Surveillance for rodent species and density in Nanchang,2011-2016

Objective To understand the species distribution and density of rodent and its seasonal fluctuation in Nanchang,Jiangxi province,for rodent control and combating rodent-borne disease epidemic. Methods Rodent species and density in different environments and periods were surveyed by using snap traps. Results The rodent density was 0.83% in Nanchang with its peak period in spring and summer. The rodent density was highest in villages in rural area,followed by that in other places,including hotels and restaurants,and in residential areas. The rodent density during 2011-2013 was higher than that during 2014-2016. The constituent ratios for Rattus norvegicus,Mus musculus and Rattus tanezumi were 36.79%, 32.24% and 26.82%,respectively. Conclusion The rodent density in Nanchang was relatively low and decreased gradually year by year. R. norvegicus,M. musculus and R. tanezumi were the predominant species. Rodent density surveillance is important for rodent control and fighting rodent-borne diseases.