Rats are pesky creatures that thrive in sewers and are known carriers of infectious diseases. No one would want to see them lurking around their homes or even in farming fields. Rat infestation has been the major cause of significant crop losses each year. Rodents, in particular, eat and destroy crops that can already feed 200 million people. In Southeast Asia alone, a 15% total crop loss has been recorded, which can reach as high as 100% especially during a bad year. Aside from that, these pests pose severe health risks. They have been associated with some of the most serious health problems like Leptospirosis and the Bubonic plague.
Controlling Rat Population
To effectively administer rat control, farmers and homeowners seek the aid of efficient rat traps. However, you have to keep in mind that killing them won’t be enough. The most effective thing to do is to control their population growth in a particular area. An area-wide rat control starts by making that particular area less conducive for their survival. First you need to greatly minimize the amount of their food and water source by implementing proper sanitation as well as waste management procedures. You also have to reduce harborage by regularly cleaning the debris on rat-infested areas. Consider utilizing non-chemical control methods such as metal exclusions to inhibit rats from entering your home, and make sure to block all possible ports of entry.
Trapping Rats
Using non-chemical rat trapping methods is ideal since no toxic pesticides are used, which can cause harm to children as well as house pets if not administered properly. In addition, this type of traps can significantly help to reduce the rats’ population if integrated properly. Animal advocates highly recommend the use of pet friendly traps for a more humane way of trapping them. Some of the types that you should look into include the following:
• Live rat traps – These types of traps offer a more humane trapping method. Also known as humane rat traps, they are primarily used to trap rats without causing injury. They can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.
• Electronic rat traps – They are newer, cleaner and effective means of trapping rats. They introduce electrical shock once the rat enters the trap. Just like with ordinary traps, they also make use of food baits to lure the rats to go inside the trap.
• Snap traps – They are cheap, easy and effective rat trap solutions that must be pre-baited and placed on the rat’s travel path. Snap traps are the most popular type of rat trap available. Whether you are using metal rat traps or other types, make sure to carefully read the instructions on how to set them properly for optimum results.
