Surging colony populations are the likeliest cause for the increase of local rodent sightings, according to expert researcher Dr. Robert Corrigan.

By Harry Kane

Where does your average rat hang out? The answer is underneath your feet, according to Dr. Robert Corrigan, PHD.  Corrigan is a rat specialist from New York City brought in to Somerville to review strategies for the ongoing rodent issue. “The rats in Somerville are commonly known as brown rats or sometimes are referred to as Norway Rats,” says Corrigan. These diabolical rodents dwell in Somerville beneath the surface waiting till night to forage for nutrition.

Many Somerville residents have recently seen rats during the day and this could be a result of a growing rat infestation beneath the city of Somerville. According to the good doctor, rats will come into the daylight when a colony grows too large. “In most cases with cities like Somerville you’re not dealing with one rat, you’re dealing with colonies.” The average size of a rat colony is made up of several families of rats. A family of rats is classified as being between 10-12 of the animals.

So why are there rats in Somerville? “One of the largest problems we have are these absentee landlords,” says Mary Ann Heuston. “Especially in Ward 2 there are lots of property owners that cannot be found.”  Many of the houses are not properly maintained and some residents do not clean or leave food out. According to Corrigan, “one pigeon feeder will sustain a rat colony.” Fresh dog manure is also fresh food for a rat. “Dog stool is very nutritious for rats,” says Corrigan.

Once a female rat is impregnated she can have up to almost forty rats in one year. A rat’s life span is between 5-12 months and one can consume between 1-3 ounces of food per day.  Rats may carry diseases and should not be provoked. “The most important thing you can do is call 311,” says Ellen Schneider, the Operations Manager in the Inspectional Services Division. “Those calls are tracked and then the calls are responded to by inspectors.” The city has maps and databases of rodent hotspots and is working diligently with a pest control management company to continue baiting and providing sewer maintenance.

Alderman Bill White said, “There are certain neighborhoods that have been plagued by a rodent problem. ” Rodents are a menace to society and need to be dealt with swiftly. Several residents complained about rats in the area. Formal complaints have been filed since a recent excavation around the West Somerville library apparently has caused a resurgence of rats in the area.

The city plans to finalize a proactive strategy or protocol to deal with the rodents in the autumn. Dr. Corrigan educated health inspectors and will issue recommendations and a report that will go to the Board of Aldermen. All trash receptacles should be properly closed and chronic offenders will receive fines.  Educational meetings will be held, and inspections will be conducted.  Rats be forewarned, the city of Somerville is out to get you!

Video by Harry Kane