Kangaroo Rat Lawn Infestation

Appearance and Infestation Areas

Kangaroo rats thrive in arid areas, so they are most commonly found on the West Coast of the United States and into southwestern Canada. They can also range into the hot and humid climate of Mexico. There are more than 23 species of kangaroo rat, and they are native to 17 of the lower 48 states of the U.S. The small animals are generally gray, brown or tan, with white fur on the underside of their bodies. The largest kangaroo rat features a body around 6 inches long and a tail about 8 inches long; others are smaller.

The favorite foot of the kangaroo rat is fresh seeds, and so they become a problem in newly seeded or over-seeded lawns, or in spring when flower and vegetable garden planting is in full swing. They will also eat seeds dropping from trees. If there are no seeds available, the rats will feed on young shoots and sprouts. They become a big nuisance especially around farms or other cultivated areas where the planted seeds and shoots provide the livelihood for the gardener or landscaper. Large infestations can destroy crops that a farmer would otherwise sell, or pastures used to feed cattle and wildlife.

The best way to get kangaroo rats off your lawn is never to let them in to begin with. This method, known as exclusion, is the best way to avoid damage from the rats. Because the rats are so small, fences around 3 feet tall will keep them at bay. Turn the bottom 6 inches of the fence outward away from your garden and bury the fence at least 12 inches underground to prevent the rats from burrowing underneath. Use half-inch-thick hardware mesh or a similar thick material through which the rats cannot chew. You can also plant smelly, undesirable plants such as garlic around the perimeter of your lawn (even if you have a fence) to additionally drive the rats away.

There are no fumigants or repellents that work to keep kangaroo rats away. Trapping can be effective for a small infestation; either wire cage traps or snap traps, baited with oats, seeds or peanut butter, will take care of these rodents. Zinc phosphide is a poisonous bait that is effective in killing kangaroo rats; however, you should check local ordinances or with local pest management professionals regarding the laws about using poisons on wildlife in your area.