Choosing Bait Stations

Here’s a quick guide to help you select the best option for different areas around your home in Tamahere.

Hard-to-Reach Areas: Gullies and Steep River Banks

Two Philproof bait stations: the smaller ‘mini’ holds 800g of bait—ideal for tight spots and most pest control needs—while the larger one, with its 1.5kg capacity, is perfect if wanting to use possum bait too Image - Credit G Duffy

For tricky spots like gullies and steep riverbanks, Philproof Bait Stations are ideal. They’re sturdy, weather-resistant, and designed to be securely attached to trees or posts in challenging conditions. Their tamper-proof lids keep bait safe from non-target wildlife. Mount the station off the ground to keep the bait dry; if its near the base of a tree, add a ramp (like a stick) or a piece of rope to make it easier for rodents to access. If its up on a branch, make sure you can safely reach it for refills.

We also use some donated Oska Pied Piper Bait Stations, which are durable and easy to set up. While these don't hold as much bait as the larger Philproof stations and aren't as versatile in terms of securing up in trees, they do double as a tracking tunnel! Both options are excellent for keeping bait dry and hence effective, even in New Zealand’s unpredictable weather.

Gardens, Backyards, and Sheds

SX-1 rodent lockable bait station

Philproof Clearview

In more accessible areas like gardens, backyards, and sheds, the SX-1 Bait Station and Philproof Clearview are ideal. The SX-1 is compact, key-locked, and ideal for places accessible by pets or kids; it keeps the bait secure and out of reach. The Philproof Clearview is tamper-proof and allows you to check bait levels without opening the station—a perfect choice for those of us who might have misplaced our bait station keys! Both are durable and discreet, making them suitable for placing near compost bins, garden sheds, or along fence lines.

Roof Spaces and Indoor Areas

For roof spaces and other indoor spots, a DIY approach works well: secure bait on a nail or wire, or place it in an ice-cream container with a C-shaped entrance cut in the corner. Securing the bait ensures it’s eaten where placed, rather than being moved & stored by rodents. Position the container or secured bait along beams or near insulation.

Best Practices for Effective Control

To avoid predators adapting to your pest control methods, use a mix of bait types and trapping over time. In areas with high rodent populations, bait stations often work better than traps for reducing numbers quickly. Outdoors, space your bait stations every 50 meters (about four per hectare) and keep grass controlled at least one meter from entrances to reduce moisture and prevent bait from becoming mouldy.

Opt for Pindone pellets or Ditrac (dipahacinone) over Contrac or Pestoff to lower the risk of secondary poisoning and environmental build-up. Don’t forget to place possum traps at gully or bush bait station sites, as possums can consume large amounts of bait if they get access to it.

Where to Buy

You can find these bait stations at Mitre 10, Farmlands, and pest control suppliers like Gary Duffy at Philproof in Newstead (order on-line, contact him about pick-up options).