There seems to be a pile of folks that are trapping rats and mice. This is a good thing due to the fact that they are very, very tough creatures. Check out the link about “Rat Island”. It makes no difference if you are using glue boards, spring traps or any other kind of “certain death” devise. I am quite fond of this approach with these kind of critters and it is far safer than poisons and so much cheaper. A 2-pack of elephant (large) glue boards is about $16.00 and they are our high end ones.
With snap traps the question of “what bait to use” has been debated for centuries with no clear answer that has yet to be determined. It sounds cliché but cheese should always be on the top of the list, with string cheese taking the top spot. Reese’s’ peanut butter cups, dry dog food and nuts (peanuts, walnuts, etc.) are also some of the top contenders. Rats will eat almost anything, so the bait type is up to you. Try baiting the trap without setting it. Once they get use to dining at that location, then set the trap. Most folks don’t use bait on a glue board, but some do with good results. Place a glue board at entry or exit points. Once a critter is stuck to a glue board, toss the glue board in the trash with pliers and not the salad tongs.
It bothers me that some folks want to trap them alive and relocate them. I understand the mindset, but remember that the rats and mice would not give you the same consideration. Relocating a rat is just turning it into someone else’s problem.
