Frankly, whenever someone suggests essential oils or herbs to get rid of an active infestation, I just have to doubt that it will work. Think about it. The coop is a proven food source. It's likely the rats' nesting place and where they are raising their young. It has proven a place that offers...
Hahah! After I posted the pic I wondered if anyone would think I used the trowel as my weapon. I just put it there for scale. I am definitely NOT capable of ninja moves.
I sat at my living room window at dusk with a plate of cheese and meats, a glass of wine, and my son's pellet gun. When the bold SOB showed itself I took aim and fired then I finished my wine, went outside and took that picture. Not really epic but very satisfying!
Oh, I know there's more. I had seen at least two and I fully realize that "where there's two, there's twenty (and so on)". I'll still set the traps (which they will continue to avoid), and lie in wait for a while more before (probably eventually) exploring poison. Perhaps I'll plan to put it out...