Which method is typically used to control rodent populations in urban areas?

Trapping is a widely accepted method for controlling rodent populations in urban areas due to its effectiveness and practicality. This method involves the physical capture of rodents using various types of traps, such as snap traps, live traps, or electronic traps. One of the primary advantages of trapping is that it allows for the immediate removal of rodents from the environment, which helps reduce the potential for disease transmission and property damage.

Additionally, trapping is a targeted approach, meaning that it can be applied specifically in areas where rodent activity is observed, allowing for more precise control compared to other methods. It also poses less risk to non-target animals and humans, making it suitable for use in urban settings where people and pets are present.

In contrast, insecticides are designed for managing insect populations, not rodents. Repellents may deter rodents temporarily, but they do not effectively reduce their numbers. Fumigation, while useful for certain pests, is generally not a practical or safe choice for rodent control in urban areas where the risks to residents and the environment must be carefully considered. Therefore, trapping stands out as the most appropriate method for managing rodent populations in these environments.