Experiences from controlling the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus [Berk.]) 1999 in Magdeburg

Data of a pest control business was used to study infestation with the brow n, or Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus [BERKENHOUT, 1769]) in the City of Magd eburg for the year 1999. Swarms of rats were found to live all over the ter ritory of the city. Blocks of residential buildings erected during G.D.R. t imes and, more specifically, their basements were noted to be focal sites o f infestation with rats. The problem of rats living in the sewerage system of the city turned out to be unresolved. Detailed reference is made to rode nticides and active substances as well as to control strategies. The priori ty given to economical issues over the application of scientific findings i s considered to be the decisive factor which accounts for the needs in the extermination of rats.