Cyclone Aftermath: Combatting the Surge in Rats with Ratabate Paste & Bait Stations
After the recent cyclone swept through parts of New Zealand, many communities are now facing a different kind of clean-up challenge: a sharp rise in rodent activity. With disrupted habitats, an abundance of food scraps, and damaged buildings providing easy entry points, rats are on the move — and fast. At Connovation, we know that managing a sudden influx of rats takes more than just standard trapping methods. That’s where Ratabate Paste and our range of bait stations come into play.
Why Rodent Activity Spikes After Cyclones
Severe weather events like cyclones tend to disturb rodent nesting areas, pushing rats into urban and rural homes and buildings in search of food and shelter. Increased moisture can spoil natural food sources and displace pests, making your property the next logical stop for a hungry rat.
You might already be hearing more night-time scuttling or seeing droppings and gnawed packaging — all telltale signs that it’s time to act.
Meet the Solution: Ratabate Paste
Ratabate Paste is a highly palatable, ready-to-use rodenticide that’s been designed for both professional and everyday use. Made with a unique blend of attractants and a first generation anticoagulant toxin, Diphacinone, it’s proven to be highly effective in both indoor and outdoor settings — even during post-cyclone conditions.
Key Benefits of Ratabate Paste:
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Highly palatable: Even rats with access to other food sources are drawn to it.
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Easy to apply: Comes in a convenient paste formation for use in bait stations or targeted placement.
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Low risk to non-target species when used as directed in bait stations.
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Weather-resilient: Remains effective even in humid or damp environments post-cyclone.
TIP: If you're wondering how much Ratabate Paste to apply, start by monitoring activity levels. A higher-than-usual uptake in the first few days means you're dealing with a larger population. Adjust accordingly.
The Role of Bait Stations
While placing bait loose around your property might seem quick and easy, it’s not safe or effective long-term — especially if children, pets, or wildlife are nearby. That’s why bait stations are essential.
Why Use Bait Stations:
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Safety first: Keeps bait contained and away from non-target animals.
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Weatherproofing: Protects bait from rain and humidity, especially crucial after a storm.
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Targeted design: Encourages rodents to feed in a secure and familiar environment.
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Monitoring made easy: Helps you assess how much bait is being consumed so you can adjust treatment levels.
Connovation offers a range of bait stations designed to suit various environments — whether you’re protecting a shed, home, rural property, or commercial building.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Post-cyclone conditions mean food scraps and spoiled waste can compete with bait. If you’re finding that rats aren’t eating the bait, consider:
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Switching placement: Ensure bait stations are along known travel paths — close to walls, fences, or entry points.
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Reducing competing food sources: Secure your rubbish and compost piles.
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Changing bait types or presentation: Rats can be neophobic (afraid of new things), so persist if they don’t take bait right away.
Next Steps: Act Quickly
Rodent populations can explode rapidly when conditions are favourable — and after a cyclone, that’s exactly what we’re seeing. A well-executed plan using Ratabate Paste in strategically placed bait stations gives you a head start in the fight.
At Connovation, we're here to support effective, environmentally responsible rodent control. Reach out if you need help selecting the right products for your property or situation.
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