Trapping is not a long-term solution as another animal will just move in.  Sticky traps are very cruel and will catch other animals, and poisons are hard to control (who eats the dead animal?). Raptors will eat poisoned mice, or your own pet could be a victim.

Rats can squeeze through holes about the size of a quarter, while mice can enter through holes the size of a dime.  For rats, seal these holes with 1/4-inch hardware cloth or heavy-gauge screening.  For rats or mice, plug openings in walls and floors with wire mesh or aluminum window screen by stuffing it into openings to deter entry.  Wire mesh and quick drying cement can be used to plug cracks around drainpipes and other small openings.  For small to medium sized holes, use expanding foam insulation.

To minimize attracting rats and mice, keep grass mowed and debris clear around buildings; store food in rat- and mouse-proof containers; properly dispose of garbage; when feeding pets outdoors, remove uneaten pet food after 20 minutes; and remove wood and debris piles.

To prevent burrowing along building foundations, create an L-shaped footer of hardware cloth or concrete.