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Two 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.
Download FileRat damage to car wiring has surged on Vancouver Island, with mechanics reporting a significant increase in rodent-related vehicle issues. Residents are advised to take preventive measures such as leaving the hood open or using deterrents like fabric softener or peppermint oil.
Download FileParts of West Auckland, including Massey, Swanson, Ranui, Westgate, and West Harbour, lost internet services since Tuesday afternoon due to a rodent damaging fibre cables. Chorus confirmed the outage affected over 1000 broadband connections, with repairs underway and services expected to resume by 6pm on Thursday.
Download FileEvie Enakimio, a Peckham council tenant, has been forced to wash her clothes by hand since September 2020 due to rats destroying her washing machine. She claims the infestation has persisted despite previous interventions in 2017 and requests that authorities replace the damaged appliance, citing long-term neglect and safety concerns.
Download FileRat numbers in the UK have surged by 25% since the start of the pandemic, with 74% of rats now resistant to common poisons and 20% possessing super-resistance genes. The shift from commercial to residential areas during lockdown has intensified pest problems, particularly in deprived inner cities. Experts warn that potential cuts to pest control services will disproportionately affect the poorest communities.
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