Rats and mice

Brisbane City Council offers advice on how to control rat or mouse problems on private property. Control methods including poison baits and traps can stop mouse infestations. Follow Council’s tips on rodent proofing your house. Make sure they aren’t attracted to your property by a food supply. You can also report a rodent problem on a neighbouring property.  

Rodents in your home or garden

The two types of pest rats most commonly found in Brisbane are:

  • large brown sewer rat (Rattus norvegicus)
  • grey or black climbing rat (Rattus rattus).

The sewer rat nests and burrows under buildings. They generally live in areas near commercial farms, rather than suburban areas. Climbing rats generally nest in homes.

Download our guide to controlling rats:

Report a rat or mouse problem

Before reporting a rodent sighting to Council, check the Controlling rats guide to see if the animal you have seen is a native mammal or a rat.

If you believe a property is harbouring rats or mice, phone Council on 07 3403 8888. An officer may investigate the site and can provide further advice.

Poison baits and traps

The two main ways of getting rid of rats or mice are poison baits and traps. You can purchase baits and traps from a hardware store. Place the baits or traps in areas where you've seen rodents.

To bait a trap, use a piece of apple, a pumpkin seed or a piece of fat from some meat. Tie the bait on with a piece of wire. This will make it hard for a rodent to remove meat without setting the trap off.

Make sure you follow the safety instructions on the packet. Ensure you store baits and traps out of reach of children or pets.

You can also purchase lockable stations and humane traps from some retail outlets. These traps are safer for children and pets than poison baits. 

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Topics: ratsmice

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