Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
mans, livestock, or pets are threatened. Water snakes and turtles may cause
disruption or harm in fish hatcheries or waterfowl nesting reserves.
A.
CONTROLLING VERTEBRATES
As in insect pest control, techniques for control of vertebrate pests depend
on whether the pest problem is indoors or outdoors.
Indoor vertebrate pest control usually is aimed at preventing pest entrance
and eradicating pest infestations. Nearly all indoor vertebrate pests are rodents,
but others, such as bats, birds, and raccoons, also may require control.
Outdoors, the strategy usually is to suppress the pest population to a
level where the damage or injury is economically acceptable.
Local and state laws may prohibit the killing or trapping of some animals
such as birds, coyotes, muskrats, and beavers without special permits. Al-
ways check with local authorities before beginning a control program.
1. Vertebrate Control Strategy
Methods of vertebrate pest control include:
•
mechanical control
•
sanitation
•
chemical control.
a.
Mechanical Control
Mechanical control methods for vertebrate pests include traps, barriers,
gunning, attractants, and repellents.
Traps
—Traps are sometimes desirable in vertebrate pest control.
Leg-hold traps
have been used traditionally, but such traps are nonselective and
may injure nontarget animals. Traps which quickly kill only target pests are
more desirable. Traps should be checked daily to maintain their effectiveness.
Barriers
—Barriers are designed to prevent pests from passing. These in-
clude fences, screens, and other barriers which cover openings, stop tunneling,
and prevent gnawing. Materials used include sheet metal, hardware, cloth,
concrete, asbestos board, and similar materials. This kind of approach is espe-
cially effective in control of rodents, bats, and birds in structures.
