Information on Rats

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Last revised: 22 November 2007

The Rats are Back !

Autumn is here, the harvest has been collected and the temperature has begun to fall. Many of the rodents that have spent the summer in the open around our district will be on the look out for somewhere nice and warm to spend the winter. This may be your house.

You can minimise the possibility of rodents infesting your property, by taking measures such as:

Ensuring that household waste is stored securely where rodents can’t get to it prior to collection.

If you feed wild birds then you are at higher risk of attracting rats. Only use special bird feeders. Never put bird food directly onto the ground. Keep areas under bird feeders clear of fallen food.

Maintain the external parts of your premises so that they are clean and tidy, as this will minimise cover and potential harbourages for rats.

If you have a home composting bin ensure that rodents cannot get into it. To do this, simply place the composter on a sheet of strong wire mesh.

Do not feed pets outdoors. If you must do so then remove the food as soon as your pet has finished eating.

Rats are attracted by food put out for pets in external cages such as rabbits, guinea pigs and aviary birds. Ensure that you check these cages regularly for damage and do not put out excessive amounts of food.

If you have a vermin infestation you have a legal obligation to take steps to control it.

Kennet District Council offers a competitively priced pest control service and offers a further discount to members of the public in receipt of a range of benefits. The pest control service is not a statutory service therefore a reasonable charge is made to cover running costs. To book a treatment please call us on 01380 724911 More information

Alternative providers of pest control services can be found in the Yellow Pages (External link).