DESPITE anecdotal evidence to the contrary, Scottish Borders Council’s pest control department says it has not seen an increase in the number of requests it has received about rats in Galashiels.

It follows reports that the vermin have been seen foraging for food in areas of the town previously free from infestation.

The Border Telegraph has heard from residents of both Tweed Road and the upper Glenfield area who have spotted the omnivorous creatures in domestic gardens in recent weeks.

One Glenfield resident, who preferred not to be named, told us: “I have lived here for over 30 years and in all that time I have never seen a rat in my garden until this summer.

“I took advice from a friend and put down poison in a length of pipe too narrow for dogs and cats to get in and that appears to have worked. My friend believes the rats are being displaced as a result of the railway works along the Gala Water in this part of the town and are heading further afield in search of food.” On the other side of the river where major flood protection works are ongoing, the voracious rodents have been sighted as far away as Tweed Road.

A resident told us: “I saw three rats happily feasting on food that had been laid out for the birds in a neighbouring garden. It was quite a shock and something I have never seen before in this part of town.” Asked about the impact of the railway works on the movement of rats, an SBC spokesperson said: “The regulatory services [formerly environmental services] department believes that, without a proper investigation, it is difficult to comment on whether the works are disturbing traditional habitats.

“Neither the amenity and pollution team nor pest control officers have seen a rise in the number of complaints/requests about rats in Galashiels.” However, the council has this week issued advice to householders on how to avoid or at least minimise the risk of infestation, acknowledging that putting food out for birds can attract rats.

“Households should use a bird table or feeder and ensure any food which falls on the ground is cleared way daily. People may choose to stop feeding birds in their gardens for a period or time.

“Our advice is not to leave food for foxes or other wildlife lying on the ground and to make sure pet food is not left unattended.

“Clean away spillages of food from rabbit and pet cages and ensure they are raised off the ground by at least 20 centimetres and placed on a hard non-porous surface for easy cleaning.

“Do not put meat or other non-vegetable waste into composters and ensure rats cannot gain access to sheds and outbuildings by plugging any gaps.

“Ensure your drains are not broken and in good repair and that inspection chambers are in good condition.” Although acknowledging that poisons, if misused, can pose a risk to small pets and children, the council, which charges £55.80 for the professional services of a pest control officer, says there is no law preventing residents from taking their own action.

“Early treatment can prevent a major infestation and traps and poisons are widely available at retail outlets,” said the spokesperson.

He added that the council was happy to offer pet control advice over the telephone. Readers are advised to call 0300 100 1800 and ask to be put through to the environmental health section.