What's digging it's way in?...

That's a good idea, thanks...will give it a go in between the shower - urgh.
Caught another pair of rats last night tho

hi most likely rats cos we have the same problems, we have to rat runs dug under each end of the run we`ve put concrete blocks over the holes and bricks around the inside of the run but they just dig round them
think it will have to be either poison(well out of the way of the chickens) or traps but or coop is also near marsh/woods so don`t think i can get rid of them altogether, let me know if you have any joy getting rid of them.

Gun-Sight-Dead rat

worked so far this winter

i use bog standard rats traps - metal or wood; plastic ones have broken/malfunctioned on me. also, i put something over them so birds don't kill themselves on them. there are pheasants on my allotment, but i don't fancy catching a pigeon no matter how much a foe they are.

Guns not poison.
Saves vets bills but have to be accurate to be fair.
PCP air rifle has punch but looking at a Crossman King Ratcatcher for fast pointability with a laser sight.
Eventually my partner has agreed something needs doing when she has seen the damage caused.

i have 2 terriers that are very good at clearing rats out i often go to different farms to help them with their problem and also had 4 out my back lately believe me if you know of someone who hunts rats with terriers its very very effective