Residents in Parc-Extension, like Emmanuel Perez and his young daughter, are encountering a concerning rise in rat sightings during their daily walks. Perez, a long-time resident of the neighborhood, notes a significant increase in the number of rats over the past year. He and his family have observed rats in various locations, indicating a widespread issue rather than isolated incidents.
Eric Corcoran, a seasoned professional at ABC Pest Control, confirms that calls related to rodent infestations have been escalating across Montreal post the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Parc-Extension stands out as one of the areas experiencing a higher prevalence of rat and mouse problems. Corcoran attributes this trend to factors like population density, industrial zones, and proximity to highways and railways that create favorable environments for rodents.
Improper waste management practices, including irregular garbage collection schedules and poorly maintained compost areas, contribute to the proliferation of rats. Although composting is not inherently problematic if managed correctly, negligence in waste disposal can lead to rat infestations. The accumulation of organic matter near bins and uncontrolled vegetation exacerbates the issue.
The presence of deceased rats in the neighborhood raises additional concerns, particularly regarding the potential hazards posed by poisoned rodents to pets and wildlife. Corcoran advises against handling dead rats personally due to health risks associated with rat-borne pathogens. Residents are urged to contact their borough authorities for proper disposal of rat carcasses and to take preventive measures such as securing garbage bins and eliminating rat hiding spots.
While the Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension borough mentions a decline in citizen requests for rat extermination, residents like Perez continue to witness a high rat presence in the area. The borough claims to be implementing various strategies to combat rodents, such as hiring exterminators, setting traps, and enforcing regulations on waste disposal. Despite official data indicating a decrease in complaints, Perez expresses disappointment in the perceived lack of city response to the ongoing rat issue in the neighborhood.