Proper management of deer mice

Jasper National Park

Deer mice are a valuable part of our Jasper ecosystem. However, Parks Canada recognizes that deer mice can carry Hantavirus, and should not be inside your house. That is why there are times when it is necessary to euthanize deer mice.

Deer mice must be put to death humanely, and without endangering other wildlife.

Because poison traps are illegal in the national park, please use the following methods to rid your house of deer mice.

Methods of euthanasia

Only kill deer mice inside your house.
Never use traps outdoors.

Acceptable
  • Snap traps
  • Electronic kill traps

Follow directions closely on these traps for the most effective use of these devices.

Do not use
Poison of any kind.
This includes poison for rodents, pigeons, or anything else. If another wild animal or your pet ate a poisoned mouse, it would also be poisoned.
Sticky paper or board traps.
These traps are cruel and inhumane and result in slow death by starvation or dehydration.
Rat traps
Rat traps that are too large and can kill larger animals including pets.
Prevention
  • Seal all holes. Preventing entry to your house is the best prevention. This includes holes in walls, gaps below doors, dryer vents, and any opening as big as a dime.
  • Clean up! Never leave food out overnight. This includes pet food. Store food in mouse-proof containers.
  • Make your yard unfriendly to mice. Keep grass short, remove hiding places such as stacks of firewood, and take down bird feeders.
  • Be consistent! These methods must be maintained to be effective.

October 2024: Some Jasper residents have noticed an increase in deer mice activity in their homes since the Jasper Wildfire. Taking prevention precautions can help reduce their activity in your home.

Proper disposal of poison

Rodent poison that is currently in your possession can be brought to the Jasper Transfer station for proper disposal. Never put poison in household garbage. Use extreme caution when handling poison, whether in its original packaging or not.


Questions?

For more information, call Parks Canada at 780-852-6179.

If pest control operators, business owners or residents have questions or concerns about pest control, they can contact the Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health office in Jasper at 780-852-4759.

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