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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.
Download FileParents 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.
Download FileA 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.
Download FileCommuters 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.
Download FileTwo former inmates filed a federal lawsuit alleging yearslong rodent infestation at the Western New Mexico Corrections Facility, citing unsafe food handling, exposure to rodent feces and urine, and failure to address inmate complaints. The suit targets prison staff and a food-service contractor, claiming violations of constitutional rights against cruel and unusual punishment, and seeks punitive damages.
Download FileAn Auckland family received $5,129 in damages and compensation from the Tenancy Tribunal after living in a rental property with severe rat infestations, including damage to food, furniture, and a child's toys. The property also had unfixable issues like no working smoke alarms, a leaking toilet, and a cracked window. The landlord and property manager were found negligent in addressing the pest issue despite multiple warnings.
Download FileBristol's rat population is growing rapidly, with Pest.co.uk estimating 950,000 rats in 2020—a 25% increase from the previous year. Experts warn that lockdown has allowed rats to migrate from commercial to residential areas, leading to increased sightings and concerns among residents. With 74% of UK rats now resistant to common poisons and funding challenges, pest controllers say the situation could become unmanageable in 2021.
Download FileA squirrel entered a substation in South Portland, Maine, causing power outages for thousands of customers and leading to the closure of public schools. Central Maine Power restored power to approximately 6,700 customers in South Portland, 200 in Cape Elizabeth, and 1,500 in Portland. The incident highlights how animal-related faults contribute to power outages, with utilities installing safeguards to prevent future incidents.
Download FileRats infesting Coley Park in Reading have become immune to poison, leading to a three-year crisis where bins overflow daily and residents report breeding rats in their homes. Despite council efforts including a 'Week of Action' and new waste management plans, the problem persists, with locals expressing frustration over lack of progress and concerns about future developments.
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