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Case Study: Severe Rat Infestation in a Blackburn Garden
Wallace Pest Control was contacted by a homeowner in Blackburn after a rat was seen regularly in the garden during daylight hours. Daytime sightings are often a strong indication of a well-established infestation, so we carried out a full inspection to assess the extent of the problem.
The Inspection
On arrival, it was immediately clear that this was not an isolated sighting. The garden showed extensive signs of rat activity, including multiple runways, burrows, gnawing damage, droppings, and sheltered harbourage areas. The level of activity indicated a large and active rat population had become established on the property.
The Source of the Infestation
The main source attracting and sustaining the infestation was a well-stocked bird table in the garden. Bird food is an excellent food source for rats, especially where seed is regularly spilled and allowed to accumulate. Once a reliable food source is established, rats will quickly move in, create burrows nearby, and breed rapidly.The Treatment
To bring the infestation under control safely and effectively, we installed multiple tamper-resistant bait stations around the garden in areas of heavy activity. These were positioned along well-used runways, close to harbourage points, and near feeding locations. The stations were selected and placed to prevent access by non-target species. One bait station was even zip-tied to the leg of the bird table, as the rats were actively using it to climb up to the food source.
The Results
After just one week, more than 1kg of rodenticide had been taken from the bait stations. To put that into perspective, only 13 grams of the product used is typically required to eradicate one adult rat. This level of bait take confirmed the scale of the infestation and showed just how active the population had been before treatment.
The Outcome
By the third visit, no further bait was being taken and there was no evidence of fresh activity. The clients also reported that they had seen no more rats in the garden. With the infestation eliminated, we were able to advise on prevention measures to reduce the risk of re-infestation.
Expert Advice
Bird feed is one of the most common reasons rats become established in gardens. Spilled seed provides an easy and reliable food source, and once rats move in they can breed quickly. If you feed birds, it is important to keep the area clean, remove excess food, and monitor for signs of rodent activity.
Need Rat Control in Blackburn?
If you are dealing with rats in your garden, shed, or around your property, Wallace Pest Control provides effective professional rat control in Blackburn and surrounding areas.