Floods see rise in rat sightings

Flooding has forced rats above ground

Rural economy experts are warning of an "explosion" in the rat population in Yorkshire, which could have a serious effect on the countryside.

The Country Land & Business Association (CLA) said landowners were reporting increased sightings of rats.

The CLA said this year's flooding forced an unprecedented number of rats above the ground.

Ryedale Council, in North Yorkshire, said it had seen a rise in the number of calls relating to rat infestations.

Environmental health manager Steven Richmond said: "There is certainly an upward trend in the local rat population.

"Our pest control officers have received an awful lot of calls this year."

'Devastating effect'

Dorothy Fairburn, CLA regional director for Yorkshire, said: "We are all aware of the health risks associated with rats but in farming terms, not only do they cause damage to buildings and food stores but they also affect the wildlife population.

"As a readily available source of food, ground nesting birds are particularly at risk, which means that an increasing rat population will, in all likelihood, have a devastating effect on nesting birds in the spring."

She also questioned government plans to introduce "pay as you throw" charges for removing household rubbish.

"At a time when the rat population is on the increase, it seems ludicrous the government hasn't completely abandoned new legislation that might encourage people to illegally fly tip waste or leave more rubbish on the streets," she said.