Most people recognize that some insects can be a bane to the garden as well as a blessing, they do not necessarily think of rodents. Yet rats and mice (as well as other rodents) are common garden residents.
Do Rats Burrow in Gardens?
Yes, rats dig homes (known as burrows) about one to six feet deep in gardens. Rats are especially prone to burrowing in a garden.
Gardens are prime locations for rats because they like fresh soil with food and water sources. Gardens provide all three necessary items
What Do Rat Holes Look Like?
A rat hole will be about 2-4 inches wide. If the hole is newly excavated, fresh dirt will be around the entrance – usually in a fan-shaped pattern. If the holes of the rat are less fresh, the rats that pass through the burrow will collapse and smooth the entrance.
How Do You Get Rid of Rats in the Garden?
Clearing rats from your garden takes a two-tier approach. The first phase, or tier, involves removing or diminishing the things that make your garden so attractive to rats. That includes:
Do not store pet food outside.
Switching to a rodent-proof composter/compost container.
Abstaining from feeding birds or wildlife.
Storing bird seed in rodent-proof, sealable containers.
Do not feed your pets outside.
Move things around regularly.
Keep your firewood pile off the ground.
Remove all fallen fruit and vegetables right away.
Dispose of all fecal matter quickly.
Keep your garden neat/get rid of debris.
Block rats’ access to the area under the decking.
If you have a second-floor deck, keep the area under it very neat.
Remove water sources, fix dripping faucets, etc.
Is It Okay to Have Mice or Rats in the Garden?
Having mice or rats in your garden may sound harmless or even cute, but it is not. Both mice and rats can carry parasites, mites, and diseases like jaundice, salmonellosis, cowpox virus, rat-bite fever, and trichinosis that can be serious.
Rats can also harm plants, bulbs, hanging, wiring, etc. In addition, Some even burrow into masses of garbage. Rat burrows are also a hazard since they infiltrate your property, including your house, by opening the way for another vermin.
Call the Rodent Experts at Palm Springs
If you have a rat or rodent problem, call in the professionals at Palm Springs. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help you live in a critter-free environment.
