NYC plagued with large increase in rat sightings: report

New York City data shows rat sightings have spiked. 

According to FOX 5, rodent sightings are up 70% from the same time two years ago. 

More than 21,500 sightings were reported to the Big Apple’s 3-1-1 service request line between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30. 

That number has risen by 18,601 rat calls from last year.

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Through April, people called in some 7,400 rat sightings.

The station said that the City Council is expected to vote on a rat action plan this month.

The multi-pronged plan includes $22 million for basket service and nearly $5 million for rat mitigation. 

However, according to FOX 5, experts say the investment in mitigation is not nearly enough.

It includes rat mitigation zones and pre-construction rat plans.

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In July, the Department of Sanitation asked residents to put trash bags on curbs later, with exceptions for refuse in cans or bins, according to WNBC.

In August, Mayor Eric Adams announced a new plan to demolish abandoned dining sheds.

“These deserted dining sheds have become eyesores for neighbors and havens for rats, and we are going to tear them down, ” he said. “And, with this initiative, we are also taking the essential step toward a permanent Open Restaurants program that all New Yorkers can be proud of every day. I want to say it loud and clear: Outdoor dining is here to stay.”

Adams also announced padlocked curbside trash bins. 

Rats can survive on less than an ounce of food a day.

In 2021, 13 people were hospitalized due to leptospirosis, a condition that attacks the kidneys and liver. 

One person died.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.