The Biscuit Test: Mouse Detector
We often get calls from anxious homeowners who feel they may have a rodent lurking somewhere but just aren’t sure. They haven’t seen any rodents, they haven’t seen any droppings, but they might hear the occasional noise, squeak, or notice some food missing. While we’re always happy to provide an inspection, some just want some advice on how they can tell before getting pest control involved. In these instances there’s always the biscuit test:
A simple but effective test to help decipher if there’s a mouse in your house.
Place a biscuit in the area of concern. Ideally whole (to better spot nibbles) and fatty to attract them (Oreos work well).
Sprinkle some unscented talc in a large circle around the biscuit, that way you’ll be able to spot rodent footprints.
Make sure no other food sources are available. Check your pantry for open food sources and seal away in containers. No point in offering them a biscuit if you’re already giving them a buffet.
Leave the biscuit undisturbed and periodically check: mice tend to be far quicker to come to food sources, rats may need to pass the items several times before investigating so it can be worth doing it over a few days.
If the biscuit goes missing then call us ASAP!
This is a handy test that often works quite well but remember to look out for the other signs too; musky smells, signs of gnawing, disturbances in pet behaviour, missing food, droppings and strange noises. If you need an inspection, treatment or just some helpful advice then don’t hesitate to call, we’re always happy to help. Or check out our mouse control guide for more info.
