By Rural Fencing & Irrigation Supplies

02/14/2025 Dealing with rats in and around the home is a common issue in Australia. Rats can quickly become a nuisance, causing damage to property, contaminating food, and spreading disease. One effective and affordable solution to this problem is creating a DIY rat trap. With the right materials and a bit of know-how, a homemade rat trap can help keep these pests at bay without using chemicals or expensive devices. Here's how to build a straightforward, efficient rat trap using vermin mesh and a few basic supplies.

Materials Needed for a DIY Rat Trap

To start, you'll need the following items:

• 
  Vermin mesh: This is the primary material for creating the trap's structure. Vermin mesh is durable and small enough to prevent rats from slipping through. It's easy to work with and provides the perfect base for a secure trap.


• 
  Welded mesh: Using welded mesh alongside vermin mesh perth adds extra strength, especially if the trap needs to be placed in an area where it might encounter rough conditions.


• 
  Wire cutters


• 
  Cable ties or thin wire for securing the mesh


• 
  A bait (such as peanut butter or cheese)


• 
  A sturdy base (like a piece of wood) to support the trap structure


• 
  A door or flap mechanism (can be created from leftover mesh)

Building the Trap Structure

1. 
   Prepare the Frame: Using the vermin mesh, create a rectangular frame large enough to fit a rat but compact enough to keep it from escaping. Cut two equal-sized pieces for the top and bottom, and two narrower pieces for the sides. A size of around 30 cm long by 15 cm wide and 15 cm high generally works well.


2. 
   Secure the Frame: Attach each piece using cable ties or thin wire. Make sure the edges are securely tied to prevent any gaps. For additional durability, reinforce areas where the edges meet with welded mesh. This extra layer will prevent chewing and any attempts by the rat to break free once trapped.


3. 
   Add the Entry Door: For the trap to work effectively, create a door that acts as a one-way entry. Cut a smaller piece of mesh and secure it to the top of the trap, positioning it so that it can easily swing inward when the rat enters but won't open outward, preventing escape.


4. 
   Set the Bait: Place the bait at the far end of the trap, opposite the door. Peanut butter tends to work well because of its strong smell and sticky texture, making it harder for the rat to grab and leave quickly.

Choosing a Location for the Trap

Placing the trap in an area where rats are frequently seen or where they might be nesting will increase the chances of catching one. Common spots include near rubbish bins, along walls, or in basements and sheds. Make sure the trap is on a stable surface to prevent it from tipping over and keep it out of reach of pets.

Safety Tips and Precautions

When handling rats, even in a DIY trap, it's essential to use gloves and take care to avoid direct contact, as they can carry diseases. Once a rat is captured, release it far from the home, preferably in a natural area, or contact local pest control if needed.

While vermin mesh is highly effective in constructing rat traps, using chainwire fencing around the property adds an extra layer of protection. This fencing keeps larger animals out and helps prevent rats from accessing certain areas in the first place.

Wrapping Up

Creating a DIY rat trap from vermin mesh is a straightforward, cost-effective way to manage rat problems. By building a custom trap, you can avoid harmful chemicals, keep your environment safe, and manage pests naturally. With a little time and the right materials, your homemade trap will offer a reliable solution for dealing with rats around your property.