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Of these properties 307 were found to be infested and were treated
for infestations. The number of complaints received is considerably
less than the previous year.
The infestations have all been of a minor character and treatments
have in general been successful. Where difficulty has been experienced
re-treatment with variations of poisons and bait has produced
satisfactory results. There are a few areas in the district which need
constant attention. While treatment apparently removes the infestation
these areas become re-infested in a comparatively short time.
In some cases the re-infestation is seasonal or is due to some natural
feature which attracts rats, but there remain one or two in which
there is no obvious cause for re-infestation. The poisons, warfarin,
zinc phosphide and arsenic are normally employed.
In accordance with the requirements of the Rodent Control Branch
of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food two treatments
of the sewers were made, both treatments during the year being
maintenance treatments. The first was made in March when 46
manholes were baited, being the manholes which showed evidence
of infestation at previous treatments together with those in the
immediate vicinity. Of the manholes baited, 12 showed "takes" of
poison bait. The second maintenance treatment was carried out in
November when 23 manholes were baited. As a result of this
baiting 9 manholes showed poison "takes". The manholes baited
in the second treatment were those which showed evidence of infestation
at the previous treatment together with any manholes in the
close vicinity which were in direct connection with them. It is apparent
that while there are some rats in the sewers the infestation
is only slight.
Insect Control
The number of complaints received regarding infestation by
insects continues to increase. All complaints are visited and information
and advice is given and where necessary insecticides are
supplied free of cost. Wasp nests are destroyed by the Council
on payment of a small charge to cover cost of materials and man's
time. During the summer months 41 nests were dealt with.
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