Why must care be taken with compressed grain pellets during application?

Care must be taken with compressed grain pellets during application primarily because rodents might carry them away to store. This characteristic is important because it reflects the behavior of rodents, such as mice and rats, which tend to hoard food sources. When these pellets are placed in an area where rodents are active, they are likely to pick them up and transport them to their nests. This behavior can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the bait, as the targeted pests may not consume it in the intended application site, leading to diminished control over the rodent population.

The other options present considerations that do not align with the primary concerns associated with the application of these particular pest control products. For instance, while some pest control materials may be restricted to indoor use, compressed grain pellets can be effective in various environments. The notion that they dissolve in water does not apply to all formulations and is not a primary concern during their application as this property is not intrinsic to all compressed grain baits. Lastly, the assertion that they are only effective in large quantities overlooks the practicality of application and the strategic use of smaller amounts to entice rodent activity. Overall, the potential for rodents to carry away the pellets is a key factor in devising effective rodent control strategies.