How can I get rid of a ground rat on a property? - briefly
Place snap traps or baited live‑capture cages along active runways, using peanut butter or dried fruit as attractant, and check them daily. After removal, seal all burrow openings, eliminate food and shelter sources, and keep the surrounding area clean to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I get rid of a ground rat on a property? - in detail
Identify signs of activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, burrow entrances, and runways near vegetation, structures, or irrigation lines. Map each location to determine the extent of the infestation.
Seal entry points. Inspect foundations, walls, and utility openings. Use steel wool, hardware cloth, or cement to close gaps larger than ¼ inch. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens to prevent re‑entry.
Reduce attractants. Remove food sources by storing feed, garbage, and compost in sealed containers. Trim grass, weeds, and low shrubs to eliminate cover. Clear debris, wood piles, and excess mulch that provide shelter.
Deploy traps. Choose snap traps or live‑capture cages placed perpendicular to runways, with the trigger end facing the burrow. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or meat. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
Apply rodenticides where legal. Use anticoagulant baits in tamper‑proof stations, positioned away from non‑target wildlife and children. Follow label instructions, monitor consumption, and replace as needed.
Maintain sanitation. Regularly clean areas where rodents have been active. Disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to eliminate disease agents.
Monitor progress. Re‑inspect the property weekly for new signs. Continue exclusion measures and trapping until activity ceases for at least two weeks.
Consider professional assistance. If the population persists, contact a licensed pest‑control operator for comprehensive evaluation, advanced baiting techniques, and guaranteed eradication.