[Waynestrout]

Thinking about it, there were some eggshells put in on top at the weekend and they're gone. Won't be doing that again, they can go to the council composting.

[Teen76]

If you don't want to go shooting Rattie like BigBadFrank   there is a more natural method that I have heard of and that is rats hate the smell of mint!  You could try growing some around your compost bin.  

I haven't tried it myself as I don't have a problem with rats, well not yet anyway.

If you do try this method, let us know if it works!

[CZ Silhouette]

A lot of panic over nothing, IMHO.

one rat i found in the compost bin recieved the sharp end of my fork and stayed in the compost to rot away. That was around 2 years ago, compost went on the veg plot and we ate the veg that grew on the plot.
We're both still here and very healthy.
I still find evidence of rats in the compost occasionally, they love the fresh veg clippings. I presume they pee while in there but it wont stop me using the compost.

I'd be far more concerned about poop from a carnivore, but even then i wouldnt worry to much, so long as its a good hot compost heap.

Do not mislead others with your carefree attitude towards the seriousness of the diseases that rats carry & there effect.

Here is a link for anyone interested in some info on Weils.
Weils Disease

[penance]

having worked in forrestry i am quite aware of the seriousness.
Like i said, a well maintained compost heap (IE hot) will overcome many of the problems.