FAQ’s RATS and MICE
Q – We have noises in our ceiling. Do we need ratboxes inside the ceiling area?
No, this is not necessary, as there is no access for kids or pets to the ceiling area.
We inspect to assess the problem, including identification of possible access points, any necessary removal of nests, dead rodents etc., plus a short term solution of a “loose bait” solid and/or liquid treatment in ceiling or other required area. The loose bait treatment normally lasts about 3 months.
Q – How many rodent bait boxes (rat boxes) does my house need?
An average suburban area house needs 6 to 8 rodent bait boxes. Half acre and bigger stands would need more boxes, depending on surrounds, type of garden, etc.
Q – We are worried about poisoning the owls in the area?
In a suburban area it is very difficult for owls to catch rats, as the area to swoop in and catch them is constricted. We can supply the “Racumin bait” which is a “multifeed” IE- The rats have to eat more often in order to be affected by the bait. This lessens the risk for an owl that catches an affected rat.
PS – Owls are territorial. Often they cannot keep up with the rodent breeding cycle within that territory.
Q – I am worried about my dog eating a poisoned rat.
Most dogs only play with a dead or dying rat and then lose interest. Any dog that does, would have to eat a number of rats at one time to be severely affected.
Q – I am worried about rats dying in my in my ceiling and the smell after that.
The rodent eats the bait, which has the effect of making them thirsty, so they go out and look for water. They normally die “out of site” back at a nesting area. (We only do 4 or 5 “dead rat removals” per year out of hundreds of services.)
Q – How quick is the effect of the bait/poison?
The treatment, whether in the roof, or in the rodent bait boxes, is NOT immediate. It takes 3 to 5 days for activity to stop.
Q – How are the rodent bait boxes installed?
The Rodent bait boxes are mounted against paving or wall, or on a paving block for stability and to give flexibility should there be a problem going forward, in a different area of property.
