Lower Mainland Cities Dominate “Rattiest” Cities in BC List
Once again, British Columbia’s largest urban centers have topped Orkin Canada’s annual ‘rattiest’ cities list, with Lower Mainland municipalities claiming several of the top spots. What makes our neighbourhoods so ‘ratty’? This analysis sheds light on the ongoing challenges of rodent control in our province’s most populous regions and the factors contributing to these persistent infestations.
The Rattiest Cities in BC: A Closer Look
Orkin Canada, a pest control company, recently released its annual index of rat and mouse treatments performed from August 1, 2022, to July 31, 2023. The rankings include both residential and commercial treatments, providing a comprehensive overview of rodent activity across the province.
Top 5 Rattiest Cities in BC
- Vancouver – 2nd rattiest in Canada overall
- Burnaby – 3rd in Canada overall
- Kelowna – 4th in Canada overall
- Richmond – 6th in Canada overall
- Victoria –7th in Canada overall.
It’s worth noting that the top three communities have remained relatively consistent over the past four years, with Vancouver consistently claiming the top spot.
Lower Mainland Dominance
The list reveals a clear concentration of rat infestations in the Lower Mainland region. In addition to Vancouver, Burnaby, and Richmond in the top 5, other Lower Mainland cities ranking high on the list include:
- Surrey – 11th in Canada overall
- Vernon – 12th in Canada overall
- Delta – 17th in Canada overall
- Abbotsford – 18th in Canada overall
- Coquitlam – 19th in Canada overall
- Langley – 20th in Canada overall
- Chilliwack – 25th in Canada overall.
This concentration of rat activity in the Lower Mainland is not surprising, given the region’s dense urban development, mild climate, and extensive shipping industry.
Factors Contributing to Rat Infestations in the Lower Mainland
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of rat infestations in Lower Mainland cities:
Urban Development and Construction
Construction sites are a significant source of rat-related complaints in Vancouver. As buildings are demolished or renovated, rats are displaced and seek new homes in nearby structures. The City of Vancouver received 1,174 rat-related inquiries last year, with many concerning construction sites.
Climate and Geography
The Pacific Northwest’s mild climate creates an ideal environment for rat populations to thrive year-round. The region’s extensive waterways and port facilities also provide ample opportunities for rats to enter urban areas.
Food Availability
As pandemic restrictions have eased and people return to cities, food sources have become more abundantly available for rats and mice. This increased food availability can lead to exponential population growth among rodent populations.
Sanitation Issues
Sanitation problems, such as poorly managed dumpsters and alleys, can become breeding grounds for rats.
Health and Environmental Concerns
The prevalence of rats in urban areas raises significant health and environmental concerns:
Disease Transmission
Rats can carry numerous pathogens including leptospira, bartonella, and hospital bacteria like C. difficile and staphylococcus.
Environmental Impact
Rat infestations can have severe ecological consequences. In sensitive areas like Haida Gwaii, rats have been known to prey on native bird species, threatening biodiversity.
Secondary Poisoning
The use of rodenticides, particularly second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), poses a risk to wildlife through secondary poisoning. Predators that consume poisoned rats can suffer severe health effects or death.
Rodent Control Strategies
Addressing rat infestations requires a multi-faceted approach:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
The BC government recommends an integrated pest management approach as the best way to manage rodents. This strategy combines various control methods and emphasizes prevention.
Regulatory Changes
In response to concerns about wildlife poisoning, the BC government has implemented new restrictions on the sale and use of SGARs, limiting their use to essential services.
Municipal Actions
While municipalities cannot regulate pesticide use directly, some have taken steps to address rat problems:
- Enacting bylaws prohibiting conditions that provide shelter and food for rodents
- Banning anticoagulant rodenticides on city-owned properties
- Implementing alternative control methods in parks and public spaces.
Public Education
For long-term rat control, it’s crucial to educate residents about proper waste management and rodent-proofing techniques.
Prevention Tips for Homeowners and Businesses
To help prevent rat infestations, our team at All Green Pest Control recommends the following measures:
- Seal cracks and holes in building foundations and walls.
- Install weather stripping around windows and doors.
- Keep shrubbery at least one metre away from exterior walls.
- Properly store and dispose of garbage and compost.
- Remove potential food sources from yards and outdoor spaces.
- Regularly inspect properties for signs of rodent activity.
A Powerful Solution to Recurring Lower Mainland City Rat Infestation: Professional Pest Control Services
While prevention is key, established infestations often require professional intervention. All Green Pest Control offers comprehensive rat control services tailored to the unique challenges of the Lower Mainland region. Our experienced technicians use a combination of environmentally responsible methods to effectively manage rat populations while minimizing risks to non-target species and the environment.
For professional assistance with rat control in the Lower Mainland, including North Vancouver neighbourhoods, contact All Green Pest Control at (604) 990-0100. Our rodent control experts are ready to help you develop a customized, effective, and environmentally responsible rodent management plan – and implement it well.