Answers to Common Problems with Rat Zapper

by admin on 17. Jun, 2010 in Rat Traps

Rat Zappers may just be the most efficient pest control technology in the market that you can get your hands on today. It’s very easy to use and it will absolutely deliver the best results.

But despite the device’s usability, a lot of users have found several problems with the rat zapper. To be able to help you get to know these problems beforehand or while you are experiencing them, I’ve collated the common problems reported by users. I have also included solutions to these problems to give you fast answers.

I haven’t caught a rat even after a few days

Rats are suspicious to new things, try waiting for a few days more then see if something happens. Otherwise, consider relocating your rat zapper. Remember to put them in places where you observe rats to often travel through.

Also, keep in mind the kind of baits that you are using. Although animal feed are often suggested as baits, rats fall for food that appeal more to their senses of smell. Use aromatic food or food with strong smell like cheese, peanut butter, chocolates and oat.

I am worried about my child and pet getting harmed

Rat zappers can electrocute rats, mice, and rodents but less likely to inflict the same harm to your child and pet. The rat zapper as compared to other electronic rat traps use lesser voltage since it is only powered by battery cells. The reason why rodents get electrocuted is because their entire body is subjected to the electrocution but your child and your pet would only fit a hand or a paw inside the device. Also, your child and pet would definitely have a withdrawal reflex in such situation.

However, to avoid even the least harm, just make sure you place our rat zapper at someplace that your child and pet are not frequently at.

I might not often be able to go out and get batteries

At the average, the four Alkaline AA batteries that powers-up the rat zapper can last three months and approximately zap a maximum of 20 rodents. You wouldn’t need to go get batteries every now and then.

Also, you can try stacking-up on batteries so that you’d have some spare once to use when the ones you’re using have already been consumed.  Another option would be to make use of rechargeable batteries.

I have problems with rodents in my backyard; can I use the rat zapper there as well?

It is not a big problem to use the rat zapper outdoor but I would suggest that you cover that device with plastic to prevent moisture. Moisture can trigger the zapping and you would be wondering why there are no kills but your rat zapper is working perfectly.

How do I clean the rat zapper?

As in most electronic devices, take-off the batteries before you clean it. After which, soak the rat zapper in warm water with diluted detergent avoiding the electronic area at the top. Use a soft brush to brush dirt and stains off. Rinse it with tap water and set it to dry by letting it stand with the open entrance being at the base.

How do I get rid of the rats inside?

This is not a problem, just tilt the rat zapper with the entrance faced down to let the rat fall out off the device and into your trash bag or compost. Remember that rat zapper wouldn’t work until it is emptied; so you might want to check from time to time if you need to clear it up for another kill.

Rat problem? With Rat Zapper, it’s no problem at all.

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Homemade Rat Killer

by admin on 20. Jun, 2010 in Rat Traps

Despite the fact that there are ready-made solutions for pest control like rat traps, rat poison, etc., some people are just very inclined to doing things on their own and they find it a little bit more satisfying when they are able to do so. If you are the kind of person who wants to have hands-on experience on killing rats, information on home made solutions will do very well to help you out.

Some resort to a home-made rat killer for the purpose of personally getting back on rats; that’s for the revengeful spirit. On the other hand, others might just want to do it for the thrill and experience. But no matter what reason lurks behind your mind, I have found an effective home made solution that will surely make you happy.

What you are going to do is a kind of chemical stimulant that will trigger death to rats. Simply put, you’ll basically be making a poison using materials that can be found in your home. But don’t worry; this chemical mixture will less likely kill your pets. It’s a rat killer but definitely not a pet killer.

For this rat killer solution, you’ll need:

1 cup of flour (any kind)
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of baking soda (NaHCO3 or Sodium Bicarbonate)

For the procedures; simply mix those ingredients together and put in small bowls. Place those small bowls in areas where you see your target rats to frequently travel through or play around. Wait until the rats ingest them. Consequently, they will die from consumption of the mixture.

The compound which makes this mixture lethal to rats is the Sodium Bicarbonate found in the baking soda and flour. The idea is to let the rats consume more of this rat killer mixture. When this compound reacts with the acids in a rat’s stomach, Carbon Dioxide (gas) is produced.

Take baking for instance; whenever you bake a cake or bread, baking powder or baking soda is always part of the ingredient. It is used to raise the flour or to expand the flour. The Sodium Bicarbonate compound reacts with heat and produces the Carbon Dioxide that causes the raising effect. Eventually, that creates the “sponge-like” appearance of some baked products.

The same thing happens when Sodium Bicarbonate reacts with the acids inside the rat’s stomach. It produces gas. Remember I told you that the more mixture the rat consumes; the better. That is because it’ll eventually create more gas; possibly more than what their bodies can take. The effect is swelling. When this swelling occurs increasingly, it’ll then be hard for the rats to breathe. In time, a rupture will occur which ultimately kills the rat.

As I’ve also mentioned, this mixture will not kill your pets. The reason is that whether it is a cat or a dog or both that you have as pet/s, they will find the mixture less appealing to eat. A cat wouldn’t eat a flour mixture and neither would a dog. They might take some of it but definitely not enough to cause them any harm. This is a menu made for a rat and suits a rat’s appetite and taste buds only.

You may find this home-made rat killer harsh and its effect morbid, but you might find it handy one of these days specially when rats are becoming a major problem in your household. Such a big problem indeed that you might jus want to swipe them all out dead.

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Beginner’s Guide on How to Get Rid of Rats

by admin on 22. Jul, 2010 in How To Get Rid Of Rats

It may sound easy, but getting rid of rats is actually nothing shy of being complicated. If it was so simple, then we won’t have pest control services around. It’s like gardening; it’s easier said than done.

However, knowing how to get rid of rats is not as hard as fixing your personal computer. You don’t have to be a genius or be very skilled to carry it out, and you can do it yourself as long as you’d have some dedication, and the right attitude to do the task. Of course, a few tips here and there wouldn’t hurt.

If you are a beginner, the first thing you must consider is what method to apply. There are three methods on how to get rid of rats. These include rat trapping, rat poisoning, and rat repelling. You can either apply a combination of these methods or just pick the one that you’ll be comfortable with.

Rat poisoning means, as the term explicitly suggests, using poison to get rid of rats. You can use several kinds of poisons that are available in the market. Some poisons come in the form of Anticoagulant Rodenticides, Bromethalin Rodenticides, and Cholecalciferol Rodenticides.

Another method on how to get rid of rats is by using rat repellants. Rat repelling is mostly applied in gardening to keep rats away from crops and plants.
Rat repellants were primarily manufactured to be used outdoors, but there are rat repellants nowadays that are designed to be used indoors such as the ultrasonic rat repellant.

The most opted method however is rat trapping. In fact, if you search the internet regarding how to get rid of rats, it is most likely that you will be reading more about rat trapping. The reason for this is that, rat trapping is what’s mostly applied and it is the method most easy and advantageous to use.

Rat trapping offers better advantages as compared to the two other methods. It is easier to use; it’s manageable; it’s less harmful to pets and to users; and it guarantees the best results. For these reasons, rat trapping is applied by many.

Rat trapping entails the use of traps to get rid of rats. Rat traps come in many types. These include live traps, glue traps, and electronic traps. In this method, baits are used to lure the rat to the trap and contain it. After successfully trapping a rat, some types of traps allow users to choose whether to release or terminate the rat.

Animal lovers choose types that allow them to release the trapped animal some place far. In that way, they are able to solve their rodent problem and do it without feeling any guilt afterwards.

For some users who choose to kill the rat but cannot stand doing it themselves or cannot stand the gruesome look of it, electronic rat traps are the best options. It allows instantaneous killing of the rodent and avoids messy or bloody death for the rat.

So you may now choose which one among these methods is the one that you think will work best for you. Be sure to read further about the method you will use on how to get rid of rats so that you’ll be properly guided. Remember that as a beginner you’d need all the information and help you can get. The more you have; the better.

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Practical Reasons for Using Humane Rat Traps

by admin on 25. Jul, 2010 in Humane Mouse Trap, Humane Mouse Traps, Rat Traps, Rat Zapper, Victor Electronic Rat Trap

Victor Electronic Rat Trap

If you have been using or reading about rat traps, you would surely come across the term “humane rat traps.” Did you ever wonder why traps have to be distinguished between humane or not? Is it necessary to do so? And what does that mean?

Well, here is a simple exploration and explanation on the subject of humane rat traps that would answer all of those questions and also give practical reasons as to why people should start using them.

  • Humane  rat traps follow the International Standards for Animal Trapping

There is what we call as the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards or “AIHTS”.

This agreement originated from the European Union (EU). It started as a resolution banning the importation of wild fur product into EU if it does not follow particular standards especially concerning the trapping of the animal from which the fur was generated from. Eventually, as international trade was affected, an agreement was made between EU, Canada and Russia; and this was the first of the AIHTS. After which EU and the United States made the same agreement taking into consideration some US regulations.  The AIHTS was ratified by the EU in 1998.

The AIHTS presents standards for animal trapping and requires all trapping devices be tested and certified. This creates a need for all devices to have AIHTS certification. These devices are the ones often recommended to be used for trapping animals. Ultimately, AIHTS is encouraged to be observed in all countries.

To understand the details about AIHTS, read the article “What Makes A Humane Mouse Trap/Rat Trap.”

  • 100% efficiency

Under the AIHTS, animals are to be killed instantaneously. Following that; devices with AIHTS certification is 100% efficient for the kill.

Humane rat traps therefore ensure that trapped rats are killed. It is fully efficient and it reserves no chance, not even 0.1%, for rats to escape. This is a reason why more users prefer rat traps that are certified humane.

Rat Zapper

  • Children and Pets

As observed, humane rat traps like Rat Zapper and Victor Electronic Rat Trap are safer devices to use when children and pets are present. Most of these devices are electrical. They are battery generated. However, they are featured with safe covers and the amount of voltage released will not be harmful except to rats.

  • User Friendly

Humane rat traps are also very user friendly. They are equipped with alarm systems to signal users when a rat was trapped. As such, they do not require frequent monitoring. They are also easy to use; all you need to do is provide bait and replace the battery when necessary.

  • Cleanliness

Another factor why humane rat traps are often a favorite among users is because it is not messy to use. Non-humane traps often kill animals in a bloody and gruesome way. A humane trap does otherwise.

In that case, humane rat traps are more convenient to use for people who are squeamish or simply to people who do not want further problems on the disposal of the killed rats.

Given the above, humane rat traps have greater benefits and practicality compared to non-humane trapping devices. That is the reason behind their popularity and marketability. And as AIHTS are recommended to be observed worldwide, there is a given necessity to prefer using this device.

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Live Mouse Traps: Their Advantages and Disadvantages

by admin on 28. Jul, 2010 in Live Mouse Traps

Live mouse traps, as the term denotes, are traps designed to catch a mouse alive. Live mouse traps catch mice alive for the purpose of eventually releasing the captured animal in the wild or in remote areas away from human habitation. This particular type of trap is best exemplified by cage traps or box traps.

The cage trap or the all-metal trap was invented by Edwin E. Seyler who was from Townsend MT. He received the patent on October 15, 1985 with US patent number 4546568.

On the other hand, the box-shaped trap was invented by Alvin J. Mccuistion III and Susie L. Roeder. Both of them were from California. Their invention was patented with United States patent number 5265371 on November 30, 1993.

Here are some pictures to give you a good visual of live mouse traps:

Live mouse traps are seen with several advantages and disadvantages. Although some arguments may be debatable, these are, still, the advantages and disadvantages that live mouse traps tend to generally have.

Advantages:

  1. 1. HUMANE – There is a debate on whether capturing a mouse alive is humane or not. It is said to be humane since mice can still be released preferably in a suitable area after capture.

  1. 2. SECURITY – Since live traps do not make use of any means to harm the mice trapped, it is also in no way harmful to pets and children. This makes this device very appropriate for controlling rat population within homes or residential building wherein a child or a pet is present.

Disadvantages:

  1. 1. REGULAR MONITORING – Using live mouse traps requires users to regularly check if a rat or animal has been caught. If the user fails to do so, the rat can turn very hungry and thirsty and may eventually die. This defeats the whole purpose of using the trap.

  1. 2. INEFFICIENCY – Old designs of live mouse traps sometimes fail to trap mice. Mice can sometimes escape from the trap or they may be able to eat the bait without getting caught.

  1. 3. INJURY – Although it is not designed to injure mice, other live mouse traps have moving parts that can injure them. This is seen as a disadvantage since the mice are supposed to be neither killed nor harmed in the process.

  1. 3. INHUMANITY – As I’ve told you there is a debate regarding the humanity and inhumanity aspect of this device when used to catch mice. The reason is simple: House mouse, as those opposing the use of this device stated, cannot survive outside human settlements. Mice will eventually die on the field since there are bigger animals that could prey on them. Mice also rely on humans for food and drinking. Being away from human settlements might leave them hungry and stressed after release.

Another aspect of this argument which categorizes live mouse traps as non-humane is that since live mouse traps can capture several mice together in one trap, the mice might prey on each other just to survive hunger.

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Tips on Rat Baits and Rat Baiting for Snap Traps

by admin on 31. Jul, 2010 in Rat Bait

Many people wonder why they haven’t had many successful trappings or haven’t succeeded in trapping rats when they have placed or set-up everything that is needed correctly. As is always said, trapping is a tricky game. It is not whether you’ve done things by the book; you’re success depends on how clever your strategies are.

Effective rat trapping requires effective baiting as well. If you can’t seem to lure rats to your traps or you have “failed trappings” wherein baits are stolen but no rodent was caught in your trap; then it is time for you to check on several aspects; your trap, your baiting techniques, and your rat baits.

Here are some tips for snap trap users. Particularly, the following tips would be useful for trapping rats. Mice are different story because their nature and behavior is quite different.

Sometimes, snap traps are familiar threatening objects to rats specially when you have used the device several times. However, if you really want to use the same device, create a need for your target rats to still go for the bait in the trap. To do that; remove the rat’s source of food. Rats would be most likely to grab your bait if they are hungry and, even more, if they are starved. Avoid having food scraps lying around. Remember that rats won’t eat when they are full. Your main goal here is to starve them. That way you are creating a need for them to go for the rat baits you have set-up.

1. Comfort Food – choose the most comfortable food for rats. This means that you have to give them baits that they are familiar with. Although it is true that rats, like mice, are curious brutes; rats are, however, smarter. Also, they sense fear in everything unfamiliar. Serving them the usual menu, as you will see, will work effectively.

2. Prepare rat baits that are sticky, like peanut butter (if the rats you are targeting are familiar to that). If that is not applicable, try tying down your bait to the snap trap. With rat baits effectively attached to the trap, it will be difficult for the rat to quickly snatch away the bait and escape the trap. This is a proven and tested technique that will work 100% on snap traps.

3. There is also a possibility that the problem isn’t with your rat baits at all. My suggestion is to always check if your snap trap is still functioning well. Old and rugged snap traps could cause ineffective trapping. This is particularly the reason for stolen baits. Sometimes, the trigger could be less sensitive or might not be able to effectively release the loading bar. Also check whether your spring-loaded bar can still quickly react. If your trap does not function properly anymore, try lubricating it. Vegetable oil would be the best lubricant for this purpose. Avoid oils for machines.

4. Lastly, be sure that you are using the larger sized snap trap that’s intended to catch rats. The smaller ones are for mice trapping. Use them accordingly.

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Hanta Virus and Rat Control

by admin on 04. Aug, 2010 in Rat Control

This little fellow is a cotton rat. Although he looks cute, he proves to be one strong reason for you to have rat control. According to medical research, having this fellow at home can be potentially deadly.

A cotton rat is a known carrier of Hanta Virus; a virus which was discovered by Korean Doctor Lee Ho Wang in the 1950s.

Hantavirus is associated with the illnesses HFRS (Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome) and HCPS (Hantavirus Cardio-pulmonary Syndrome). The effects of having these diseases start with a simple feverish feeling that can eventually translate to death if left untreated for several weeks, especially in the case of Hanta Virus Cardio-pulmonary Syndrome.

In the United States alone, nearly 400 cases of Hantavirus have been reported across different states between the years 1993 to 2007. In order from highest to lowest number of cases, these states were: New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, California, Texas, Washington, Montana, Idaho, and Utah.

It doesn’t take having a direct contact with a cotton rat for a person to get infected with Hantavirus which is also commonly known as House Mouse Flu. The virus can be transmitted by its carrier through their urine, droppings or saliva. Also, by breathing dust that has come in contact with excrements of infected rodents, humans can contract the virus.

Since this virus is easily communicable, rat control or rodent control is seen as the only prevention. With efficient rat control, disease-carrying rats such as cotton rats can be prevented to enter or ceased from co-existing within human habitations.

If you are still wondering about how critical the effects of this virus to human health could be; you might be shocked to know that Hantavirus is, according to US research, a potential biological weapon. Biological weapons are toxic materials derived from pathogenic organisms for the purpose of killing or incapacitating a host.

Acknowledging it to that degree, it is only true to conclude that we really can never underestimate harmful effects of having rats or rodents freely wander about our homes. The varieties of diseases that rats could carry with them are alarming. And as it has always been said; prevention of these, as with any other diseases, is better than cure.

Rat control is better considered as prevention. It is a crucial step to lowering health risks just like personal hygiene. Not having this kind of sanitation or prevention is no longer acceptable especially considering that rat control is not a difficult process.

Having a good rat trap and doing rat trapping once in a while is already a significant preventive action. Remember that the whole process or program does not have to be very complicated or expensive.

Take measures by equipping your house with effective rat trapping devices or rat traps. Install them in places where you feel necessary and continually monitor or check for results.

Of course, do not forget that cleanliness is a must. Maintain cleanliness in your home especially in commonly neglected places like basements, storage rooms, garage, the outside surroundings, roofs, and ceilings.

Remember that there is no such thing as too much prevention.

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The Better Option for Rat Removal

by admin on 09. Aug, 2010 in Rat Removal

You shouldn’t take chances in getting rid of rats that creep behind the walls of your homes. Rats can bring you greater harm than you think. It’s not just about their noisy squeaking every night; it’s not just about your clothes, food and papers that they eat; it’s not just about their awful smell; rats could cause you diseases that are lethal.

Do you know that rats can bring plague with them? This is not an exaggeration and it is neither fiction.

According to medicine, infected rat fleas (xenopsylla cheopsis) spread a certain bacteria called Yersinia Pestis bacilli. When this bacteria enters a host’s body, they can spread and reproduce inside the body. They also attack the immune system causing swollenness of important glands. This is called the bubonic plague.

The bubonic plague was said to be the cause of the Black Death that happened in Europe during the 14th century. The plague killed thirty (30) percent of Europe’s population that time. That was roughly 25 million people.

Above is an image that illustrates a physical symptom of Bubonic plague. A person suffering from this kind of infection can die within 2-6 days without medication and proper treatment.

Aside from the Bubonic plague, a lot of other serious illness can be brought about by having rats around. So, before you get yourself and your loved ones into any serious problem; come to your senses and consider rat removal.

Rat removal is not so hard to do these days. There are a lot of pest control service providers around; and if you’re up to it, you can learn to do it on your own. In that note, you can always browse the internet for needed resources.

But to help you up here already, I will give you some good tips on rat removal so that you can get a head start.

There are different methods of rat removal, but perhaps the most trusted and indispensable method is rat trapping.  Rat trapping involves several techniques with the use of several products. Glue traps, live traps, electric traps are to name a few of those.

The best thing about rat traps when used for rat removal is that they do not create messy results. According to feedbacks by users of another rat removal method which is Rat Poisoning, the downside to this method is that rats are not contained. The rats often die in ceilings, within walls, or in places that are hard to find. As a result, the dead rats create an awful smell that is simply sickening and unbearable.

On the other hand, using rat repellants, which is another method for rat removal, does not ensure successful removal according to users. More often, rats become immune to repellants and they don’t leave the area at all. Also, there are instances when rats are repelled for a while but soon after they return again.

With that said, rat traps remain to be the most convenient and effective method for rat removal. It’s the best choice for many and there isn’t any reason why it should not be the best choice for you too.

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The Ultrasonic Rat Repellent: Does it work?

by admin on 11. Aug, 2010 in Rat Repellent

I’m sure you’ve heard of the rat repellent that creates sound waves that rats cannot tolerate and can cause rats to get packing and leave a particular area. That repellent is what we call the ultrasonic rat repellent.

Even though the demand for ultrasonic rat repellents are currently very high, you must first consider reviewing the information written here and have a complete grasp of the picture before you venture out into getting one for your home use.

WHAT MANUFACTURERS CLAIM:

Producers of ultrasonic rat repellents capitalized on the fact that rats can hear ultrasound. From that fact, they have created devices that they claim are able to make ultrasonic noise that will drive rats out of the area.

ADVANTAGES:

As compared to other rodent control means, rat repellents are said to be more safe and easy to use. It does not create any physical harm or health hazard to people since people cannot hear ultrasonic sound or noise. Also, with ultrasonic rat repellents, disposal of dead rats or having dead rats within your walls or mezzanines will not be a problem.

DISADVANTAGES:

Many users complain about the ineffectiveness of this device. They say that some rats or mice do really go away but they would eventually adjust to the noise and get back to their nesting area after a few days.

DOES IT WORK?

Studies show that ultrasonic rat repellents weren’t able to completely drive away rats or even far enough for them to never return. Unfortunately, this shows that said repellents aren’t successful in repelling rats and is not an effective solution to rat problems.

There are several reasons as to why this device does not carry the effect it promises. For one thing; rats are smart and can grow accustomed to a lot of things over a short period of time. Subjecting them to constraining environmental situation does not guarantee that they will not survive on that situation.

Rats are also clever enough to determine, on the long run, whether a particular thing can actually be life-threatening to them. If such is not the condition, rats cannot be simply scared away.

Ultrasonic sound is also found to be a weak sound. It can only be heard within approximately a 30 meter radius from the source. Ultrasonic sounds are also unable to travel through or curb along objects that block its path. In that case, when objects are block the source, the ultrasonic sound is impaired even at close distances around it.

FTC

Since May 2001, the FTC or Federal Trade Commission released a mandate requiring all producers or manufacturers of rat repellent devices to provide scientific evidences supporting of their claims. FTC released this mandate not to shut-down the production of mouse or rat repellents but only to make sure that producers or manufacturers give out credible information to consumers. Following that mandate, producers who fail to support their claims on advertisements with scientific proofs, can be subjected to lawsuit.

That wraps up the issue of knowing how an ultrasonic rat repellent works. This article pretty much proves that it is always better to have a good dose of information regarding products on the market; this is for you to save yourself from wasting efforts and money.

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The Best Rat Trap Baits

by admin on 14. Aug, 2010 in Rat Trap Bait

Everyone knows that even the best rat trap will amount to nothing if your bait is not good enough. But, couple a good rat trap with good bait; and you can be sure of having the best outcomes in each and every trapping day of your life.

In that case, what is the best rat trap bait and where can you get it? Well, that’s easy to answer; there’s a long list of suggestions you can get from sources such as the internet and those can work. The only problem is that it’s such a long list and you’d probably have to try them one by one to figure out which one works best for you. So, relying on those suggestions would necessitate you to allot time and continue trying until you find the bait that is actually effective.

But if you want fast and sure results, this article would tell you the best solution. I have the answers for those people who do not want to do trial-and-error and people who’d want to get the job done with the first attempt.

Now, I would not suggest any food in particular that will not work. What I’d suggest is for you to understand few facts that would tell you which foods would your target rats actually eat. You see, rats have different food preferences; what rats at my home would eat will be different from what rats in your house would prefer to eat. That is the problem that no one sees.

The main idea is to use rat trap baits that would be familiar to your target and is almost the same as the food that they usually forage. This notion is almost the same as offering vegetable salad to a vegetarian and barbeque to a carnivore. It’s logical, and down right effective.

For your first fact; know that rats are neophobic. Neophobia is the fear of new things or new experiences.  Yes, rats are scared by new or foreign objects and experiences. Using rat trap baits that your rats aren’t familiar with might not even attract them at all. Tip: It is always best to use scraps from your kitchen. Since your house is their world, the food in your house is basically their food. These are the food that they are familiar with. These are the food that they usually forage and these are the food that they trust to be safe. Foods that are new to their taste and smell, and less common to their surroundings will less likely attract them.

Second; how rats choose their food is a social process. Rats would basically eat something that older and other rats would or have eaten. This behavior is considered as one of rat’s defense mechanism against threats of poisoning.  Tip: Know the kinds of food that your rats have always feed on or stolen or scavenged from your house. A known history of these will tell you what your rats would definitely fall for.

Rats have two major weakness; the appetite to gorge on just about everything, and their bodies’ inability to handle indigestion and toxins. Therefore to be able to survive, rats are very cautious of what they eat. They will not just fall for fancy baits, but would rather settle for food that they are familiar with or regularly feed on. Of course, from the long list of food you’d have in your house; choose the ones that rats basically prefer and the ones with the strongest aroma.

Thirdly, rats have poor eyesight. Considering that, rats will use their nose to seek food. Rats will smell their food. Tip: your rat trap baits should appeal strongly to a rat’s sense of smell. So, effective rat trap baits should have one important characteristic: intense aroma.

Last on the list is that Brown rats (Norway rats) eat almost everything, but they are also observed to have high preference for meat and fresh grain. Black rats (roof rats) were observed to prefer vegetables, fruits and grain. Tip: Know what kind of rats are in your house and prepare baits that would appeal to their basic preferences.

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What Makes A Humane Mouse Trap/Rat Trap

by admin on 18. Aug, 2010 in Rat Trap Bait

Despite the fact that mice, rats, and rodents are considered pests and most people would want to just get rid of them easily; there are other people who take the process of trapping and killing these creatures as sensitive situations and render them a more serious account.

Whether we like it or not, we human beings, can only be the ones capable of being good stewards of nature and all creations. It is our inherent responsibility to take care of all the others that we interact with regardless of how important or insignificant or threatening they are to us. Again, it is our inherent responsibility to take care of them all.

Given that, the international community has forged means to regulate the trapping and killing of animals. Accordingly, trapping and killing of animals have to be done humanely. Although it is not easy to qualify what is humane and what is not, the general idea is to make the process less painful, stressful and that animals are to experience less suffering.

In the light of the subject I provided here, here is a list of the qualities of a humane mouse trap/rat trap:

1. A humane mouse trap/rat trap should create instantaneous death. Some mouse traps/rat traps do not have the system to allow a user to know if a mouse was already trapped; without the user’s monitoring, a mouse can be trapped for so long that I dies gradually of starvation and dehydration.

2. Humane mouse traps/rat traps should not inflict physical impairment or suffering on the animal. Take a snap trap for instance; a snap trap would usually cause broken limbs to mouse or rats and does not always guarantee that the animal is eventually killed. This is considered inhumane because of the great deal of pain given to the mouse/rat.

3. A humane mouse trap/rat trap should be able to trap one mouse/rat at a time. When mice or rats are trapped together for a long period, they will tend to prey on each other to survive. The weaker animal gets to be eaten.

4. If the purpose is to kill, a humane mouse trap/rat trap should enable a killing method that is less sinister. Most mouse traps/rat traps aren’t actually designed to kill. If such is the case, the user has to resort to some means of killing the animal. More often people would drown the mouse/rat. If killing is the ultimate purpose, users should not use mouse traps/rat traps that are not designed for that particular purpose.

          In the case of poisoning, the rats are either subjected to hemorrhage or internal bleeding for several days after taking the poison and ultimately die. Some poison would cause gastrointestinal problem (gases). As rats can’t vomit, fart, or burp; they end up with a bloated stomach and eventually get killed.

          Using humane mouse traps/rat traps are also of advantage to people. It is definitely the choice of animal lovers. It is also, at some level, a choice for those who cannot endure killing or even just the idea of it. Humane mouse traps are also good to use such that they lessen the events of some problems that occur consequent to mouse or rat trapping. Using humane mouse traps saves you from experiencing bloody, smelly, and messy trapping or killing.

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          Secrets to Rat Trapping Revealed

          by admin on 22. Aug, 2010 in Rat Trapping

          Have you tried just about everything to trap rats but never really achieved the best results? Worry no more because this article will tell you what it is that you seem to be doing wrong and help you improve your methods in rat trapping.

          Most of the time, people who have rat problems would just go about buying rat traps and set them up around their house as immediately as possible. Yes, they would research on what baits to use, where to properly put the traps, and what to do; but let me tell you that doing those is not enough.

          As in almost every endeavor we put our minds to, rat trapping requires preparation. That is as simple as saying “think before you act.” Unmindful action, as we all know, will mostly lead to nothing worthwhile. So before you start, lay some good foundation; and that would come in the form of a good preparation. Do some groundwork and consider or observe the following:

          Sizing up your target

          The most foolish mistake that we can do is to underestimate the capability of rats. Remember the saying that goes “never underestimate your enemy?” Well, that applies here. Although rats are just brutes; they are clever brutes. Rats are clever not only in terms of problem solving; they are cleverer when it comes to their survival. Rats know their weakness and they have the sharpest instinct to discern threats.

          In that case, rat trapping is more complex than just setting up traps. Well, that’s true for people who’d actually want effective results and need it. But if you’re just playing around, it wouldn’t really matter.

          Rat trapping entails you to surpass the protective instinct of rats. By this time, I’m sure you’d be asking, how that can be difficult; and this is my answer: Rats spend every moment of their lives trying to protect themselves. Yes, rats can be menacing but they are also physically vulnerable. Protecting themselves serves to be the strongest of their survival instincts. So unless you are able to lure them out of their cleverness, you cannot trap them.

          Take time to observe

          Since you don’t have a clue on the behavior of the rats you are targeting, a bit of observation will come in handy. Remember, rats behave differently because their behavior is relative to their environment. As most animals, they adapt.  How rats in the White House behave is different to how the rats in your house behave.  Take time to know your own targets. Know their eating patterns, and most specially, know their location and travel routes.

          Plan

          Rat trapping will definitely necessitate you to plan out a scheme.  As I’ve mentioned above, rats are clever and you’ll need to get past their cleverness to catch them all. So you might as well apply some cleverness yourself and begin the hunt by carefully mapping out your approach. As such ask yourself the following question:

          1. How many rats do you intend to catch a day?

          2. What type of rat traps would you use? How many would you set-up?

          3. Where would you set-up your trap/s?

          4. How often should you monitor your trap/s?

          5. What kind of baits are you going to use?

          6. How are you going to deal with the trapped rats?

          7.  What problem do you think would arise with your current plan? What are the downsides to your plan and how are you going to manage them?

          By following all the advice listed above, you can be sure to achieve the best result, and that is to trap those rats in your house.

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          Things You Need to Know Before Setting-Up Rat Traps

          by admin on 27. Aug, 2010 in Rat Traps

          Setting-up rat traps are easy. However, setting-up rat traps that are sure to work; that can be trickier. Trapping is a game of tricks and smarts, so you might want to give your plan a little bit of thinking and save yourself from failed attempts and common mistakes experienced by many people.

          Below, I’ve listed the things you need to know before you set-up your rat traps. I’ve already listed them for you so that you won’t have to think too much, and for you to know better. If you want rats out of your house as quickly as possible, have a quick read through it and get better results even in your first try.

          The Cleverness of Rats

          There is a reason why scientists use rats for their experiments. Rats are scientifically proven to be clever. For rats in science labs, that kind of cleverness is appealing; but for rats in your home, that is unlikable.

          Rats, because of their cleverness, can get past your traps. When they get familiar with your device and if they have seen other rats trapped by it, they will avoid your device. When you put up a cage, for example, and lure them with bait; rats will most likely not fall for it specially when they see that the cage has only one opening.

          So you might want to set up rat traps that will not give them any indication that they are being trapped.

          Kinds of Traps

          You can choose between lethal and non-lethal rat traps. Lethal rat traps include poison and electrical traps while non-lethal rat traps include cage trap, snap trap, and glue trap.

          The importance of knowing what you should use from the different kinds of traps available is determined by the advantages and disadvantages that goes with each of them. Remember that some rat traps can also be dangerous to other animals, especially your pets. They can also be disadvantageous for you and your family.

          Advantages and Disadvantages

          As I’ve already mentioned, rat traps come with both advantages and disadvantages. So here I’ll give you the details of what I’m talking about.

          Lethal rat traps (rat poison and electrical traps) are sure to kill your target, and kill them clean. What I mean by clean is that you won’t find any blood with the kill. However, these methods can also be harmful to kids, pets and adults. Electrical rat traps, for instance, can be disadvantageous since they can electrocute others (pets, kids, adults) that may come in contact with them. Rat poison, on the other hand, are toxic and may have a harmful effect after several uses as they are easily dispersed in the environment and since children or pets might be able to ingest them.

          Non-lethal traps are less harmful to humans and other animals but can also be less effective as compared to lethal methods. Snap traps, for example, can injure you, your pets, and your children. Some who aren’t careful with snap traps or spring-loader bar rat traps break their finger bones trying to install it.

          Before you try out using any of these rat traps, bear in mind that you have to first check the good side and bad side of using it. Remember that as much as you want those rats gone, you should also make sure that you are not doing something that could be dangerous.

          Baits

          Bait isn’t a big question when you are trying to lure a rat into a trap. Rats almost feed on everything. However, it is advisable that you use something that’s aromatic. Rats love that stuff, that’s why cheese is often overstated as bait. I’m not saying that cheese doesn’t work. It does and it is really a favorite. Other than cheese, you can also use peanut butter because according to experiments, rats are more easily drawn when peanut butter is used. Other options could be chocolate, meat, bread and oats.

          Location

          After you’ve secured yourself a good trap, there’s only one thing to work on; location. Be sure to place your trap effectively or you’ll just be wasting your effort and your time. Proper placement of your rat trap is very crucial.

          Place rat traps in areas where rats travel through frequently. These are the areas along your walls, and under or along furniture and appliances. Don’t place rat traps in open areas such as table tops or your open floor.

          Disposal

          So once you have killed the rats, where do you put them? Whether you want it or not, it is your responsibility to dispose of them properly. The best way to deal with that is something called “composting.” That is simply digging up a hole and burying those rats in it to decay.

          Composting is the best way to go since it will save you the problem of having to endure the smell of dead rats in your home. That is definitely something you would not want. That having said; you may want to plan about composting first and preparing that before you start your rat trapping.

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          Electronic Rat Control and Victor Electronic Rat Trap

          by admin on 26. Aug, 2010 in Victor Electronic Rat Trap

          Today, electronic gadgets are greatly preferred as tools for either home or industrial use. It’s not that the old and traditional manual means aren’t effective anymore; it’s just that electronic gadgets offer more efficiency and reliability than the previous methods and tools. It also diminishes the need for us to do extensive or effortful work.

          All that is pretty basic. Well, shouldn’t we just be glad that this technological revolution has made its way to help us in even the most basic problems we are having; like pests?  If you ask me, I am as happy as a clam that this technology has surfaced. Besides the fact that pests are gruesome to deal with, they are also very tricky and hard to control or exterminate. All those technological advancements that can make everything easy for me is definitely my choice when choosing what to purchase.

          In particular, we now have this very functional electronic device called the electronic rat trap. I have yet to find a resource to tell me exactly when and where this thing started from, and who thought of it; nonetheless, this device proves to be a necessary home tool.

          Electronic rat raps are designed to effectively kill rats by electrocution. A user is supposed to set the trap on a good location and put bait in the trap to lure the rats. Once the rat goes for the bait, the device will detect the presence of the rodent through metal plates. After which, the device will release a strong electric shock killing the rat instantaneously. When a rat has been killed, an alarm system will then be automatically activated to notify the user of a successful trapping.

          There are two leading brands for this device: the Rat Zapper and Victor Electronic Rat Trap. In this article, we will look closely at the latter.

          Above is a picture of a rat trapped and electrocuted inside a Victor Electronic Rat Trap.

          The Victor Electronic Rat Trap is operated by 4 C batteries. Each set of batteries can kill as much as 50 rats. The design of this device prevents escapes as the rat is killed within a matter of seconds with high-voltage shock. The electrocution is active for two minutes to ensure that the rodent is killed effectively. This device also features a blinking green light that indicates that a rodent has been killed.

          The good thing about electronic rat traps like this Victor Electronic Rat Trap is that it is a humane choice for trapping device. It is able to deliver a quick and 100% effective killing of the rat with no use of poisons.

          As you could also see in the image, the rat has been killed without the presence of any blood and without their guts spilling out. The Victor Electronic Rat Trap delivers a clean kill making it easy for users to dispose of the dead rodent and use the device again.

          The functionality of this device is indefinite for as long as the batteries are replaced whenever necessary. There is a red light indicator attached to this device to let users know that the battery is low.

          If you would like to get rid of rats fast and easy; without any trouble on your part; and with no probability for failed trapping (assuming that everything has been set-up as recommended), then an electronic rat trap is definitely the way to go.

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          Victor Rat Traps

          by admin on 31. Aug, 2010 in Victor Rat Traps

          You’ve heard of it many times. Whether from television advertisements, from your neighbors, or among your friends; when rat control is the topic, Victor Rat Traps is always mentioned.

          So if you’ve been wondering what it is, wonder no more, because provided here is an overview on Victor rat traps.  This overview indicates and highlights the best features and specifications of the product and provides an image for better visual appreciation.

          Basically, Victor rat traps are rat traps manufactured by Victor®. Victor® is a registered trademark of Woodstream Corporation which is a private company that is a leading manufacturer of rodent control products and others.

          Victor® has two kinds of rat traps available in the market: The Victor® Power Kill Rat Trap and Victor® Electronic Rat Trap.

          Victor® Power Kill Rat Trap

          This device is Victor’s latest innovation in rat traps. It is a modified snap trap or spring-loader rat trap made out of highly durable plastic.

          The key feature of this device is the “one-click” setting and releasing mechanism. Unlike other snap traps which you have to manually set; this snap trap would just require you to click or push a button and the setting will be automatically done for you. This eliminates the chances of your fingers getting caught by the trap and also allows you to dispose off the animal without coming in close contact with its dead body.

          The design of this particular Victor rat trap incorporates a large trough for baiting. It also has an easily activated huge pedal to ensure maximum trapping. When the pedal is triggered, the powerful spring loaded bar or jaw quickly shuts for a quick and strong kill of the rodent.

          This trap also has two holes on the back side to easily attach it on hard-to-reach places where rats are often spotted.

          Victor® Electronic Rat Trap

          The key feature of the Victor electronic rat trap is its patented 3-plate design. This design ensures 0% probability for rats to escape. This is a design that is patented to Victor®.

          When placed against a wall, baited and turned on, this Victor rat trap starts to be fully operational. It is capable of sensing a rat when it enters the device through a specialized circuitry. This then triggers the diffusion of a high-voltage shock that is meant to kill the rat in a few seconds. The shock is diffused for two minutes to ensure the kill since rats are known to be capable of reviving.

          Once a rat has been killed, this particular Victor rat trap sends a green light signal that means that a killed rodent is ready for removal. Users have to simply dump the dead animal without any need for them to touch the animal itself or even see it.  It is indeed very ideal for people who don’t want to see and/or touch dead rats.

          ***

          Victor rat traps are a favorite for many users because of its efficient and comfortable design.  That is the reason why it is gaining more and more popularity in this field.

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          Humane Live Mouse Trap Humane Mouse Trap Live MouseTrap

          by admin on 05. Nov, 2010 in Live Mouse Traps

          Live Mouse Traps on eBay:

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          Rat’s end

          by admin on 04. Nov, 2010 in Rat Traps

          Some cool Rat Traps images:

          Rat’s end
          Rat Traps

          Image by Stephen Rees

          All in the Family
          Rat Traps

          Image by jurvetson

          Rat Trap in Disguise
          Rat Traps

          Image by swirlspice

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          Agri Zap RZCOO1 Rat Zapper Classic

          by admin on 02. Nov, 2010 in Rat Traps

          Agri Zap RZCOO1 Rat Zapper Classic

          • Cleanly, quickly and humanely kills mice and rats with a strong and deadly shock.
          • Simply bait with ordinary pet food.
          • Easy cleanup; you don’t even have to see the dead rodent.
          • Extremely effective!
          • Great for home use and occasional infestations.

          Wish you could get rid of rats and mice with no mess, no hassles… not even a need to see the dead mouse or rat? Stop wishing! Meet the rat and mouse trap that can do the job! Not an ultrasonic device. Simply bait with ordinary pet food. No poisons to endanger your pets or the environment. Mice and rats enter the chamber and are dispatched humanely with a quick but powerful jolt of electricity. The red light tells you when you have a catch. No blood, no gore, no mess! You don’t even need t

          Rating: (out of 118 reviews)

          List Price: $ 48.99

          Price: $ 33.24

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