b. If immature insects are exposed to synthesized hormones before they are
physiologically ready, they either do not molt or are sterile when they develop into
adults.
Section VI. RODENTICIDES
6-19. GENERAL
The rodenticides selected for the military supply system provide adequate rodent control
under a wide range of conditions. These compounds are used mostly as poisons in
food baits or in water solutions. Since the success of any poisoning program depends
upon the rodent accepting the bait, care should be given to its selection. Acceptable
bait material will vary depending upon the preferences of the species or population of
rodents being controlled. Test foods may be selected from each of the following types:
a. Cereals. (Foods such as, cornmeal, bread, oatmeal, whole grains, poultry
mash.)
b. Proteins and Fats. (Foods such as, meats, fish, cooking grease, peanut
butter.)
c. Fruits and Vegetables (melons, sweet potatoes, coconuts, bananas).
Raw products native to the control area may be more acceptable to the rodents than
unfamiliar foods.. Generally, rodents avoid acid fruits and vegetables such as citrus and
tomatoes. Moldy and rotten food is also avoided.
6-20. ANTICOAGULANTS AND BAITS
a. Anticoagulants in Rodenticides. These rodenticides contain chemicals that
cause internal bleeding by reducing the clotting ability of the blood. Since
anticoagulants affect all warm-blooded animals by preventing the clotting of blood,
precautions should be taken to prevent humans, domestic animals, and pets from
eating baits containing anticoagulants.
b. Effects of Anticoagulant Pesticides. Pesticides containing anticoagulants
are stable, and are odorless and tasteless to rodents in the concentrations used. A
single feeding on bait containing an anticoagulant at the recommended concentration is
not sufficient to cause death. Food baits or water solutions must be consumed over a
period of several days. Bait should be placed in a bait station or in a place that offers
the rodent a protected feeding place and protects the bait from domestic animals and
the weather.
c. Life of Bait. Spoiling of bait material will depend on the type of food used
and on climate conditions. Dry cereal baits remain in good condition much longer than
MD0152
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