When bait is no longer being eaten, when there are no fresh droppings and when live rats and mice are no longer seen results are as good as can be expected from a rodenticide. Snap traps placed in runs can effectively assist in controlling migrating and residual rodent populations. Unbaited spring traps placed in rodent runs along walls, rafters and on studdings assist in controlling migrating and residual rodents. Runs are easily identified by smears and rub marks left by rats. Traps can be made more effective by attaching a square of cardboard or metal to the trigger.
Place traps at right angles to runs with the enlarged trigger extending across the run.
Trapped rodents should be removed and traps reset on a regular basis. Ultrasonic and electrical shock rodent control devices have been repeatedly shown to have no detrimental effect on rodent populations. Beetles damage insulation and wood structure and can serve as reservoirs for a number of poultry diseases including Salmonella. Beetles will also migrate from heavily infested houses, manure and litter piles and spread manure or litter to nearby farms and residences. This invasion of homes often creates a significant public relations problem making neighbors less tolerant of nearby poultry production facilities.