The Different Types of Mice Traps

Determining how to get rid of house mice can be challenging. Many methods are available, including the use of traps. There are several types of mice traps. This article briefly introduces each type.

Glue Traps

Sticky glue mouse traps are probably the type of mouse trap that most people are familiar with. The trap is essentially a piece of material with a layer of glue on top. Bait is sometimes placed in the middle, or the manufacturer of the trap may add a scent. When the mouse steps onto the trap it becomes stuck.

These traps are terribly inhumane and cause horrible suffering. With many other ways to control mice, these traps should never be used.

Snap Traps

Mouse snap traps are familiar to many people as well. These traps are baited and a trigger is set. When the mouse steps onto the trigger to try to reach the bait, the trap is sprung. The trap comes down forcefully on the mouse, theoretically killing it instantly.

These traps could be considered "humane" if the mouse dies instantly and without panic. However, they do need to be properly set to function as intended. Caution should also be used to keep children and pets safe from these traps.

Live Traps

Live traps are generally considered humane. Bait is placed inside a cage and a trigger is set. Once the mouse steps onto the trigger to reach the bait, the cage door will shut, trapping the mouse inside, alive. The idea is to then release the mouse outdoors. Once again, the trap needs to be set properly for it to work as intended.

Live traps may seem the most humane at first glance. Be aware, though, that they can become an inhumane method of pest control if not used properly. Here are several potential problems with live rodent traps. Setting the traps properly and having a plan for the release of the rodent will help to ensure that the use of the live trap is truly the humane option you intended it to be.

Rodent Zappers

The rodent zapper is also a trap that kills. When a mouse enters the trap, it is administered a "shock" which renders it unconscious. At that point it dies quickly from muscle constriction which causes its heart to stop functioning. These traps are also considered "humane" because the rodent dies quickly and without panic.

Can Lethal Traps Ever Be Considered Humane?

Many people searching for humane pest control methods do not consider any type of trap that kills the rodent as "humane". While it's ideal to never have to kill anything, killing a rodent in such a way that death is instant is about as humane as you can get. Other rodent management methods can be tried first to avoid killing anything - but there are many challenges to humane rodent pest control.

Please be kind when making a choice from amongst the different types of mice traps. If you need help, a professional pest control service can do an inspection of your home, determine a plan for handling the infestation, and seal up your home to exclude mice (and other rodents) from re-entering. There are also several do-it-yourself preventive pest control measures you can take for both your home and your yard. Preventing rodent problems is the most humane form of pest control there is!