Design & Development of an Electronic Rodent Trap with a GSM-Based Monitoring System

The increasing problem of rodent infestation in rice fields, particularly the rice field rat (Rattus argentiventer), results in significant crop damage and reduced yields. Traditional pest control methods, including pesticides and manual traps, often have limitations such as environmental harm and inefficiency. This study developed an Electronic Rodent Trap integrated with a GSM-based monitoring system to address these challenges. The system, controlled by an Arduino Mega 2560, includes motion sensors for detecting rodent presence and ultrasonic sensors to monitor trap capacity. The GSM module provides real-time updates to farmers via SMS, allowing them to monitor the system remotely. The trap is designed to catch and automatically dispose of up to 15 rodents per night, reducing human intervention. Preliminary testing of the sensor functions and design implementation shows promising results, although field testing was limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This project presents an innovative, eco-friendly solution for mitigating rodent infestation in agricultural settings, enhancing pest control while minimizing pesticide use and labor costs.