Think outside of the bait box with BASF’s covered and protected baiting technique

All pest professionals have seen first-hand the damage that rats and mice can cause for clients, from contaminating food supplies and damaging buildings to destroying a reputation with just one rodent sighting.

And as rats spread more than 200 human pathogens and carry 45 diseases through their droppings, feet, hair, urine, saliva, and blood, it is important that professional pest controllers have all of the tools they need to quickly and effectively control infestations.

“Of course, the best way to prevent an infestation in the first place is to ensure you have an integrated pest management programme in place with all regular clients to reduce the likelihood of rodents moving in,” says Sharon Hughes, Global Technical Marketing Manager for Rodenticides at BASF.

“This includes all of the simple steps that pest controllers know, such as keeping all areas around buildings clear of rubbish, weeds and objects that rats can use as harbourage, proofing buildings and ensuring any openings are covered with mesh smaller than 10 mm, and using non-chemical control methods such as trapping,” she added.

“But if you have exhausted all of these options, it may be time to try a chemical control method.”

Traditionally, most chemical pest control methods call for a tamper resistant bait box, but increasingly many pest controllers are reporting that both rats and mice simply won’t enter these bait boxes, let alone eat the bait inside. So, what do you do if you are faced with an infestation that is avoiding bait boxes?

Sharon Hughes explains: “We are hearing of increasing reports from pest controllers across the country that neophobia (fear and avoidance of new objects) is becoming more of a challenge than ever, with many facing difficulty getting rodents into traditional bait boxes to take the bait in the first place. If you’re experiencing a particularly challenging job like this, we recommend trying a covered and protected approach to baiting, instead:

• First, select strategic sites where rats are known to forage along rat runs, but ensure that these locations aren’t easily accessible to other wildlife or the public, to minimise exposure to non-target species.
• Next, secure seven blocks of Selontra^® with a sturdy material, such as garden wire, and attach this onto or inside an object like a pipe or tray to “protect” the bait.
• Using natural materials from around the site, such as palettes, timber, tyres, or anything that is heavy and can’t be easily moved, cover the container holding the secured bait.
• Finally, ensure the bait point is clearly labelled, as per the CRRU guidelines, to alert any other persons on site as to what is underneath the object.

“This is a much more effective method of baiting, as it doesn’t disturb the rodents’ usual activity or behaviours, meaning bait take is much more likely.”

BASF’s award-winning rodenticide, Selontra^®, uses the active ingredient cholecalciferol and causes death from hypercalcaemia; the accumulation of too much calcium in the blood.

This mode of active means that rodents stop feeding, on both the bait and any available food in the environment, 24 hours after consuming a lethal dose. This makes Selontra^® 30% more efficient than many anticoagulant rodenticides as it saves on further rodenticide use, and quickly stops contamination and damage to the site.

“Of course, it is important to remember that in order to use Selontra^®, you must have a certificate. We recommend completing our short 30-minute course to find out more about its efficacy and application.”

Take BASF’s Selontra^® Training Programme here .

For more information about BASF and Selontra^®, visit here

Information: Use biocide products carefully. Always read the label and product information before use.