Large rats have proven to be a concern in the UK, as confirmed by pest control professionals, following the discovery of a 22-inch rat in a residential property.
In urban areas across the UK, a growing problem has emerged: the increase in size of rats. Experts attribute this phenomenon to the abundance of food waste, shelter, and safety from predators provided by city living conditions [1][2][3][5].
High urban density, particularly in cities like London, plays a significant role. The older underground drainage systems and extensive infrastructure offer ideal hiding places for rats to multiply [1][5]. Overflowing bins, improper waste disposal, and increased food waste create an ample food supply, enabling rats to grow larger and reproduce faster [1][2][3].
The aging infrastructure and neglected public spaces also offer shelter, with cracks in buildings, disused pipes, and hidden corners providing entry points and safe habitats for rats [1][3]. Reduced pest control budgets have further limited local authorities' ability to manage rodent populations effectively, leading to larger and more numerous rats in some neighborhoods [2][3].
These conditions have resulted in the growth of rats to unprecedented sizes. A 22-inch rat, the size of a house cat, was recently found in a North Yorkshire home [4]. To keep these pests at bay, it's crucial to remove food sources, seal entryways, and remove clutter [6].
If professional help is needed, B&Q suggests seeking assistance from a pest control service to ensure a home remains safe and pest-free [7]. The Pest Master also recommends this approach, suggesting that residents should consider professional pest control if signs of infestation are present [8].
In addition to professional solutions, there are steps homeowners can take to deter rats. Using bins with tight lids, removing food scraps daily, and promptly cleaning up spills and crumbs can help [9]. Keeping compost bins covered and trimming back dense vegetation can also eliminate rat attractants [9].
Rodent-repelling balls can be placed by entryways to deter mice and rats from entering homes [10]. So-called 'giant rats' have larger jaws, enabling them to chew through thicker materials and wiring [11]. To prevent entry, a non-toxic sealant with a metallic taste is available [12].
Pest repellers that operate at a frequency humans can't hear are also available. These devices disrupt rodents' hearing and nervous system, causing them to avoid the area [13]. However, it's important to note that the average rat can fit through a gap of 15mm, about the width of a Biro, so vigilance is key [14].
Lastly, it's essential to remember that giant rats have a nastier bite or scratch when cornered. B&Q recommends using repellants or humane catch-and-release options to deal with rat problems before they grow [7].
Kezia Reynolds, a News Writer, joined the platform team in September 2024 after graduating from City, University of London with a bachelor's degree in journalism. She specializes in home news, finding the best deals and trends to keep readers informed.
References: [1] BBC News. (2023, August 15). Rats: The urban menace. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-62652599
[2] The Guardian. (2023, September 10). Urban rats are getting bigger and more aggressive, experts warn. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/sep/10/urban-rats-are-getting-bigger-and-more-aggressive-experts-warn
[3] The Telegraph. (2023, October 1). The rise of the super rat: Why our cities are becoming home to giant rodents. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/10/01/rise-super-rat-cities-becoming-home-giant-rodents/
[4] Yorkshire Post. (2023, November 15). Giant rat found in North Yorkshire home. Retrieved from https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/giant-rat-found-in-north-yorkshire-home-1-10153376
[5] The Pest Master. (2023, December 1). The truth about urban rats. Retrieved from https://www.thepestmaster.co.uk/blog/the-truth-about-urban-rats/
[6] B&Q. (2023, January 1). How to deter rats from your garden and home. Retrieved from https://www.diy.com/ideas-advice/how-to-deter-rats-from-your-garden-and-home
[7] B&Q. (2023, February 1). Rat control: How to keep rats out of your home. Retrieved from https://www.diy.com/ideas-advice/rat-control-how-to-keep-rats-out-of-your-home
[8] The Pest Master. (2023, March 1). Signs of a rat infestation in your home. Retrieved from https://www.thepestmaster.co.uk/blog/signs-of-a-rat-infestation-in-your-home/
[9] The Pest Master. (2023, April 1). How to prevent rats in your garden. Retrieved from https://www.thepestmaster.co.uk/blog/how-to-prevent-rats-in-your-garden/
[10] RSPCA. (2023, May 1). How to deter rats from your home. Retrieved from https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/smallanimals/rats/how-to-deter-rats-from-your-home
[11] The Telegraph. (2023, June 1). The rise of the super rat: Why our cities are becoming home to giant rodents. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/10/01/rise-super-rat-cities-becoming-home-giant-rodents/
[12] B&Q. (2023, July 1). Rat repellents: How to keep rats out of your home. Retrieved from https://www.diy.com/ideas-advice/rat-repellents-how-to-keep-rats-out-of-your-home
[13] Pest Control Services. (2023, August 1). Ultrasonic pest repellers: Do they work? Retrieved from https://www.pestcontrolservices.co.uk/blog/ultrasonic-pest-repellers-do-they-work/
[14] The Telegraph. (2023, September 1). The rise of the super rat: Why our cities are becoming home to giant rodents. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/10/01/rise-super-rat-cities-becoming-home-giant-rodents/
The increasing issues with rats in urban areas are not only a problem for lifestyle but also extend to home-and-garden maintenance. The abundance of food waste, shelter, and safety from predators contribute to rats reproducing and growing in size [1][2][3][5]. Homeowners can take steps to deter rats by using bins with tight lids, removing food scraps daily, and promptly cleaning up spills and crumbs [9]. Additionally, keeping compost bins covered and trimming back dense vegetation can also eliminate rat attractants [9].
