Subject: [Tweeters] rat control
Date: Dec 4 18:12:34 2007
From: Angela Percival - angela at stillwatersci.com


One needs to consider the factors limiting a species' population if one is concerned with increasing or decreasing their numbers. Norway rats are probably like coyotes, increasing reproduction and immigration where they are being trapped/poisoned. Their populations are likely primarily controlled through intraspecific competition; therefore, trapping and poisoning do nothing to control the populations of rats in your yard.

As explained in this link, only "Permanent reduction of one or more vital factors (food, water, or harborage) in the block will result in a permanent reduction in the rodent population."
http://www.co.brown.wi.us/health/rodent_control-prevention.htm

I share this because I accidentally became a rat lover a couple of years ago and now share my home with six members of the species. They are fascinating and extremely affectionate and interactive pets. They play, dream, laugh, and show evidence of metacognition, as scientists are beginning to find out. Just as cat lovers wince when reading about feral cat control, it is sad for me to read about them being poisoned and dying a slow painful death. Please use the large snap traps if you must, but know that it probably doesn't do anything to reduce their numbers.

Angela in Olympia
With friends Summer, Bug, Snowy, Cecil, Oryx, and Dax
Angela at stillwatersci dot com

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