How to get rid of mice in your loft

Mouse and vermin infestations are a common nuisance for many in the UK, particularly in the cosiness of one's attic/loft, whether it's a home or a business setting.

Dealing with mice can be exasperating due to the significant damage and health risks they pose. They not only spoil food but also damage the structural integrity of buildings and spread diseases through their droppings and urine.

The UK is home to various mouse species, including dormice, harvest mice, wood mice, yellow-necked mice, and the commonly found house mice. Notably, with an estimated population of 4.5 million, house mice prefer living in human dwellings, particularly attics.

Entry Points for Mice: Mice can exploit the smallest openings, managing to fit through holes as tiny as 10mm - roughly the diameter of a ballpoint pen. This means any gap this size around your property could invite a mouse in.

Mice can find their way into attics via:

• Pipes and gutters: Mice are adept climbers and can scale drainpipes to access gutters and then the attic through eaves or vents.
• Wiring and cables: Openings around electrical wiring offer another entry point. Mice can climb along cables to sneak into buildings.
• External structures: Trees and external constructions can serve as bridges to your property if branches touch the walls or if there are gaps mice can use.
• Walls: Mice can scale vertical walls if the surface allows, potentially entering through tiny gaps in the attic or through lower entry points to then climb internally.

Why Mice Choose Attics: Attics are appealing to mice because of the insulation for nesting, the darkness, and the typically undisturbed environment. They also provide mice with easy access to the rest of the house and a variety of materials for gnawing.

Signs of an Attic Infestation:

• Rodent droppings
• Squeaking or scratching noises, especially at night
• A musty odor
• Tiny footprints or tail marks in dusty areas
• Greasy smears along walls

Eliminating Mice from the Attic:

1. Trim vegetation around your property to eliminate climbing aids.
2. Use traps and poisons, being mindful to place them safely away from children and pets.
3. Seal entry points to prevent mice from re-entering.
4. Remove food sources by storing food in airtight containers and maintaining cleanliness.
5. Consult a pest control professional, especially for widespread infestations, for their expertise in safe and effective removal methods.

Mice won't leave voluntarily; proactive measures are necessary to rid your home of these pests and the risks they bring, including potential diseases like Salmonella and Listeria, and the risk of structural damage to your home.

Preventative Measures:

• Trim branches and plants away from your home.
• Seal any cracks and entry points.
• Use wire wool to block gaps around pipes and cables.
• Install fine mesh over vents and seal doors properly.
• Keep bins sealed and food in secure containers.
• Avoid clutter to reduce hiding spots.
• Keep pet feeding areas clean and free from leftovers.
• Consider professional pest control services for thorough prevention and treatment.