Backyard Chickens Bring Rats To Utah Neighborhoods, But Proper Grain Storage Stops Them

Utah has seen an increase in the population of rats in the last few years and it points to a popular law that provided these rodents with an easy meal. This was the ordinance that allows for backyard chicken coups.

Understanding Rat Breeding and Behavior

The rat population has increased in cities across the state. Rats can have up to 6 litters a year and each one contains 5 to 12 baby rats. If the conditions are right, rats can infiltrate an area quickly.

Chickens don't attract rats, but the grain you feed them does. Farmers have long understood the need to make the place they store their grain rat proof. However, someone new to raising chickens may not be so informed.

a rat sitting on a piece of wood

Preventing Rat Infestations: Key Strategies

This is important to understand before you get chickens because once the rats come in, it is hard to get rid of them. Here are some ways to avoid attracting the rats in the first place.

Store grain in metal containers that are rat proof. These rodents feed at night while chickens eat during the day. Removing the feeders at night and placing them in a secure place can keep the rats from finding easy food.

Read More: Why Utahns Are Seeing More Dog Food Recalls in 2026

It is also good to think about the fencing. Rats can get through chicken wire and scale fences. Using a metal fence with a tight mesh that completely encloses the chickens, including underneath, is best to keep rats away.

If you already have a rat problem it is even more important to make these changes. The rat problem in Utah isn't going to go away immediately, but with some thought it can be brought under control.