Size of hole in box for rat trap

[Dappled 37]

Could anyone please give me a size for the entrance of a box for a rat trap. I have made one with several Victor traps in runs as I have seen one on here previously. 

I cannot find the original thread to check up. The seed is being eaten from around the box but, as yet, nothing has gone in to move or eat any of the various seeds or pastes.

We have cats and a lot of birds in the garden and I do not want to let any in accidently. 

The hole at present is approx 3/4 of an inch.

Would it be safe making it a bit larger?

 

[BEARINATOR 2,916]

About 25 to 30mm for  adult rats  pal 

[Dappled 37]

Thanks Bearinator.  The box has been there for a couple of weeks now so plenty of time I think for them to get used to it.

I'll drill the hole out a bit and see what happens.

 

Thanks

[Franks dad 1,890]

On 08/05/2025 at 21:47, Dappled said:

Thanks Bearinator.  The box has been there for a couple of weeks now so plenty of time I think for them to get used to it.

I'll drill the hole out a bit and see what happens.

 

Thanks

Put one each end mate . They like an escape route and will be more likely to go in if they know they’ve an alternative route out .

[Dappled 37]

Thanks Franks Dad. I'll try that. There has been some activity but nothing like I had expected or wanted. 

Thanks

[Gilbey 1,490]

2 inch hole both ends or 2 inch weld mesh nailed on both ends, decent length so middle is dark to discourage birds

[Dappled 37]

Cheers Gilbey. I can sorta see the hole either end so they can see through. I only started with a small hole so as to keep birds out.

The mesh makes sense. I'll have a look.

Thanks

[mitre 241]

You talking about rats they not stupid they do get suspicious of anything new or something different what's your bait you using they like smelly things fish etc kippers even curry and chocolate they been known to come out for very spicy foods if tempting 

 

[Dappled 37]

Never heard of spicy or chocolate for rats Mitre. 

I have been using Liquorice Allsorts, Bakers dog chews and sunflower seeds. I'll have to get more inventive.

Thanks

[Dappled 37]

I think I have put too much food down, especially outside the box to entice them in. FULL of slugs. Bugger.

[Bosun11 537]

If your using a Fenn, try a mix of peanut butter, chocolate spread and coconut oil, spread it on the underside of the pedal of the trap, if that makes sense. A couple of monkey nuts (dirt cheap) or chopped liquorice allsorts can tempt them in, though the mix underside will do the job

[WataWalloper 3,356]

Garlic mayo is a decent cheap attractant without feeding the neighbourhood haha 

[Dappled 37]

Thanks for the help, I'll try them.

Putting food under the trap makes sense.