Which items are listed as good baits for Norway rats?

• A. Peanut butter, hot dog slices, bacon, and nutmeats
• B. Cheese and crackers
• C. Fruit and seeds
• D. Bread and water

Answer: (A)

Norway rats are drawn to strong-smelling, high-fat, high-protein foods. Baits that deliver savory odors and energy are the most reliable choices for attracting and holding their interest on traps. Peanut butter is especially effective because its sticky texture helps keep bait on the trap trigger and its aroma is highly appealing to rats. Processed meats like hot dog slices and bacon provide strong, savory scents and good protein content, making them attractive as well. Nut meats also offer dense energy and a potent aroma, contributing to their effectiveness.

Other options tend to be less consistently attractive. Cheese and crackers can work in some situations but are not as universally appealing as meat-based or peanut products. Fruit and seeds are eaten by many animals, and while rats will feed on them, they don’t deliver the same combination of palatability and energy. Bread and water are weaker bait choices; bread can dry out or be ignored, and water isn’t a bait option by itself, offering little incentive compared with meat and peanut-based baits.