Electronic rat-control devices – solution or scam? Results of field trials and a summary of the literary data

Abstract

The electronic rat-control devices are humane means of controlling harmful rodents without toxic substances. They are relatively inexpensive and very easy to use and have gained increasing popularity in recent years. Although they have been introduced long ago in the practice of deratization, scientific information about their real effectiveness is scarce and at the same time very controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the repellent efficiency of an electronic device using the combined action of ultrasonic waves, light signals, and electromagnetic field change in practice. Two field trials were carried out on a cattle-breeding farm and a feed warehouse inhabited by brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) and roof rats (Rattus rattus). Repellent efficacy was determined by comparing the indicators evaluating the presence and activity of rodents during the pre-testing period before the inclusion of the device and after its activation during the test period. A lack of repellent effect was found in both field studies. The results obtained are supported by an analysis of the scientific literature confirming the inadequate effectiveness of electronic rat control devices in practical conditions. Emphasis is placed on the deficiencies and the need for regulatory adjustments governing the control and admission of electronic devices to control rats on the market.