With the weather cooling down, we are starting to see rats and mice moving into sheds and homes looking for a warmer environment. When it starts raining, this will increase further. These pests carry disease, worms and fleas, plus make a huge mess & smell!. Whilst mice are reasonably easy to control (numbers game), rats are smart and particular care needs to be used when baiting them. Some points to keep in mind…
- Ensure that baits are extremely attractive, baits made with vegetable fats etc are very good. Often a good idea to alternate brand of block.
- Handle the block or bait with gloves to block human scent. Nicotine, soaps etc can contaminate a bait.
- Rats have a pecking order. Often the “alpha male” will let other rats eat first before they will graze. Most single feed blocks take 3 – 5 days to bring on a death, so generally there is opportunity for rats to revisit a block or feeding station.
- Once you see feed stations emptying, or blocks are disappearing, keep replenishing. Once you see that blocks are remaining, it is a good indication that you are winning the battle!
- Rats and mice are “shy”, so placement of bait in important. They move along walls and beams etc, rarely across an open space, so place baits in sheltered areas along these movement areas.
- Always be aware of placement and that secondary poisoning of pets cannot occur.
If you are looking for a non toxic, humane alternative speak to your local store regarding the Goodnature Smart Traps.
