The Farmers Mart Jun/Jul 2014 - Issue 34 | Page 37

ARABLE Step-up summer rat control in high pressure season Many more cattle and sheep producers should be nipping serious winter rat infestations in the bud this season by baiting around forage stores at the first signs of rodent activity over the summer, believes BASF rural hygiene specialist, Charlie Ives. This will be especially important with population pressures likely to be bolstered by the large number of rats escaping farm control by staying outside and continuing to breed in last winter’s exceptionally mild conditions. “Our latest national farm rodent control study shows an average 24% of beef and sheep producers and 21% of dairymen used rat bait last May, June or July,” Mr Ives noted. “The fact that this was noticeably down on the 30%-plus employing summer baiting in 2011, though, suggests a growing number of farms are missing an important trick in keeping on top of rat problems; something that would be very damaging in a high pressure year.” He points out that warm, weatherproof forage stores are ideal nesting sites – they can be occupied almost immediately they’re filled and provide just the secure, relatively undisturbed accommodation rats need to entrench themselves ahead of winter. With up to eight young produced by each female every six to eight weeks under favourable conditions, he has no doubt that leaving big bale stacks and hay barns unprotected can be a recipe for major winter rat problems. “A small amount of rat control effort in summer months could save no end of time, trouble and expense later on. All you need to do is install baiting points around your big bale and hay stacks as you fill them and use a highly palatable rodenticide in them at the first signs of rat activity.” With its patented Fortec foraging grain technology proven to boost the speed and reliability of control, Charlie’s first choice of bait for summer use is Neosorexa Gold in the form of handy Rat Packs keeping it fresh to be consumed as rat populations rise. He considers these packs ideal for placing strategically within big bale stacks to intercept arriving rodents attracted by their combination of warmth, darkness and security. They are also particularly easy and convenient to use, and especially valuable when relatively small amounts of bait are required – often the case in summer and early autumn. “This season it will be important to check your baiting points every two or three weeks,” added Charlie. “Rat numbers can build-up very rapidly even though you may not see them. So keeping your bait topped-up will be vital to make sure every individual can consume a lethal dose.” Neosorexa Gold ® Ratpacks The UK’s No1 ratpacks with Fortec technology for increased bait consumption TM Multi-purpose, cut wheat bait sachets for effective and consistent control With Fortec technology for increased bait consumption A lethal dose consumed within just one day Proven superior performance to ordinary baits Enabling the most effective solutions to your pest problems. BASF Plc, Pest Control Solutions, PO Box 4, Earl Rd, Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 6QG www.pestcontrol.basf.co.uk Tel: [phone] email: [email protected] Neosorexa® Gold contains difenacoum. Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use. Neosorexa® is a registered trademark of BASF. DS204 - Neosorexa Ratpacks advert 180,6 x 121,8.indd 1 To read more, visit www.farmers-mart.co.uk 30/05/2014 11:00:53 FarmersMart Jun/Jul 2014 37