A recent study published in Science Advances highlights the connection between climate change, population density, and vegetation cover in relation to rising rat populations in cities like Boston. The study examined data from 16 cities, finding that 11 reported significant rat population increases. While the study did not explicitly confirm climate change as the cause, it noted trends aligning with biological responses to urban shifts. Warmer temperatures extend the foraging and breeding periods for rats, exacerbated by growing human populations and food waste, compounding existing urban rodent issues such as poor trash management.
The study observed trends that are "in line with potential biological responses to changing urban environments," suggesting climate change influences rat activity.
Warming climates expand the "seasonal window for aboveground foraging and active breeding period for rats, supporting population growth," highlighting how climate affects urban rat populations.
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