Abstract:

To investigate the feasibility of 0.005% flocoumafen for controlling rodent pests in farmlands, field trials were conducted from 2022 to 2023 in agricultural areas across nine provinces (regions) in China. The study evaluated the control efficacy in blank control areas, control agent areas (0.005% bromadiolone/brodifacoumat 10 g/hm²), and test agent areas (0.005% flocoumafen at 10 g/hm²) at 7, 15 and 21-30 days after bait application. A systematic assessment was performed on the control efficacy, palatability, and safety of 0.005% flocoumafen bait against farmland rodents. Results demonstrated that flocoumafen bait exhibited significant lethal effects on dominant rodent species such as Rattus norvegicus and Apodemus agrarius (control efficacy ranging from 60.9% to 100%). The average bait consumption rate of flocoumafen was 69.61%, indicating superior palatability compared to the control agents. Safety assessments indicated sporadic occurrences of secondary poisoning in non-target animals and accidental ingestion by poultry in certain areas during the trial; it is necessary to enhance warning signage and implement appropriate protective measures during baiting periods. The findings confirm that flocoumafen effectively controls rodent pest populations with favorable palatability. However, precise evaluation of its safety must be strengthened to support large-scale promotion and application of flocoumafen.

Key words: flocoumafen, rodent control, bait consumption rate, palatability, Apodemus agrarius