Rat prevention advice issued regarding fallen apples and birdseed

Residents in Finland, particularly in areas like Kouvola, are being advised to manage fallen autumn fruit and birdseed to prevent rat infestations. Fallen apples and spilled birdseed provide easy food sources that can lead to increased rodent populations in residential areas.

To mitigate this risk, property owners should collect fallen apples daily. Edible fruit can be used for juicing or preserving, while excess should be disposed of in small amounts in bio-waste bins or in rodent-proof composters. Large quantities of apples should be taken to waste management sites, such as Keltakangas in Kouvola or Karono in Hämeenlinna, where they can be converted into biogas or soil improvers.

Regarding bird feeding, experts recommend waiting until early winter when the ground is frozen or covered in snow to avoid attracting rats. If a rat problem is already present, bird feeding should be avoided entirely until the issue is resolved. When feeding resumes, food should be placed on bird tables rather than directly on the ground to prevent seeds from becoming available to rodents.