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The deer mice are not attracted to the bait in my traps. What do they eat?

Last Updated: January 02, 2007

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The first thing is to be sure you are using enough traps (more is better) and that you have them located in appropriate areas. Mice prefer to move along edges and structures as it helps them avoid predators. Prevent nontargets from entering or disturbing traps by placing them inside boxes with holes cut in them about 1.5 inches wide. Multiple catch traps can work too.

White-footed and deer mice are primarily seed eaters. Make sure you remove available food that will compete with your traps such as would come from bird feeders. Frequently they will feed on seeds, nuts, acorns, and other similar items that are available. They also consume fruits, insects and insect larvae, fungi, and possibly some green vegetation. They often store quantities of food near their nest sites, particularly in the fall when seeds, nuts, or acorns are abundant.

Finally, are you using peanut butter? It is the rare deer mouse that avoids this temptation!

Resources: (online)
Deer Mouse Control

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