Red chilli and capsicum oleoresin sprays as aversive agents against house rat (Rattus rattus) under simulated store conditions

Abstract

The house rat (Rattus rattus) is the most destructive commensal rodent pest causing severe damage to stored grains. Use of natural products as aversive agents against rodent pests can be a safe alternative to chemical pesticides. In the present study, the potential of 2% red chilli powder and 0.3% capsicum oleoresin (containing capsaicin as active ingredient) as aversive agents was evaluated against R. rattus of both the sexes under simulated store conditions. Results showed that both red chilli powder and capsicum oleoresin applied as spray on jute bags containing wheat grains prevented rodent damage to bags and grains in terms of reduced number of cuts to bags, spillage of grains and consumption of grains by rats. Study suggests the use of red chilli powder and capsicum oleoresin sprays on bags as a method to be integrated with rodenticide usage.