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The number of complaints received during 1963 shows a considerable
increase over the previous year. The infestations were all of
a minor character though one or two were difficult to eradicate.
Warfarin has been used in the majority of cases though where difficulty
has been experienced further treatments using a different poison have
usually produced results.
A 10 per cent Test Baiting followed by a treatment of those manholes
which showed a "take" was carried out during July. 224 manholes
were test baited and of these 15 manholes showed takes.
In the subsequent treatment 57 manholes were treated with warfarin.
These manholes being those which showed "takes" and those in the
immediate vicinity. After the first baiting 13 still showed takes which
were rebaited. After the second baiting no more takes were recorded.
insect control
The majority of complaints regarding infestation of premises by
insects were those of carpet beetles, moths and wasps. All complaints
were investigated and advice given and where necessary insecticides
supplied free of cost.
During the year 79 wasp nests were destroyed. This figure is much
higher than in 1962 when only 13 wasp nests were dealt with. The
figure is a reasonable figure and probably represents the majority of
the wasp nests which were causing a nuisance to ratepayers.
The Council charge of 25/- per nest was, of course, maintained.
This figure of 25/- is the approximate cost to the Council of the work
involved and is considerably lower than that made by outside firms
specialising in insect eradication.
OTHER INSPECTIONS
pet shops
Three persons are licensed to keep pet shops in the district and visits
are made periodically to the premises. In each case the business has
been found to be carried on satisfactorily.
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