Rodent Control on the Smallholding

Today on the smallholding I am trying to get under control quite a severe rat infestation. The rats are getting into the chicken feeders and into my compost heaps. They are even digging holes and living in my no dig beds amongst the food I am going to eat. It’s now time for some serious rodent control.
#smallholdinguk #NoDig #Smallholding #SelfSufficiency #Homesteading #Smallfarming #Growyourown #Planting #Sowing #Vegetables #Softfruits #Fruit #Rodentcontrol #Rats #Vermin

[@sowgroweat6987]

Great information thanks. When I used to keep Chickens we had a real problem with rats and even though I hate bait it had to be used until a shooting enthusiast wanted target practice. The tunnel idea is awesome, and I shall remember that.

[@SmallholdingUK]

Thanks, to be honest I hate baiting and only use when it gets out of control, it’s much quicker to get the numbers down than trapping alone

[@NielsPoulsen]

What a beautiful place you have. I use the Victor trap. Dont want to get your finger in that. I work at an estate with maize lyingn everywhere for the pheasants. A few kernels near the trigger usually does the job. I really enjoy your videos 😊

[@SmallholdingUK]

Thank you so much 😊

[@richardhughes1076]

Seems to be mental this year for rats.

[@SmallholdingUK]

I’ve never known a year like it here

[@wales123100]

Get a local terrier pack to pay a visit

[@SmallholdingUK]

I do love watching terrier’s work I’ve pretty much got them under control now

[@MrBsmurfy]

Been using live traps over past 2 years due to your stated concerns and the fact we have buzzards and red kites in area that I don't want to poison. 10 rats clobbered in past 3 weeks! I drown them which is a bit unpleasant but over in 60secs

[@MrBsmurfy]

BTW I find placing them on a ridged clay roof tile helps as I use bird seed under the cage. The rats go in trying to get the seed and trip the trap. I found peanut butter on the plate was getting licked off by either mice or slugs. Another 2 tiles triangulated over the trap makes it an attractive dark tunnel

[@SmallholdingUK]

Yeah I only use live traps and ferreting for rabbit control now as some traps just struggle with big rabbits