How can I make a rat trap out of a bottle? - briefly
Cut the top off a plastic soda bottle, invert it into the base to create a funnel, place bait at the narrow end, and secure the assembly so a rodent can enter but not exit. Check the trap daily and release or dispose of captured animals according to local regulations.
How can I make a rat trap out of a bottle? - in detail
A practical rodent capture device can be fashioned from a standard plastic bottle with minimal tools. The following sections outline the required materials, construction steps, bait selection, deployment, and maintenance.
Materials
- One‑liter or two‑liter clear PET bottle
- Sharp utility knife or scissors
- Strong adhesive tape (e.g., duct or packing tape)
- Small piece of wire or sturdy string
- Bait (peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit)
Construction
- Remove the bottle’s cap and set it aside.
- Cut a circular opening near the base of the bottle, approximately 3–4 inches in diameter, ensuring the cut edge is smooth to prevent damage to the animal.
- Invert the bottle’s neck and cap, creating a funnel shape, and insert the neck through the cut opening so that the cap rests inside the bottle, forming a one‑way passage.
- Secure the junction with several layers of tape, sealing any gaps that could allow escape.
- Attach a short length of wire or string to the cap’s exterior, forming a loop for easy retrieval.
Bait Placement
- Apply a generous amount of the chosen attractant to the interior wall just below the funnel.
- Ensure the bait does not obstruct the funnel’s entrance.
Deployment
- Position the trap along known rodent pathways, such as near walls, behind appliances, or close to food sources.
- Place the trap on a stable, flat surface to prevent tipping.
- Check the device at least twice daily; when a capture occurs, use the attached loop to lift the trap and release the animal at a safe distance, or dispose of it according to local regulations.
Maintenance
- Clean the bottle with warm, soapy water after each use to remove residue.
- Replace tape and inspect the cut edge for wear before reassembly.
- Rotate bait types periodically to maintain effectiveness.
By following these precise steps, a functional and cost‑effective rodent trap can be assembled from a readily available bottle, providing an efficient solution for pest control without specialized equipment.