How do I Choose the Best Rodent Traps?

Dealing with a rodent problem can be a very difficult process. Often, one of the hardest parts of handling a rodent situation involves choosing the best type of rodent trap. In order to choose a good trap, it is important to first consider if a kill or no-kill trap is best. Next, those who are looking for a rodent trap should evaluate the size of the rodent they are trying to trap. In addition, price should be considered before making a final purchase. Rodent traps can range in price quite substantially, depending on the size of the rodent trap, and its individual features.

When choosing between various rodent traps, one of the most important decisions involves what particular type of trap is best. In general, rodent traps are divided into two categories: those that kill the rodents immediately and "live traps," which allow the rodents to be captured and later released outside. While live traps are often considered to be more humane, they can be just as deadly if the trapped animals are not dealt with soon after capture. In fact, forcing a rodent to remain in a confined space without food or water can be even more harmful than being killed immediately in the more traditional rodent traps.

Those who are looking for rodent traps will also want to consider what type of rodent they are trying to trap. For best results, the size of the trap must be considered carefully, as traps that are either too large or too small can prove to be ineffective. Most commercially sold rodent traps will contain guidelines on which types of rodents they are best suited for. Those who have a rodent problem should first identify the type — or at least size — of the rodent they are dealing with in order to choose an appropriate trap.

Price should also be considered when it comes to selecting rodent traps. While the price of a rodent trap should not be the sole factor on which a purchase is made, it should be kept in consideration. The prices of rodent traps can vary quite substantially depending on individual features, such as the number of rodents that can be killed or trapped, and the manner in which they are killed or trapped. Most rodent traps can be found at home improvement stores, though in some cases they can also be purchased at farm equipment retailers, hunting suppliers, and other retailers.