How to Catch a Ground Rat: Traps and Tips

Understanding Ground Rats

Identifying Ground Rats

Physical Characteristics

Ground rats are medium‑sized rodents, typically measuring 20–30 cm in body length with tails adding another 10–20 cm. Adult weight ranges from 150 g to 350 g, varying with age, sex, and seasonal fat reserves.

Fur: dense, coarse hair; dorsal coloration ranges from dark brown to gray, often with a lighter ventral side. Seasonal molting may lighten the coat.
Tail: relatively long, hairless or sparsely furred, tapering to a point; used for balance during rapid ground movement.
Ears: large, rounded, and hairless, providing acute hearing for detecting predators and conspecific signals.
Eyes: small, positioned laterally, granting a wide field of view but limited depth perception; nocturnal activity relies heavily on low‑light vision.
Limbs: strong fore‑ and hind‑limbs with sharp claws; hind limbs longer, enabling swift bursts of speed and digging capability.
Whiskers: long vibrissae extending from the snout, supplying tactile feedback for navigating tight burrows and detecting obstacles.

These characteristics influence trap selection: the animal’s size dictates cage dimensions, fur texture affects bait adhesion, and keen hearing makes auditory‑based lures less effective than scent or food attractants. Understanding the physical profile ensures that traps are appropriately sized, positioned, and baited for optimal capture rates.

Common Habitats

Ground rats prefer environments that provide shelter, easy access to food, and proximity to water sources. Typical locations include low‑lying fields with dense vegetation, where cover protects them from predators and extreme weather. Areas near irrigation canals, drainage ditches, or flood‑prone zones retain moisture that supports the rodents’ activity. Abandoned structures, such as sheds, barns, and storage units, offer nesting cavities and direct routes to stored grains or feed.

Key habitats to target when placing traps:

Open grasslands with thick ground cover
Perimeter zones of vegetable gardens and orchards
Edges of compost piles or waste disposal sites
Undercrofts and crawl spaces beneath buildings
Submerged or partially flooded sections of farmland

Understanding these settings enables precise trap deployment, reduces non‑target captures, and improves overall control efficiency.

Signs of Infestation

Detecting a ground rat population early prevents extensive damage and improves trap effectiveness.

Typical indicators appear in and around structures where these rodents travel and nest.

Fresh droppings, dark and pellet‑shaped, found near walls, under appliances, or in stored feed containers.
Gnaw marks on wood, plastic, or wiring, often concentrated at entry points or along baseboards.
Nests constructed from shredded insulation, paper, or fabric, usually hidden in wall cavities, crawl spaces, or beneath floorboards.
Grease or urine trails leaving a faint odor, visible on surfaces frequented by the animals.
Unexplained food shortages or spillage, especially in grain bins, pet food containers, or pantry shelves.

Each sign signals active movement and potential breeding sites. Identifying these clues directs placement of mechanical traps and bait stations to high‑traffic zones, maximizing capture rates while minimizing unnecessary disturbance.

Risks Associated with Ground Rats

Health Hazards

Ground rats carry pathogens that can infect humans through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or airborne particles. Handling live rodents or disposing of carcasses without proper protection introduces measurable health risks.

Bacterial infections such as leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
Parasitic infestations including fleas, mites, and intestinal worms.
Allergic reactions to rodent urine, feces, or dander, which may trigger asthma or dermatitis.
Zoonotic viruses transmitted via bites or scratches, notably rat‑borne hemorrhagic fever.
Secondary injuries from snap traps, glue boards, or cage traps, including puncture wounds and lacerations.

Mitigating these hazards requires stringent safety protocols. Use disposable gloves, protective eyewear, and sealed masks when setting traps or cleaning areas. Disinfect surfaces with EPA‑approved rodent‑control solutions after each capture. Store traps away from food preparation zones and dispose of dead rodents in sealed, puncture‑proof containers. Regularly inspect and replace trap mechanisms to prevent accidental activation. Implement these measures to reduce disease transmission and injury while conducting rodent‑control operations.

Property Damage

Ground rats frequently gnaw electrical wiring, insulation, and structural components, leading to costly repairs and increased fire risk. Their incisors can breach plastic piping, causing leaks that damage walls, flooring, and personal belongings. Moisture from broken pipes promotes mold growth, further degrading indoor air quality and property value.

When selecting traps, prioritize models that minimize collateral damage. Snap traps with protective shields reduce the chance of accidental injury to nearby objects. Live-catch cages should be placed on stable platforms to prevent tipping and striking furniture. Glue boards, while effective, can adhere to surfaces and require careful removal to avoid residue stains.

Key measures to protect property while implementing rat control:

Inspect and seal entry points; use steel mesh or cement to block tunnels.
Route traps away from high‑traffic areas and delicate equipment.
Regularly check and clean traps to prevent blood or waste from contaminating surfaces.
Replace damaged wiring or piping promptly; install rodent‑resistant conduit where feasible.
Document all repairs and trap placements to track effectiveness and expenses.

Preparation for Ground Rat Trapping

Legal and Safety Considerations

Local Regulations

Local authorities commonly require a permit before deploying any trapping device for ground rats. The permit application usually demands proof of residence, a description of the intended trap, and a justification for its use. Failure to obtain the permit can result in fines or confiscation of equipment.

Most jurisdictions restrict the types of traps that may be employed. Snap traps, live‑capture cages, and electronic devices are generally permitted, while glue boards and lethal bait stations are often prohibited due to animal‑welfare concerns. Before purchase, verify that the model complies with the region’s approved‑trap list.

Disposal of captured rodents is regulated to prevent disease spread. Typical procedures involve sealing the animal in a plastic bag, labeling it as biohazardous waste, and delivering it to an authorized disposal facility. Some areas require a documented record of each capture, including date, location, and method used.

Use of rodenticides is heavily controlled. Many regions ban over‑the‑counter poison products and reserve chemical control for licensed pest‑management professionals. When a professional is engaged, the operator must submit a treatment plan and retain a copy of the pesticide label.

Compliance checks are conducted by municipal health or wildlife agencies. Inspectors may request to view traps, review capture logs, and assess disposal practices. Non‑compliance can trigger an audit, mandatory corrective actions, and potential suspension of trapping privileges.

Safe Handling of Pests

When dealing with ground rats, safe handling minimizes injury, disease transmission, and property damage. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as thick gloves, eye protection, and a disposable mask to prevent contact with saliva, urine, or fur. Secure the work area by clearing debris, sealing entry points, and posting warning signs to alert others of ongoing trap placement.

Wear gloves made of puncture‑resistant material; replace them if torn.
Apply a respirator or mask rated for particulate matter when cleaning cages or disposing of carcasses.
Use long‑handled tools to position traps, reducing the need to bend or reach into confined spaces.
Keep a first‑aid kit nearby; treat bites or scratches immediately with antiseptic and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
Store traps out of reach of children and non‑target animals; label containers clearly.

After a trap is triggered, handle the captured rat with a rigid, disposable container. Transfer the animal without direct contact, then seal the container and place it in a designated waste bin. Disinfect all tools, surfaces, and PPE with a solution containing at least 0.1 % bleach or an EPA‑approved sanitizer. Dispose of waste according to local health regulations, typically by incineration or placement in a sealed trash bag for municipal collection.

Maintain a log of trap locations, dates of capture, and disposal actions. Regular record‑keeping supports compliance with pest‑control guidelines and facilitates evaluation of trap effectiveness. By adhering to these protocols, operators protect themselves, occupants, and the environment while efficiently managing ground‑rat populations.

Essential Tools and Materials

Protective Gear

When setting traps for ground-dwelling rodents, protective equipment reduces the risk of injury and disease transmission. Wear thick, puncture‑resistant gloves to shield hands from bites and sharp trap components. Choose gloves made of nitrile or leather, ensuring a snug fit that preserves dexterity while preventing rodent teeth from penetrating.

A particulate respirator or disposable mask guards against aerosolized pathogens released when an animal is captured or when handling contaminated bait. Opt for an N95‑rated filter to block dust and droplet particles without restricting breathing.

Eye protection prevents accidental contact with debris, trap springs, or sudden movements of the animal. Use polycarbonate safety glasses or a full‑face shield for maximum coverage.

Coveralls or a durable work shirt and trousers made of tightly woven fabric protect skin from scratches and exposure to urine or droppings. Select garments with sealed seams and consider a disposable layer for easy removal after the operation.

Sturdy, waterproof boots with steel toe caps provide foot protection against trap triggers and wet ground conditions. Pair with high‑traction soles to maintain stability on uneven terrain.

Key items for a safe rodent‑control session:

Puncture‑resistant gloves (nitrile or leather)
N95 respirator or disposable mask
Polycarbonate safety glasses or full‑face shield
Durable coveralls or work clothing with sealed seams
Waterproof, steel‑toe boots with anti‑slip soles

Proper use of each piece of equipment minimizes exposure to bites, zoonotic agents, and mechanical hazards, ensuring an effective and safe trapping operation.

Bait Choices

Choosing the right attractant determines the success of any ground rat capture effort. Bait must appeal to the rodent’s omnivorous diet, remain stable in the trap environment, and emit a scent strong enough to compete with natural food sources.

Peanut butter – high fat content, strong aroma, adheres to trap surfaces; ideal for short‑term use, but can dry out in hot weather.
Hard cheese – pungent odor, solid texture reduces spillage; best when refrigerated before placement to preserve potency.
Dried fruit (e.g., raisins or apricots) – sweet scent attracts rodents seeking carbohydrates; prone to moisture damage, so keep in a dry area.
Cooked meat or fish – rich protein source, powerful odor; requires airtight storage to prevent spoilage and attract non‑target wildlife.
Commercial rodent bait blocks – formulated with balanced nutrients and long‑lasting fragrance; convenient but may be more expensive than household items.

When applying bait, press a small amount onto the trigger mechanism to ensure the rat contacts it while attempting to access the food. Avoid overloading the trap, which can allow the animal to feed without activating the device. Rotate bait types weekly to prevent habituation; rodents often lose interest if presented with the same scent repeatedly. Keep bait fresh—discard any material that has become stale, moldy, or overly dry, as loss of aroma reduces effectiveness.

Selecting bait based on local rodent preferences, climate conditions, and trap design maximizes capture rates and minimizes wasted effort.

Trapping Methods and Techniques

Live Traps

Types of Live Traps

Ground rats require humane capture methods that allow release away from property. Live traps provide a controlled environment, preventing injury and enabling relocation. Several designs dominate the market, each suited to specific conditions.

Wire Mesh Cage Traps – rectangular frames constructed from galvanized wire, fitted with a hinged door triggered by a baited pressure plate. The transparent sides allow observation of activity. Ideal for indoor or sheltered outdoor use where visibility aids monitoring.
Plastic Box Traps – molded containers with a single entry tunnel and a spring‑loaded door. Lightweight, weather‑resistant, and easy to clean. Best for dense vegetation where a low‑profile device minimizes detection.
Multi‑Compartment Traps – series of connected chambers separated by sliding doors. When a rat enters the first compartment, subsequent sections close sequentially, reducing escape risk. Useful for high‑traffic burrow systems.
Elevated Platform Traps – raised platforms with a trigger mechanism that drops a door when weight is applied. The elevation deters non‑target species and protects the trap from flooding. Suitable for areas prone to moisture.
Snap‑Free Live Traps – traps employing a gentle lever that lifts the door without sudden motion, reducing stress on the captured animal. Often equipped with a removable release panel for quick discharge. Preferred when rapid turnover is required.

Select a trap based on habitat, target size, and the need for observation. Ensure bait placement aligns with the rat’s foraging habits, and check traps at least twice daily to prevent prolonged confinement. Proper deployment of these live‑capture devices supports effective, humane control of ground rat populations.

Placement Strategies

Effective trap positioning determines capture rates for ground rats. Identify active pathways, such as burrow entrances, runways, and feeding sites, then concentrate devices where rodents travel most frequently.

Place traps parallel to the ground, aligning the trigger mechanism with the animal’s natural stride.
Position devices near the edge of vegetation where cover meets open ground, creating a transition zone that rats must cross.
Install traps at a distance of 12–18 inches from known burrow openings to intercept outbound foragers without alerting the colony.
Use multiple traps spaced 24–36 inches apart along a single runway to increase encounter probability while preventing competition among traps.
Anchor traps securely to prevent displacement by wind or other wildlife; embed the base in soil or secure with stakes.

Monitor placement daily, adjusting locations based on fresh gnaw marks, droppings, or altered runways. Relocate traps that show no activity for 48 hours to adjacent high‑traffic zones. Consistent evaluation and strategic repositioning sustain high capture efficiency.

Release Considerations

When a ground rat is captured, deciding how and where to release it requires careful planning to avoid ecological disruption and legal issues. First, verify local wildlife regulations; many jurisdictions prohibit releasing captured rodents into the wild or mandate specific disposal methods. Failure to comply can result in fines or unintended spread of disease.

Consider the animal’s health. A stressed or injured rat may not survive if released, increasing suffering and attracting predators. If the rat appears weakened, humane euthanasia is a more responsible option than release.

If release is permissible, select a location far enough from residential areas, farms, and food storage facilities to reduce the risk of re‑infestation. Ideal sites are natural habitats with adequate cover, such as dense shrubbery or woodland edges, where the rat can find shelter and foraging opportunities without threatening human activity.

Environmental impact matters. Introducing a captured individual into a new ecosystem can alter predator‑prey dynamics or transmit pathogens to native species. Release only into habitats where the species is already established and where the local ecosystem can absorb an additional individual without imbalance.

Document the release. Record date, time, GPS coordinates, and condition of the animal. This information supports accountability and can assist wildlife authorities in monitoring population movements.

Key release considerations

Verify legal requirements.
Assess the rat’s physical condition.
Choose a remote, suitable habitat.
Avoid ecological disturbance.
Keep detailed release records.

Snap Traps

Types of Snap Traps

Snap traps for ground rats fall into three primary categories, each designed to deliver rapid, lethal force. The first category, classic wooden spring traps, features a hinged wooden base and a metal bar that snaps shut when the baited trigger is released. Wooden models provide a low‑cost option and are easily serviced with simple tools. The second category, metal plate snap traps, uses a hardened steel plate as the spring mechanism. These traps generate greater closing speed and pressure, making them suitable for larger or more aggressive rodents. The third category, plastic-bodied snap traps, combines a polymer housing with a steel spring bar. Plastic designs reduce weight, resist corrosion, and allow transparent observation of bait placement.

Key characteristics of each type include:

Wooden spring traps: inexpensive, lightweight, easy to assemble; best for indoor or short‑term use.
Metal plate snap traps: higher kinetic energy, durable construction; preferred for outdoor or high‑traffic areas.
Plastic snap traps: corrosion‑resistant, reusable, often equipped with safety shields; ideal for environments with moisture or chemicals.

Selection should match the target rat’s size, the deployment location, and the need for durability. Proper placement of bait on the trigger mechanism maximizes capture efficiency across all snap‑trap variants.

Setting and Placement

Effective trap performance depends on precise configuration and strategic positioning. Begin by selecting a trap model that matches the target’s size and behavior; snap traps, live cages, and multi‑catch devices each require specific tension settings and trigger sensitivity. Adjust the spring tension so that a modest tug on the bait releases the mechanism instantly, preventing premature activation by non‑target animals.

Placement determines capture success. Position traps in locations where ground rats travel frequently, such as along walls, near burrow entrances, and under low vegetation. Ensure the trap face is perpendicular to the expected path, allowing the animal to encounter the trigger without obstruction. Conceal the trap with natural cover to reduce wariness while maintaining accessibility for the bait.

Near food sources (grain storage, compost piles, garden beds)
Along established runways identified by gnaw marks or droppings
At the base of trees or shrubs providing shelter
In dark, damp areas where rats seek refuge
Within 10–15 cm of known burrow openings, oriented outward

Regularly inspect traps, reset tension, and replace bait to sustain effectiveness. Relocate any trap that remains untouched after 48 hours to a more active zone, and rotate devices to prevent habituation. Consistent adjustment and thoughtful placement maximize capture rates while minimizing non‑target interference.

Safety Precautions

When setting traps for ground rats, protect yourself from injury, disease, and accidental capture of non‑target animals.

Wear thick gloves, long sleeves, and sturdy footwear to prevent bites, scratches, and exposure to rodent‑borne pathogens. Use eye protection if traps employ spring mechanisms that can release forcefully.

Secure traps on stable surfaces; avoid placing them near walkways or areas where children or pets could stumble upon them. Mark trap locations with visible tape or signage to alert others.

Handle bait and captured rodents with disposable tools. Dispose of dead rats in sealed bags and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Consider wearing a mask if using strong‑smelling attractants to reduce inhalation of harmful fumes.

Maintain traps regularly. Check them daily, remove any captured animals promptly, and reset devices according to manufacturer instructions. Inspect for wear, rust, or damage that could cause malfunction.

If using snap or electric traps, ensure power sources are insulated and keep cords away from water sources. Disconnect power when not actively monitoring traps.

In case of a bite or injury, clean the wound with antiseptic, seek medical advice, and report the incident to local health authorities if necessary.

Other Trapping Methods

Glue Traps (Limitations and Ethics)

Glue traps attract ground rats with scented adhesive surfaces, immobilizing the animal upon contact. The method requires placement in active pathways and regular inspection to prevent prolonged suffering.

Limitations

Non‑selective capture includes non‑target wildlife and domestic pets.
Immobilized rats may experience prolonged distress before death.
Traps provide no immediate kill, complicating timely removal.
Monitoring frequency increases labor and costs.
Certain jurisdictions restrict or ban adhesive devices for pest control.

Ethical considerations

Welfare standards favor rapid, humane kill methods over prolonged entrapment.
Use of glue traps may conflict with organizational animal‑care policies.
Disposal of dead or dying rodents demands protective equipment and proper biohazard handling.
Compliance with local regulations avoids legal penalties and promotes responsible pest management.

Choosing glue traps should involve risk assessment, adherence to legal requirements, and comparison with alternatives that reduce suffering and unintended captures.

Electronic Traps

Electronic traps provide rapid, humane control of ground rats by delivering a high‑voltage shock that immobilizes the animal instantly. The device consists of a baited entry chamber, a sensor that detects movement, and a power source—typically a rechargeable battery or mains connection. When a rat triggers the sensor, the circuit closes and releases a calibrated pulse of electricity, ensuring immediate incapacitation.

Key characteristics to evaluate when selecting an electronic trap include:

Voltage range (usually 2,500–3,500 V) sufficient to guarantee lethality across adult and juvenile specimens.
Battery capacity, expressed in ampere‑hours, which determines the number of shocks before recharging is required.
Bait compartment design, allowing placement of attractive foods such as grain, fruit, or commercial rodent lures.
Safety interlock that prevents accidental discharge while handling the trap.

Effective placement follows these principles:

Identify active runways by observing fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or soil disturbance.
Position the trap perpendicular to the runway, with the entry opening facing the direction of travel.
Locate the device near shelter sites—under piles of debris, along walls, or within burrow entrances.
Maintain a distance of at least 30 cm from human traffic and pet pathways to avoid unintended contact.

Maintenance requirements are minimal but essential for reliable performance. After each capture, open the trap, remove the carcass, clean the interior with mild detergent, and inspect the sensor for debris. Recharge the battery according to the manufacturer’s schedule; most units provide a status indicator that signals when power is low.

Advantages of electronic traps include rapid kill, reduced risk of disease transmission compared to live‑catch methods, and the ability to reuse the device indefinitely. Limitations involve dependence on a stable power supply, higher upfront cost, and the necessity of regular cleaning to prevent sensor malfunction.

When integrating electronic traps into a broader rodent‑control program, combine them with exclusion measures—sealing entry points, removing food sources, and managing vegetation—to lower reinfestation pressure. This multi‑layered approach maximizes the likelihood of long‑term suppression of ground rat populations.

Post-Trapping Management

Disposal of Captured Ground Rats

Humane Methods

Humane capture of ground rats relies on live‑trap systems that restrain the animal without injury. Choose traps made of sturdy wire mesh or plastic with a secure door mechanism; avoid glue boards and snap devices. Position traps along established runways, near burrow entrances, or beside food sources. Use bait that appeals to omnivorous rodents—peanut butter, dried fruit, or cooked meat—applied sparingly to the trigger plate. Check traps at least twice daily to prevent stress or dehydration.

Wire mesh cage traps – reusable, easy to clean, allow visual monitoring.
Bucket‑style live traps – consist of a ramp leading into a concealed container; effective for larger individuals.
Multi‑catch live traps – hold several rats simultaneously, reduce handling frequency.

When a rat is captured, wear thick gloves to avoid bites, then transport the animal in a ventilated container to a release site at least five miles from the original location. Release during daylight hours in open, vegetated terrain where natural cover is abundant. Release onto a soft substrate to minimize injury.

After each capture, disinfect the trap with a diluted bleach solution, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry before redeployment. Rotate trap locations to prevent habituation. Seal entry points, remove food debris, and maintain a tidy yard to discourage re‑infestation. Regular inspection of the perimeter and prompt repair of gaps sustain the effectiveness of humane trapping programs.

Hygienic Practices

Effective hygiene is essential when setting and maintaining rodent traps. Clean surfaces reduce the risk of disease transmission and improve trap performance.

Before placement, wash hands with soap and disinfect any tools. Use disposable gloves to handle bait and trap components. Dispose of used gloves in a sealed bag.

When preparing bait, store it in airtight containers to prevent contamination. Avoid direct contact with food residues that may attract other pests.

After each capture, follow these steps:

Remove the rodent with gloves, place it in a sealed container, and dispose of it according to local regulations.
Clean the trap with hot, soapy water; rinse thoroughly.
Apply a disinfectant approved for household use; allow the surface to dry completely.
Inspect the trap for wear or damage; replace parts as needed before the next deployment.

Maintain a regular cleaning schedule for the entire trapping area. Sweep debris, remove droppings, and sanitize floors or mats where traps are positioned. Replace bedding or insulation that becomes soiled.

Document each cleaning event, noting the date, disinfectant used, and any observations about trap condition. This record supports consistent hygiene standards and helps identify patterns that could affect trap success.

Prevention of Future Infestations

Sealing Entry Points

Sealing entry points prevents ground rats from re‑entering the property after a trap has been set. Identify all potential openings by inspecting foundations, crawl spaces, utility penetrations, and vent covers. Close each gap with appropriate material to deny access.

Use steel wool or copper mesh for holes smaller than ¼ in.; secure with expanding foam for added durability.
Apply cement, mortar, or concrete patch to cracks in concrete slabs and foundation walls.
Install metal flashing or hardware cloth around pipe penetrations and vent openings; fasten tightly to eliminate gaps.
Replace damaged weatherstripping on doors and windows; ensure a tight seal when closed.
Seal gaps around baseboards and trim with silicone or acrylic caulk; smooth the surface to prevent gnawing.

Regularly inspect sealed areas for new damage, especially after heavy rain or seasonal temperature changes. Prompt repair maintains an impenetrable barrier, increasing the effectiveness of trapping efforts.

Eliminating Food Sources

Eliminating food sources deprives ground rats of the energy needed to survive, forcing them to relocate or succumb to trap placement. Without accessible nutrition, bait effectiveness increases and the likelihood of repeated captures declines.

Key actions to remove food attractants:

Store all grains, cereals, and pet food in sealed, metal containers with tight-fitting lids.
Clean kitchen surfaces, floors, and countertops after each meal; remove crumbs and spills immediately.
Dispose of garbage in bins equipped with secure lids and empty them daily.
Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility penetrations to block exterior food entry.
Keep outdoor feeding stations for pets or wildlife away from building foundations; use feeders designed to prevent spillage.

Regular inspection of storage areas and waste management points ensures that no residual food remains. Consistent enforcement of these measures creates an environment where traps become the primary attractor, accelerating the removal of ground rat populations.

Habitat Modification

Habitat modification reduces the likelihood that ground rats will enter an area and increases the effectiveness of trapping devices. Eliminate accessible food by storing grain, pet food, and waste in sealed containers. Remove debris, compost piles, and fallen fruit that can serve as foraging sites. Keep the ground surface clear of thick mulch, dense grass, or leaf litter that provides cover for burrowing.

Secure structural openings that permit rodent entry. Install metal flashing or concrete sealants around foundations, utility penetrations, and vent openings. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens. Ensure drainage systems direct water away from structures, preventing damp soil that attracts burrowing activity.

Typical habitat adjustments include:

Trimming vegetation within a two‑meter radius of trap locations to improve sight lines.
Replacing soft soil patches with compacted gravel or concrete slabs to deter tunnel construction.
Elevating stored materials on pallets or shelving to reduce contact with the floor.
Using rodent‑proof containers for feed and waste, with tight‑fitting lids.

Consistently applying these environmental changes creates an inhospitable setting for ground rats, thereby enhancing trap placement and capture rates.