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onto lawns. These are far too large for birds to consume or
carry away and supply plenty of food for rats and mice. If
people desire to feed birds, the bread should be broken up fine,
and placed on a bird table.
The second point is the placing of sheds and chicken houses
too close to the ground. All buildings of this type should be
kept at least nine inches above the ground so as to enable a dog
or cat to get under. Sheds very close to the ground afford comfortable
nesting places for rats and mice.
Treatment of Sewers
The inspection and baiting of sewers is under the supervision
of the Highways Superintendent.
This work is usually carried out at regular intervals on a
block basis, specified areas of the Borough being treated at one
time.
Where, however, it is proved that certain house drains are
infested, treatment of the sewers in that area are carried out on
request from this Department.
During last year, 327 manholes were inspected and treated.
(viii) Disinfestation of Insects and Pests
Numerous complaints were dealt with during the year concerning
insects and pests that invade homes, shops and stores.
Insects can have a variety of effects on the human race or its
environment. They can destroy or harm food, ruin furniture,
materials and works of art, cause damage to timbers, endanger
health or just cause annoyance.
The present modes of travel, whereby any destination can be
reached in a relatively short time is a great asset to the public,
but at the same time it has brought its problems, as during recent
years new species of insects have been introduced to this country
from abroad, either in cargoes or luggage.
The variety of species of insect pests is always increasing,
and identification becomes more difficult. However, we are fortunate
in being able to send species either to the Natural History
Museum or to one of the firms that manufacture " pesticides," for
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