Chicago has been crowned the rattiest city in America for the tenth consecutive year, again claiming the top spot on Orkin Pest Control’s “50 Rattiest Cities” list.
Chicago’s decade-long run as the rat king can be attributed to several factors, namely our city’s infrastructure and environment.
According to Orkin, Chicago’s trademark alleyways are a haven for rodents, with ample hiding places and trash to feed on.
Rats are also keen on burrowing beneath pipes and train tracks, where their populations often proliferate. That’s why it’s not uncommon to catch a rat or two scurrying along the subway.
Chicago’s rat problem poses a threat to human health, as the rodents carry a plethora of illnesses including plague, typhus, and salmonellosis. The city employs a number of tactics to battle the issue including trapping and baiting, but so far the war on rats has failed to make a significant dent.
Autumn is an important time to monitor for rat activity around the home. As the temperature drops, rodents seek shelter and food sources.
Chicago residents can prevent rodent infestations by eliminating possible food sources and closing off entryways.
Orkin advises homeowners to tightly seal garbage bins, clean up debris around the home to prevent nesting, and seal gaps around all potential entryways. Rodents only need an opening the size of a quarter to access a home, so no gap should go unsealed!
Learn more about protecting your home from rats and view the full list of 50 Rattiest Cities here.