Rising rat resistance is becoming a serious concern across Flanders, particularly in the east and west regions. According to the Institute for Nature and Forest Research (INBO), this resistance is gradually spreading towards central Flanders, complicating pest control efforts. The issue has been under study for over twenty years, revealing alarming Trends in rat populations.
- Resistentie tegen gif neemt toe in Vlaanderen
- Rattenpopulatie groeit door snelle voortplanting
- Halve Vlaamse rattenpopulatie is nu resistent
- Mechanische verdelging met vallen blijft effectief
- Preventie door voedselbronnen goed afsluiten noodzakelijk
- Gemeenten bieden gratis gif en professionele hulp
With no exact figures on the total number of rats in Flanders, the challenge of controlling these rodents grows as resistance to poison increases. For instance, in Ghent alone, there were 2,422 rat reports in the last 18 months—almost five times more than in 2020, data from RATO vzw shows. The situation as of 2025-05-14 00:34:00 highlights an urgent need for new strategies.
What can residents do when traditional poisons become less effective? Understanding the problem’s depth leads US to explore alternative solutions and preventive measures.
Why is rat resistance increasing, and how should Belgium respond? The brown rat’s rapid breeding and inherited genetic resistance to rodenticides make control difficult. This raises questions about current pest management approaches:
- Rats reproduce quickly, with up to five litters of eight pups yearly under favorable conditions.
- Resistance to blood-clotting poisons has doubled since 2013, now affecting 50% of the population.
- Mechanical traps remain the most effective method against resistant rats.
- Preventing food availability by securing waste and feed sources is crucial to reduce rat attraction.
Moving forward, it is vital for local authorities and residents to collaborate on prevention and adopt alternative control methods. Could investing in education and mechanical trapping be the solution to this expanding rat problem? Only proactive steps will curb the rise of resistant rats in Belgian communities.
