Press Release – Tomcat tamper-resistant rodent bait stations

Tomcat tamper-resistant rodent bait stations

Rural Business May 2018 – Rodent pest control market insight

A highly-effective, rodent-control program is possible with baits secured inside tamper-resistant bait stations – for increased human and non-target animal safety, and to protect baits against the elements.

A complete line of tamper-resistant bait stations is available with the Tomcat range of rodenticides, distributed exclusively by Barmac into the Australian agricultural retail market.

Barmac technical support and product development officer Chris Poletto said the cleverly-designed, secure bait stations – from small mouse stations to larger rat stations – securely held the distinctive cog-shaped Tomcat bait blox, away from children, pets, livestock and wildlife.

“Some are lockable with a key, making them even safer.”

He said the heavy-duty plastic-polymer Tomcat bait stations were rigid and strongly built to extend their field life in extreme environmental conditions; they have a durable one-piece-construction hinge; and contain bait-securing rods to increase tamper resistance.

“The bait stations can be secured in position with screws, via screw holes in the back and/or bottom.

“Designed, developed and tested by Bell Laboratories according to the most rigorous standards, the stations provide the highest level of bait security.”

Highest-security bait station on the market

Mr Poletto said the biggest seller was the LP (low profile) bait station, a Tier 1 product – the highest security and quality rating provided by the USA EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

“Tier 1 certification required rigorous testing to demonstrate the bait station’s resistance to the vigorous tampering efforts of children and dogs.

“The LP stations were tested by at least 50 children to ensure they were unable to open the station and access the (placebo) bait inside. The stations were also tested against the strength of dog jaws, with tester dogs unable to access the baits in spite of up to 2 hours effort.”

Bell modifications to the LP station contributing to this top safety rating included a top rib to hold the bait in place and increase shake resistance; locating all bait rods in one row; a blocking rib either side of the access hallway; and small walls on each side of the opening to narrow potential bait access from the side opening.

Small bait station for mice

Mr Poletto said the smallest Tomcat bait station had a patented design leading mice directly to the bait inside; bait post and bait chamber walls holding the bait securely in the station; the ability to be locked; and compact size to fit in corners and places where mice travel.

“Mice are nibblers so place several stations in their runway to allow them to snack as they move along.

Barmac Tomcat Shield

“We have also just released a new bait station – Tomcat Shield, carrying the Barmac logo.

“This compact station is the most economical in the Tomcat range, but still secure with a push-key opening system for quick, convenient servicing. Bait rods secure up to 3 x 28g bait blox.

“Barmac will shortly release a video showing how to set up and use Tomcat Shield, which will be available via our website and Youtube.”

Loading Tomcat bait blox

He said the bait-station rods can be quickly and securely loaded with Tomcat baits after unlocking and opening the lids of stations.

“The baits are a rectangular cog-like shape, giving rodents multiple gnawing points for increased feeding. For many years Tomcat, formulated by Bell Laboratories, has shown superior palatability and effectiveness compared with other baits.”

He advised for heavy infestations to start with Tomcat II (Red), then once the population was reduced, to continue with Tomcat (Green) to kill the occasional rodent and maximise non-target animal safety.

“Tomcat (Green) baits with active-ingredient Bromadiolone hold up well in adverse, moist conditions and are highly effective, including against Warfarin-resistant rodents. Tomcat (Green) is the recommended product for use around homes and near other animals, with its lower toxicity to non-target animals and pets.

“However, if Tomcat (Green) baits are continually being eaten over a period of weeks, a high population is likely, and the more powerful Tomcat II (Red) is recommended to bring the population under control faster. Tomcat II (Red) baits contain Brodifacoum – the strongest single-feeding anticoagulant.”

Mapping, records, monitoring and servicing

Barmac recommends mapping and recording bait station placement, plus regular monitoring and servicing of baits.

“Check baits every week (more often with high populations) to determine activity; to ensure baits are replaced as soon as they are eaten; and to record all details – including dates checked and when fresh bait has been added.”