Leaving these five things in your garden could "encourage a rat invasion."

• Dispose of stagnant water sources: Make sure that your land is well drained and that puddles do not persist.
• Keep water points regularly: Clean up the watering hobs and ponds to prevent them from becoming attraction.

3. Shelters conducive to nesting

Rats are looking for safe and discreet places to hide and reproduce. Heaps of wood, dead leaves, uncut hedges or congested areas are perfect for this. A poorly maintained garden multiplies any possible hiding places.

Solution:

• Keep your garden clean and orderly: Dispose of debris, cut hedges, avoid clutter.
• Raise your wooden piles: Place them at a distance from the walls, on pallets if possible.

4. Poorly managed compost

Poorly maintained compost can become an abundant source of food for rodents, especially if it contains food waste such as peelings or leftovers. Rats are attracted to accessible organic matter.

Solution:

• Cover your compost: Use a tightly lid, mesh or tarpaulin.
• Avoid some waste: Do not throw away meat, fish or cooked foods in the compost.

5. Poorly placed bird feeders

Seeds that have fallen to the ground from feeders often attract rats. If the feeders are too low or poorly designed, they quickly become a source of feeding for pests.

Solution:

• Choose suitable feeders: Choose models that reduce seed loss.
• Install them in height: Keep them at a good distance from the ground and move them away from the walls or trees that rats might climb.

In summary

A well-maintained garden, good waste management and humidity are the best weapons against rats. By adopting these simple but effective gestures, you will significantly reduce the risk of invasion.

Stay vigilant and foresight to fully enjoy your garden... without unpleasant surprises.