What is a great nonfood bait for attracting mice?

In pest management, particularly for attracting mice, nonfood baits can be quite effective. Cotton balls are a great choice in this regard because they provide nesting materials that mice instinctively seek out when constructing their homes. Mice are attracted to soft, fibrous materials, as they can use these to create a comfortable and safe environment for themselves and their young.

While peanut butter, cheese, and seeds are often thought of as traditional food-based baits that might attract mice, they do not provide the same nesting appeal as cotton. These food items can lure mice effectively, but their primary use is as a food source rather than a material for building nests. Therefore, choosing cotton balls acknowledges the broader behavioral needs of mice, making it a strategic option for pest control when trying to effectively manage their populations.