Hornstein funds comprehensive rat-control plan

The municipality of Hornstein in Burgenland has set aside 15,000 euros for a comprehensive rat-control plan after more rats than usual were spotted there this year, ORF reported. Reports of increased rat numbers have also emerged from other towns and municipalities in the region.

A new municipal ordinance allows rat control on both public land and private properties. Mayor Christoph Wolf said coordinated action was necessary because rats do not respect property boundaries. The aim is to tackle the problem professionally and over the long term before it worsens.

Drought may be contributing to the increase by creating better conditions for rats to reproduce, said Marianne Jäger, head of Burgenland’s pest controllers’ guild. She added that controlling rats has become more difficult for private individuals over the past year because certain poison baits are no longer available in shops.

Pest controllers warn against buying poison from abroad. Incorrect use of active ingredients could make rats resistant to poison. Jäger also advised residents to layer garden compost properly and avoid putting meat scraps on it, which can attract rats. She said there was no risk of a rat infestation in Burgenland if people took appropriate care.