'Super rats' invade UK homes during freezing cold weather - how to keep them out

21 January 2024 , 08:10

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The chilly weather could bring "super rats" into British homes (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The chilly weather could bring "super rats" into British homes, it's been claimed. Homeowners were advised to start taking measures to keep the pests at bay as the cold sets in.

A woman from Farnworth Bolton was left terrified to enter her garden after it was invaded by super rats. The rodents dug holes and left the area smelling of rat urine and covered in droppings, making it unfit for her grandchildren to play.

Chris Bonnett, a gardening expert and founder of GardeningExpress, said: "The cold snap expected this January will mean that these rodents are fleeing their usual habitats and are in search of a warm home. You may find that they are trying to enter your home and, if you're experiencing them in your garden, it means they've viewed it as a suitable place to begin building a nest and keep warm.

Rats don't like strong smells like garlic powder or peppermint oil (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"This is likely to happen if you have any debris and garden waste on the ground or sources of food growing such as fruits and vegetables. Having rats in the garden is a major inconvenience so we've shared a range of ways people can keep the rats out of their homes all together," reports the Daily Star.

Chris shared some top tips to keep the pests away from your garden:

Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts

1. Tidy up any rubbish

Rats love warm nests made from debris, rubbish and garden waste. Make sure you clear up any that's built up over winter to avoid attracting them.

2. Block any gaps and holes

Even the tiniest of holes in garden sheds or empty plant pots can become a new home for rats. Cover all gaps, no matter how small, to stop them getting in.

3. Use garlic powder as a deterrent

Rats don't like strong smells like garlic powder or peppermint oil. Sprinkle some around areas in your garden that might be at risk.

4. Cover your drains

Make sure all drains and grates are covered and in good condition. If they're damaged, replace them and check around your house for any other possible entry points.

5. Watch out for water sources

Rats need water to set up home. A dripping garden tap, water butt, or blocked drain could make your garden the perfect place for them.

6. Keep compost heaps damp

Dry compost heaps are a cosy home for rats. Keep your compost heap damp to discourage them from settling in.

7. Monitor bird tables

Bird tables can attract rats, so keep an eye on them and clean up any spilled seeds in the late afternoon once the birds have finished feeding.

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Brits have been warned that super rats could invade homes this winter (No credit)

Katie-Ann Gupwell