On 7/3/05 12:28, in article , "Colette A.
O'Brien" wrote:

snip

Today, we have spotted two rats feeding on the heap. They then
disappeared under the fence but I am not sure if they are living in or
near the heap, or whether they are just visiting for a feed. They must
be living nearby.

If you've seen two the potential is that there are many more around or will
be when they breed! I had the same problem in an old garden and within days
saw several more.

The area around the heaps is untidy and needs a good clear out. It is
possible they are living there. Should I have a good clear out and see
what I find? I was going to empty the heaps shortly and spread any
compost that is ready over the garden. I am a bit worried about what
I'll find (a whole nest of them?) and of catching some nasty rat-borne
disease.

If you go the clear out route (which I would) wear sturdy rubber gloves and
wellies. Weil's disease contracted from rat urine is very nasty. If you
think you can kill them yourself, all well and good, if you don't, get
someone in to do the clear out and kill for you. Having a couple of
terriers standing by isn't a bad idea, either! After you've done your clean
up, get the local council to come and put down rat poison in safe 'feeders'
which will protect domestic pets or other wildlife from picking it up. If
they won't, get a contractor who will probably make two visits for safety's
sake. I'd get him to check outhouses and possibly the attic, too. Check the
area regularly for any further infestations.

What should I do, and how can I make the compost heaps less attractive
for rats in future?

I wouldn't make a new heap until you're sure you've got rid of the rats
altogether. And then make sure absolutely nothing meaty or even eggy goes
onto it. That said, rats eat almost anything and I've seen them going up a
fig tree after the fruit! If you can, it might be a good idea to make it in
a different area so that you can keep an eye on the present one, just in
case you don't get all the rats this time.
--
Sacha
www.hillhousenursery.co.uk
South Devon
(remove the weeds to email me)