Rat infestation!

[Milliemoo]

Hello,

I’ve never had a problem with rats before but I have recently had a few fatalities.

2 of my Pekins have been killed by what seems to be a rat, and another had its leg bitten (she has had antibiotics and it almost better now!). I am very upset and just wanted to know if there is anything else I could do to prevent it happening again!

I have 3 traps around the pen (they’re safe for chickens) and 2 that they go in, take the poison and then die.

The banthams are locked up in there coup at night so nothing can get them, but the large hybrids stay out as they tend to sleep on top of the coup.


What else can I do, I’ve heard that peppermint oil may work?

 

[Howard E]

Start by reviewing this thread. The good stuff starts on page 2. All three of the old videos are as valid today as back when they were made. Do sit through all three videos so you know what you are up against. And then review the steps you need to take to get control of things.

You've got some work to do.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/rats-when-the-army-went-to-war-on-them.1216226/

 

[Shamo Hybrid]

Try this trap, I hear it's really effective! If you don't have a rolling pin rod or whatever, you can use a couple of soda cans strung together!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Good luck with those nasty critters!
Welcome to BYC!!!!!

 

[Folly's place]

Rats are very smart and difficult to impossible to trap. Watch Howard's videos!
Only poison bait will get them all, and upgrading your coop to keep them out.
Mary

 

[Milliemoo]

Thank you for your responses! I’ll watch the videos and see what I can do!!