An integrated pest management approach to roof rat control in oceanfront riprap, Ventura County, California

During the summer months of 1979, public agencies in Ventura County, CA, received complaints which pointed to a rodent infestation of campground areas along the north coastal strip. Investigations revealed a widespread infestation of oceanfront riprap by roof rats (Rattus rattus). Visual surveillance, trapping, baiting and population-estimating techniques and results are described and discussed. Implementation of integrated pest management practices resulted in the reduction of rat populations to a no-complaint level and provided a framework for a long-term maintenance program