City of Cape Town records increase in rodent complaints

The City of Cape Town says it recorded an increase in rodent complaints in a period of nine months. The City said it serviced 44 121 block baiting stations and attended to 4 743 - a 31% increase compared to the previous year.

During the same period between July 2024 and March 2025, the previous year, Environmental Health received 3 616 complaints about rodent activity and serviced 63 997 baiting stations.

PICTURE: City of Cape Town

The biggest increase in complaints are from the Khayelitsha area, and is directly linked to a special health education programme encouraging residents to log service requests instead of using illegal pesticides.

‘’By law, it is the responsibility of property owners and businesses to keep their premises rodent free and in a clean and hygienic state. An effective rodent control programme is a necessary public health measure, aimed at protecting residents from contracting diseases associated with rodents,’’ said the City.

During April and May, City Health staff increase baiting points, as rodents become more active ahead of winter and start moving indoors for shelter.

‘’Rodents are vectors of a wide variety of diseases and by controlling these vermin, we are protecting public health, maintaining quality of life and preserving property. They can also contaminate food and water supplies, which is why rodent control is in the interest of everyone. Practitioners provide rodent control services in all areas, but it goes hand in hand with education and awareness around the factors which contribute to an increase in rodents, such as waste management and illegal dumping,’’ said Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

The top five areas with the most rodent complaints are Khayelitsha, Langa, Cross Roads, Parklands and Westridge.

The City appealed to residents to do their part to deter rodents, by: storing food in secure containers; Clean food preparation areas immediately after use; Make sure rubbish bins are securely closed; Do not dump waste illegally; Do not leave uneaten pet food out; and Seal cracks or holes in walls, floors and under doors

 

Done by: Bush Radio News