Rats move in when the weather starts to cool

We’ve had a few rats in the hedgerows on the family farm this summer, busily keeping to themselves, gathering seeds and berries to sustain themselves. Outdoors and away from our livestock, they don’t bother us, and we leave them be.

But… Have you noticed rats become more visible and bothersome as the temperature drops during late autumn? How do rats overwinter? They don’t fatten up or hibernate – just like us they must maintain their lifestyle to survive. Short of installing their own central heating or knitting a jumper, rats use their ingenuity to take advantage of the resources we provide. Sneaking into our warm, bountiful homes, pet hutches and even vehicles, rats can suddenly become very troublesome indeed!

At this time of year:

·         Look for all possible entries, no matter how small… a rat can chew through mild steel and fit through a gap the size of your thumbnail!

·         Clean up spills immediately and keep food stores secure

·         Check for signs such as droppings, gnawing, nesting and unusual noises

It is important to remove rat infestations when they cross paths with us because, aside from the damage they can cause, they can spread many grisly diseases.

Don’t panic! Sometimes rats get in no matter hard you try to keep them out. That’s why we are here! And the sooner you call us, the easier it is for us to treat.