Bernalillo County, Albuquerque Rat Control Situation:
Hi, My name is Anna and I am a graduate student at American University in the Interactive Journalism master's program. For my investigative reporting course, I am working on an in-depth story about DC's rodent problem, in particular how the Wildlife Protection Act of 2010 may or may not affect how the District's rat population is managed in the future. The story will be turned in to my professor and presented to my classmates. I understand that you provide catch and removal services in the Albuquerque NM metro area. I'd like to learn more about the brown rat, particularly habits/adaptations to the District's urban environment. Also, I'm curious about the science behind the Wildlife Protection Act. Even though it is highly unlikely that rats will be protected, how would relocation vs trapping and killing change how the rat population is managed? One of the main issues presented by Mister Herman of the National Wildlife Control Operators Association is that the language in the law is too subjective in that it doesn't distinguish what types of rodents are protected, if any. Some suggest that the rice rat along with the deer mouse could be harmed by the law. Dr. Hadidian of the Humane Society was quoted in a WTOP article saying that he hasn't heard of rice rats in the area in his 30 years at the organization. People have had a strong reaction to this legislation and I'm trying to understand the controversy from all angles. I would like to speak over the phone sometime in the next week or we can discuss via email. Please let me know if this is something you are willing and able to do or if you have any questions. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Anna
Albuquerque Rat Control Tip of The Week
Is It Common For Rats To Die During The Winter?
Nature gave rodents characteristics to survive different times of the year. A very useful feature in rats when winter is coming is being more aggressive to make sure they obtain greater amounts of food.
These animals will eat a portion of their food but will save the other part in their burrows. Among the most common provisions are pet food, dead animals, paper, plastic, fabric, and seeds.
If Rodents Do Not Find Shelter And Food, They Will Not Survive Winter
Rats have the capacity to generate extra energy through different activities that help them to keep their core temperature. However, eventually, this mechanism is harmful since it can cause inflammation in their muscles and stress for generating that amount of heat.
During summer, these rodents at 4 months old have already had their first litter of pups. Throughout their lives, they can reproduce at least 10 times. When a population is exterminated, this can regenerate in a short period. However, during winter, their reproductive capacities slow down, so if a population is exterminated, it may not be regenerated.
Be Watchful
It is important to remember that these rodents easily adapt to any warm place in your home. They can invade the majority of places that surround you and move in the dark. Although you do not see it, your house might be infested with dozens of rodents.
Each rodent has an extra store of energy during the winter that will increase their need to feed. They will also shelter and organize in colonies with a very specific hierarchy.
With winter arrival, you must be watchful. One of the best options is to find a specialist to guide you with the most effective ways to avoid unwanted guests.
