Rat problem

Wondering if anyone more knowledgeable might be able to advise. Last autumn I noticed something had dug some sort of shelter at the bottom of my fence (see pic). I thought it was probably a hedgehog as I have seen one in the garden, and it seemed too big to be done by vermin. I'd also noticed something burrowing into my compost bin, which I'd hoped again was the hedgehog. But this morning I saw a rat in the garden, so I'm wondering if the burrow could indeed be rats? If so, is it worth getting professionals in? Or will removing the water and food source be sufficient? I will stop putting kitchen waste in the compost soon, after my council starts food waste collections. Perhaps there's something you can put in the compost to deter them?



Thanks

 

Rats hate chilli, so try some hot powder liberally sprinkled around. I used it when I had hens (it doesn't worry birds at all). Removing all 'food' is helpful, but you may find yourself calling out the pest control.

 

I don't know whether Pest Control has altered over the years but they always advised to stop feeding birds in your garden for a few weeks.
Always wise to avoid any food waste in a compost bin/box except for raw veg waste.
Sometimes, if the water authorities have been digging about round sewer pipes in the area, rats can be disturbed and set off for a safer habitat - ie your garden.