Can I Shoot Rats on My Property?
WouterYou can shoot rats on your property as a preventative measure. However, you must inform your neighbors about the activity so that they will not be alarmed. It is especially important if you shoot in the night, as neighbors may hear the gunshots. It is also advisable to use poison that is known to repel rats.
Pellet guns are legal in most counties and states. Just make sure to have a backstop such as a wall. Also, it is important to use a low-power airgun to prevent ricochet. You should also use a silencer to avoid spooking the neighbors.
Rats are active in the evenings, so you should go out about an hour before dusk. Once you get to the area, look for the rat’s runs, which will lead to areas where they feed. Some common feeding places are silage clamps, feed stores, and cattle stalls, which are confined in winter.
You may also want to try a trap to catch the rats. Rats are nocturnal, so the best time to set a snap trap is before dusk. You can also check the traps in the morning. It is a good idea to set traps in strategic areas, such as along the rat’s preferred paths. You should also look for tracks, rub marks, and droppings that can indicate the rat’s paths.
Rats are an extremely dangerous pest. They can cause significant damage to property and electrical wires. Not only that, they can carry dangerous diseases. They can also contaminate soil, which can make people and pets sick.
