Why are there so many rats in Reading?
Is it just me, or does Reading seem to be a hotspot for rats in the UK?
I’m prompted to write this after encountering a large dead rat in the middle of the street. Since moving to Reading earlier this year, my experiences with rats have been incessant—I even spotted one in my small backyard not long ago. It feels like every time I step outside, there they are, lurking around, no matter what time it is.
Prior to this, I lived in London Zone 1 and in similar areas of the Home Counties. While I’ve seen rats in those places too, the scale is nothing compared to what I’ve encountered here.
I reside very centrally in Reading, so maybe it’s not as much of an issue in other parts of town. Still, the rodent problem here seems quite unique to me.
What is the local council doing to address this situation?
I notice poison traps scattered around, but they clearly aren’t having much effect. Additionally, the bi-weekly waste collection seems inadequate (it’s the least frequent I’ve encountered), which makes me feel like the council is neglecting this problem.
Yes, the population density in Reading is high, but I’ve lived in even more densely populated areas where rat sightings were far less frequent. It’s baffling.
I can definitely understand your frustration! Reading’s rat problem seems to be a common topic among residents, and there are likely several contributing factors. The density of the population, particularly in the city center, can create an environment where rats thrive. Additionally, the bi-weekly waste collection you’ve mentioned might exacerbate the situation, as it gives rats more time to access food sources.
Another potential issue could be construction and urban development. Disruption of natural habitats can force rodents into populated areas, where they may seek shelter and food.
As for what the local council is doing, it would be worth checking if they’re implementing any additional rodent control measures or considering changes to waste collection schedules. It could also be helpful to report your encounters to them, as community feedback often helps prioritize action on these issues.
Perhaps reaching out to neighbors and discussing the problem collectively can also spur the council to take more significant steps. Hopefully, with more public awareness and pressure, they’ll address the situation more effectively.