Pest controllers report a rise in rat sightings across the UK following a hot, dry summer. Multiple outlets cite a 15% increase in sightings compared with the previous year, with some cities seeing larger jumps, according to reporting attributed to Rentokil.
The Independent frames the change in the context of heatwaves and drier conditions that can push rats closer to homes, including in search of water. The Daily Mail also emphasizes the scale of the increase and describes it as a notable or “remarkable” population shift, based on pest controllers’ warnings.
Other coverage focuses on the same underlying data. The Belfast Telegraph presents Rentokil’s figures on summer sightings rising, while The Independent adds that several cities recorded double-digit increases in rodent inquiries between 2024 and 2025. Across outlets, the shared theme is that warmer weather correlates with more reported rat activity, alongside industry concern about the trend.
