Breaking the Cycle of Rat Infestation in Your Garden - Expert Tips from Archers Pest Control
Nothing spoils the enjoyment of afternoon tea in the garden quite like the discovery of little clawed footprints amongst your begonias or the sound of scuttling in the bushes. Rat infestations in outdoor spaces can seem like an impossible problem to solve, leaving your previously peaceful plot overrun by these resilient rodents.
However, with the right approach rats can be evicted from your garden and measures can be taken to ensure they do not return. In this post, we will share some of the most effective natural and humane methods for getting rid of rats outdoors. We will also provide tips on how to rat-proof vulnerable areas and maintain a rodent-free retreat that allows you to relax and enjoy your outdoor space rat-free.
How do you know if you have rats in the garden?
One of the first areas to check for signs of rats is waste disposal areas within your garden. These include bins, compost piles, pipes, and firewood stacks. Rats are known to scavenge for food during the day when they cannot access it at night. Therefore, signs such as small bite marks on wood or paper and misplaced or removed discarded food are often an indication that rats have been foraging.
In addition to identifying their food sources, it is also essential to look out for rat droppings. Rats tend to remain faithful to a particular path when looking for food. As such, these creatures mark their paths using their droppings, which are often moist when fresh. Furthermore, rats prefer to nest near their food sources, making it possible to locate them near areas such as rubbish bins.
Burrows and holes also provide hiding places for these rodents. They are usually located in isolated areas and near food sources. Therefore, once rats are suspected to be present, checking these areas should be a priority.
Furthermore, rat droppings can identify their existence. These droppings are cylindrical, 10 to 20mm long, flat on one end, and pointed on the other. Rats produce up to 40 droppings daily, making them easy to spot.