What should be done about rats and mice? - briefly
Implement an integrated pest‑management program that combines sanitation, structural exclusion, and targeted baiting. Continuously monitor activity and adjust controls to maintain efficacy while limiting harm to non‑target species.
What should be done about rats and mice? - in detail
Rodent incursions in residential, commercial, and agricultural settings threaten health, structural integrity, and food safety. Effective control requires a systematic approach that combines prevention, reduction, and ongoing surveillance.
Identify entry points, food sources, and harborages. Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch, install door sweeps, and repair damaged screens. Store dry goods in sealed containers, eliminate standing water, and maintain regular waste removal. Reducing attractants limits population growth and prevents new infestations.
Implement an integrated pest‑management (IPM) program:
- Conduct a thorough inspection to map activity zones and assess severity.
- Apply mechanical barriers such as traps (snap, electronic, or live‑capture) in high‑traffic corridors.
- Use bait stations with anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, placed out of reach of non‑target species and in accordance with label directions.
- Deploy biological controls where feasible, for example, predatory birds or professional use of rodent‑specific viruses.
- Schedule regular sanitation cycles to remove debris, clutter, and residual food particles.
Monitor trap counts, bait consumption, and signs of activity weekly. Adjust placement and density of control devices based on data trends. Document findings to evaluate efficacy and inform future interventions.
Comply with local regulations governing pesticide use, animal welfare, and waste disposal. Provide training for personnel handling toxicants, and ensure personal protective equipment is available. Record all applications, including product type, concentration, and location, to support accountability and traceability.
A disciplined IPM framework, anchored in exclusion, sanitation, and targeted control, delivers sustainable reduction of rat and mouse populations while minimizing environmental impact and health risks.