How can you make a trap for a rat yourself? - briefly
Build a snap trap by bending a sturdy wire coat hanger into a U‑shape, securing one end to a wooden block, and attaching a short length of string to form a trigger that releases when the rod is bitten. Bait the mechanism with peanut butter, position it along walls frequented by rodents, and inspect daily to remove any captured rats safely.
How can you make a trap for a rat yourself? - in detail
A practical rodent catcher can be assembled from inexpensive household items. The design relies on a simple lever mechanism that snaps shut when the animal steps on a trigger plate.
Materials
- 1 × large plastic bottle (2‑liter) or a sturdy cardboard box
- 2 × wooden dowels, 12 inches long, ¼ inch thick
- 1 × metal coat hanger, straightened
- 1 × strong adhesive tape or zip ties
- 1 × small piece of fabric or rubber sheet (for the trigger)
- Bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or cheese
Construction steps
- Cut the bottle near the top, removing the neck to create an open‑ended cylinder. If using a box, cut a flap on one side that can hinge upward.
- Insert one dowel through the center of the cylinder, extending out both ends. Secure it with tape or zip ties so it pivots freely. This dowel serves as the trap’s arm.
- Bend the coat hanger into a “U” shape. Attach the lower end to the interior wall of the cylinder, forming a latch that holds the arm in the raised position.
- Place the fabric piece on the floor directly beneath the arm. When the rat steps on the fabric, its weight pulls the arm downward, releasing the latch and causing the arm to snap shut, trapping the animal inside the cylinder.
- Apply a thin layer of bait to the interior wall opposite the latch. The scent draws the rodent toward the trigger zone.
Placement guidelines
- Locate the trap along walls, behind appliances, or near visible droppings, as rats travel close to surfaces.
- Ensure the trigger surface is level and stable; an uneven plate may cause premature closure or failure to close.
- Keep the trap away from children and pets; cover the exterior with a cloth if necessary.
Maintenance
- Check the trap at least twice daily. If a capture occurs, wear thick gloves, transport the cylinder to a disposal site, and release the animal according to local regulations or euthanize humanely.
- Clean the interior with mild detergent, rinse, and dry before resetting.
- Replace the bait every 24 hours to maintain attractiveness.
Safety considerations
- Use strong adhesive or zip ties to prevent the arm from slipping under the animal’s weight.
- Avoid using toxic substances as bait; they pose health risks to non‑target species.
By following these steps, a functional, reusable rat catcher can be built quickly, using minimal tools and materials, while providing reliable control of a rodent infestation.