What is the main purpose of prebating in pest control?

The main purpose of prebating in pest control is to get the rats accustomed to feeding on a certain food. This technique involves placing bait in areas where the pests are likely to feed, without using any lethal control methods initially. By doing this, the rats become familiar with the bait, which increases the likelihood that they will consume it when it is treated with a poison. This method is particularly effective because it taps into the natural behavior of rats, making them more likely to return to the bait source when they become accustomed to it.

This process can significantly enhance the effectiveness of subsequent control measures, as the pests are already drawn to the bait's location. Therefore, establishing a feeding pattern through prebating can lead to more successful pest management outcomes.