Rats and mice don’t discriminate… and can be found in clean and dirty properties.
That message from Moncton city officials and pest control experts during another public meeting focusing on rodent problems Wednesday night.
Moncton bylaw enforcement director Amanda MacNeil says if anyone sees rodents on public property, they should contact the city’s 24-7 dispatch line at 859-2643.
“We do want to know as well when residents are seeing activity on their own property – private property. That way we can give some information out and some tips and tricks on what they can do to look for sights in their yard that may be contributing to the issue,” she notes.
Experts say rodents need three things to thrive – a hidden place to nest, water and food… and when one of those is removed, the rodents move elsewhere.
When it comes to rodent problems, we need to shatter the myths and get rid of the shame to deal with the issue according to Moncton public works foreman Jeff Scott.
When examining properties, Scott says rats and mice can be found almost anywhere and a property doesn’t necessarily have to be dirty or unsightly.
To avoid rodents, residents are urged to keep properties tidy, place garbage bags in bins with secure lids, and repair any small holes or openings in homes.
So far this year, Moncton has received 37 calls about rodents on private property and 20 calls about rodents on public property.
Despite comments on social media, Moncton officials say rodent problems have been reported throughout the city and not just in one specific neighbourhood.
