Rodent numbers can fluctuate according to a number of factors, including the season.

Rats can pose a risk to human health as they carry parasites and can play a role in the transmission of serious diseases.

The following measures may help to minimise the likelihood of harbouring rats:

  • Store firewood away from the sides of sheds and fences and keep it off the ground
  • Keep your yard clean and tidy
  • Remove fruits and vegetables from trees/brushes/vines as they ripen
  • Block all potential access points around the building
  • Keep pet food dishes clean and keep pet food containers sealed.

If there are a large number of rats/rodents on your property then you may consider using baits in addition to the methods listed above.

First make sure that the animals are introduced rats or mice, and not protected native animals. People can sometimes mistake young quenda (bandicoots) for rats.

Using baits that contain Warfarin, Coumatetralyl, Diphacinone and sodium chloride (salt) as the active ingredient will reduce the risk of secondary poisoning. This makes it less likely that pets, or native animals like lizards and owls, who eat the poisoned rodents will become sick or die.

For more information on how you can protect your health and keep rats and mice under control, visit the Department of Health website.

For more information about owl friendly pest control, visit the Shire's Local Native Birds page.