Question about coops and rats

[nittanyxi]

I plan on making a predator proof run and coop so I don't plan on locking my chickens in the coop every night. If rats can get through the wire of the run how big a problem will they become. Do the chickens scare them away or will they pretty much come and go as they please?

 

[Gypsi]

Good question - I don't lock my chickens in either. One reason I keep the food UP is to hopefully prevent a rodent problem. My automatic dog feeder supported several generations of rats. And I now have a rat bait station - dog safe, near my wild bird feeder. I credit it for my current rat-less condition.

 

[Mahonri]

Quote:
Buy some bait tubes and some rat poison. "Just One Bite"

I'm filling my tubes this week.

 

[seminolewind]

My coop is open but my run is pretty much rat resistant. All hardware cloth with an apron. I pay attention to the signs, and if there is one, I set out my snap jaw traps.