Page 27 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 food securely, and eliminating clutter will help dramatically reduce rodent traffic. Below are a few tips and tricks for buttoning up your home in a humane way. Rodents • Can squeeze through openings as small as a dime • Blocking these routes forces them to move on naturally • Seal cracks and holes with caulk or steel wool. • Install door sweeps and cover vents or chimneys with metal mesh. • Block nest entrances if you’ve identified them • This approach alone can resolve many infestations Start outside first • Encourage predators to stay away first by scaring them away before penetration into the home occurs • Use eco friendly approaches such as installing barn owl nesting boxes to reduce outdoor rodent populations naturally • This approach avoids the use of chemicals and supports local ecosystems Non toxic deterrents • Can make your home less appealing. • Peppermint oil on cotton balls • Garlic or cayenne pepper • Ammonia (used cautiously and never near pets or kids) • These scents disrupt rodent behavior and encourage them to leave voluntarily Use Live, No Kill Traps • Live traps are the most widely recommended humane method • Place traps along walls and near entry points—rodents rarely cross open spaces • Bait with peanut butter, seeds, or oats
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