Households across the UK are being urged to take immediate action in their gardens following a stark warning about a potential surge in rodent activity this winter. The alert comes as the country deals with a significant increase in waste generated over the festive period, creating ideal conditions for rats.
The Surge in Searches and a 'Winter of Rats'
Data reveals a startling 5,000% increase in online searches for 'how to keep rats away from home' over the past month. This public concern aligns with expert predictions of a so-called 'winter of rats' hitting the nation. The combination of colder weather driving rodents towards human habitation and the excess rubbish from Christmas celebrations has created a perfect storm.
Waste management specialists at We Waste have partnered with gardening expert Angelika Zaber, a Lawn Care Specialist for Online Turf, to provide crucial guidance. Their advice focuses on making gardens less attractive to rodents seeking food and shelter.
How to Rodent-Proof Your Garden
Angelika Zaber emphasises that prevention starts outdoors. "The best way to keep rodents from entering your property is to keep them from entering your garden," she states. "A hybrid approach of mixing different methods together is best."
The primary attractant is food. Unsecured compost heaps and bins with loose lids are like a welcome sign for pests. Zaber's key recommendations include:
- Invest in secure, lockable bin lids and never leave rubbish bags out overnight.
- Use a sealed compost bin rather than an open pile, denying rodents easy access even if they can smell the contents.
- Place bins on a solid base, such as concrete, to prevent burrowing from underneath.
Sealing Entry Points and Natural Deterrents
Beyond waste management, physically securing your garden's perimeter is vital. Experts advise installing high, smooth fences with no gaps and laying netted mesh on the ground at potential entry points to block tunnelling attempts.
For gardens that are more open and difficult to seal completely, there are humane, natural methods to deter rodents. "Strong scents like garlic or mint are unpleasant for rodents," explains Zaber.
You can create a simple deterrent spray by:
- Adding crushed garlic or mint leaves to a spray bottle filled with water.
- Letting the mixture steep for a while.
- Spraying it around garden borders, sheds, and any suspected entry points.
By taking these proactive steps now, UK residents can significantly reduce the risk of a distressing and unhygienic rodent infestation during the colder months, protecting both their homes and gardens.
