A new and novel technique for collapsing burrows is now available on the UK market.  There are several commercially available devices with the Rodenator being the most common. 

This device has come from the USA where it is used to kill a wide range of burrowing mammals and to collapse their burrows.  The device injects an explosive mixture of propane and oxygen into the burrows which is then electronically ignited.  BASC urges caution in using these devices.

There is no legislation preventing the Rodenator or other similar devices being used to collapse empty burrows or tunnel systems but it is against the law to use it for killing any wild animals.  Whilst the use of this tool is undeniably attractive following the loss of Cymag and strychnine as  legitimate forms of controlling rabbits,  rats and moles,  the operator of such a device must be satisfied that the burrows or tunnels  have been cleared of all animals and that they have not been reoccupied before using the Rodenator to collapse these structures.

It is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 Section 11(1) to use any explosive, other than ammunition for a firearm, for the killing or taking of wild animals.  The maximum penalty for doing so is £5000 and 6 months in prison. Those operating such devices should be able to prove that they have taken every precaution to satisfy themselves that the burrows were empty before using the Rodenator. This includes both target species and other protected animals.  

Both Defra and Natural England have issued statements on the use of Rodenators and other similar devices which can be viewed at the following links:

http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/pdf/wildlife-manage/rodenator.pdf

http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/Images/rodenator_tcm6-4229.pdf

For more information contact the game and gamekeeping team on 01244 573019 or email.  For information from Natural England contact Paul Butt on 0300 060 4788 or email paul.butt@naturalengland.org.uk