The efficacy of glue traps against wild populations of house mice, Mus domesticus Rutty

Abstract

Field research was conducted from Purdue University during 1991 to 1993 to examine some aspects of the efficaciousness of the various types of glue traps against wild populations of house mice. The research was conducted in agricultural and livestock buildings containing various infestation levels of mice. Tests compared the capture and escape rates of glue boards vs. trays, covered vs. uncovered glue traps, and glue traps vs. snap traps, and multiple catch curiosity traps. Observational work, via night vigils, was also conducted to note the behavioral response of mice to glue surfaces, including the behavioral aspects of mice neutralizing glue surfaces in well-used runways. These field tests indicate many mice, upon initial interactions with glue traps and surfaces, are repelled by them and either learn to avoid them or neutralized them in some manner. Results of comparison trials between glue traps and non-glue mouse traps also indicate strong differences in interaction and capture rates favoring non-glue traps. It is hypothesized that when glue traps are successful, it is likely due to mice traveling kinesthetically along frequently used runways in which traps are placed, or to factors associated with age class of mice. These studies have strong implications for rodent pest management programs in facilities which are restricted to non-chemical approaches (e.g., food handling establishments and sensitive accounts).