It's that time of the year when you may get some unwanted houseguests.

Rats and mice come indoors during autumn to find food and shelter. Using the wrong kind of trap can find both you and the rodent in a whole heap of trouble.

The Ministry of Primary Industries has issued a warning of what to do and not what to do:

* Don't use a glueboard trap!

* Call in a professional.

* Always follow instructions on traps and toxins.

'If you are interested in animal welfare, choose a trap tested according to NAWAC guidelines and follow best practice,” says the MPI.

'The sale and use of glueboard traps for rodents (rats and mice) is prohibited in New Zealand, because of animal welfare concerns about trapped animals. Using or selling a glueboard trap for rodents is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.

'Individuals can be fined up to $50,000 or imprisoned for up to 12 months, or both, if they are convicted of an offence. If you see glueboard traps for sale please let us know on 0800 00 83 33.”

For more information, see our website www.mpi.govt.nz or email enquiries to animalwelfare@mpi.govt.nz.

Commercial pest control operators can get more information from the Pest Management Association of New Zealand (PMANZ). - To find a registered pest control professional visit >> http://www.pmanz.nz/ - For more information on humane rodent control visit >> https://www.ufaw.org.uk/rodent-welfare/rodent-welfare