How to Kill Sand Rats

Sand rats are also known as gerbils.

The sand rat, or fat sand rat, as it was fondly named by the U.S. Naval Researchers who first collected specimens of the rodent for diabetes research, is more commonly known as the gerbil. It is native to the Middle East, making its home mainly in the deserts of countries such Egypt and Libya.

In many parts of the Western world, gerbils are commonly kept as pets. In areas where conditions are favorable, released or escaped sand rats can invade the natural habitat, causing serious problems for native species. Both California and Hawaii have passed laws prohibiting the ownership of gerbils in those states. The natural climate of these areas make them vulnerable to invasions of the species.

Things You'll Need

• Rodent traps
• Oatmeal
• A few drops of water
• or
• Rat poison
• a handgun with shells

Instructions

1. 

   Escaped gerbils can be a nuisance in the home.

   Set traps, using oatmeal as bait to kill sand rats. Moisten the oatmeal with a little water. Place the traps in areas where the gerbils have been eating, nesting or leaving droppings. This approach was used successfully in Libya, by researchers collecting taxidermy specimens in the early 1960s.

2. 

   Guns were effectively used to kill gerbils in Libya in 1961 and 1962.

   Shoot the animals with a shotgun, rifle or handgun. If the rodents are outdoors, and have established a colony, using a gun can be an efficient way to eliminate them. Gerbils are diurnal. They should be out and about during daylight hours. This makes them easy to spot, and target. This method was also used during the 1961 and '62 expedition to Libya, with successful results. A 16-gauge shotgun with .32-caliber shells was the weapon of choice for collecting specimens.

3. 

   Poison should be handled with extreme caution.

   Poison the animals. There are many varieties of rat poison on the market. Mix moistened oatmeal with the poison, per manufacturer recommendations. Set the poisoned oatmeal in a small dish, in an area frequented by the gerbils. If you choose this method use extreme caution. Pets, children or other wildlife may also ingest the poison. Care should be taken to ensure the poison is kept away from areas where children play. Do not set the poison where other pets or wildlife feed.

Tips & Warnings

• Trapping is the safest way to eliminate rodents

• Always use caution when handling guns.

• Read warnings and labels on all hazardous materials.

• Follow manufacturer's instructions carefully when using poison.

References

• Marvistavet: Anticoagulant Rodenticides and Your Pet
• Library of Congress: Smithsonian Nature Musuem: Rodents of Libya
• Los Angeles Times: California's Most Unwanted
• Public Book Shelf: Nonfiction: Gerbils as Pets