What’s the secret to choosing the best bait for a rat trap?

Rat infestations can cause significant problems for both homeowners and businesses. They can not only cause damage to property and possessions but also pose a significant health risk to individuals and their families. Therefore, it’s important to effectively control rat infestations to ensure safety and peace of mind. One of the most common methods of controlling a rat infestation is by using a rat trap. However, choosing the correct bait for the rat trap is essential for its success. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Bait for Rat Traps.

Understanding Rat Behaviour and Preferences

To effectively choose the best bait for your rat trap, it’s important to understand rats’ behaviour and food preferences. Rats are omnivores, which means they consume both plant-based and animal-based foods. However, their diet is mainly composed of grains and seeds. Rats are also known to have a sweet tooth, making them particularly attracted to sugary treats.

Top 5 Rat Trap Bait Options

1. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a popular and effective bait for rat traps. The smell and taste of peanut butter is attractive to rats, and it is easy to apply to traps. It is also a cost-effective option, as a small amount of peanut butter goes a long way.

2. Cheese

Cheese is another classic bait option for rat traps. However, it is not always the most effective choice. Some rats may not be attracted to cheese, and it can also dry out quickly, losing its scent and appeal. If using cheese, it is best to use a soft, pungent cheese such as blue cheese or brie.

3. Chocolate

Rats have a sweet tooth, making chocolate an excellent bait option for rat traps. Milk chocolate is particularly effective, as it has a strong scent that attracts rats. However, it is important to note that chocolate can melt in warm temperatures, so it is not the best choice for outdoor traps in hot weather.

4. Dried Fruit

Dried fruits such as raisins, dates, and apricots are another good option for rat traps. They are sweet and have a strong scent, making them attractive to rats. Dried fruit also lasts longer than other bait options, as it does not spoil quickly.

5. Bacon

Bacon is a high-protein food that can be an effective bait for rat traps. Its strong smell is attractive to rats and easy to secure to a trap with a string or wire. However, bacon can dry out quickly, so it is best to replace it often.

Tips for Placing and Using Rat Traps

Once you’ve selected the best bait for your rat trap, it’s essential to know how to use it effectively. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Place rat traps in areas where you’ve seen rat activity, such as near droppings or along rat runways.
  
• Set multiple traps in different locations to increase your chances of catching rats.
  
• Place the bait in the trap carefully, ensuring not to touch it with your bare hands, as rats can smell the human scent.
  
• Check the traps regularly, preferably daily, and humanely dispose of any trapped rats.
  

Choosing the right bait for your rat trap is crucial to control a rat infestation effectively. By understanding rat behaviour and preferences and using the best bait options, you can increase your chances of catching rats.

However, even with the best bait and trap, a rat infestation can still be difficult to manage. In such cases, it’s recommended to seek professional pest control services. Nexus Property Services offers expert pest control services in Southland, New Zealand. Our experienced technicians have the knowledge and tools to quickly and effectively get rid of rats from your property. Let us help you get rid of your rat infestation by contacting us for a free quote today.