Leaving these five things in your garden could ‘encourage a rat infestation’.

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### 🗑️ 3. **Overflowing Bins or Open Trash Bags**
Rats have an incredible sense of smell and can chew through bags or plastic to reach food scraps. An unsealed bin is basically an open buffet.
**Fix it:** Always keep trash bags inside secure bins with lids, and regularly clean the area around them to remove food residue.

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### 🍂 4. **Dense Shrubs and Overgrown Plants**
Rats don’t just need food—they need shelter. Overgrown hedges, tall grass, or wood piles provide perfect hiding spots and nesting areas.
**Fix it:** Keep grass trimmed, clear clutter, and prune shrubs away from fences or walls.

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### 🐓 5. **Chicken Coops or Animal Bedding**
Backyard chickens are popular, but leftover feed, droppings, and cozy bedding can lure rats in.
**Fix it:** Store feed in sealed containers, clean coops regularly, and consider raising them off the ground to prevent nesting underneath.

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### Final Thoughts:
Rats are opportunists. They’re not necessarily drawn to your garden out of malice—they’re looking for food, water, and shelter. But a few simple changes can go a long way in making your space less appealing.

If you’ve noticed droppings, burrows, or gnawed wood around your garden, take action early. A few adjustments to your outdoor habits could mean the difference between a peaceful garden—and a full-blown infestation.

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Want a printable version of this checklist? Or need tips on natural rat deterrents? I’ve got you covered—just ask!