Each of the mice returning to the house did so within 24 hours of release, two as few as 6 hours after release from 500 m and 750 m away. ... Returning deer mice maintained or gained weight between captures and grew in length at approximately the same rate as deer mice captured in the test grid.

How far away should you release a trapped mouse?

Captured mice and rats can be kept calm by placing a towel over the trap. Release them within 100 yards of where they were trapped. (Rodents can also be humanely euthanized by a veterinarian or at a local animal shelter.)

Is it OK to release mice into the wild?

Release mice outdoors during mild weather. Mice can die in unfamiliar areas because they won't be able to find proper food or water and aren't resistant to foreign parasites and diseases, so be sure to release them within 100 yards of where they were trapped.