This page is intended as a basic help for local community members in setting traps for possum and rats and for poisons use. The information is provided as a general guide, and is by no means extensive and is specific to experience gained in our area. The DoC and Northland Regional Council sites (refer to Sponsors and Links page) have comprehensive trapping information.
Pest Control Guidelines for Northland from NZ Landcare Trust - click to download.
Possum Control from Northland Regional Council - click to download.
DOCskillable "how-to" video training resource - click to view on YouTube
Traps
Possum
The most used trap for members of the public is the Timms Trap. This is easily set and is baited with fruit and a lure. The most popular fruits are apple and lemon. You do not have to use a complete fruit, for instance a third of an reasonable size apple is fine. Lures are used to attract the possum by scent, curry powder mixed with flour is frequently used. Cinnamon, oil of cloves, and almond oil are also reported to be effective and it is advised to vary the use of any particular bait or lure so as to appeal to as wide a population of possums as possible.Rat
There are a variety of specific rat traps available, most work effectively. Fenn traps are also an effective means of rat trapping but are recommended for more specialist handling. It is a good idea to place the trap in a box to protect birds, in particular kiwi from accessing the trap.
The pictures below are to show a box produced by the trust for our use. This can be easily manufactured at home with some suitable wood, plastic tracking and wire mesh. The box is 15cm wide by 17cm deep by 35cm long. The hole for the rat entrance is 5cm by 5cm square. The trap is then placed as far to the back of the box as possible.
Poisons
Possum
There are a variety of poisons available in pelleted form. Pestoff and Pindone are two of the most popular. Care must be taken with pellets and they should be placed in bait stations to minimise the chance of access by non target species.Rat
The information above with regard to possum poisoning applies to rats also. In addition bait blocks are available which can be placed securely in a bait station to ensure the bait is not taken away. This encourages the rat to eat the bait immediately, rather than store and possibly waste it. Bait stations can be constructed from novapiping, placing a pin halfway through the pipe to hold the bait block. In addition there are several commercial plastic bait stations available.