DORIS BLAMED FOR EXPLOSION OF RATS
Victoria snaps Storm-hit pests hid in homes
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A PLAGUE of rats has reached crisis point in the wake of Storm Doris.
Pest controllers are struggling to cope with soaring numbers.
Rentokil has reported a 19% increase in call-outs between December and February compared to the year before.
But experts say millions of the vermin have bred after being driven indoors away from the storms.
David Cross, head of the technical training academy at Rentokil Pest Control, said: “Although this winter has been dry and mild on the whole, it has been broken up by storms and severe cold snaps, seen most recently with Storm Doris.
“These weather events brought snow, strong winds and even floods in some places, which drive species such as brown rats and field mice indoors in search of food, shelter and warmth.
“This winter’s cold snaps, combined with an increased population over the summer, may well have contributed to the surge in residential rodent enquiries that we have seen in recent months.”
Four people were killed when Storm Doris brought winds of up to 94mph, snow and rain to the UK last month.
Bacteria
Mr Cross added: “It can be very traumatic finding rats and mice in your house, and for good reason.
“Rodents can carry bacteria and viruses which can pose a serious health risk to people and pets.
“These pathogens may be spread throughout an infested property via the rodent’s urine and faeces, as the pests forage for food and build nesting sites.
“If you think you have a problem in your home, it’s always best to seek professional advice.”
Rentokil has revealed how a pair of rats could produce nearly half a billion descendants in three years.
A project, named The Rise Of The Rats visualises the rapid rate at which rats reproduce, and warns how quickly a rat infestation can spiral out of control.
JC Ehrlich, a Rentokil North American division brand, saw an 86% increase in rat-related call-outs from 2015 to 2016.
This trend was mirrored in cities around the world, with Paris closing nine parks and green spaces as part of a major anti-rat campaign.