Scratching in the attic...

Gedv1 · #1 (**permalink**) 24-11-2008, 09:42 PM

Hi All,

Excuse me as I am very new in here, indeed just 5 minutes old, and this thread is sure to have been covered umpteen times. I listen to scratching in the attic and in the cavity walls most evenings and into the night, as I have field mice galore! I have caught 17 in the last 6 days alone in the eaves cupboard alongside my bedroom. It is all quiet during the day as I read they are nocturnal. One or two I can accept, but should I be getting concerned about these numbers? I use a humane trap of course, baited with custard-cream biscuits, and deliver them well away from the house so I am sure they are not returning, but they have eaten my suitcase edges, jiffy bags and some leather boots straps. What should I do please ( buying a cat is not an option ). Any suggestions?

Gill Catton · #2 (**permalink**) 24-11-2008, 09:45 PM

I would say keep going and are you taking them miles away? any closer and they may find their own way back!

Phoebe · #3 (**permalink**) 24-11-2008, 09:53 PM

Hi Gedv1, welcome to WAB

I think you need to find out how they are getting into your cupboards and once you have removed them block their access. They do need to be taken a good way to ensure non-return. Do you keep any pets yourself? If not, there is a repellent that gives out a sound signal inaudible to the human ear. That would keep them away.

Rebus · #4 (**permalink**) 25-11-2008, 06:54 PM

Hi and welcome to WAB!

I would say that if you think you have 'a few' mice, you can bet your life there are actually hundreds (slight exaggeration) as they are prolific breeders! Take Gill Cattan and Phoebe's advice. Good luck!

Tracey.A · #5 (**permalink**) 25-11-2008, 07:52 PM

Hi Gedv1,

I'm sure it's quite scarey listening to the noises at night and worrying about any damage that they may do, but honestly just keep going with the humane traps and as Gill and Phoebe said take them as far away as possible. Try and find out how they are getting in and block any holes that they may be using. I had some wood mice in the court yard, brought on by me feeding a Peacock, I stopped leaving food out for him and the mice have gone. Don't worry about the Peacock he stops off at many places for his tit bits

Good luck with it.

Oh and welcome to WAB by the way

Tracey

Gedv1 · #6 (**permalink**) 25-11-2008, 09:24 PM

Thank you good people.Today has been quite different. No scratching and empty trap. I am sure it's just a respite. Let's hope it's longer! Cheers all.
-"@~

shirl · #7 (**permalink**) 01-12-2008, 03:27 PM

I would like to think you have been successful and well done for persevering with them. It is so difficult trying to find where mice are getting in, they can squeeze through the smallest of spaces. I am just ignoring mine at the moment, they disappeared out of the loft in Spring but since it turned really cold - they are back. Tried these electric plug in things, doesn't work. So like you I will be going back to my small mammal trap, at least the rats aren't in the loft - yet (large mammal trap ready).

Good luck

Shirl