Prevent nuisance rats
Rats are causing more and more nuisance in the Netherlands. This is partly because they easily find food in gardens, garbage or around animal feeding areas.
Forbidden to use poison yourself
Since 2023, it has been prohibited throughout the Netherlands to use poison to control rats yourself. This national measure is intended to limit damage to nature, other animals and public health. Only trained pest controllers are still allowed to work with poison.
Tips to prevent rats
As a resident, what can you do yourself to prevent rat infestation?
- Seal cracks, crevices and openings to basements or crawl spaces, for example, tightly. Health do provide adequate ventilation and keep protected species, such as bats, in mind.
- Don't leave food scraps or trash lying around your house, and in the garden, if fruit falls from trees or bushes, clean up quickly.
- Store pet and bird food in lockable containers, including in your basement, shed or garage.
- Make animal enclosures, such as chicken coops, rat proof with fine mesh netting to prevent rats from getting at food.
Do you see one rat? Then there are often more. If so, quickly call in a professional exterminator.