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Mossman’s Southwest Closed Over Vermin Infestation and Unsanitary Conditions

Mossman’s Southwest restaurant on Wible Road was closed by health inspectors due to widespread rodent droppings, heavy grease and food buildup, and improper use of dishwashing sinks for food prep. The facility received a failing grade of 55% and was required to undergo steam cleaning and install a separate or three-compartment sink to comply with health regulations.

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Rats Flourish in Ireland During Pandemic as Food Sources Shift

During the pandemic, rats in Ireland have increased their presence in residential areas due to the closure of restaurants and cafes, leading to more food waste and rodent activity. Experts attribute this surge to milder winters and more people working from home, which increases visibility of rodent infestations. There are growing concerns over Lyme disease and the impact of rats on native wildlife, particularly seabirds.

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Use of Rat Poison Could Harm Other Species

Concerns are raised over the use of rat poison in Sin Ming Drive, following the death of a juvenile goshawk allegedly caused by rat poison. Experts highlight the collateral damage to non-target species, including birds and pets, and call for stricter codes of practice in pest control, including proper handling and disposal of dead rats. The National Environment Agency is urged to review rodenticide use and management practices.

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Rats Cause Closure at Cafe Moda, Plus Roberto's Taco Shop and El Pollo Mobile on Dirty Dining

Cafe Moda, a 17-year-old Filipino food and karaoke bar in Las Vegas, was temporarily shut down on Jan. 27, 2021, due to a rodent infestation despite having recent pest control. Inspectors found droppings and urine in multiple areas including storage rooms and equipment zones. Owner Bill Carney disputes claims of recent rat activity on glassware, noting it was stored unused for nearly a year. Other violations included improper food storage and lack of date labeling. The closure highlights concerns about hygiene and cross-contamination in restaurant operations.

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Mum Forced to Leave Home After Rats Eat Sofa, Furniture and Baby Food

A mother from Milton Keynes has been forced to leave her flat after a severe rat infestation damaged her kitchen, sofa, washing machine pipe, and baby food, with her children refusing to return. She claims the council ignored warnings for weeks before finally committing to a block-wide pest control treatment.

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Blown Transformer Knocks Out Power to 3,500 PG&E Customers in Santa Rosa for an Hour

A squirrel caused a transformer at Brush Creek Road in east Santa Rosa to fail around 11:40 a.m. on February 8, 2021, affecting approximately 3,500 PG&E customers. Power was restored to most customers by 12:40 p.m., with two remaining customers expected to regain power by 5 p.m. The incident did not result in a fire.

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Fears over children's health as rats run wild near play park in Northern Ireland

Parents in Ballykelly have expressed concern over a severe rat infestation at a local play park, with children reporting sightings of large rats running alongside them during play. Residents in Drummond Park and Kings Lane have reported multiple daytime sightings of the vermin, raising fears about children's safety and health.

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Mouse Plague Threatens NSW Farmers' Summer Crops

A significant mouse infestation has emerged in NSW's Central West, exacerbated by moist conditions and no-till farming practices. Experts warn of widespread crop damage, with estimates of up to 5% loss in affected areas. The outbreak, reminiscent of the 2011 plague, is attributed to sustained breeding due to mild weather and lack of soil disturbance, prompting calls for early control measures such as baiting and stubble management.

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Black Rats Invading Madrid: Issue of the Day

Commuters in Madrid have filmed black rats climbing trees and in rubbish near the Menendez Pelayo Metro station. While city officials deny a growing rat population threat, estimates suggest Madrid hosts around nine million rats—more than its human population. A recent snow blizzard disrupted rubbish collection, and pandemic-related changes in human activity may have contributed to increased rodent visibility. Rats can transmit diseases like rat bite fever and hantavirus, sparking public concern despite historical fears tied to the Black Death.

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