I would sooo much rather setup my rat breeding out in one of my garages than in my basement! I live in PA, though and my garages aren't heated. I've learned that rats can still successfully live and breed in unheated structures during the winter, but breeding and litters decrease by about 30%. Also, how would it be possible to keep a watering system and all of the waterlines from freezing? I've also read that breeding rats outdoors will attract all of the wild rats in the area...