Physical Control Methods

Traps

The advantages of the above traps are that you can see if you have caught a rodent and there is less risk of rodents dying in an inaccesible area, which will create a foul odour and fly/maggot activity if not removed.

The disadvantages of the above traps is that they need to be checked regularly and they are limited to one catch at a time, there is also a risk of injury to non-target pests, pets and children if not placed in secure locations.

Sticky Boards

The advantages of the above sticky boards are that you can catch more than one rodent on each pad unlike the conventional rodent traps. You can also see the main areas of activity and where rodents are frequenting by the amounts caught on boards in the various areas placed down. There is a reduced risk of rodents dying in inaccesible areas, which will create a foul odour and fly/maggot activity if not removed.

The disadvantages of the above sticky boards are that when used in commercial premises there are strict guidelines that need to be followed regarding the frequency of re-checking, as it is seen to be in-humane to leave a rodent still alive in distress stuck to sticky board. There is also a risk of sticky boards becoming stuck to everything & everyone who may accidently come in to contact with them, the glue will lose its adhesive ability when left in dusty areas like warehouses and bakeries.

Proofing

There are no disadvantages to carrying out proofing work to prevent or control a rodent infestation however it is important to ensure that it is carried out correctly and inconjunction with any treatments for pests.