Markham has rats as do most Cities and Towns in the GTA.
Development displaces many creatures, as we know. Where do they go? We want to relocate raccoons because they get in our garbage. Squirrels break tree branches, ransack gardens and bird feeders. Recently we saw a bear walking through a subdivision, a moose in Unionville, and deer still hit by cars. Coyotes and foxes are killing rabbits but this is where they lived before we moved here. We must find a way to co-exist as well as protect our homes and families.
Rats are rodents that do actually serve a purpose in the ecosystem. They are scavengers and opportunistic eaters. They will eat garbage and other things that people throw away. Plus, rats are important as part of the predatory ecosystem. Owls, falcons, hawks, and other predatory animals feed on rats. The animal ecosystem is a delicate balance and losing an element within it can be detrimental to the entire system. Some lizards, reptiles, and snakes prefer to feed on rodents such as rats, for example.
Regrettably rats seem to be making a nuisance all over Markham – not in just one Ward. A combination of new construction, sewer and road works and backyard composting all contribute to increased numbers.
Attached for your reference is the notice from the Region of York on rat mitigation. We suggest that you ensure your property is cut and clean, do not have any food out – i.e. dog or cat food bowls in the yard, ensure your green bins are securely fastened, get rid of back yard composting if you add food scraps.
Please keep your property clean, and do not feed wild animals
Generally speaking, rats are nocturnal, coming out at dusk and doing their rodent business. However, they do sometimes venture out in the day when their nest has been disturbed or they are looking for food. Rats have learned to live in close to humans and so they adapt their natural instincts to suit their needs.
Please let us know if you have rats on your property, we would like to track this and can see whether neighbours are not keeping their properties tidy.