How Many Rats Are There in New Zealand?
WouterIf you’re wondering how many rats are there in New Zealand, you’re not alone. There are also millions of people. As a result, rat control in the country can be an arduous task. New Zealand’s contrasting topographies, combined with the fact that it’s home to a diverse population of human beings, could make eradicating rats and possums a difficult task.
New Zealand is home to three species of rat, all of which were brought to the country by Europeans. The two most common species are Norway rats and ship rats. While these are not native to the country, they are still common and pose a threat to native wildlife. In addition to eating birds, rats also prey on insects, snails, frogs, and lizards.
There are three species of rats in New Zealand, which is why it’s important to know which species you’re dealing with. This way, you’ll be able to better understand how to get rid of rats in your home. For instance, the Pacific rats, also known as Kiore, prefer to live in homes and have a preference for certain foods and nesting locations.
To counter the growing problem, the government has introduced a new pesticide to kill the rats. The rat-killing poison 1080, which kills the rats on contact, has faced a backlash in New Zealand. However, it is a necessary tool for controlling pest populations.
