Apply bait only after all or most of the prebait is eaten, and only in areas where prebait is consumed. In non-crop areas, apply prebait and bait by hand near each active burrow or runway. Do not put treated bait in piles. Prebait with rolled oats, barley, or cracked corn at a rate of 4 pounds per acre two to four days prior to baiting. Do not broadcast near homes or water, or on roads.
Zinc phosphide is a slow-acting toxicant that can be absorbed in small amounts through human skin.
Wear rubber gloves to avoid contact with the chemical. Take extra care to avoid breathing zinc phosphide dust. Zinc phosphide baits are classified as restricted-use pesticides. This classification means that landowners must obtain private certification from the Environmental Protection Agency before they can purchase or use these products. Obtain certification information from your Colorado State University Cooperative Extension county office.