Numbers of ‘super rats’ could soar in Lancashire

Experts fear numbers of the rodents, which have grown resistant to conventional poison, could soar in the next few months boosted by a combination of colder temperatures and increasingly wet weather.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) says the spread of the rats has been accelerated by failed home treatments, which have helped them grow bigger and stronger as well as build up their immunity.

The trade body has revealed many ‘over-the-counter’ remedies are now ineffective and insists control of the rodents has become a matter for professionals.

The BPCA has issued the advice ahead of National Pest Prevention Week (November 9-14) - an initiative designed to raise public awareness of all pests, how they can be avoided and the value of using expert controllers.

Simon Forrester, chief executive of the BPCA, said: “Reports of poison-resistant rats have been increasing in recent years and it seems likely that there’ll be a further surge in numbers during the coming months.

“There’s less natural food around during colder weather so the population of rodents in and around homes and business premises could swell at an alarming rate as we head into winter.

“The trouble is that people who try to treat problems themselves are likely to be making the problem worse.

“The rodents have become resistant and, in some cases, immune to off-the-shelf poisons to the point where they’re actually feeding off the toxic pellets, which means their size and strength is increasing.

“Stronger rodenticides can be more effective, but most are subject to strict legislation and must only be used by professional pest controllers, so it has become very important to make sure infestations are treated by experts in the field.”

The population of rats resistant to poison has increased rapidly in recent years due to a naturally-occurring mutation of genes.

Estimates put the current rat population at more than 100 million. They carry bugs which can be passed to humans, including Weil’s disease, which can lead to jaundice and kidney failure.

Mr Forrester said: “Normal rats are being killed off by poison, so these resistant species are taking their place.

“It’s only natural that their numbers are expanding and there could be a significant risk to public health if their population is left unchecked.”

A typical home may have more than a dozen potential entry points for the rodents. They get through gaps as small as 15mm, often using plumbing pipes and unscreened vents or gaps in the eaves and roof edges.

Mr Forrester added: “The first evidence of rats in a home is often noises under the floor, in the walls or loft as that’s where most will head to once they’re inside.

“Quite apart from the health risks, they’ll foul water tanks and chew on wood or electrical wires which can cause a lot of damage and poses a fire hazard.

“They’ll also do their best to find sources of food, which means they can soon move to other areas of the house occupied by humans.

“Rats also breed rapidly and will create nests in attics or walls, so it’s vital to act as soon as any evidence is found.”

The BPCA says it’s much easier to prevent an infestation than to get rid of one and says simple precautions can be taken to reduce the risk.

*Inspect properties thoroughly and seal up any external gaps, holes or crevices that could provide rats with a way in.

*Remove potential nesting sites by keeping yards and gardens clean and tidy, cutting back overgrown areas and clearing any piles of wood or debris.

*Ensure doors and windows can be closed properly and that drain inspection covers are well maintained.

*Keep bins well maintained with their lids closed, dispose of rubbish carefully and don’t leave leftover food lying around. Compost heaps should be covered.

*Areas around bird feeders should be kept clean and pet food bowls should not be left out overnight.

Mr Forrester says it’s important for anyone who does find an infestation to employ recognised professionals.

He said: “Rats must be dealt with by a professional pest controller who knows the area in question and their likely habitat, and knows how to treat any particular strain.

“Most people simply want the job done right first time and, by employing a company or individual affiliated with the BPCA, they can be sure they’re using an expert in the field.

“We’ve established strict criteria to ensure the professionalism of our members so controllers carrying our logo will carry out safe, effective and legal treatments.”

Visit www.bpca.org.uk/pages/find_a_pest_controller.cfm to find a pest controller in your area.