Small piles of torn paper, dried-up weeds/plants, and/or old fabric—mice use these piles to build their homes, or “nests” Gnawed openings along the base of the wall Keep in mind that mouse droppings are only around 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 in (0. 32 to 0. 64 cm) long. [2] X Research source

Cracks and small holes: Fill in these gaps with quick-drying cement. [6] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source You can also seal these openings using steel wool that’s held in place with caulk. [7] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Holes without wiring: Stuff these holes with a piece of copper mesh pan scrubber. [8] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Big holes and openings: Fill in these openings completely with cement, or seal them off with sections of lath screen, lath metal, metal sheeting, or hardware cloth. [9] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Doors and windows: Remove and replace any damaged weatherstripping.

You can buy a metal door sweep for around $10.

Outdoor grill Leftover dishes in the sink Compost piles

Mice won’t want to hang around a place with no free food.

Try to get in the habit of immediately transferring your pet’s dry food to a sturdy container. This way, mice can’t gnaw their way through the bag for a free snack.

If your shrubs and bushes are really close together, consider replanting them a little further apart. This way, mice won’t have a huge shelter at their disposal.

Don’t use glue traps to catch mice. These are very inhumane, and can also trap other unsuspecting animals. Steer clear of any rodenticides. These are lethal to all kinds of animals, including family pets.

These traps may not be foolproof—some persistent rodents might get used to the frequencies and choose to stick around your home.

Hungry Owl Project and Barn Owl Box Company sell premade nesting boxes that you can set up in your yard.