Site-specific factors

A volunteer replaces the lure in a DOC-200 trap
Image: Lauren Schaer ©

Examples of site-specific factors

Risks to non-target species (native and domestic)

• Are there ground-dwelling birds present? Set bait stations and traps above ground level.
• Is the site situated next to an urban area? Limit the risk to domestic animals that might encounter bait or traps.
• If you need to control rats where weka are present use wekasafe baits such as coumatetralyl and racumin. Second-generation anticoagulants such as brodifacoum, Talon, Pestoff, Flocoumafen, Storm, or bromadiolone, can harm weka, even when used in houses.

Time of year

• Is there an abundance of naturally occurring feed? Consider the effect on bait uptake or reschedule your operation.
• Does your target pest species behave differently with the seasons? Consider operating when they’re easiest to target. 

Density of target pests

• Are rat densities high? Use a toxin or self-resetting traps instead of single-trigger traps.
• Do you have a good baiting strategy? Don’t skimp, but don’t waste bait through too-short baiting intervals.

Presence of multiple pest species

• Do you have more than one pest species present? Consider which to target first or find methods to target multiple pests.

Public accessibility of the site

• Does your plan pose a risk to the public’s health and safety? Plan to limit it.
• Is there a risk of people interfering with traps or bait stations? Put safeguards in place.

Skill level of the people involved

• Are group members competent and aware of the risks? Get relevant training and use best practice to avoid making pests bait- or trap-shy or causing suffering. 

Potential for re-invasion from the surrounding area

• Is your site small or skinny, or surrounded by pest-dense areas? Take steps to protect borders.