Rethinking Rodent Control: Towards A More Animal Friendly Approach

Nuisance caused by rats and mice is typically addressed through lethal control methods. However, this approach raises significant ethical concerns, as it adversely affects the welfare of both target and non-target species. Moreover, such measures are often ineffective if the underlying causes of the nuisance are not properly addressed. Without implementing preventative strategies to mitigate rodent presence, the issue remains unresolved. Future rodent management strategies can adopt another approach, one that is focussed on preventing conflicts from arising and one that is future proof, promotes co-existence and resonates with modern approached to animal welfare. Recent advancements in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Netherlands highlight a shift towards prevention as a fundamental component of rodent control. Nevertheless, there is potential for further enhancement of animal welfare in the management of commensal rodents. This paper proposes a series of recommendations aimed at fostering a more animal friendly approach to rodent control.