The common rodent pests are the house mouse (mus domesticus) and the brown rat (rattus norvegicus). The black rat (rattus rattus), once widespread in this country, is now confined to minor colonies in a few of the country's ports.

WHY DO WE NEED TO CONTROL THEM?

1. DISEASE - Rats are implicated as the carriers of a large number of diseases. The most notorious example being the bubonic plague which ravaged England in the 17th Century, and continued until about 1910. The disease is now eradicated in this country, but is still present elsewhere in the world. It is carried by fleas living on the back rat, the demise of which has consequently reduced the risk of the plague in Great Britain.

Many food poisoning organisms, such as salmonella, are also carried by rats, and food sources may be contaminated by contact with droppings, urine or contaminated bodies.

Of increasing concern, is Weil's disease (leptospirosis) which is present in the urine of some 70% of rats, and poses a serious risk to persons exposed to waters contaminated by infected rats, eg sewer workers, water sports enthusiasts etc.

2. DAMAGE - The incisor teeth of rodents do not stop growing, and to wear them down they will gnaw on any available object. Woodwork, metal pipes and electrical cables all provide a suitable gnawing surface, leading to considerable damage and posing a serious fire risk.

3. REPRODUCTIVE ABILITY - an infestation of rodents must be controlled promptly, or their reproductive ability soon allows them to establish a large colony. A female rat may have her first litter of pups when only 4 months old, and may have up to five litters (numbering up to 14 pups) per year. Given ideal living conditions therefore numbers can increase rapidly.

Mice are even more prolific. Under ideal conditions, a pair could produce up to 2000 young per year.

4. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS - It is a requirement of the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act that the presence of rats and mice must be reported to the Local Authority. It is the responsibility of the land owner or occupier to take the necessary action to erradicate any infestation.

WHERE DO THEY LIVE?

The house mouse will inhabit any building where it can find warmth, shelter and a food supply. Old farm buildings, sheds and outbuildings are favourite spots, however given the opportunity, they will readily inhabit a domestic dwellings.

Brown rats usually live in a network of underground burrows, and have colonised many public sewers. If they gain access to domestic dwellings (especially in the winter months) they are able to become easily established in concealed spaces such as lofts and cavity walls.

HOW CAN WE CONTROL THEM?

Rats and mice will readily gain access to a house if given the opportunity to do so. A small rat can squeeze through a 1/2 an inch gap, and a mouse through a 1/4 of an inch gap. Therefore any holes for example around door frames, in brickwork or broken windows should be filled and premises should be maintained as 'vermin proof' as possible. Don't forget to allow for adequate ventilation however!

It is wise to avoid situations that attract vermin. Refuse should not be allowed to accumulate and should be removed promptly. Dustbins should be fitted with tight close-fitting lids. Do not leave pet food out overnight, it is a free meal for rats and for the same reason, do not place bird tables or other food receptacles close to the house.

Rats may often be found in drains around buildings. Ensure that these are kept in good condition and that inspection covers are intact, securely fitted and in place.

Be aware of places where rodents may find shelter. False ceilings, boxed in pipes and heating ducts are all relatively inaccessible places where rodents can enjoy a warm, peaceful existence - try to maintain some form of access.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE RODENTS ON YOUR PROPERTY?

If you see rodents on your premises, or find evidence of their presence - rat holes or droppings - then you can arrange a treatment by contacting Customer Service Direct or alternately use a private pest control contractor. The Council charges a fee to treat rats and /or mice at a domestic premises however, this service is charged at half the standard rate for anyone who is registered with a disability, in receipt of Council Tax or Housing Benefit or is a Mid Suffolk Key Cardholder. You may be required to take measures to keep children and pets away from the poisoned bait and you will always be advised of any other precautionary measures, which may be necessary. The officer will return to check if the bait has been taken, and lay more bait as necessary, until satisfied that the rats or mice have been eradicated.

If you are concerned that there are rats or mice on a neighbouring property, then, in the first instance it may be prudent to approach the occupier and inform them that the Council provides a Pest Control Service. If this approach is unsuccessful then you should report your concerns to Customer Service Direct and a Council Officer may visit the premises to evaluate the situation.