What is rat catching called? - briefly
The practice of capturing or exterminating rats is commonly referred to as “ratting,” a subset of rodent control within professional pest‑management services.
What is rat catching called? - in detail
The activity of capturing or killing rats is commonly referred to as ratting. In professional contexts it falls under the broader category of rodent control or pest extermination. Organizations that specialize in this work are often called rat‑catching services or pest‑management firms.
Historically, the role of a rat‑catcher existed in many cities, especially during periods of plague. These individuals employed traps, poisoned bait, and trained ferrets to locate burrows. Modern practitioners rely on integrated pest‑management (IPM) strategies: inspection, sanitation, exclusion, and, when necessary, chemical or mechanical removal.
Key methods include:
- Live‑capture traps – reusable devices that immobilize the animal without killing it.
- Snap traps – spring‑loaded mechanisms delivering a rapid kill.
- Electronic traps – deliver a high‑voltage shock to the rodent.
- Bait stations – sealed containers holding anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, designed to prevent non‑target exposure.
- Biological control – use of predatory animals such as ferrets or trained dogs.
Legal regulations vary by jurisdiction. Many regions require licensing for the use of toxic baits and mandate record‑keeping of applications to protect public health and the environment. Compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines or equivalent local agencies is mandatory for commercial operators.
Effectiveness depends on accurate identification of entry points, proper placement of devices, and ongoing monitoring. A comprehensive program combines immediate removal with preventive measures, such as sealing gaps, maintaining clean waste storage, and reducing food sources.
In summary, the practice of apprehending or eliminating rats is termed ratting, encompassed within rodent control services that employ a range of mechanical, chemical, and biological techniques, all governed by specific regulatory standards.