresh eggs in exchange for some help with farm work. That way, you can still enjoy high-quality eggs while ensuring the chickens are raised in a healthier environment.

Oh, and mice and rats and peppermint? not in my experience. Only stops them for a moment- they LOVE that chicken feed. it is pure gold for them. A buffet of sorts, especially in high heat.

 

[Seaslug]

Important note: rodents are disease vectors, and are not in any danger of becoming a threatened species.

Just want to mention that this isn't 100% true. At least in the US (and likely other countries), there are some threatened rodent species, and some of them are very difficult to distinguish from non-native species.

In my experience with our rural/wooded white footed mice that come into our home each winter, they are relatively easy to catch in Havahart (live) traps.

 

[Alicethewhiterabbit]

Humane is keeping diseases out of your house.

Nope it’s feeding the wildlife. Hawks would wait for me at the relocation spot. I did not release near any houses(woods)

 

[Acre4Me]

Ok, so if u were me, what exactly would u do? First floor right above the basement, relatively small apartment room, 4 chickens and last but not least, no glue traps. How would u set up their space? Thanks.

@Al Gerhart mentioned already some good things to know. Mice are there for reason: food, water, shelter. In an apartment you have less control bc you only occupy a portion. But, you can limit access to food (animal and human) and water in your space. Chickens can manage with a feed schedule: weigh out their estimated feed for the day- once it’s gone they are good for the day, or put out food 2x a day, morning and late afternoon/evening.

What I would do is keep eye out for rodent activity (droppings, urine trails seen with black light, etc), and address issues as they show up.

 

[lintlicker]

Mmmm…….indoor chickens means in-your-house?

If so, you do not want to go light handed here. You don’t want mice in your home, walls, pantry etc. and if you are asking, maybe you already have a problem.

Everything food related goes into containers -metal is recommended. Water is placed where chickens can access, but rodents cannot…so, not on the ground as first rule.

Poisons: best overall solution to a rodent problem. Research them, as all do not work the same and all are not detrimental to pets. There are a few general categories as to how they work and it is best to learn for yourself so you can make an educated decision for your specific situation.

Deterrents: mint I think is one deterrent. Not sure about cinnamon.

Important note: rodents are disease vectors, and are not in any danger of becoming a threatened species. They are considered pests, so deal with them so your problem is resolved or you do not encourage a rodent problem to develop.

We live rural, we use outdoor bait stations and monitor them. We change out the poison 2-3 x a year or more often with activity. In certain locations, glue traps work best. We will always have rodents around us, but we don’t want them in the house or barn, to the best of our ability.

Good luck.

irish spring soap is a good deterrent and steel wool for any holes

 

[lintlicker]

Ok, so if u were me, what exactly would u do? First floor right above the basement, relatively small apartment room, 4 chickens and last but not least, no glue traps. How would u set up their space? Thanks.

Ive had the approach of "humane" before, but mice will take no prisoners. Probably going to have to resort to some sort of killing method for this, especially if you have chickens and food involved.

Seal up entry points with steel wool is a first, second I would use deterrents such as the cinnamon, Irish spring etc. Last I would pick up some electric mousetraps and bait it with peanut butter. Thats the most humane way as its over in a flash if you had to go that route. Your family health and chicken health are a priority over the mice unfortunately.

 

[AnnPann]

Get a cat. Even if it doesn’t catch mice, the smell of the cat being around will make them think twice about moving in.

 

[Stellasmomma]

Are you waiting for one to crawl across your bed while you are sleeping?

Depends how cuddly he is and how lonely I might be feeling that night.

I have been in pest control for over 25 years mice and rats carry a bevy of diseases transferable to humans via urine and feces as well as bites (not as common but can happen) Hanta virus is one being found more frequently. While I appreciate the desire to be humane its not worth risking your own health. I cant tell you how many rodent jobs we have done that are out of control because people tried to get rid of them via herbs and spices its important to remember they will eat anything including the spices!