Rats attacking 4wk old ducklings

[ADuckOnQuack]

I’ve had one duckling die due to a rat attack, shooting the rats is the obvious answer but the area the ducks are in isn’t a ideal spot. I’ve tried trapping rats but not successfully, i use live cage traps as we have dogs so it’s the safest way, many times the rats have set the trap off took the bait and somehow got out. I have used spring traps in tunnels before but they don’t seem interested. Just wondering how you guys control rats quickly and easily. Thanks in advance

 

[MelissaRose]

I am not a big fan of killing rats but that might change if I lost a duckling to one,
I have two cats but they don't like rats but different cats like different things.
I have poisoned rats and mice,and you have to do it for a while but it works,the reasons I don't like to poison them are that 1. It is a painful way for them to die2. There's poison around for other animals to eat

 

[JurassicBawk]

This thread I've been watching may be of help to you:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/help-rat-infestation.1236657/

 

[Howard E]

Your survey is an excellent idea, but you need to add a 6th category.......poison bait blocks........which when combined with other tactics like eliminating sources of food, water and shelter for rats, are likely to achieve better results than all the other methods combined.

 

[GldnValleyHens]

I would be so mad if a rat killed my duckling! So sorry that happened!