As the winter chill sets in, rats become a more frequent and unwelcome sight in British gardens, drawn closer to our homes in search of warmth and food. For those who love to feed wild birds, this can present a frustrating dilemma. However, a simple and humane solution has been revealed, using a common kitchen spice to keep the rodents at bay.
The Chilli Powder Solution
According to gardening guru Dave, widely known online as Dave the Plantman, the secret weapon is chilli powder. In a video shared on Instagram, Dave highlighted a conversation with a man named Bob, who sells the spice. Bob recommended mixing a level teaspoon of chilli powder into bird seed. This simple act makes the food highly unappealing to rats, mice, and even squirrels, who are repelled by the smell.
Bob noted its effectiveness, stating, "Something like that, we'd put a level teaspoon in, and it will deter rats, mice, squirrels. I've even got a customer in Cumbria who puts it on her roses to keep the deer off." He also mentioned that other customers use it to protect planted bulbs from being dug up.
How to Implement This Pest Control Method Safely
For bird lovers, the primary concern is the safety of their feathered visitors. The good news is that birds are not affected by the capsaicin in chilli, which is what creates the burning sensation for mammals. You can safely incorporate this method by lightly sprinkling a small amount of chilli powder into your seed mix or suet before placing it in the feeder.
It is crucial to ensure the powder is evenly distributed to avoid clumping and to use it sparingly to prevent any potential powder from irritating the birds' eyes. This technique allows you to continue feeding birds throughout the winter without turning your garden into a rat buffet.
Other Applications and Important Considerations
If your goal is to protect your property more broadly, you can scatter chilli powder or flakes around potential entry points and nesting areas. You can also create a spray by mixing chilli powder or oil with water. However, this solution will need to be reapplied frequently, especially during the wet British winter, as rain will wash it away.
While this method is safe for birds and is a humane way to deter rats without causing them harm, pet owners should exercise caution. The spice can cause irritation to cats and dogs, so careful placement is advised to prevent direct contact or ingestion.
This chilli powder hack offers a straightforward and accessible way to manage garden pests. However, if you suspect a full-blown rat infestation, it is always recommended to seek professional pest control advice to address the problem effectively.
