Keeping rats out of the compost
Naomi sent in this question:
Our compost had rats so we had to get rid of it - how do I avoid this if we want to try composting again?
Here’s Lindsay’s response:
Rats you say? I’m assuming then that you’re in a city setting. Most municipalities have issued compost bins to avoid smart critters like crows, rats, raccoons and skunks from getting in. Check your municipal waste website and see how you can get one. They’re often about the size of a large garbage can, with small air holes, a locking lid and holes to peg it down.
Trouble shooting for rats would also mean that you want to make sure no cooked or meaty foods get into the compost. These are quite fragrant and tempting for critters like rats.
Also, you can add pet hair right to the compost. It’s supposed to give your bin that “predator” smell and keep the vermin away. I add my cat and dog hair from their brushes as well as dryer lint (it’s mostly pet hair) and haven’t had a problem with rats for three years here in Vancouver. And I do know they’re around. I’ve seen them with my own eyes scrambling my fence and trees!