Start where you have seen rats or where they are likely to be active, such as near rubbish and compost bins.

Rats tend to avoid open areas and prefer cover. You may have more success by putting your trap in a sheltered area or along a fence line, hedge or building.

Ensure the ground is stable and flat, and check to make sure vegetation isn’t blocking the back or front grates.

What to use as bait

Rodents love energy-rich foods high in fat and sugar. Try using peanut butter, cheese, chocolate, hazelnut spread, jam, or nuts (such as almonds, peanuts or walnuts). Animal fat such as bits of bacon fat are another option.

Rats are naturally suspicious of new food sources. You can bait your trap then leave it unset for a few days to help them associate the trap as a good food source. Put some free bait at the entrance of the trap to invite them in.

If you aren’t getting catches in your trap, experiment using different types of baits.

How to set your trap

Fill the ‘bait trough’ on the yellow treadle plate with your chosen bait.

Move the arm bar to the rear of the trap then pull the kill bar back and hold down with your thumbs.