Vienna currently

From . – 02/09/2024 11:51 a.m. (act. 02/09/2024 8:47 p.m.)

An increased number of rat sightings in Vienna are reported. ©Pixabay (subject)

Pests pose a serious threat: bedbugs can affect both humans and animals, cockroaches are considered potential vectors of disease and can contaminate food, rats are often carriers of various pathogens and can contribute to the spread of epidemics.

According to Peter Fiedler, chairman of the pest controllers at the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, rats pose a threat to life and health. In addition, they multiply at a rapid pace if action is not taken in time.

More rats than residents in Vienna

The number of rats in Vienna long ago exceeded that of humans and it is hardly possible to estimate how many there are per person. However, the rate at which the population is growing appears to be increasing significantly. The reasons for this are the repeal of the rat law, which was replaced by the Vienna Rat Ordinance in 2005, as well as the growing mountains of garbage, which lead to overflowing trash cans full of leftover food. This creates a paradise for the rats.

“Rats are typical cultural followers and naturally thrive in a throwaway society. Less and more carefully disposed of waste means fewer rats,” says Fiedler. The connection between rats and health is obvious, as rats can transmit pathogens such as salmonella. These bacteria are also present in animal excretions. “Rat control serves to prevent epidemics and is an important service for the health of the city,” said Fiedler.

Increased number of rat sightings in Vienna

The pest control guild in Vienna has recorded an increased number of rat sightings and would like to point out the importance of professional pest control. According to Fiedler, despite the legal obligation, rats are not being combated across the board today. These animals prefer habitats with water, green spaces, catering establishments and/or high population densities. According to the rat regulations, owners are obliged to carry out regular inspections and control measures. However, neglected pest control practices can still occur. Unfortunately, some owners do not take sufficient care to combat rats or do so at irregular intervals. This can lead to an unnoticed spread of rats and associated problems, warns Fiedler.

Rat control measures

In order to effectively address rat control, the guild is announcing two important measures. On the one hand, she appeals to homeowners to regularly hire professional pest controllers to inspect and combat rats. On the other hand, she asks the population to immediately report rat sightings to the responsible property management. Only in this way can rapid, targeted and efficient combating take place. To further prevent pests in public spaces, it is important to dispose of food and pet food properly in designated trash cans and ensure that they are intact. Under no circumstances should food leftovers be disposed of via toilets or wastewater. Animal welfare aspects are also important to the guild. It is a fact that uncontrolled reproduction of rats poses a life-threatening danger to the European hamster, since rats eat hamsters. This phenomenon has already been observed in some properties in Vienna.

More than 70 pest control companies in Vienna

Solid training is crucial for professionalism in this profession. In addition to in-depth training as a pest controller, the skills and abilities of employees in this industry are also important. Inadequate control measures can not only lead to damage, but can also promote the development of resistance in the pests being controlled. You can find further information about training here.

There are currently around 70 companies in Vienna that specialize in pest control. This trade has a long tradition and has been a recognized craft with a master’s degree since 1994. Since 2002, it has also been possible to complete an apprenticeship in pest control, which is also available as a second educational opportunity and enables the training of skilled workers. In the past, highly toxic substances were used to combat cockroaches, bugs, mice and rats, but today modern and environmentally friendly methods and means are available. It is important to warn against dubious companies that offer lure offers. Commercially licensed companies are here to find.

2024-02-10 09:54:41
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