The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has warned people to remain vigilant as COVID-19 lockdown restrictions continue across England.
Evidence of a surge in rodent activity during the previous lockdown, combined with the likelihood of colder weather driving rats and mice indoors could prompt a further surge in pest problems, the Association has warned.
During the UK-wide COVID-19 lockdown in the spring, BPCA members reported a 51% hike in rodent activity. In October, 78% of pest controllers polled reported increased rat sightings, with 63% noting a rise in mouse-related incidents.
Natalie Bungay, BPCA’s technical officer, said: “As temperatures begin to drop and food becomes scarce, rats will begin looking for shelter and scraps in more urban locations. And as autumn and winter push on, rats start to head indoors.
“Rats and mice do not hibernate and are a problem all year round. House mice are already living in and around wherever we are. But as the weather gets colder, field mice currently surviving outdoors will look for warmer places to nest and begin to move indoors too.
“They are highly adaptable and won’t hesitate to take advantage of a warm place to nest during the winter months.”