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139
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE BY PESTS ACT, 1949
RODENT CONTROL
The level of rat infestation, both on the surface and in
sewers, has been very much the same for the past few years.
Undoubtedly many thousands of rats are killed each year but these
are quickly replaced by the quick breeding habits of the survivors.
In some areas of the United Kingdom rats (and mice) have
become resistant to Warfarin, which is the poison in general use,
but so far no cases of resistance have been detected in the Borough.
Research is being undertaken by the appropriate Ministry and
commercial undertakings in an endeavour to find a suitable substitute
for warfarin but so far little success has been achieved. If
resistance is encountered recourse is had to one of the acute poisons
such as zinc phosphide which was in general use before the discovery
of warfarin.
The importance of rodent control work should not be underestimated,
especially where food stores are concerned because of the
risk of contamination but the task could be made lighter in urban
areas if householders would remove sources of harbourage and food
supply.