What is best to put in a mouse trap for rats? - briefly
Use a strong‑smelling, greasy bait such as «peanut butter» or «bacon» to attract rats to a snap trap. Place the bait at the trigger end so the rodent must engage the mechanism.
What is best to put in a mouse trap for rats? - in detail
Choosing effective bait for a snap‑type trap aimed at rats requires attention to odor strength, moisture content, and durability. Strong, aromatic substances attract rats from a distance and sustain interest long enough for the animal to trigger the mechanism.
- Peanut butter – dense, greasy, emits a persistent scent; adheres to the trigger plate, reducing the chance of removal.
- Fresh meat – pieces of bacon, chicken, or liver release volatile compounds that rats find irresistible; must be secured to prevent early tampering.
- Nut butter mixed with dry grain – combines the adhesive quality of butter with the texture of seeds, enhancing grip.
- Fruit mash – ripe banana or apple puree offers a sweet aroma; best used when combined with a small amount of oil to prevent drying.
- Commercial rodent bait – formulated with attractants and often includes a bittering agent to deter non‑target species; follow label instructions for placement.
Additional considerations:
- Position bait at the rear edge of the trigger platform to encourage the rat to step fully onto the spring mechanism.
- Keep bait fresh; replace every 24–48 hours to maintain potency.
- Avoid overly wet bait that can soak the trap’s spring, reducing sensitivity.
- Use a small amount – just enough to engage the rat’s curiosity without allowing it to consume the lure without activating the trap.
- In environments with strong competing odors (e.g., kitchens), select the most pungent option, such as fresh meat, and seal the trap within a discreet enclosure that still permits rat entry.
By selecting a high‑odor, sticky bait and applying the placement guidelines above, the likelihood of successful capture increases markedly.