A Two-Rat Day

Charles and supper

Our yard helper, Charles, has struck it rich at our new house. This is the second time in a week that he has caught two rats at the same time. 
Called "mbewe" (mm-bay-way) these rats will make about four meals for Charles and his family. While his wife doesn't eat them, he and several of his children do. 

Charles' contraption

Charles explained to me how his trap works, which is rather clever. In the bottom of a paint can is a small hole. He threads a piece of strong plastic through the hole to which he ties a groundnut, or peanut. The other end of the plastic is tied to a stick which is strapped to the lid of the can. A strip of rubber runs the length of the can and hugs the lid. The tension on the plastic threaded through the hole pulls the stick tight against the can. When the rat becomes curious and enters the open paint can, he nibbles on the nut, cutting through the string, and triggering the trap. Bam--just like the game Mouse Trap! The lid slams shut, catching supper (quite a delicacy) for the Mutales.

After taking this picture I noticed that Charles shirt says, "Join My World." Although you don't have to enjoy catching or eating rats, perhaps you can join his world with this little story.