What type of rodenticide is applied to a rat's fur and ingested during grooming?

The type of rodenticide that is applied to a rat's fur and ingested during grooming is tracking powder. This method involves a powder that contains toxic agents, which adheres to the rodent's fur when it moves through treated areas. When the rat grooms itself, it inadvertently consumes the toxic substance, leading to its exposure and, ultimately, its death.

This method is particularly effective because it allows the rodenticide to be delivered directly into the rodent's system without the need for the animal to actively consume bait from a station or other delivery method. Tracking powders can be useful in environments where traditional baiting might not be as practical, such as in areas with minimal food sources or where food preferences may vary among rodent populations.

In contrast, bait stations, pellet baits, and granular baits require the rodent to actively consume the bait from a designated location or form, which can present challenges if the rodent is not inclined to eat what's provided. Thus, tracking powder represents a unique approach to rodent control by utilizing the animal's natural grooming habits to facilitate ingestion of the toxicant.