LOS ANGELES – It’s a reputation Los Angeles would rather avoid. A recent Yelp report indicates that Los Angeles holds the title for the largest rat issue in America.
The well-known crowd-sourcing review platform states that Los Angeles saw more Yelp inquiries for rodent services than any other location.
“Having been raised in L.A., I can confirm there is a rat issue here,” noted L.A. local Andrew Diego. “They’re mostly found downtown.”
Residents in Los Angeles have plenty to say about the rats seen around the area.
“I’ve encountered a few rats occasionally,” shared Albert Ceja. “But I think it’s more about roaches than rats,” added Keisy Noj.
Some residents were not surprised, while others suspected that the title might belong to New York instead.
“I’ve visited New York, and they’re everywhere,” remarked Andrew Diego.
“I’m puzzled why we garnered that much attention when New York literally has them thriving there,” said Keisy Noj.
However, the streets aren’t overrun by rats.
“They damage pipes, and that’s how they gain entry,” explained Enrique Gonzalez.
Enrique Gonzalez, owner of EG Rodent Smoke Testing, is a pest control expert serving the L.A. region. He states that as temperatures drop, rats and other critters will seek warmer spots like your home.
“With the changing climate, approaching winter means they search for shelter,” Gonzalez added.
As per Yelp, the demand for pest control experts is increasing across the nation, with a reported 21% rise in “rodent” searches on the platform year-over-year.
So, what measures can you take to keep these unwelcome guests at bay?
“Inspect your property for any gaps, even holes the size of a quarter or pinky finger, and seal them, as those creatures will try to find refuge and eventually invade,” advised Gonzalez.
According to the Yelp report, the second highest rodent hotspot is San Francisco, with New York coming in third.
