Paris is battling to quell its millions-strong population of rats which have become so bold that many have been spotted in daylight hours.
Authorities have had to put at least nine of its famous parks off bounds to visitors for a number of weeks while the battle ensues. Rat catching patrols are the only ones allowed in to bait traps laced with toxins and the block sewer exits.
Many residents have welcomed the elimination campaign, with some complaining that officials should have launched action much sooner and should have been able to clear up rubbish more effectively.
Others, however, have been critical of the killing involved. Nearly 20,000 signatures have been put to an online petition urging an end to the “rat genocide”.
The chief of the city’s environmental health services said he sympathises with those who are upset. Georges Salines said “I love animals, too” but pointed out that the situation was “an emergency”.
"Rats multiply very, very fast," he said. "As long as they have food, water and places to burrow, they'll multiply." One female rate typically produces 20 offspring in three litters during her lifetime. Paris is reported to now have millions of rats.
Rats are adept at finding and feeding off rubbish. The rat catchers cordoned off the parks because of the food people bring in and drop, including bread to feed the pigeons even though such action is an offence punishable with a fine.
The situation has not been helped by the partially open rubbish bins lined with thin plastic, installed to make it more difficult for terrorists to hide explosives in them.
The increase in the rat population has been another severe blow for the City of Light, already reeling under a series of deadly terror attacks and the worst air pollution levels for years. Pickpocketing and other scams targeting tourists and notable armed robberies have further tarnished the city’s image.
