Rats

[Baldbloke]

We have about 20 chickens and over the last few months have seen quite a few rats. Obviously they have come in because of the availability of hen pellets plus water. I've had a few in Fenn traps but think I need to step up my efforts before I'm overrun with the f******. I've moved the chickens roost and food into a polytunnel and the rats are much more visible. Last night I went up there, and two of them were doing acrobatics off the suspended feeder. The weak torch didn't seem to bother them so I'll strap a tactical torch to the rimfire and see if I can plug a few before work tonight.

I used to be able to buy bait but understand the EU is to blame for it not now being available until you've done a test at yet more cost. What is available is half the volume and half the strength and have been advised it's a waste of time and money as they almost build an immunity to it. The wife doesn't like me encouraging the dogs to get at them, but all other options are on the table rather than getting rid of the chickens, although this might be a good excuse. 

What is the preferred best method for dealing with this vermin?  I do seem to remember successfully setting tunnel traps as a kid but can't remember the dimensions for the drawbridge that stops them coming back out. Anyone tried a buried deep barrel with two pipes into the top?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

[westphalian]

I shoot em mate. Great sport. I have chickens cats and dogs so don’t like poison or traps

 

[eggsarascal]

My ex neighbour kept chickens and the rats moved in, got some bait  from a farmer friend. I did try to buy more of the same but got a computer says no without a license. Do you know a farmer?

[Baldbloke]

My ex neighbour kept chickens and the rats moved in, got some bait  from a farmer friend. I did try to buy more of the same but got a computer says no without a license. Do you know a farmer?

Not up here

[Baldbloke]

I shoot em mate. Great sport. I have chickens cats and dogs so don’t like poison or traps
 

Me too. Trouble is its ones and twos. A bit like the traps

[Woodlover]

In India they use a bucket full of water with a stick over the top and something spins on the stick, I think like a toilet roll, and you end up with a rat in ya bucket...You will have to utube it as I cant remember the exact method.

[Stere]

Have cats they kill rats so never have many in the chicken house.

[Woodworks]

Just do the test and use rat bait. Mrs Woodwork did it online and found it all very straight forward. Yes it costs a few quid but sounds like you need a long term solution. Some cats take rats and others dont. Had plenty of cats on the farm over the years but only one of them was a good ratter.

[felixthelogchopper]

I use a combination of .22 airguns and this.

[Ratman]

I use a combination of .22 airguns and this.

Best bit of pussy i’ve seen all day [emoji6]