Sandwell canal rat problem 'where rats nibble at shoes' caused by 'excessive feeding of birds' council says
Residents who live and walk near the Sandwell Canal system have called for action over a 'rat infestation' affecting their waterways.
Residents have called for action over the 'rat infestation' of the Sandwell canal system adjacent to New Gas Street, near West Bromwich.
The plea comes after residents and walkers reported dozens of rats 'nibbling at shoes' and battling with pigeons and other birds for food.
Visiting the scene, we spotted more than six of the critters darting between bushes and hedgerows, as well as between our own feet.
One resident, Hayley Bryce, aged 38, from Sandwell, said: "It's getting a bit out of hand. They aren't scared of humans at all now. I've been jogging, and they've nibbled at my shoes when I've stood still.
"They could do with being sorted out. It's getting a bit bad now."
Sandwell Council officers visited the location on Thursday, where they discovered an 'excessive amount of bird feeding on the towpath, with rats being attracted to food that is being left out for pigeons.
The council has since asked the Canal and River Trust to install more 'no bird feeling signs' around the area, as well as put more bins on the route.
A Sandwell Council spokesperson said: "We are aware of this issue, which has been caused by excessive bird feeding on the towpath with food being left out, attracting rats and pigeons.
“The Council have asked the Canal & River Trust, who are responsible for the canal towpath, to place more bins and signage along the towpath and to put up more ‘No Bird Feeding’ signs.”
Council officers have also visited residents in the vicinity of the area to offer support to those whose houses are affected by the rats and distribute treatment if needed.
