Peaceful pest control

Norfolk, Va.: To add to the points made in “How to use peppermint oil to keep mice away” (July 26), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Health Canada both warn against glue traps because of the threat of hantaviruses posed when terrified animals lose control of their bodily functions. They indiscriminately ensnare companion animals, birds, squirrels, chipmunks, butterflies, bees, etc. and rip patches of skin, fur and feathers off the victims’ bodies as they struggle to escape. Many animals chew off their own legs. When their faces become stuck, they slowly suffocate. Poisons are toxic, dangerous and cruel. Lethal methods are rarely effective as more animals will simply move in to replace those who were killed. Humane deterrents and live traps are safe and reliable ways of encouraging uninvited guests to move along. The best way to keep them from coming back is to make the area inaccessible by sealing holes and cracks.

Michelle Kretzer