Giant rats are becoming a norm in the UK, with veteran pest controller David Parnell warning that the situation will only worsen unless drastic measures are taken. With 20-year-veteran Parnell having seen it all, he was left stunned by a 22-inch rat found in a house in Redcar.
The surge in rat infestations is linked to poor sewer management, with rodents coming up from the sewers and moving into homes. The UK’s neglect of waste management, exploding takeaway culture, and weak sewer infrastructure have created a perfect storm for rats.
Rats are highly adaptable, intelligent, and opportunistic creatures that are getting larger due to genetics and diet. Parnell has dealt with over 300 rats in the past and has caught giant rats before, including a 20-inch-long specimen.
However, instead of addressing the root causes, pest controllers like Parnell are restricted by regulations on rodenticides due to overuse and genetic evolution. The public needs to wake up and take responsibility for their actions, including proper waste disposal, recycling, and cleaning after barbecues.
Parnell believes education is the only long-term answer to the rodent crisis. He offers talks in local communities to raise awareness, but many people still view rats as harmless creatures that deserve protection.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/giant-rat-found-london-pest-control-b2802686.html