Protecting drip irrigation line

Hey community--

We have a pretty extensive drip irrigation line establishing an orchard of sapling fruit trees. It's been there for 2 years now. Last summer it seemed nothing was bothering it though there were 2-3 spots this spring that needed to be patched because of damage. This summer however it's as though every mouse/rat in the area discovered it and it late July they had chewed holes all over, a few big ones at the larger diameter tubing and some defects at nearly every branch off line to individual trees.

I had buried much of the line in mulch and that does seem to help but no guarantee they won't dig it up as they have in a few spots we repaired. At this point I'm planning to mulch heavier than before and see if that helps.

Does anyone have any recommendations for protecting drip line from thirsty vermin?

Thanks!
Blaise

I found this; https://homeguides.sfgate.com/keep-rabbits-squirrels-eating-drip-lines-88461.html
Above-ground drip lines are a magnet for thirsty pests such rabbits (Lepus and Sylvilagus spp.) and squirrels (Sciurus and Spermophilus spp.). The animals, either sensing there's water inside the drip line or seeing it running, chew through the plastic or rubber tubing to get to the water. Once they know the water source is there, they will return, making patching a never-ending process. One way to keep the cute but pesty critters from chewing through your drip irrigation lines is to move them underground.

John-- the link url you started your post with doesn't have a valid url. Could you repost?

Hi there,

I have had extensive drip irrigation lines for many years.  I have had the same problems.  I wish I had a simple answer for you.  If possible, get one or more "mousers".  Cats are amazing at rodent control.  It doesn't sound like industrial farming but if you want to eradicate them without chemicals then that's what's worked for me.  The prior post was consistent with my experience, once rodents declare the drip line is the water source, they just keep returning.  I just let my cats handle it for me and they're great at it.  

If you find something better, please let me know.

Best wishes.