Alan Titchmarsh has shared how one garden item can attract rats and offered two simple tips to prevent the problem
Rats are a frequent issue in gardens, and with the arrival of spring, the problem is set to intensify. As the weather warms up, many households will be keen to spend more time outside.
However, spring is peak breeding season for rats and mice. They’re hungry, seeking shelter, and they recognise that our gardens can offer perfect nesting spots and food sources.
Infestations can turn into a nightmare to eradicate and can be expensive to resolve. It’s crucial to prevent rats from taking over, and gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh has some essential advice.
The horticultural guru revealed that one activity beloved by gardeners could actually be luring rats. Feeding birds can draw rats into the garden, as they too are eager to feast on their food.
Alan stated: “Most gardeners, myself included, love encouraging garden birds, so bird feeders are everywhere in this garden. But, they can also be a magnet for rats.”
Fortunately, there’s a way to deter rats from going after the bird food and invading your garden. Alan explained that it all comes down to where you place your bird feeder, reports the Mirror.
He advised: “The key to success with them is to position in the open, in the middle of your lawn. Rats hate running through exposed areas. If you put your bird feeder alongside a hedge or wall, that’s great as they have shelter and they rush out and grab what they want and rush back.”
Alan suggests positioning your feeder right in the centre of your garden, well away from bushes, hedges and walls. Additionally, it will provide you with a clearer view of the birds when they visit to feed.
The gardener stressed: “So, in an open space is by far the best place for a bird feeder. Then, you shouldn’t have the rat problem.”
Alan has another tip that can be used to eliminate rats coming into the garden, alongside the position of the bird feeder. He recommends not leaving any bird food out overnight.
Alan said: “Put it out first thing in the morning.” He acknowledged many gardeners might be worried about his tip, as birds like to eat first thing in the morning.
However, he said it won’t be an issue for the birds as they can simply wait. Alan added: “If you have had a rat problem, they can wait half an hour before you put it out. That way, you’ll enjoy the garden birds and hopefully not a rat in sight.”
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