New York faced one of the most intense polar waves in the last decade in recent weeks, with historically low temperatures and persistent snowfalls that paralyzed the city. Thousands of flights were canceled, a state of emergency was declared, and authorities recommended avoiding non-essential travel.
This extreme cold not only disrupted the routine of New Yorkers, it also impacted the rat population, estimated at 3 million according to The Guardian.
Impact on rat reproduction
Rodentologist Bobby Corrigan explained that the low temperatures directly affect the reproduction of rodents living outdoors. In hostile conditions, rats tend to stop mating, which reduces the number of offspring in spring.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene agreed that the cold can decrease activity and slow reproduction, although they clarified that it will not eliminate the rats. These animals are highly adaptable and, if they find sources of heat and food indoors or poorly stored garbage, they can maintain their reproduction even in winter.
Survival strategies
Rats have developed mechanisms to withstand the frost:
- Food storage in underground burrows, forming “small pantries.”
- Construction of tunnels in the snow, which function as igloos to move between garbage and shelters.
- Shelter in car engines and buildings, where they seek warmth and protection.
Corrigan noted that these species come from cold regions like Mongolia and northern China, which explains their resilience. However, he detailed that mothers avoid having litters in winter because hairless pups would not survive hypothermia.
Local testimonials
Residents interviewed by CBS News expressed their frustration:
- Deborah Lavender noted that rats continue to come out during the day despite the cold.
- Cookie Barbara called for more action from the authorities: “It’s a big and powerful city. They should be able to do something to contain these rats.”
Even a character known as “Rat Daddy” organizes guided tours through infested areas, describing how rodents create snow tunnels to move as if they were the Holland Tunnel.
Damage to vehicles
Electrical engineer Ken Huening warned that rats can cause severe damage to cars by gnawing on wires and causing short circuits.
He recounted his personal experience: after parking near a sewer, he found a nest next to the battery, and the vehicle exhibited multiple electrical failures.
Control strategies
The Department of Health emphasized that pest control requires a comprehensive approach:
- Reducing food sources.
- Improving waste management in containers.
- Correcting structural conditions that facilitate proliferation.
The polar wave in New York temporarily reduced rat activity and reproduction, but it will not eradicate them. Their adaptability ensures they will regain ground once winter is over. The challenge for the city is to implement sustained control strategies, beyond the seasonal effects of the weather.
