Is the following statement true or false: the key to rat control is to control rat population, not individual rats?

The statement is true because effective rat control centers around managing the overall rat population rather than targeting individual rats. When you focus on controlling the population, you address the root causes of infestations, such as food sources, nesting sites, and entry points into buildings. This holistic approach includes practices like sealing entry points, proper sanitation, and habitat modification, which can significantly reduce rat numbers over time.

Targeting individual rats may provide temporary relief, but without addressing these broader issues, the population can quickly rebound as other rats enter the area or remain hidden. Consequently, a population-based strategy is much more sustainable and effective in long-term control efforts.

While there may be nuances depending on the type of rat or specific settings, the foundational principle remains that managing the overall population is critical to achieving lasting control.