Top 10 Rodent Control Mistakes

1. Not knowing what rodents are causing the problem. Look for signs and customer feedback to determine which rodents are present. Remember, there are few control options for native rodents (gophers, deer mice, voles, wood rats, etc.). These species may be protected or require additional certification and licensing. Make no claims for control of non-commensal rodents unless you have the means to legally control them.

2. Not considering the behavior of the pest species. For roof rats — look up! Consider whether these agile climbers can invade a building by using fences, power lines, or tree branches. Check openings in roof and gable vents and use screening where needed. Place bait or traps in overhead areas, as these rodents may seldom come to the ground. For mice, use more and smaller placements than for rats.

3. Not thinking about why rodents may be present. Look for food, harborage and shelter and work with your customer to make the account less ‘rodent-friendly.’ Cut back vegetation, seal openings, and check doors and windows for gaps. Improve sanitation, including the condition of garbage cans, dumpsters and the area surrounding them. Avoid leaving pet food and birdseed out overnight.

4. Not using products according to their label. Remember, not all products are comparable. If burrow or sewer baiting, for example, are not mentioned as application sites on the label, then the product should not be used in these areas. Some products cannot be used outdoors in non-urban areas and the minimum usage amounts should be followed according to the pests that are present. If rats are present or anticipated, be sure to use the minimum number of blocks stated on the label.

5. Creating an exposure hazard. Apply baits in ways to reduce non-target exposure and limit your liability. Do children or pets have access to the area? Can bait be applied in an inaccessible area (out of sight and out of reach)? If not, use a tamper-resistant station for baits, or try glueboards or mechanical traps.

6. Not using traps effectively and humanely. All traps must be checked every few days for captures. For livetraps, captures should be killed humanely. Dead rodents need prompt removal from traps as they constitute a biohazard and can draw blowflies and dermestid beetles, among other pests. Success with snaptraps will increase with careful placement in active rodent runways. Initially, leave baited traps sprung, then set after the bait has been taken. Move trap positions periodically and repeat the process.

7. Applying bait packs or blocks in ways or areas where they cannot be recovered. Bait packs should be "placed," not tossed, into inaccessible areas. Don’t abandon baits in attics, crawlspaces or other areas. Blocks can be put on wires to simplify monitoring and allow for removal. Record the location of hidden bait placements in case others need to attend to it. Remove bait that has spoiled or is no longer needed.

8. Failing to fasten down bait stations. Not fastening stations securely creates exposure hazards for children, pets and wildlife. One of the most common violations by regulators is for unsecured stations. Stakes, cable ties, power fasteners, or securing with adhesive to the floor or a block base — all meet the requirements for adequately securing stations. Secure the bait so it cannot be shaken out by non-target animals.

9. Ignoring bait melting and mold. Bait that melts or becomes moldy requires replacement, generates hazardous waste and reduces your profitability. Reduce waxed bait melting by using lighter-colored stations and vertical bait rods. Limit mold by using station designs that allow for drainage, or put blocks in small plastic bags before securing to station rods. Thorough cleaning can limit mold spores, as can use of diluted bleach to station interiors.

10. Having "tunnel-vision" in servicing bait stations. Maintaining large numbers of bait stations can lead to repetitive actions, overlooked signs and missed opportunities. Every station tells a story — consider whether droppings indicate that more bait should be placed in the station or more stations should be moved to that area. Investigate areas to determine if conducive conditions can be reduced. Where appropriate, limit ant and other arthropod activity in stations by use of a registered insecticidal product.