A system is disclosed for keeping rats and similar pests away without trapping or killing them. It provides a long-life battery powered LED light system for deterring rats, mice and other nocturnal animals. Embodiments of the present invention are designed to operate continuously for at least one year between battery changes. Embodiments have been proven to deter rats from invading engine compartments of parked motor vehicles, vegetable gardens, attics, garages and outdoor patios. In preferred embodiments the wavelengths of the LEDs are chosen to correspond to the known wavelength sensitivity peaks of the eyes of rats, mice, and other rodents. This new technology transcends traps.