How can a rat trap be made from a plastic bottle? - briefly
Cut the bottle near the base, invert the neck to create a funnel that leads into the cut opening, and place bait inside; the rodent enters, cannot exit, and can then be released or disposed of.
How can a rat trap be made from a plastic bottle? - in detail
A PET bottle can be turned into an effective rodent catcher with a few simple tools.
Materials required:
- 2‑liter clear plastic bottle
- Sharp knife or scissors
- Strong string or thin wire
- Small piece of cardboard or stiff paper
- Bait such as peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit
Construction steps:
- Remove the bottle’s label and rinse it thoroughly.
- Cut the bottle near the base, leaving a 2‑inch strip of neck attached to the cap. This creates a funnel that will guide the animal inward.
- Invert the cut section so the neck points downward and reattach it to the main body with the string or wire, forming a one‑way entry. The seal must be tight enough to prevent escape but loose enough for the rodent to slip through.
- Puncture a small hole near the top of the bottle’s side wall, thread the string through, and tie it to a sturdy stake or heavy object. This prevents the trap from being moved by the rodent.
- Place a thin piece of cardboard inside the bottle, just above the funnel, and smear the chosen bait on it. The cardboard acts as a trigger: when the rodent steps on it, it slides down, pulling the string and sealing the neck.
Placement guidelines:
- Position the trap along walls, near known gnawing sites, or close to food sources.
- Keep the trap away from direct sunlight to avoid overheating the plastic.
- Check the trap every few hours; if a capture occurs, wear gloves, release the animal far from the property, or dispose of it according to local regulations.
Maintenance:
- Replace bait daily to maintain attraction.
- Inspect the string and attachment points for wear; replace if frayed.
- Clean the bottle after each use to prevent mold or bacterial growth.
The described device uses the bottle’s natural funnel shape to guide the rodent inward, while a simple mechanical trigger ensures the entrance closes permanently once the animal is inside. This low‑cost solution provides a reusable, humane alternative to commercial traps.