What can be a consequence of leaving traps unset for too long?

Leaving traps unset for an extended period can lead to them becoming ineffective. This can occur because traps that are left idle can lose their appeal or functionality, as the conditions may change over time. For example, if the traps are intended to catch rodents, they may not be seen as a reliable source of food or shelter after being left for too long, thereby reducing their effectiveness when finally set. Additionally, any bait that may have been intended for use can spoil or become less attractive, further diminishing the likelihood of capturing any pests when the trap is eventually activated.

In contrast, traps becoming easier to handle, attracting more rodents, or getting damaged do not necessarily stem from prolonged inactivity in the same way. While traps may require routine maintenance to ensure they remain operational, simply leaving them unset does not inherently cause them to gain a greater number of rodents or to sustain physical damage. Thus, the primary concern with inactivity is the loss of effectiveness.