The Shire is assisting residents experiencing increased mouse and rat activity by providing Racumin® rodent bait bags for domestic use.

Racumin contains coumatetralyl, a first-generation anticoagulant commonly used for rodent control. Compared with many stronger second-generation products, it presents a reduced risk of secondary poisoning to pets and wildlife when used correctly.

Unlike instant-kill products, Racumin works gradually. Rodents will often feed multiple times before the bait takes effect, with results generally seen within several days.

Important Safety Information

To help protect pets, livestock and native wildlife, bait must only be placed in secure locations that cannot be accessed by non-target animals.

Suitable bait locations may include:

• Ceiling or roof cavities
• Enclosed areas underneath homes
• Storage cupboards out of reach of animals
• Behind fridges, freezers or other large appliances
• Garages, sheds and storerooms
• Along internal walls or sheltered areas where rodent activity has been noticed
• High shelves, rafters or beams

Residents without bait stations are encouraged to:

• Place bait inside a sturdy box with small access holes for rodents only; or
• Hide bait sachets behind fixed objects where pets and wildlife cannot reach them

Using the Bait

• Leave sachets sealed as rodents will chew through the packet.
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling bait.
• Check bait regularly and replace sachets if they have been eaten or damaged.
• Continue treatment until rodent activity stops.
• Recommended spacing
• Mice: approximately every 3 metres
• Rats: approximately every 9 metres

Protecting Pets and Wildlife

Although Racumin has a lower secondary poisoning risk than some other rodenticides, it can still be dangerous to pets, birds and wildlife if consumed.

Residents should:

Avoid placing bait in open areas

Prevent pets from accessing dead or affected rodents

Safely dispose of dead rodents by sealing them in a bag before placing them in household rubbish

If accidental poisoning is suspected, contact your veterinarian immediately. The Poisons Information Centre can be contacted on 13 11 26. Vitamin K1 is the recognised antidote for anticoagulant poisoning.

Storage and Disposal

Store bait in the original packaging and keep it away from children, pets and food preparation areas. Unused bait should be securely wrapped before disposal in household rubbish.

The Shire will be limiting distribution to 1 bag (5 sachets) per household. Bait collections will be signed out, and residents will be required to provide their name, address and contact details. The Shire will continue to monitor the situation and review distribution arrangements as required. To view the Safety Data Sheet for Racumin, click here.

For further information, please contact the Shire Administration Office on (08) 9928 1102 or enquiries@mingenew.wa.gov.au.