Ratmageddon: Why rats are overrunning our cities
Summary
Rats are increasing in cities in the UK and globally. This rise in rat populations is linked to factors like waste management practices and increasing temperatures. These rodents carry diseases and pose health risks.Key Facts
- John Gladwin discovered rats in his home in Croydon, which worried him about health and hygiene.
- Cleankill, a pest control company in southern England, noted a 20% increase in rat callouts over the last two years.
- The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) reported an increase in rat infestations among many of its members.
- Estimates of the UK rat population range from 10 million to 120 million.
- Over half a million rat infestations were reported to UK councils from 2023 to mid-2023.
- Rat population increases have been recorded in several US cities and other international cities like Amsterdam and Toronto.
- Rats can transmit diseases such as leptospirosis and hantavirus and contaminate food supplies.
- Factors such as infrequent garbage collection, urban development, and rising temperatures might be contributing to the increase in rat populations.
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