Hi All,
The problem with the birds is a two edged sword. On the one hand we want to encourage them to come and eat the slugs/snails but on the other hand they can cause some damage to beds and of course they pinch the Blueberries etc., in doing so.
I think on balance its better to have them about then not.
Rats I absolutely hate. I have baulked at the idea of laying poison and instead rely on the efforts of our Cat, who, when he decides to get off his lazy ass, is quiet efficient at the job!
One trick I have tried, and I think it has helped, is to empty the contents of the Cat litter in the vicinity of the Compost Bins (not into the Bins). The smell seems to discourage rats from visiting.
Don.
Don.