Super-confident rats are invading UK homes through toilets and letterboxes after breeding soared and food became scarce in lockdown, pest control firm says
- Pest control company Rentokil said lockdown caused rats to become confident
- They have seen 22% increase in call-outs for services compared to past six years
- Rats have gained confidence due to fewer people on the streets and less food
Super-confident rats are invading UK homes through toilets and letterboxes after breeding soared and food became scarce in lockdown.
Pest control company Rentokil said that the lockdown period from March to June caused rats to become more confident.
They have seen a 22 per cent increase in call-outs for services, the Evening Standard reports, compared to the average summer number over the past six years.
Pest control company Rentokil said rats became more confident during lockdown and have had cases of them entering homes in the UK through toilets (stock image used)
The creatures have been entering homes in the UK through toilets and, in one case, through a letterbox, the company said.
They have gained the confidence to enter homes across the UK due to fewer people on the streets and less food waste to scavenge from.
Rat populations increased during the first lockdown and their nests are now spilling over.
Paul Blackhurst, head of technical academy at Rentokil Pest Control, said that ‘given the growing population’ of rats it’s possible ‘more businesses will record increases in rodent activity’.
The company says the increase could be attributed to the mild winter experienced last year, which may have extended the breeding season
This could lead to a growing number of the rodents coming indoors for food and water when the temperatures drop.
The rodent gained the confidence to enter homes across the UK due to fewer people on the streets and less food waste to scavenge from (stock image used)
A company spokesman said that regional lockdowns may mean sightings of rats will continue.
This is as they continue to ‘search for food near to homes and vacant business premises’.