In what situation may solid baits not be effective?

In what situation may solid baits not be effective?

• A. When pests have many other food or water resources.
• B. When temperatures are above 100°F.
• C. When baits are fresh and unexpired.
• D. When pests are not active at night.

Answer: (A)

Solid baits work only when pests choose the bait over other available foods or water. If there are many alternative resources, pests will ignore the bait, so little or no control is achieved. This makes the situation described—the presence of abundant competing resources—the best reason why solid baits may not be effective. Fresh, unexpired baits are more attractive and would generally work better, whereas extreme heat can affect bait performance but isn’t as universal a barrier as having other food or water sources.

Solid baits work only when pests choose the bait over other available foods or water. If there are many alternative resources, pests will ignore the bait, so little or no control is achieved. This makes the situation described—the presence of abundant competing resources—the best reason why solid baits may not be effective. Fresh, unexpired baits are more attractive and would generally work better, whereas extreme heat can affect bait performance but isn’t as universal a barrier as having other food or water sources.