Hello, I have a couple of bird feeders in my backyard. I put them up about 6 months ago and had to take them down after a month because they attracted rats. We have gun laws in my community so I can't shoot them. I have squirrels that frequent the area so I can't poison them. Any suggestions on what to do. They are attracted to the bird seed and suit that falls on the ground from the birds feeding.
Thanks for you help in this matter...Terry Johnson
I rigged a tray under a feeder to keep so much of the seed from being knocked on the ground. I drilled several small holes in the bottom for those times when I forget to take it down when it rains.
It's just a cheap plastic tray for a big planter pot -- I think it cost about $2. Now the bottom feeders have learned to go up there for more food (although some still gets spilled) and they spend a little more time on my perches posing for pictures. Even the bigger birds like Mourning Doves and Band-tailed Pigeons will happily stand in the tray and dine. The quails are still considering the situation, from the nearby deck railing.