A giant rat the ‘size of a dog’ has been found in a British house.
It's the kind of thing you might see on those viral TikToks of New York streets or even just weird little AI clips of creepy animals, and it’s thought to be the biggest rat in the UK. Imagine calling your landlord to tell them you’ve found that.
A pest controller was called to the property in Normanby, North Yorkshire, after reports of an infestation.
And it’s kicked off a whole local issue, as residents in Redcar and Cleveland say it’s a sign the area’s rodent problem is getting way out of control.
Advert
Councillors are warning that if there isn’t action, this whopper of a rat might not be a one-off. Shivers.
Measuring in at 22 inches, the supersize rat is said to resemble more of a ‘sewer rat’, and yet it had reportedly been nesting inside the house. It’s not quite clear just how it made its way in there, but rats had been reported in back alleyways nearby.
Locals have been shocked by the image of the rodent, and there are now greater calls for the council to tackle the rise in vermin.
Eston ward councillor David Taylor told The Telegraph: “The rats are getting more brazen everywhere now. It seems they have settled into the neighbourhood.
Advert
“I have dealt with rats in the past; it’s certainly the biggest I’ve seen. It’s a big concern that it was found in someone’s home.”
Along with councillor Stephen Martin, Taylor is calling for Redcar and Cleveland Council to act fast, demanding a full vermin study to be carried out across the borough. They also are wanting a ‘treatment plan’ implemented in council-owned areas as well as joint action involving businesses, landlords and social housing providers.
“The longer this is ignored, the worse it will get. It is a growing problem,” Taylor warned.
And while he’s aware the action he’s calling for would cost quite a lot, the problem could pose a health risk.
Advert
Rats can carry illnesses which can be passed to humans, such as Weil’s disease and hantavirus.
A spokesperson for Redcar and Cleveland added: “The council has a dedicated pest control officer who manages pest issues on council-owned land.
“While we no longer provide a wider pest control service, we do offer advice to residents where possible.
“The council continues to work with Beyond Housing, Northumbrian Water and other partners to address complex issues and explore potential solutions.
“There is also helpful guidance and preventative measures on our website to support people in dealing with pests.”
Jess Battison