Knowledge of rodent behavior is essential to maximize control

By Chris Keefer, technical services manager, Syngenta Professional Pest Management

Rodents are often a huge concern for customers, as they are a public health risk and can cause damage to property. The house mouse (Mus domesticus), the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the roof rat (Rattus rattus) are the three most common rodents in urban environments¹, so it’s imperative to know how to identify and control them².

A proper inspection is the first step to developing an integrated pest management (IPM) plan that will be successful³. When inspecting any property, make sure you have the following items:

• Flashlight
• Mechanic’s mirror
• Screwdriver
• Ladder
• Gloves

You’ll also want a diagram of the interior and exterior of the structure. Use this to create accurate inspection aisles and to identify potentially problematic areas⁴.

Results of a good inspection should provide⁴:

• Extent and severity of infestation
• Identification of rodents on premises
• Location of rodent harborages
• High-activity areas
• Most efficient control strategies

Once the inspection is complete, communicate problems with the customer. Inform them of any sanitation or structural issues that need to be addressed to combat the infestation. Use written documents, photos, diagrams and videos to help illustrate problems and solutions.

Sanitation, exclusion, mechanical control and chemical control can all be used to implement a successful IPM plan⁴. You’ll want to use multiple techniques to eliminate infestations, including glue boards and snap traps. If rodents are discovered and chemical control is necessary, Talon^® Weatherblok^® XT rodenticide from Syngenta can provide effective rodent control. Featuring the active ingredient brodifacoum, Talon Weatherblok XT has a highly palatable formulation and excellent weatherability that can control rodents with a single feeding, even in difficult conditions.

By creating a plan and being knowledgeable about biology, ecology and inspection techniques, you can help keep your customers’ structures rodent-free all year long. For more information about rodent control, contact your local Syngenta territory manager.