How Can You Feed Birds Without Attracting Rats?
WouterIf you want to feed birds without attracting rats, you need to consider the location and type of seed you use. If you place your feeder near a tree branch, the food may be accessible to rats. This can be avoided by placing the feeders further away from the branches. A baffle is also helpful to keep rats from reaching your feeders.
One way to keep rats and rodents away is to feed the birds with thistle seed, which is not a favorite of most birds and rodents. Choose a feeder made for this type of seed rather than one made of fabric or plastic. This type of feeder is also made for small seeds, and a metal one is preferred over a fabric one.
Another way to avoid rats is to purchase a feeder with a seed catcher tray. This prevents debris from accumulating in the feeder. You can also put some hot pepper on the feeder to deter rats from coming near it. To be safe, always buy high-quality bird feed. These are usually not much more expensive than their cheaper counterparts.
If you notice any signs of rodent activity, you should disinfect all surfaces with a bleach solution. You should wear rubber gloves when you are cleaning rodent-infested areas. After completing this task, you should dispose of the rodents’ waste using paper towels. You should also clean the bird feeder with a dilute bleach solution and water.
