View report page

109
Another source of infestation and re-infestation is to be found in the
tributaries of the Hogsmill River which in some areas run between the
gardens that back on to these streams. Piping of these tributaries in
built-up areas would be advantageous.
The accompanying tabulated statement is an indication of the work
carried out during the year.
Owing to the difficulties outlined above, it was not possible to carry
out any treatment of rodent control in the sewers.
A number of complaints were received of nuisance caused by pigeons.
These generally arise from the creation of feeding habits by misguided
persons and in some instances control is extremely difficult because of the
lack of co-operation by some members of the public. A number of birds were
trapped during the year but on one occasion a trap was removed from its
position and destroyed.
It is not generally known that pigeons are carriers of disease and it
is better to keep their numbers down to reasonable proportions rather than
expose residents to a health hazard and to the obvious nuisance they
become when encouraged. If the practice of feeding pigeons was discontinued
their numbers in towns would be reasonable.
When complaints of nuisance from squirrels are received, advice is
given on trapping or proofing. The extensive damage which can be caused by
these pests is not realised until the buildings have been invaded. Here
again, people are not easily convinced that they should not feed them if
they do not wish to attract them to the vicinity of dwellings.
Over 500 complaints were received concerning wasps. These were dealt
with in the main by giving advice to the complainants on suitable methods
of destruction, or if the nests were well above ground and not causing
nuisance, to leave them alone. In some cases nests were destroyed by the staff.