As winter approaches, animals are on the lookout for warm shelters with easy access to food. Among these are rodents, which often end up in residential areas, creating challenges for homeowners.
Northern Arizona is home to various rodent species, including native pack rats and deer mice, as well as the non-native European house mice. Preventing these pests from entering homes begins with sealing off entry points such as foundation cracks, open crawl space vents, and spaces beneath decks. Reducing food sources and eliminating rodent habitats like clutter and dense vegetation are also crucial steps.
In cases of infestation, snap traps might be necessary, but there’s a more sustainable option available: rodent birth control. Developed by biologists in Flagstaff, this innovative bait uses concentrated seed oil to sterilize female rodents. Unlike toxic alternatives, it is safe for pets and other wildlife, such as owls and hawks, which might consume poisoned rodents.
Easily accessible online, this birth control bait is particularly appealing to rodents, ensuring effective consumption. This is essential given that a single female rat can have 3 to 6 litters annually, with each litter consisting of 5 to 12 pups.
Attracting natural predators by installing nest boxes for owls and kestrels can also help manage rodent populations. Additionally, setting up a wildlife camera can alert you to any new rodent activity, allowing for prompt intervention.
This Earth Note was written by Diane Hope and produced by KNAU and the Sustainable Communities Program at Northern Arizona University.
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