Poison resistant 'super rats' could invade homes as temperatures drop, experts warn

Invasion: 'Super rats' resistant to poisons could begin seeking shelter in homes across the country
Kirsty Wigglesworth / PA
Laura Proto31 October 2015

Huge ‘super rats’ could invade homes across the UK as temperatures begin to plummet this winter, experts have warned.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) said the pests are becoming immune to traditional pellets used by homeowners and that the poisons which can be purchased in supermarkets may actually be turning the rodents into ‘super rats’.

Homeowners are now being urged to rat proof their homes before the rodents begin seeking warm, indoor locations to bed down in during the cold winter months.

Simon Forrester, chief executive of BPCA, said while normal rats are being killed off by the poisons, some species are becoming resistant and by ingesting the poisons, it could be fuelling their growth.

He said: “The rodents have become resistant and, in some cases, immune to off- the-shelf poisons to the point where they’re actually feeding off the toxic pellets, which means their size and strength is increasing.

“Stronger rodenticides can be more effective, but most are subject to strict legislation and must only be used by professional pest controllers .”

The BPCA said reports of rats resistant to poison have increased over recent years and it is predicted there will be a further surge in the winter months as they enter homes for warmth and food.

Mr Forrester added: “There’s less natural food around during colder weather so the population of rodents in and around homes and business premises could swell at an alarming rate as we head into winter.”

Rats can squeeze themselves through gaps as small as three-quarters of an inch and are often found living under floorboards, in the walls or in the loft.

To prevent rodents from entering homes, occupants are encouraged to fit strips to the bottoms of doors, fill small gaps in exterior walls, repair roof damage and cover drains to prevent entry via pipes.

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