What is used to help control ectoparasites in rodent management?

Using pesticide applications is an effective method for controlling ectoparasites in rodent management. Ectoparasites, such as fleas and ticks, thrive on rodents and can cause health problems not only for these animals but also for humans and other animals nearby. By applying pesticides specifically designed to target these parasites, you can reduce their population significantly and control the spread of related diseases.

Pesticides work by either killing the ectoparasites directly or disrupting their life cycles, thereby reducing their ability to infest rodents. This action minimizes the risk of ectoparasite transmission to humans and other animals and contributes to the overall management of rodent populations.

While other options like the removal of food sources, rodent trapping, and environmental sanitation are important for managing rodents themselves and deterring them from infesting areas, they do not directly target ectoparasites. These methods can help create an environment that is less conducive to rodent habitation, thereby indirectly reducing the incidence of ectoparasites, but they do not specifically address the parasites that may already be present. In contrast, pesticide applications directly combat ectoparasites, making them a crucial part of an integrated rodent management strategy.