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In addition to this all routine inspections of premises include a check tor the presence of
rats and mice.
The increase in mice infestation was a disturbing feature particularly as a number of food
premises were involved. Routine inspection of food premises revealed several major infestations
of mice and although their presence was readily apparent effective eradication measures had not
been taken by the occupiers. The risk of contamination resulting from these infestations in food
premises featured in two of the prosecutions taken under the Food Hygiene (General) Regulations,
1960. To prevent the spread of rodents due to the demolition of properties in the Uxbridge Central
Redevelopment Area routine baiting of all premises was carried out prior to demolition. Rodent
control treatment of sewers was also carried out by contractors. During the year 250 manholes
were baited with fluoracetamide a poison which can give over 90% control of rats in a single
treatment.
Complaints have been received in the department for several years concerning squirrel
infestations, and complaints of this nature have recently shown a considerable increase.
Until the appointment of the technical assistant (vermin control) it was only possible to offer
advice but at the end of the year active control measures were offered to the public on a rechargeable
basis. In domestic properties squirrel traps are installed in the affected premises and when the
householder advises the department that a squirrel is in the trap an operator visits and destroys it.
The damage caused by these animals invading the roof spaces of houses is considerable, plastic
guttering, electricity cables and woodwork are extensively gnawed and water in storage tanks
contaminated.
Foxes.—Increasing complaints are also being received regarding the activities of foxes.
Until recently the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food dealt with this problem but they no
longer accept this responsibility. It has been possible to survey some of the areas where foxes
have been reported so that a shoot may be arranged.

In every case control treatment was carried out by the Manual staff of the department.
Pigeons.—There are several sites in the Borough troubled with pigeons—the worst one
being the Central Area of Uxbridge.
During the year pigeon traps were installed on two buildings in the area and 300 birds were
caught. Notwithstanding the number caught there are still a large number of birds in the area
and it is proposed to continue trapping.
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