One thing nobody wants in their home or garden is rats.
While you may think your home is clean and safe from pests getting inside, you may be “unknowingly attracting them”, and one simple thing can draw them massively.
According to Tornado Pest Control, improper waste management and bird feeders can create a “buffet” for rats and boost the chances of the pesky creatures visiting. The common issues enable rats to access food easily, and can “encourage infestations” in homes and businesses.
The experts say people should make a few changes to prevent rats invading, and they’re pretty simple to sort out. First up, identify any potential food sources, such as bird feeders, to ensure nothing can attract them.
You should also check your property for any potential entry points and seal them so pests can’t access the property. These are some simple checks you can make to prevent the problem.
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Why do bird feeders attract rats?
Bird feeders can attract rats because they offer a readily available food source. They will especially be drawn to the feeders during the winter months, as their food supply is generally more limited during this time.
If you want to solve the problem, you simply need to store the birdseed properly. If you put it in rodent-proof containers, like metal containers, this will help to prevent the issue.
Some people also opt to use baffles or trays to prevent access to the food. If you don’t know what a baffle is, it’s essentially a cone-shaped piece of plastic or metal that’s placed on bird feeder poles to stop pests from reaching the food.
There are some simple measures you can take to remedy the problem. You just have to ensure no food is exposed.
Offering further advice, Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, said: “Encountering a rat in your home can be unsettling, but there are effective steps you can take to prevent these pests from becoming a larger problem. Rats thrive in warm, sheltered environments with easy access to food, so reducing their access to these is key.
“Start by sealing any gaps, holes or cracks in exterior doors and walls, and keep vegetation trimmed around your property. Ensure drains are well maintained, secure outdoor bins with tightly fitting lids and avoid storing items like firewood too close to your home, as these can make a perfect hiding place for rats.
“Rats are good climbers and will happily inhabit loft spaces, so it’s crucial to keep your roof in good condition. If possible, declutter your loft area and use plastic or metal storage boxes instead of cardboard to minimise potential nesting materials.
“If your area is experiencing bin collection delays, try to keep the area surrounding your bin storage as clear as possible. Avoid leaving plastic bin bags on the ground, as they are very easy for rats to chew through in their search for food.
“Inside your home, ensure foodstuffs are stored in airtight containers (i.e. glass or metal), empty bins regularly and keep areas under sinks and appliances clean and dry.”
Signs you may have a rat infestation include droppings (these are dark and tapered and about 10-14mm long), an ammonia-like smell that is likely to be particularly strong in enclosed areas, gnaw marks and the appearance of nesting material such as shredded paper. It’s important to act quickly should you spot any of these signs to prevent a bigger infestation from developing.
If you’re worried about rats coming into your home, it’s always best to seek professional advice to help prevent the problem. The same applies to if you’re worried about a potential infestation.