Hi all,

I lurk here often but don't usually contribute as I am not a very
knowledgeable gardener. I am looking for a bit of advice with regard to
rats!

We have two compost heaps side by side at the back of the garden near a
fence. The heaps are made of pallets and are open on the top. I only
ever compost raw fruit and vegetable waste as well as the usual garden
stuff.

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.

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.

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

Thanks for listening.
--
Regards
Colette