Recent heavy rainfalls force rats out of rat holes

SNGAPORE : The recent heavy rainfalls are suspected to have forced rats out of their homes.

In fact, in the past year, some pest control companies said business has increased 10 to 50 per cent.

And more than half of their assignments are rat exterminations.

Although it's a rare occurrence, they believe the infestation could be linked to heavy downpours.

For instance, close to 20 rat holes can be found in a 100-metre grass patch.

When water seeps into these holes, rats are forced out into the open air.

Some pest control companies suspect the environment also plays a part, since the grass patch is juxtaposed between a food court and a canal.

They are advising stallholders to maintain cleanliness of their food and the public to bag their refuse. - CNA /ls