How can I catch a rat at home using a homemade trap? - briefly
Build a snap trap from a plastic bottle, a wooden lever, and bait (e.g., peanut butter); place it where rodent activity is observed so the rat triggers the lever and is captured instantly. Ensure the trap is stable, check it regularly, and release or dispose of the catch promptly.
How can I catch a rat at home using a homemade trap? - in detail
To capture a rodent inside a residence with a self‑made device, follow a systematic approach that addresses materials, construction, placement, and post‑capture handling.
Materials
- Large bucket (5‑10 L) with a lid
- Sturdy wire or wooden dowel (≈ 30 cm) for a trigger arm
- Small piece of flexible plastic or a coat hanger for a release mechanism
- Strong adhesive tape or zip ties
- Bait: peanut butter, dried fruit, or canned fish
- Protective gloves and a sealable container for the caught animal
Construction
- Cut a 2‑inch opening near the top of the bucket; line the edge with smooth plastic to prevent the rodent from slipping out.
- Attach the trigger arm to the bucket rim using tape or zip ties so that it pivots freely.
- Connect the release piece to the opposite side of the arm; when the animal steps on the arm, the release collapses, allowing the arm to swing down and tip the bucket.
- Secure the lid with a small hinge that remains closed during the fall but can be opened later for removal.
Bait placement
- Spread a thin layer of the chosen attractant on the trigger arm’s surface.
- Position the trap along wall edges, behind appliances, or in known activity corridors, as rodents prefer concealed routes.
Deployment
- Verify that the trigger moves with minimal pressure; a light touch should cause the bucket to overturn.
- Check the trap every 12 hours; rodents may avoid a malfunctioning device.
- Once a capture occurs, wear gloves, lift the bucket carefully, and place the animal in the sealable container.
Safety and hygiene
- Wear disposable gloves to prevent disease transmission.
- Disinfect the trap and surrounding area with a bleach solution after each use.
- Dispose of the rodent according to local regulations; avoid releasing it outdoors.
By adhering to these steps, a functional, low‑cost device can be assembled and positioned to reliably remove a rat from a household environment.