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RODENT CONTROL
For the purpose of implementing the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act (1949) the procedure
has been similar to previous years, comprising inspections of properties to ascertain the presence
of rats and/or mice, treatment of properties found to be infested, recommendation and supervision
of structural and incidental proofing, and periodical control measures for the destruction of rats
in the City sewers.
Premises Inspected (routine or on complaint) — 3,282
Complaints Received — 1,236
House Mouse Infestations — 909
Rat Infestation (Minor) — 96
Initial Baiting Sites Selected — 11,062
Results of Treatment:—
Bodies of Mice Recovered — 1,882
Bodies of Rats Recovered — 94
Total Operational Visits — 5,914
Every assistance was given concerning the disposal of waste food, and the attraction to mice
caused by leaving food scraps in drawers and uncovered bins and containers was also explained.
The importance of eliminating harbourage for rats, and particularly mice, in neglected parts of
premises such as cupboards etc. was also strongly emphasised.
As will be observed from the figures shown above, mice now present the major problem in the
City as far as rodents are concerned. They are mercurial creatures in their habits and way of life,
and this is why co-operation is required by everyone experiencing difficulties in this direction.
Destruction of rats in sewers
Four periodical treatments at 3 monthly intervals were carried out during the year. During
this period 3 direct poison treatments i.e. March, June and September, were carried out, the toxic
agent being Fluoroacetamide (1081).
The fourth treatment (i.e. December) consisted of test baiting, and where necessary, poisoning,
the toxic agent in this case being Zinc Phosphide.
The test baits which provide evidence of the results of the previous direct treatments were
left down for 2 days, and where takes were recorded, were replaced by poison baits.
Altogether 364 entrances were test baited, which resulted in 44 full takes and 49 half takes
being recorded. These were subsequently replaced by poison baits.