Why might rodents prefer water baits over food baits?

Rodents, like all mammals, have a critical need for water to survive. While they can obtain some moisture from the food they consume, they generally seek out additional water sources to maintain proper hydration. This necessity makes water baits particularly attractive to them. When water is offered as an option, especially in environments where moisture is scarce, rodents may prioritize it over food sources, as their survival depends on adequate hydration.

Food baits may not always be as appealing for a variety of reasons, such as competition with other food sources, varying freshness or flavor, or even the specific dietary preferences of different rodent species. However, the fundamental biological need for water drives rodents to choose water baits, especially when they are in need of hydration.