One of the less glamorous sides of gardening is dealing with pests and rodents. Rats, in particular, can be a persistent nuisance, whether they’ve taken up residence indoors or are causing havoc in your outdoor spaces. Gardens have an abundance of shelter and food sources, which can be particularly attractive to rodents like rats. With this known, it’s important to keep an eye out for pests and look for signs of their presence.
Rodents can manifest their presence in subtle ways initially, which might go unnoticed. However, overlooking these signs can lead to a significant rat infestation over time. Here are some key indicators to look out for if you suspect rats have infiltrated your garden:
Ripped Bin Bags It’s common to leave trash bags outside in the garden, but if you notice them being torn open with food waste strewn about, it could indicate rat activity. While this behavior could also be caused by other pests, consistent damage to trash bags should prompt you to keep them in lidded bins and investigate further for other rat-related signs.
Droppings Rats are prolific droppers, generating up to forty droppings per day. These droppings might not be easily visible as rats tend to hide them cleverly. Check hidden spots like under furniture and plant pots for any signs of droppings. If you do find droppings, contact rodent control promptly for assessment and action.
Burrows Rats are adept at finding hiding spots, often creating burrows or small holes in the ground. These hideaways serve as their safe zones. Conduct a thorough inspection of corners, crevices, and property perimeters for any indications of rat burrows.
Prints Inspect your garden’s grass, soil, or mud for any rodent prints, especially after rain when the ground is wet. Rats can leave tracks while scurrying around. Pest control professionals can identify these prints accurately, aiding in targeted extermination efforts.
Set Up a Camera If you’re having trouble pinpointing rat activity, consider installing a wildlife camera in your garden. Since rats are most active at night, use night mode on the camera to capture their movements. If you detect any rodents, contact pest control immediately for intervention.
By staying vigilant and addressing any signs of rat presence promptly, you can safeguard your garden from potential infestations and enjoy a pest-free outdoor environment. If you found this information helpful, explore our other articles for more gardening insights and tips.
