Climate Change Drives Rat Population Growth in Cities, Study Finds

Warmer urban temperatures and increased food waste are fueling a surge in rat numbers across global cities, with Washington, D.C., seeing the largest spike.

• A study of 16 cities from 2007 to 2024 found that rat populations increased significantly in 11 cities, with Washington, D.C., experiencing a 390% rise.
• Warmer winters due to climate change allow rats to forage longer, leading to more breeding cycles and larger litters, according to researchers.
• Urban heat islands, food waste, and expanding infrastructure are contributing to the rapid growth of rat populations in cities like San Francisco, Toronto, and New York City.
• Cities with fewer green spaces saw higher rat population growth, though the specific reasons remain unclear, researchers noted.
• Experts recommend proactive municipal rat control measures, including education campaigns and infrastructure improvements, to combat the growing problem.

3 Articles

Atlas Obscura USA TODAY Breitbart