Rats

[Katrinasofia]

How do I safely get rid of rats around my coop?

 

[chickenlittle21]

Here might be a helpful link:
https://www-wikihow-com.cdn.ampproj...errer=https://www.google.com&amp_tf=From %1$s

 

[Katrinasofia]

I dont have rats in my house or yard. Just around my coop

 

[chickenlittle21]

I dont have rats in my house or yard. Just around my coop

Okay, this article might be helpful:
https://backyardchickenproject.com/how-to-get-rid-of-rats-in-the-chicken-coop-the-definitive-guide/

 

[Al Gerhart]

No chicken feed to steal, no rats. First make sure your bulk feed is a metal container. Second, get a treadle feeder, spring loaded door, heavy counterweight, and read the instructions and follow them to the very letter. Don't block it open, do have it secured to a wall or post, do have the treadle bottom on on the ground or a dug in brick or paver.

Once you have the feed secure then look at any compost pile you might have. While I do not recommend poison because it also poisons the natural predators that kill rats and mice, it is more likely to be eaten if the rats suddenly lose their regular chicken feed buffet. It is better to just wait a week and once the feed is secure, rats have to find another source of feed.

Forget cats, bats, traps, or trying to rodent proof a coop. Fix the real problem and the problem goes away. The only time you should have a rodent problem is if you have all tiny breeds or all chicks that can't use a full size treadle feeder.