Summary:
NYC ranked as the most rat-infested city in the US by Terminix, despite the appointment of a 'rat czar' last year.
San Francisco, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, rounded out the top five.
While New York City leads in rodent infestation, California holds the top spot for searches for rodent-related pest control services.
NYC's Department of Sanitation claims that rat sightings are declining due to new trash containerization efforts.
Nationwide interest in pest-proofing has surged 165% in June 2024 compared to June 2023, suggesting a growing rat problem across the country.
NYC's efforts to combat the rat infestation include compost separation, new trash and recycling bins, and limited hours for trash on the street.
NYC Still Holds the Title of Most Rat-Infested City
New Yorkers may not be surprised, but the Big Apple has once again been crowned the most rodent-ridden city in the US, according to pest control company Terminix. This comes despite Mayor Eric Adams appointing a "rat czar" last year in an attempt to curb the infestation.
Terminix ranked the 50 most rat-infested cities based on service calls, with New York claiming the top spot. San Francisco came in second, followed by Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC.
While New York City may hold the top city spot, California leads the nation in searches for rodent-related pest control services, according to Yelp.
Is the Rat Czar Failing?
Despite the city's efforts, including a proposed rat birth control program and a dedicated rat czar, many residents still complain of overflowing garbage and rampant rodents. The Department of Sanitation insists that rat sightings are down, citing new trash containerization efforts.
Signs of a Rat Infestation
If you suspect you have a rat problem, be on the lookout for:
- Small droppings in the home
- Holes or gnaw marks in food packaging
- Chewed wires or floor molding
- Urine stains in corners
- Footprints and tail-drags in dust
- Nesting debris
- Scratching or thumping in walls
A Nationwide Rat Problem
The issue isn't just confined to New York. Nationwide interest in pest-proofing has surged 165% in June 2024 compared to June 2023, indicating a growing rat problem across the country.
What's Being Done?
NYC has introduced a series of ambitious plans to manage garbage, including:
- Requiring residents to separate compost from trash
- Implementing new trash and recycling bins
- Limiting the hours trash can stay on the street
While the city's efforts to eradicate rats continue, it's clear that this furry foe is a persistent problem that requires a multifaceted approach.
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