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Rats in the Backyard? How to Spot, Stop, and Prevent Infestations

5 May 2025

 Why Rats Love Your Backyard in Southern Ontario

Spring turns Southern Ontario’s backyards into lush retreats—but for rats, it’s a buffet and a hideout. From vegetable gardens and greasy BBQs to garbage bins with loose lids, rats seize every opportunity. They follow the food, and our yards unintentionally provide it.

 

Where Rats Hide in Your Yard (And Why It Matters)

Rats aren’t just foraging—they’re nesting. Tall grass, thick shrubs, beneath sheds, decks, and even compost bins offer dark, warm shelter. These spots are perfect for breeding, avoiding predators, and establishing colonies undisturbed.

Hidden Backyard Water Sources Rats Rely On

Water is critical for survival—and rats are resourceful. Rainwater pools on tarps, inside buckets, or collects in brick divots. Leaky garden hoses or clogged gutters also keep rats hydrated, and if your backyard holds water, you’re holding an open invitation.

What a Backyard Rat Infestation Looks Like (Video Case Study)

In our video, we revisit a client’s backyard in Southern Ontario. Our Rodent Control Specialist performs a detailed inspection, revealing bait stations placed weeks earlier. You’ll see signs of consumption, learn about monitoring techniques, and watch how we update bait for ongoing control.

The Importance of Replenishing Backyard Bait Stations

Baiting isn’t a one-and-done job. Rats are clever, and the bait must be fresh and secure. We demonstrate how to:

•Open bait stations safely

•Remove debris

•Add fresh, high-grade rodenticide

•Reseal for pet and wildlife safety

This regular maintenance is key to sustained success.


How to Prevent Rats from Returning to Your Backyard

Prevention keeps rats away after treatment. Here’s what homeowners should do:

Secure garbage with tight-fitting lids

Harvest gardens regularly and remove fallen produce

Clean BBQs after every use

Fix leaky hoses and empty standing water

Seal under decks/sheds to block nesting zones

Trim back shrubs to eliminate hiding spots

Proactivity keeps your yard pest-free. For anything beyond, call the professionals.

Conclusion:

Backyard rats in Southern Ontario are more common than you think—but manageable with the right strategy. This video gives you a behind-the-scenes look at our approach. Stay vigilant, clean, and when in doubt, call Pest Protection Plus, because we keep your outdoor space safe.

 

Learn about our rodent control solutionshttps://pestprotectionplus.com/rodent-control-gta/

 

Here is a helpful video:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MHGjm8wTZVU

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