Inefficacy of Cement and Cellulose-Based Baits as Rodenticides against Synanthropic Rodents in Subtropical Climatic Zone

Effective management of synanthropic rodent pests using natural, eco-friendly materials instead of chemical rodenticides represents a vital advancement in integrated pest management strategies. The present study evaluated the potential of cement- and cellulose-based baits as rodenticides under both controlled laboratory and field conditions. Various bait formulations were tested, including chapatti pieces coated with cement, wheat flour mixed with cement in varying proportions (4:1, 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2), only cement, and cereal-based baits containing 25% and 50% cellulose powder. These were offered to Bandicota bengalensis and Rattus rattus in no-choice and bi-choice feeding trials. Despite significant bait consumption, the rats exhibited no mortality, maintained normal activity levels, and showed no deviation in their water intake. Residues of both cement and cellulose were evident in their feces. Field trials further reinforced these findings. Placement of cement-coated chapatti pieces near active burrows of B. bengalensis in sugarcane fields failed to produce any reduction in burrow activity or signs of toxicity, despite evident bait consumption. This study provides conclusive evidence that cement- and cellulose-based baits are ineffective as rodenticides. These findings underscore the critical need for continued research to explore and develop effective, environmentally safe alternatives to chemical rodenticides for sustainable rodent pest management.