Are you homeless? Here are some ideas to get rid of rodents in your sleeping area.

homelesslongisland
Jan 14, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Jan 16, 2024

Trying to sleep when you have mice russelling around is such a hazel, however it is not necessary with proper care to your site. Whether your in a tent or abandoned house, shanty shack, woods or the streets . You can yell and bang stuff around. They will stop for a while but then they start right up again. We understand that dealing with rodents in a homeless situation can be incredibly challenging and stressful. Here are some options you can consider:

Preventative measures:

Minimize food sources: Keep any food supplies stored in sealed containers that rodents can't chew through. Dispose of any trash properly and regularly, avoiding leaving leftover food or wrappers lying around.
Eliminate clotted in your shelter: Rodents love clutter and dark spaces. Try to keep your belongings organized and avoid creating piles that might attract them. Look for signs of entry points into your sleeping area and seal them up with duct tape or cardboard.
Cats. One of our blog readers says in his experience the only thing that helps is having cats living with you.
Mosquito problem solved also. By keeping your site clean. You also will reduce the mosquitos in the warm climate. Any thing laying around that holds water is a perfect place for mosquitos to lay there eggs. Even soda bottle caps laying around hold water.
Natural deterrents: Some strong scents can repel rodents. Try placing cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil, cloves, or cayenne pepper around your belongings.

Trapping and removal:

Live traps: Humane live traps can be purchased or borrowed from pest control centers. Bait them with something rodents find appealing, like peanut butter or cereal. Once trapped, release them far away from your camp.
Snap traps: While less humane, snap traps can be effective in controlling rodent populations. Use caution when setting and checking them to avoid injury.
Soda can, coat hanger, five gallon bucket trap: This trap is awesome to get rid of the mice around your site. Some rats will also fall in. Our experience some rats are just to smart for it. Click on YouTube link to learn how to make this trap with material laying around You can fill it with water or leave it empty and take the mice far away.

https://youtu.be/cbSDy4Ttv98?si=JuzP47Lwwl0qhp_c

Seeking help:

Local shelters or outreach programs: Some shelters and outreach programs may offer pest control assistance or even temporary housing options to escape a heavy infestation.
Animal control: In some cases, animal control might be able to help with rodent problems in public areas.
Community resources: Local charities or churches might be able to offer support with cleaning supplies or traps.

Additional tips:

Stay vigilant: Regularly check for signs of rodent activity, like droppings, gnaw marks, or noise. Early detection can help prevent a larger infestation.
Work together: Share information and collaborate with other people in your camp to implement preventative measures and make your efforts more effective.
Focus on hygiene: Rodents are attracted to areas with poor sanitation. Wash your hands regularly and maintain cleanliness in your living space as much as possible.

Remember, dealing with rodents in a homeless situation is not your fault. There are resources available to help, and you don't have to go through this alone. Please reach out for help if you need it.

Here are some resources that might be helpful: