Rats in the compost bins (shudder)

[DottyDot]

Does anyone know how to get rid of rats foraging from compost bins? We only compost fruit/veg/eggshells/bits of cardboard but our neighbour has told us he thinks we've got rats as there are bits of chewed carrots and other food taken from the compost bins.

Unfortunately the bins are kind of open - a wooden criss cross structure - open sided and an open top - we put cardboard on the top but that's it.

sigh. You try to do your bit....

Any suggestions gratefully received!

Hey pooter - got the pest control man out today - he's decided to gas my rats

ooh, GAS eh? We are all set to buy an air rifle tomorrow, then take turns at shooting from our bedroom window!! Tell me how your gassing plan works out! Im shocked at how bloodthirsty i am becoming in relation to these rats!

Pooter.. the gas appears to have worked! He came out yesterday afternoon and stopped all the holes up. I cannot remember the name of the gas bombs he used, but they are agricultural strength and normally used for rabbit infestation. He said they kill a big rabbit instantly, so a rat should be exterminated with ease.

24 hours later and there are no new holes in the garden and all is quiet.

We are now going to build a new fence, with rat proof fencing bought on internet, which will be buried 2 feet underground all round our perimeter.

Searchlights, sirens and doberman dogs come next!

thats great news themoon66! We bought our rifle and shot our first rat!! Instant demise. If shooting them doesn't work i will enquire about gas! Ta for the tip! We actually had a lot of fun shooting at tin cans and cardboard to get our aim in. My parents and brother are amazed and shocked that we have got a gun. But it will be a useful addition to our zombie plan anyway

This thread has given me the eebie jeebies as we back onto fields and stables and have a bird table on the patio and compost bin.

The cats often bring in field mice and shrews but have never seen a rat. Will the cats and dog put them off?

I will definelty stop putting egg shells on my compost.

Yeah...Go Pooter! DH says 'well done sharp shooter'!!! You did bloody well shooting to kill on yer first outing. Go girl!

My dad shoots his rats and is very good at it! It also provides him with great entertainment. He is like a lion hunter!
He did have a humane trap but all he ever caught was blackbirds and they get really pissed off at being stuck in a trap!

Fixing1/4 inch light welded i.e. the thick kind of wire netting all around the the compost bin and on the soil at the base will stop them getting in. Top with a close fitting lid with no gaps and you're set. Hope this helps.