‘Not any old vermin’: rats numbers are on the rise thanks to global heating – and poison may not be the answer
Summary
Scientists have found that rat populations are growing in many cities due to warmer winters caused by global heating. Traditional methods like poison may not be effective or safe, so experts are exploring other ways to control rats, such as using contraceptives and better public health rules.Key Facts
- Rat numbers have increased in 16 cities studied, linked to warmer winter temperatures.
- Black and brown rats do not hibernate, so milder winters allow them to reproduce more.
- Rats carry diseases like Weil’s disease, hantavirus, and new coronavirus variants that can infect humans.
- Poisoning rats can harm other wildlife and sometimes accidentally poison people.
- Scientists are looking into fertility control as a safer way to manage rat populations.
- Strict public health measures can help prevent rat infestations more than just using poison.
- Rats are intelligent mammals that show social behaviors like caring for sick members and fighting.
- Rodents have been damaging crops, spreading disease, and harming ecosystems for centuries.
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