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treatments are carried out each year, the one in the spring being
immediately preceded by test baiting to discover the location of
infestation. The results for the year under review indicated a
reduction in the rat population.
The figures relating to surface infestations, as submitted to the
Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, are shown below:—

PIGEON DESTRUCTION
Routine work to reduce the number of pigeons congregating
at various sites has continued throughout the year. It is rarely
possible to completely exterminate flocks of pigeons and reinfestation
can occur quite quickly if regular visits are not made
to deal with the new arrivals. Trapping and shooting are the
methods usually employed.
During the year 63 complaints were received and a total of
2,819 pigeons were destroyed. Pigeons roosting on the supporting
girders of the railway bridge over Crofton Road have caused fouling
of the public footpath beneath, and annoyance to persons using
the footpath. A solution to this problem would be the proofing
of the underside of the bridge. British Railways repudiate liability
and although estimates were obtained for proofing, the work was
not proceeded with in the interests of general economy. Special
attention, however, continues to be given to the destruction of the
birds, and by the Highways Department by daily cleansing of the
footpath.