ABOVE: Rodent control on poultry farms is a priority as they are vectors of diseases, however it is a challenge in this industry because of the provision of abundant food and nesting sites. Photo: Chris F
In order for control of rodent populations on poultry farms, baits must be constantly monitored and the facilities must be kept in good condition.
Rodent control on poultry farms is a priority as they are vectors of diseases, however it is a challenge in this industry because of the provision of abundant food and nesting sites.
Suggested control practices include:
- Design the houses and farm to be rodent-proof
- Eliminate nesting sites and food sources
- Eradicate existing populations
- Prevent new infestations
- Apply strategies on an ongoing basis.
Rodents are transmitters of diseases, acting as vectors of etiologic agents by carrying them on their legs and body, and are the main carriers of bacteria such as e coli, salmonella, viruses, intestinal worms, mycoplasmas and mites.
These animals eat and contaminate poultry feed.
A colony of 100 rodents can consume approximately one ton of feed per year and contaminate 10 times the amount of feed consumed through their faeces, urine and hair.
In addition, they destroy farm structures by burrowing through insulating material and gnawing through wood and electrical wiring, with the risk of exposed wiring causing a fire.
Proper farm construction and maintenance of the buildings will help to prevent rodents from entering the shed.
To avert rodents from entering the farm, entrances to the shed should not be directly on the ground, with all doors properly fitted so that no holes are left when closed.
It is important to remove vegetation from within 15m around the perimeter of the farm and to not leave equipment, bedding or building materials out of place.
Feed should always be kept in metal hoppers or covered bins and all feed spills should be removed as soon as they occur.
For good rodent control on poultry farms, it is important to prepare an effective baiting plan that includes proper bait station evaluations and records of rodent activity observations.
Based on the approximate size of the rodent population, a determination is made as to which control method is most effective.
Traps should be placed close to walls, behind objects, in dark corners and/or where faeces or gnaw marks are found, both outside and inside the building, and these traps should be checked daily.
The distance between bait stations should be 15-23m and a maximum of 30m.
When preparing bait, gloves should be worn for safety and to prevent stations from being contaminated with human scent.
All bait stations should be checked and replenished with new bait of an alternate active ingredient and attractant at least every four months.
In summary, it is key to implement an effective control program to reduce and eliminate existing rodent populations on the farm.
Routine monitoring and attention to bait stations and the environment for the presence of new rodents should be done daily.
If rodent populations are not reduced as expected, the advice of a professional pest control organisation should be considered.