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77
VERMIN AND OTHER PESTS
Foxes
During the year 34 complaints were received about foxes—three less
than during 1971. It was not possible to take action in the matter of
destroying any known "earths" but advice was given and in fact a number
of foxes were destroyed—90.
Rodent Control
As in 1971 no major infestations of rats were found and the distribution
of the complaints received revealed that no part was more heavily
infested than another. The number of complaints 1,653 was the lowest
for some years. On the other hand the number of complaints about
mice—159 was the highest recorded and more than double the figure for
1971.
The reason for this marked increase (common throughout the
London area) is being investigated.
Pigeons
Work in connection with the control of Feral Pigeons continued
throughout the year and their numbers were kept within reasonable limits.
The number of birds taken was 1,158.
Squirrels
Many complaints were received about Squirrels being a nuisance and
causing damage to trees and garden plants and to property. Squirrels in
roof spaces can be particularly destructive creatures.
A service for the destruction of these pests is not provided by the
Local Authority, but advice is tendered on methods of control and traps
are loaned to individuals. These, if properly baited, are very effective.
As a result of their use dozens of these creatures were destroyed.
Wasps
The year as regards complaints about wasps was below average.
The number of nests destroyed was 304 which is 150 fewer than the
number expected during an average year.
No serious difficulties were encountered in dealing with the nests
apart from those located in spaces difficult of access either under eaves
or in confined roof spaces.
FOOD AND DRUGS
The work undertaken in this field falls into two main parts—(1) the
investigation of complaints and (2) the routine sampling of foodstuffs
and other commodities.