PPC115 | Ask the technical team

Ladybirds, Badgers, CEPA certifications and rat traps for squirrels all feature in this issue of Ask the BPCA technical team. 

Can I use rat traps for squirrels?

No. The Small Ground Vermin Traps Order, 1958, addressing break-back traps commonly used for the destruction of rats, mice or other small ground vermin states: “The traps referred to in the Schedule to this Order are hereby specified as being adapted solely for the destruction of rats, mice or other small ground vermin.” 

Common snap traps are developed and sold for rats and mice, not squirrels. The right traps to use for squirrel control are those permitted under the Spring Trap Approval Order for your nation. 

The Order lists those traps authorised for species specific pests and the conditions associated with them. For most traps, the Order also states “The trap must be set in a natural or artificial tunnel which is, in either case, suitable for the purpose.” Always be up-to-date with which traps are suitable and how to use them properly.

I don’t want to continue with CEPA certification. Is my BPCA assessment enough?

In pest management, any certification to a body is a business and professional decision that you need to make, considering all the benefits that the certification/membership provides you. 

CEPA certification can offer a key rung in the ladder towards successful tender applications but BPCA membership can also provide that. All BPCA members are actually assessed to the principles of the BS EN 16636 Standard (which is the same standard CEPA use) and we also provide the necessary support to complement this assessment.

What should I advise customers when they call about ladybirds?

Ladybirds only really cause a nuisance issue within homes around early spring and with the onset of autumn. Customers will notice them when they are entering and exiting hibernation. If a customer experiences high numbers that cause concern, simply vacuuming up the visible adults can form a good part of the control work.

Proactive proofing, during summer, to cracks and crevices around windows can help deter the reappearance of ladybirds, but this can only have limited effect as some gaps may not be sealable.

There may be insecticides approved under the term crawling insect but be sure to first check with the manufacturer or supplier and always consider the lowest hazard product.

What’s best for badger proofing?

Badgers and their setts (tunnels and chambers where they live) are protected by law and only when you have applied for a licence can you work directly with badgers and their setts. 

Remember that you must not damage, destroy or block access to their setts or disturb badgers in setts. Any proofing considerations have to take this into account. If you think badgers are causing damage to property or land then you may be able to solve the problem without getting a licence.

For example, you could:

• Use fences (including electric fences) to stop badgers from entering your land, provided this doesn’t block access to the sett
• Add two-way gates to fences so badgers don’t damage them.

Who you gonna call?

The members of our technical team are happy to come out to visit sites with BPCA members who are struggling with a tough infestation and need hands-on advice. Get in touch!

Are you a BPCA member with a technical question? Get in touch...

technical@bpca.org.uk
01332 294 288
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