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Homeowners Warned 'Take Four Steps Now' After Surge in Rats in UK
Rentokil linked the 10% increase in UK rodent activity to 2025’s record heat and early 2026’s heavy rain, with Northern Ireland seeing a 26% rise, the highest regionally.
- Rentokil Pest Control reported a 10% year-on-year increase in confirmed rodent activity in the last year across UK properties.
- Because sustained heavy rain floods burrow systems and drainage networks, rats seek higher, drier locations, while milder temperatures can extend rats' breeding season and boost reproduction.
- Regional data show Northern Ireland recorded the largest rise at 26%, followed by Yorkshire at 20%, north-west England at 19%, West Midlands at 16%, and Scotland at 14%.
- Homeowners are advised to proof entry points, clear debris, inspect foundations and secure outdoor bins after heavy rain, while pest-control firms and the RSPCA urge humane prevention and professional help if infestations worsen.
- Rentokil linked the trend to 2025 being the UK's warmest year and a record-breaking wet start to 2026; longer-term climate patterns could support rat population growth, Rentokil warned.
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Total News Sources15
Leaning Left3Leaning Right0Center12Last UpdatedBias Distribution80% Center
Bias Distribution
- 80% of the sources are Center
80% Center
L 20%
C 80%
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