Meridian families are reporting more frequent encounters with rats in their neighborhoods, a trend local pest‑control specialists attribute to ongoing construction and the approach of colder weather. Homeowners like Aaron Haws and Chris Hoskins shared their experiences, noting that their cats often bring the rodents to the front yard as “gifts,” prompting neighbors to take preventative action.

Homeowner stories highlight the problem

“These teeth are like straight out of a horror movie. It was just the head of the rat,” said Aaron Haws, describing the first time he saw a rat carcass left by his cat. Haws, who lives in Meridian with his family and pet cat, said the sighting sparked concern among his wife and children.

Chris Hoskins, another resident near W Pine Ave and N Black Cat Road, reported that his cats regularly bring rats to his doorstep. “They bring them to the door as gifts. Thankfully they don’t bring them inside,” he said, adding that many of the rodents are about a foot long – roughly the length of his own foot.

Why rats are showing up now

Pest‑control expert Josef Bendele explained that the surge is linked to the valley’s extensive construction projects. “As soon as they started tearing stuff up, moving stuff around, it just swarmed,” Bendele said, noting that displaced rodents often travel in moving trucks and seek shelter in residential yards when temperatures drop.

He also warned that unkempt yards, piles of leaves, and unsecured pet food can create ideal nesting sites for the pests.

Practical steps for Meridian homeowners

Bendele recommends several straightforward measures to deter rats:

• Trim back trees, bushes, and garden plants to eliminate hiding places.
• Remove leaf litter and debris that can serve as shelter.
• Secure pet food and avoid leaving it outdoors.
• If you maintain a tomato garden, pull it in early to reduce attraction.
• Use rat traps in strategic locations around the property.

While cats can help catch individual rodents, Bendele stressed that they are not a primary control method. Consistent yard maintenance and early trapping are more effective in keeping rat populations down.

How to report sightings

Meridian officials encourage residents to report rat sightings through the state’s invasive species portal at invasivespecies.idaho.gov/rats. An interactive map showing hot‑spots is also available at tvpiedpiper.com/public-map, allowing neighbors to stay informed about local activity.

By taking these steps, Meridian families can protect their homes, safeguard their children’s play areas, and help the community maintain a clean, safe environment.

Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.