Why more rats are being spotted in Birmingham during lockdown

Are rats booming in Birmingham and UK's major cities?

While there have been restrictions on humans during lockdown, the same cannot be said for rats. There is increasing evidence that the Coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a radical shake-up of rodent society. Since lockdown The British Pest Control Association (BPCA), which represents 700 vermin catchers across the country, said its members reported a 51% hike in rodent activity during the first lockdown last spring, and a 78% increase in November after the next lockdown.

So what's going on?

“Rats benefit and thrive from the things that we do,” says Natalie Bungay, the BPCA’s technical and compliance officer. Rubbish bags left on the pavement or half-eaten takeaways tossed aside are a handout for rats. Typically, rats prefer to avoid humans and make drains and sewers their homes. However, as a result of lockdown and deserted high streets, the creatures are out in full force and making restaurants, pubs and empty buildings their new habitat as they look for other sources to satisfy their dietary needs.

Brown and black rats are the two most common rat species in Birmingham. Brown rats are much more common in temperate regions like the UK, as they are more resistant to cooler climates.

The BPCA says there several measures the public can take to prevent rodent infestations, such as safely securing all food sources, checking that access points, such as air vents, are properly sealed, and performing thorough cleaning and hygiene processes.

How to keep rats out of our homes?

One way to help rat- proof your home is to seal any areas - like cracks and holes near the foundation, or utilities and pipes - where rodents can get inside.

Indoors, make sure there are few places they can hide, and keep areas clear from clutter. Keep food in rodent-proof containers.

If the COVID experience has taught us anything, it’s that we need to be careful about how close we get to wild animals. If you do see rats all of a sudden on your property then you should call a professional and it's not a job for do-it yourself.

Here at Betapest we are experts at both the prevention and eradication of Rats in Birmingham, Tamworth, Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield area. Call us on 0121 351 6990 or email us on contact@betapest.com to discuss any pest control or rodent control requirement.