Does anyone have issues with rodents getting into the bin? And what is the best tool to use for mixing? Pitchfork not pierce the sides?
796073
I haven't had any problems with any kind of animals or rodents in my 2 bins and I don't do anything extra to reinforce them. When I mix mine up, I use the special mixer you can get to stir you bin...works fine! Composting made easy :)
796074
The lid is very tight. I also have lots of rocks around the base. No rodent issues. I use a pitchfork. I am on my second composing and the bin is still in excellent condition.
796075
I use the Fiskars 75 gallon compost bin for training my dogs to do the weave poles for dog agility. They are absolutely great for that.
796076
Chicken wire around the bottom worked to keep rodents out but we got rid of it becuase it was just to flimsy. We went with one of the rolling composters and it works great.
796077
No problems with rodents on the sides--we put some screening on the bottom to stop any burrowing. I use a kind of a "bent fork" long handled tool. I also bought a tool that you can aerate the compost with as it gets deeper (http://www.gardeners.com/Compost-Aerator/33-367,default,pd.html). Nothing has pierced the sides. It's tough! and I've had many com posters--this is the BEST. Great circulation, the wasps don't make nests in it, attractive, lightweight. Fabulous. I disagree with the answer that it's flimsy. It's true you can't lean your weight on it cuz the sides aren't "solid", but It's out all year long in northern Idaho & it's in perfect shape!! No problems with rodents on the sides--we put some screening on the bottom to stop any burrowing. I use a kind of a "bent fork" long handled tool. I also bought a tool that you can aerate the compost with as it gets deeper (http://www.gardeners.com/Compost-Aerator/33-367,default,pd.html). Nothing has pierced the sides. It's tough! and I've had many com posters--this is the BEST. Great circulation, the wasps don't make nests in it, attractive, lightweight. Fabulous. I disagree with the answer that it's flimsy. It's true you can't lean your weight on it cuz the sides aren't... » Read More No problems with rodents on the sides--we put some screening on the bottom to stop any burrowing. I use a kind of a "bent fork" long handled tool. I also bought a tool that you can aerate the compost with as it gets deeper (http://www.gardeners.com/Compost-Aerator/33-367,default,pd.html). Nothing has pierced the sides. It's tough! and I've had many com posters--this is the BEST. Great circulation, the wasps don't make nests in it, attractive, lightweight. Fabulous. I disagree with the answer that it's flimsy. It's true you can't lean your weight on it cuz the sides aren't "solid", but It's out all year long in northern Idaho & it's in perfect shape!! « Show Less
1296523
I have no idea as to rodents. seems to be a secure closing and keeps breads fresh longer.
917368
I do have large rats in my outside building I keep rat poison in there I bought a metal pole at the hardware store and raised it sorta high just to be safe,but then they started jumping from trees to feeder,being heavier than feeders would close,I am T
1082482
We buried ours into the soil a little bit. We have never had a problem with rodents. Smart raccoons have gotten the top offeven with the locks! At least we think they're raccoons haven't actually seen them.
393454
We haven't had any problem with mice & this composter--and we do have mice. This is the best composter I've ever used and I've tried many. First or second composter--it's great.
473860
Hi, I had the very same problem (note had), I cut the blocks in half and laid the pieces (usually underneath the patio) where I believed they "traveled" the most. Voila! they ate all the pieces, after laying a second batch I noticed not all the pieces were gone/eaten, we did not see any more voles/field mice. I left the uneaten pieces in place - no more mice so I have removed the residue.
177085
Hi Carmen, Not sure. I use it without the white wire bottom. I fill the blue bin with bedding and let my guinea pig run around in there. The wire bottom is not good for piggies. if you are going to use it for a rabbit, then the wire bottom is fine. The wire bottom fits into the blue bin. Now the bin is all plastic and does not feel secure until you slide the tray all the way in. Once it is, it is pretty good. I think the "manual" which really is just assembly instructions, said 2 rabbits? But that is from memory. Good luck!
1823346
I would think it would not attract rodents, even though mice can get thru the smallest of holes (which go right down to the bottom of the unit). When I put food scraps into the bin, I put it at least 6 inches away from the edge, covering it well with leaves/brown material. If you are still worried, I suggest a screen around the lower half of the bin. That would keep the air flowing, but not sure the mice would get under the screen anyway. I tried a tarp (not for mice), but it got too dry. Looks like no one else is having mouse issues either. Good Luck.
288570
The bin is hard to remove when full to the brim so try to empty it more frequently. In case you get caught with a full bin, for a permanent fix, remove the bin, empty it and turn it over. There are some small protrusions on each side of the front of the bin that match up with slots in the base of the unit. Use a small exacto knife or file to trim the protrusions until it removes more easily, but will still stay in place. it doesn't take much.
1823339
I had a issue with squirrels chewing through although it is still useable. I have not had a issue with rats or mice that I am aware of - I use lots of garden clippings and leaves as well as food scraps. Overall I am not sure about this bin just because it is so flimsy.
766511
Use peanut butter. Works like a charm. Make sure you hunting a rat and not a mouse. A mouse will not trigger the trap. Use peanut butter
1490190
Hi Joy, I don't see Rats listed in the product guidelines. Sorry. I live in the hills in Los Angeles and rats are a big problem here. Primarily Roof Rats. We were invaded about 6 years ago with the rats occupying an attic space above the kitchen. I freaked and then called a pest control company here called Corky's. They set multiple traps around the outside of the house after inspecting. When the rats left the attic ( via a hole behind the stove) and went out searching for food, the Cocky's bait stations designed for rats were waiting. You have to poison the rats, but no domestic pet can get inside the containers. Within a couple of weeks the rats were gone, but we have continued the service to keep them out of the house, as rats are everywhere in the hills and the city and it's worked. The Yard Sentinel ( 3 set at keys sight line points ) continues to do the job on the Raccoons, a wild animal far more dangerous to your health than even rats. Question: You said your rats are ALMOST 2 lbs. How did you conclude that, did they just hop up on the bathroom scale for you or is it one of those exercises, weight yourself, grab the rat by the tail and then weigh yourself again? I know it's not funny, but couldn't resist. Hope my feedback is of some help. Bill
1082479
We buried ours into the soil a little bit. We have never had a problem with rodents. Smart raccoons have gotten the top off even with the locks! At least we think they're raccoons haven't actually seen them.
353766
There are small insects that can get in through the various holes, but the plastic seems pretty tough. Rats however can cut through most anything so it might be an issue. The manufacturers are super easy to get a hold of, so be sure to call them.
1388427
Use something like a toothbrush---or even a brand new metal dog comb!? What I have a problem with (for my hard rubber combs)--is hairspray accumulating (believe it or not)!! The effect of this is to block the tongs? on the comb----making it hard to use!! I use a small toothbrush---in seconds it removes the hairspray particles and the comb is fine!!
2178652
The most important thing to remember is do not submerge the Raticator - electricity and water are not the best of friends. One unit I used did require a bit more than a damp cloth after a while from being used outside on a covered deck - I think some of the bait got a bit damp and started to clog. In a flat-bottomed sink/tub/basin I ran a small amount of warm water - enough to just cover the bottom of the unit - I can't remember exactly how much water but it was no more than 1cm, possibly a little less. I added a small amount of dish washing liquid and gently mixed, you don't want bubbles. Place the unit in the water and leave to soak for 15 minutes or so. Gently lift the unit out of the water and pour any water back in the sink. Leave to dry thoroughly in an inclined position - at least 24 hours. A damp cloth is fine for general cleaning and as George Laird suggested, ensure the switch is off - I'd remove the batteries as well, just to be extra safe. These units give quite a kick so I wouldn't want to risk my hand being mistaken for a rat :)
1871589
I had rats in the attic. I just threw some around where I saw the hole under the eves of the roof. I wore disposable gloves. Good luck!