Types of Traps

There are usually three methods of pest control: traps, baits, and sprays. It usually takes a combined effort of all three of these to control the bugs. Today we are going to go over the first of the three--traps.

Traps are useful in observing bugs. Since most bugs and rodents are most active at night, a person or exterminator will not be able to see the pest. Traps are awesome because it allows us to see what type of pest is in your home or business. Each pest has a different method of treatment. The most important thing in pest control is using the right treatment.

When it comes to traps there are plenty to go around. There are many different types of traps that come in all different sizes. There are traps made specifically for ants, roaches, spiders, rodents, and pretty much all types of pests.

Even with all these different types of traps, they all boil down to two types of traps. Live traps and lethal traps.  Live traps are usually used on larger animals like squirrels, rabbits, opossums, and raccoons. Lethal traps are mainly known for use on mice and rats, but today live traps are becoming more popular and more humane way of controlling rodents.

Live Traps

Live traps used on insects are usually not as sophisticated as live traps used on bigger animals. Insect live traps are usually just sticky traps. Sticky traps are just a paper or cardboard product covered in a very sticky glue substance, catching the insects when they walk over them. This, however does not control the insect population.

Live traps used on larger animals usually have a trap door of some sort and a large room where the animal is to be trapped. This is humane and can relocate animals away from your home. This should be done by professionals on large animals like raccoons and opossums. These animals can be very dangerous and carry diseases. Also, if there are animals in your home, more than likely there will be little babies.

Lethal Traps

Lethal traps have been used since the Dark Ages, especially on rats. Lethal traps are usually only used on small mammals, like moles, mice, and rats. They kill the pest by a mechanical blow. although, this method is highly productive in controlling rodent problems if done correctly. This method does not always instantaneously kill the rodent.

The downfall to lethal traps is that if you catch the wrong animal, it will most likely kill it, and cannot be released like live traps.

When selecting a lethal trap, be sure to know what animal you are trying to capture. The size of the trap is very important. Select the right size for mice, rats, and moles. Use the smallest possible trap pertaining to the right rodent.

Now, the smartest thing to do when setting traps is setting enough and setting them in the right places. Putting down one or two traps will not ensure the capture of rodents, putting down ten or more (depending on size of infestation) has a better chance of doing so. Remember, it may take up to two to three weeks before the traps start to work. Just be patient and check the traps regularly.

Downs Pest Control is family owned and operated pest control company that serves Des Moines and surrounding areas. We are dedicated to helping residents and businesses in Altoona, Ankeny, Bondurant, Carlisle, Clive, Grimes, Johnston, Norwalk, Perry, Urbandale, Waukee, West Des Moines, and Windsor Heights prevent and remove pest infestations. We are dedicated to safety and high quality customer service. Downs Pest Control 50309, 50310, 50311, 50312, 50313, 50314, 50315, 50316, 50317, 50318, 50319, 50320, 50321, 50327, 50391, and 50392