Reminder to look to non-chemical alternatives to rodenticides

There are steps farmers can take to reduce the risk of a rodent infestation before turning to chemicals.

Traces of rodenticides have been found in kestrels, kites, buzzards, long-eared owls, stoats, and pine martens.

Removal of food and water, and making buildings as rodent-proof as possible, are basic first steps in managing rodents on the farm recommended in a recent Teagasc Signpost podcast.

Rubbish should be cleared away, old machinery and equipment, and unwanted stores of hay and straw should be removed.