Rodents

Introduction

Council offers a free weekly rat baiting service to residents. Baits are laid by a contractor, in house roof cavities only where access to the roof cavity is possible. Call the free call number 1800 633 545 or contact us via our online feedback form, via email or call us on ph: 08 8397 7444. 

Preventing Rat Breeding

The two main ways of getting rid of rats or mice are poison baits and traps, which can be purchased from a hardware store. Place the baits or traps in areas where rodents have been seen.

You can discourage rats from your property by denying them food and shelter.

Do not pile wood on the ground or against sheds or fences. Stack it well clear of the ground to prevent rats burrowing underneath, hiding and breeding.

Do not allow junk or garden waste to collect in or around your yard. Keep your yard clean and tidy.

Strip fruit and nuts from trees or vines at the end of the season. Do not allow ripe fruit to rot on the ground as this provides a food source.

Keep your aviaries or poultry coops clean and tidy. Block access points and do not leave food scraps or grain laying around. Only leave enough food for each day. Store grains in containers with tight fitting lids to prevent rats accessing contents. 

How can you tell if rodents are around?

Droppings - mostly found in roof voids, near shelters, feeding areas and along runways.

Runways - usually along pipes, behind or beneath cupboards or furniture and along walls.

Tracks - seen on dusty surfaces or on spilt food such as cereal products.

Damage - caused by gnawing, may include food and food packages, kitchen cupboards, bottom of doors, electrical wire, paper, plastic and cloth.

Burrows - these are easily found along external walls, beneath stacks of building materials, under out-buildings and concrete pavements.

Noise - thumping, scraping or squealing from wall cavities or the ceiling.

Seeing them - rodents are not often seen as they are mostly active at night.