Dundee City Council has some of the highest rates of pest control call-outs in the UK, new figures reveal.
A survey conducted by the not-for-profit trade body British Pest Control Association (BPCA) asked each local authority in the UK for details on categories and figures on pest-call outs in 2015/16.
Out of every area in the UK, Dundee came out on top for all mammals (other than rats and mice) such as foxes, rabbits, and squirrels — cases of which have quadrupled since 2014/15 — and also certain insects such as flies, bees, lice, fleas and moths.
There were also a high number of call-outs to deal with birds in the city, coming in third in the UK, with Angus number one.
Vanessa Hartley an officer from Tayside-based Andy Law Pest Control, said there are various explanations for the figures.
She said: “Dundee City Council has its own pest control department, whereas other areas such as Perth and Angus contract these jobs out to private companies as and when needed.
“This could be something to do with why they have a higher number of call-outs.
“I’m not surprised by the high figures for rabbits and foxes though because as you move up up the coast within the city, it becomes extremely sandy.
“As a result, it’s incredibly easy for rabbits to burrow near homes and of course, where there are rabbits, there are also high numbers of foxes.
“In terms of Angus and Dundee having problems with birds, it is down to the coast line.
“With the areas being next to the Tay and the sea this invariably brings large numbers of gulls.
“However, the figures showing high numbers of certain insects is surprising. It could just be that it’s better reported in the area.”
With just under 3,000 call-outs in 2015/16, Dundee City Council dealt with 19.61 cases per 1,000 inhabitants, meaning the city was second in Scotland and 11th in the UK.
Dundee City Council neighbourhood services convener Councillor Kevin Cordell said: “The council’s pest control services have many years of experience in dealing with pest related issues.
“Officers deliver a full range of proofing and control treatments, carrying out over 7,000 visits a year.
“For further information or advice, details on charges, and to arrange treatment, please contact 01382 436288.
“The council also offers an emergency call-out service during May to September, which can be arranged by calling 01382 434343.”
In other parts of Courier Country, Fife ranked first in the UK for call-outs to deal with ants and was 37th overall, with Angus at 52, and no figures having been released for Perthshire.
