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If you've spotted fewer robins, blackbirds or finches in your garden recently, it might not be down to chance – rats could be the culprit. These uninvited guests are frequently attracted to leftover bird seed and suet, and once they've discovered an easy meal, they're liable to keep coming back, reports the Express . Rats don't just devour bird food intended for other wildlife, but their presence can also scare smaller birds away completely. However, there's one remarkably straightforward method that can prevent rats and squirrels from accessing your bird food – and it doesn't require traps or poison. According to specialists at Really Wild Bird Food, applying a little Vaseline to the pole of your bird table can deter the troublesome rodents. "If you're worried about rodents such as squirrels, you can lubricate the pole using something like Vaseline to make it even more difficult for rodents to scale the pole," they said. By spreading a thin layer of Vaseline onto the pole, you create a smooth, slippery surface that rodents simply cannot climb. This straightforward solution also means robins, blackbirds, blue tits and sparrows can feed safely without being frightened off by larger, unwelcome visitors lurking below. If you want to go a step further, there are several natural methods to keep rats away for good – including placing fragrant plants or spices around the garden. "Studies have shown that rats don't like strong smells such as garlic powder or peppermint oil, so if you have vulnerable areas in your garden it may be worth sprinkling some around to deter rats from visiting your property," advised the experts. "You can also use spices like chilli, cayenne pepper and cloves. Planting wood hyacinth, allium and daffodils in your garden can also act as a rat repellent and should keep your rodent visitors at bay!" An alternative option to applying Vaseline or spices on a bird table includes using a baffle, suggested the experts. "Baffles are designed to make it difficult for vermin such as squirrels to access the bird feeder. Although usually targeted at squirrels, baffles are just as effective with scrounging rats," they explained. Baffles are protective barriers, often dome or cone-shaped, designed to stop rodents and squirrels from accessing bird food. You can purchase baffles from retailers such as B&Q (£19.99) and Amazon (£11.72). If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here
