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Rodent Control

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Did you see a rat?

Contact the Erie County Department of Health directly at (716/961-6800).  Only Erie County can bait your property. The Village cannot.  The County has requested that residents contact them directly.

You should also contact the Building Department (716/873-5700). A Code Enforcement Officer will be happy to look at your property to confirm the presence of rats on your property, and/or possible habitats or food sources.  The Village of Kenmore does not bait properties, nor do we have authority to enter onto private property without the consent of the owner or other person residing on that property.

How To Keep Rats Away

Please be aware that, during dry spells, rats become bold as they search for water. You are more likely to see rats out during periods of high temperature and little rain. If you run your sprinkler, be careful not to let water pool on the concrete as this will attract rodents.

You can also help to keep rats out of your neighborhood by following some simple steps:

  1. KEEP THE LID CLOSED
    This simple step will eliminate access to your garbage (a primary rodent food source).
  2. PICK UP AFTER YOUR PET
    Pick up any animal waste in your yard. This is also a food source for rats.
  3. RAISE WOOD PILES OFF OF THE GROUND 
    Rats like to live in wood piles.
  4. SKIP THE BIRDSEED
    Bird seed (and bread) spills over onto the ground attracting rats. Please note that under Erie County and Village law, bird feeders can only be used which are designed to prevent seed from dropping out of the feeder.
  5. CUT DOWN WEEDS
    Overgrowth of weeds is a prime harbor for rats. Please cut down weeds located on your property. Typical problem areas include that space behind your garage and around/between fences.
  6. DON’T ALLOW WATER TO POOL/COLLECT
    Especially during dry spells. Rats are looking for water sources and a puddle area on your driveway or patio will attract them. Do not leave out water for your pets or for birds as this will attract rats, too.
  7. LET US KNOW IF YOU SEE A RAT
    Or if you observe your neighbors violating any of the above steps. While the Village cannot bait, we may be able to help identify the source location of the rats and will send out literature to advise your neighbors to the problem and to remind them of steps needing to be taken to get rid of the problem.
  8. DON’T LEAVE FOOD or WATER OUTSIDE FOR CATS or DOGS
    Leaving food/water outside for animals is an invitation to rats!  It’s also illegal to ground feed animals.