Humane Ways to Trap a Rat
Rodent infestation is a problem as old as human domesticity. People have had centuries of experience in getting rid of their unwanted visitors, with a limited measure of success. However, many people find themselves uncomfortable with pest control methods that kill, maim or otherwise cause rodents to suffer. Some people argue that snap traps and electric mouse traps may be considered humane, because they kill the trapped rodent instantly. However, by far the most humane way to treat rats and mice is the catch-and-release method. Does this Spark an idea?
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Live Animal Traps
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Several reusable live animal traps are available commercially, such as the Havahart Mouse Trap and the Mouse Depot. These traps work by luring the rat into a cage or box fitted with a one-way door that locks the pest in upon entry. The downside to these traps is the possibility of the rat accidentally setting the trap off before it enters. Also, once the rodent has been captured, it must be released at least a mile from your home, otherwise it will just sneak back in.
The Toilet Paper Roll Trap
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A favorite among do-it-yourself homeowners, this trap is simple to set up and consists of only a toilet paper roll balanced on a ledge directly above a waste bin, a bucket or a box. The trick is to encourage the rodent to enter the makeshift tunnel by placing a treat such as peanut butter on the far end. Once it goes for the bait, its weight will tip the roll over and land it in the bin. The cardboard roll must be creased before setting the trap up to avoid having it roll around with the rat inside. Also, the bin has to have steep sides of around 20 inches, otherwise the rat could just climb out. As with the live traps, the rat must then be released in a remote location.
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The Bike Tire Tunnel Trap
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Though being a simple concept, the bike tire tunnel trap involves careful observation of the rodent's habits, as it won't work unless its main entry point into the home is located. The trap is set up by pushing one end of a piece of old tire into the rat's hole, and the other end into the opening of a jar big enough to hold the rat without the risk of it climbing out. Though rather difficult to prepare for, the good thing about this kind of trap is that it will work with bait or without, and as the rat will need to leave its hole at one point or another to forage for food, it will eventually wind up in the jar.
The Classic Towel Trick
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Although this simple trick may sound ridiculous, some people have proven it to be quite effective. Again, pinpointing the rat's favorite entry point is vital. Placing treats near a rat hole at regular periods can train it to frequent that particular spot at a predictable time. Once it grows to expect this treat, a towel is placed over the hole. This will cause the rat to be more cautious when it exits, but it can then be easily be trapped with a bucket or wastepaper bin. The towel must be tucked under carefully, and a piece of cardboard slid under the bin before turning it right side up.
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References
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