Gardeners have been issued nine crucial tips to keep rats at bay, as pest control experts predict the ‘worst winter for invasions ever’. The damp autumn and winter seasons have led to rats seeking shelter in gardens and homes.
Steve Wales from Bespoke Pest Control told The Sun earlier this year: “I’ve been working in this industry for 30 years and because of a cocktail of problems combining at the same time, I have never had more calls about rats – and it’s getting worse.”
He revealed that nearly half of all call-outs are now about rats invading homes and offices, with some being “the size of a small cat or dog”. In 2022, Rentokil warned of a 30 per cent surge in the rat population, equating to an additional 33.75 million rats.
Steve explained that the heavy rainfall has caused drains to flood, forcing rats to seek drier places like garages and inside walls. Issues such as poorly maintained drains, cheaply installed pipes in homes, and particularly wet weather contribute to the problem.
Pest controllers warn against using poison to kill rats, as it poses a danger to wildlife and pets, and if rats are entering a home through a sewer, they will continue to return. Many rats are two foot long and very fat, appearing even larger as a defence mechanism, reports Devon Live.
A female rat can give birth to an average of six litters a year, each containing up to 12 pups. Given that rats reach sexual maturity after about a month, two rats can multiply to as many as 1,250 in just one year.
Experts have compiled nine humane methods to deter these pests and keep them away from outdoor spaces. It’s estimated that there are over 10.5 million rats in the UK, equating to roughly one rat for every six people.
Tips for keeping them out of gardens include removing any food and water sources and refraining from feeding wildlife. Rats detest the smell of peppermint oil, and they also dislike new items being introduced into their territory, so moving things like plant pots around can be effective.
1. Maintain a clean and tidy garden:
If your garden is neat and clean, there will be fewer places for rats to establish a home and hide. Collect any fallen fruit, dispose of clippings, and keep hedges well-trimmed.
2: Eliminate food and water sources:
Rats are constantly searching for food and water. Keep your bins closed and avoid leaving loose bin bags next to them. Ensure outside taps don’t drip, and if you have pets, don’t leave their food and water bowls outside overnight.
3. Cease feeding wildlife: Rats can sniff out any seeds from bird feeders and will climb up to get the treats. If you have rats in your garden, stop feeding other wildlife and store seeds in secure containers.
4. Use Peppermint Oil:
Rats detest the scent of peppermint oil. By adding some to cotton wool or fabric and scattering them around your garden, you can deter these pests. However, remember to refresh the scent when it begins to fade.
5. Block gaps:
To prevent rats from entering your home, ensure any cracks or gaps in external walls are sealed.
6. Net layer in soil:
If you’re starting a new garden, protect your bulbs and plants by planting a layer of net just under the soil. Avoid using compost that has been home to rats on your fruit and vegetables.
7. Move things around:
Rats dislike changes in their environment, so try moving pots and furniture around your garden to create obstacles.
8. Decking alert:
Decking can provide an ideal shelter for rats, so clean up after outdoor meals and block any access points.
9. Compost bin:
Lastly, keep your compost bin secure with a lid and chicken wire underneath to prevent rats from getting in. Refrain from adding food scraps and continue to turn the compost regularly.