Storing bird seed in your shed is discouraged due to pest attractants. A more suitable location for bird feed is suggested.
Rats are opportunistic creatures, often attracted to any easy source of food. When it comes to bird feed in your garden, taking the right measures to store it can help deter these unwanted visitors.
John Stewart, Technical Training Manager at Pest-Stop, emphasises the importance of using rodent-proof containers for bird feed storage. Plastic bins may not be as effective as metal containers in preventing rodent access due to their ability to be chewed through. Metal containers, particularly galvanized metal pails, are recommended as they are durable, eco-friendly, and highly effective at keeping out rodents, insects, and squirrels [1][3][5].
Securing Your Bird Feed Storage
To prevent rats from gaining access to your bird feed, it's crucial to store the seed in tightly sealed containers. Sealing any point of entry that rats can squeeze through is also important. Small gaps or weaknesses in a shed structure can allow rodents to enter and set up nests close to the food supply [2].
Maintaining a Clean Storage Environment
Apart from using a secure container, maintaining a clean and dry storage area is key. Avoid placing bird feeders or seed containers directly against your house or other structures, as this can provide easy access to rats. Regularly check containers for signs of moisture or pests, and ensure the storage location is off the ground and away from direct sunlight to maintain a consistent temperature [3].
Minimising Other Food Sources
In addition to securing your bird feed, it's essential to maintain general garden hygiene. Remove other rat attractants such as fallen fruit, pet food left outside, and secure compost bins with lids rats can't penetrate [2][4][5].
Natural Deterrents
Using natural deterrents like planting lavender, rosemary, or marigolds around the garden may help keep rats at bay, although their effectiveness may be limited for severe infestations [2].
In summary, the best approach is to use a secured, rodent-proof container such as a galvanized metal seed storage pail with a tight-fitting lid, keep the area clean, and minimise other food sources or nesting spots for rats near the bird seed [1][3][5].
This article was written by Kezia Reynolds, who joined the platform team as News Writer in September 2024. For further ways to keep rats away from your garden, stay tuned!
[1] Rodent-proof Containers for Bird Feed Storage [2] Natural Ways to Keep Rats Away from Your Garden [3] How to Prevent Rats from Invading Your Garden [4] Composting: Keeping Rats Out [5] How to Store Bird Food to Keep Rats Away
- To maintain a home-and-garden lifestyle that is free from rodent intrusions, consider using a galvanized metal seed storage pail with a tight-fitting lid for securing bird feed storage.
- A utility room, effectively reconstructed as a clean, dry, and well-ventilated bird feed and seed storage area, can greatly contribute to minimizing the attraction of rats and other pests in your home-and-garden or garden environments.
