Rats are commonly found within the equestrian setting, yards and stables tend to provide the ideal habitat for rodents.
We were recently contacted by an equestrian yard in the town of Knaresborough, near Harrogate following a recent spike in rat activity. The rats had gained access into the tack room where thousands of pounds of rugs, saddles, equipment and feed were stored.
The rats had been gaining access via the guttering, chewed through the roof lining and onto the integral beams; we also located nesting sites within the muck heap where ideal breeding areas were found.
As the rats had access to the integral structure it was allowing entry to nearly all the stables, smear marks, droppings and chewed wires had been founded near the stable feed troughs and water drinkers, they had also being eating the horse licks.
A picture to show the damaged roof
When carrying out pest control within close proximity of domestic or wild non target species, time must be spent ensuring it’s carried out safely with minimal risk to the horses.
All blocks and baits were securely wired and nailed down; rats will often drag food stuffs which can move the risk closer to the non-target species, in this case the horses.
We requested the muck heap be left untouched as disturbing it may cause the rats scatter elsewhere, we then installed secure baiting points either side to encourage the rodents in.
Nick securing bait points
Over the four week period the rats had been eradicated with no risk to the horses, by using our experience and specialised techniques the job was completed on time with little fuss or expense.
We all must play our part, to reduce the risk of rodent infestation on equestrian yards you must be vigilant. Ensure you store feed in secure containers, keep feed store room door closed and well proofed, if a rat is spotted on the yard contact AgriPest Management as the problem will only worsen over time.
For pest control help or advice on equestrian yards, farms, estates or in the domestic environment in the Harrogate, Knaresborough, Boroughbridge and Wetherby area please contact AgriPest Management for friendly helpful advice.
Nick 07716 467 460
