Rats won't scare off robins and blackbirds from garden if you add 1 thing to bird table

If you've noticed fewer robins, blackbirds or finches visiting your garden lately, it might not be your imagination - rats could be to blame. These unwanted visitors are often drawn to leftover bird seed and suet, and once they find an easy food source, they're quick to return.

Not only do rats hoover up bird food meant for other wildlife, but their presence can also frighten smaller birds away altogether. However, there's one surprisingly simple trick that can stop rats and squirrels from getting into your bird food - and it doesn't involve traps or poison. According to experts at Really Wild Bird Food, adding a little Vaseline to the pole of your bird table can stop the pesky rodents.

"If you're worried about rodents such as squirrels, you can lubricate the pole using something like Vaseline to make it even more difficult for rodents to scale the pole," they said.

By applying a thin layer of Vaseline to the pole, you create a smooth, slippery surface that rodents simply can't climb.

This quick fix also means robins, blackbirds, blue tits and sparrows can feed safely without being scared off by larger, unwanted visitors lurking underneath.

If you want to take things even further, there are a few natural ways to keep rats away for good - including adding fragrant plants or spices around the garden.

"Studies have shown that rats don't like strong smells such as garlic powder or peppermint oil, so if you have vulnerable areas in your garden it may be worth sprinkling some around to deter rats from visiting your property," say the experts.

"You can also use spices like chilli, cayenne pepper and cloves. Planting wood hyacinth, allium and daffodils in your garden can also act as a rat repellent and should keep your rodent visitors at bay!"

An alternative option to putting Vaseline or spices on a bird table includes using a baffle, say the experts.

"Baffles are designed to make it difficult for vermin such as squirrels to access the bird feeder. Although usually targeted at squirrels, baffles are just as effective with scrounging rats," they said.

Baffles are protective barriers, often dome or cone-shaped, designed to stop rodents and squirrels from accessing bird food. You can buy baffles from retailers such as B&Q (£19.99) and Amazon (£11.72).