Bizarre Pest Control Methods From History

Throughout history, humans have battled pests using some truly bizarre methods. From medieval superstitions to early scientific experiments, pest control has evolved significantly—but not without some strange detours. At Jetty Termite & Pest Control, we appreciate modern, effective solutions, but let’s take a trip through history to explore some of the weirdest ways people have tried to keep pests at bay.

1. Cats, Ferrets, and Other Unconventional Hunters

Before the invention of chemical pesticides, people relied on natural predators to control pest populations. Cats were (and still are) used to keep rodent numbers in check, but in the past, ferrets and even snakes were employed to hunt rats in homes and grain stores. In some cases, however, these ‘solutions’ became bigger problems—ferrets and snakes weren’t always easy to control!

2. Singing to Termites

In certain cultures, people believed that termites could be coaxed out of wood through music. Some African tribes would sing or chant near infested trees, hoping to lure the termites out. While modern science doesn’t support this method, it’s a fascinating example of how people sought non-violent ways to manage pests.

3. Tobacco Smoke for Insect Control

During the 17th and 18th centuries, it was common practice to blow tobacco smoke into beehives or wasp nests to drive out insects. Farmers also used tobacco leaves as an early form of insecticide. While nicotine is a natural pesticide, today’s pest control experts prefer safer and more targeted solutions.

4. Exploding Rats in World War II

One of the strangest historical pest control methods comes from WWII. The British Special Operations Executive developed a bizarre idea—stuffing rat carcasses with explosives and leaving them where German industrial workers might dispose of them in boilers. The hope was that the resulting explosions would cause damage. While this plan was never widely executed, it remains one of the most unusual pest-related tactics in history.

5. Sticky Substances and Animal Fat Traps

In ancient Greece and Rome, people used sticky substances like honey or tree sap to trap insects. Later, in medieval Europe, people would spread animal fat on wooden surfaces to capture fleas and lice. These methods were primitive but showed an early understanding of trapping as a form of pest control.

6. Pest Trials in Medieval Europe

Perhaps one of the strangest historical practices was putting pests on trial. In medieval Europe, towns would hold actual court proceedings against rats, insects, and other pests that caused destruction. These creatures were sometimes given ‘lawyers’ and even ‘excommunicated’ from the community. While ineffective as pest control, these trials are a testament to how seriously people viewed infestations.

7. Using Fire to Chase Pests

Before fumigation existed, some cultures would attempt to rid homes of pests by setting controlled fires inside living spaces. The idea was that smoke and heat would drive out rats, insects, and other vermin. Unfortunately, this method was highly dangerous and often led to larger problems, including destroyed homes.

Modern Pest Control: A Much-Needed Evolution

While these historical methods are certainly creative, we’re lucky to live in a time with effective and safe pest control solutions. At Jetty Termite & Pest Control, we rely on science-backed methods to handle termites, rodents, and other unwanted guests—without the use of fire, tobacco, or exploding rats!

Need professional pest control that actually works? Contact Jetty Termite & Pest Control today to schedule an inspection!