Alberta is unique, maintaining a rare status as a jurisdiction free from established populations of Norway rats. This achievement sparks curiosity, as these prolific rodents are found across most of the world. The province’s commitment has created an environment where challenges from these invasive pests are virtually nonexistent.
Defining “Rat-Free”
The term “rat-free” in Alberta means the absence of established, self-sustaining breeding populations of the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), also known as the brown rat. While individual rats may enter the province, they are swiftly eradicated before forming colonies. Alberta is home to native rodent species like the bushy-tailed woodrat, which are sometimes mistaken for the invasive Norway rat.
The Origins of Alberta’s Rat Control
Norway rats began their westward spread across North America after their introduction to the east coast around 1775. By 1919, they had entered Saskatchewan, advancing approximately 24 kilometers per year. The first reported sighting in Alberta occurred in 1950 near Alsask, prompting immediate government action due to concerns over agricultural damage and disease transmission.
The province had a legal framework with the Agricultural Pests Act of 1942, allowing the Minister of Agriculture to designate pests. A 1950 amendment mandated municipalities appoint pest control inspectors, empowering local authorities to enforce eradication. William Lobay conceived a buffer control zone to prevent rat ingress. Early efforts included public education campaigns. A private firm was contracted from June 1952 to July 1953, using 63,600 kg of arsenic trioxide tracking powder to treat 8,000 buildings in a 300 km control zone. This aggressive response halted the rats’ advance, marking the program’s inception.
Sustaining the Rat-Free Status
Maintaining Alberta’s rat-free status involves an ongoing program. A designated “rat control zone,” 29-kilometers wide and 600-kilometers long, stretches along the eastern border with Saskatchewan. Within this zone, seven rural municipalities are responsible for rat control, with the provincial government contributing to their pest control officers’ (PCOs) salaries and expenses. PCOs conduct annual inspections, identifying and eradicating any rat infestations.
Public involvement is key. Albertans are encouraged to report suspected rat sightings through 310-FARM or [email protected]. Most reports are native rodents, but every report is investigated by PCOs or provincial staff. Confirmed rats are isolated and eradicated promptly using baiting, tracking powder, gas, or traps. Public education continues to ensure residents understand how to identify rats and their role in maintaining the province’s status.
Why This Matters
Alberta’s rat-free status provides significant benefits. In agriculture, the absence of Norway rats prevents substantial economic losses. These rodents consume and contaminate stored grains and in-field crops, leading to revenue loss. Agricultural infrastructure, such as barns and storage facilities, is protected from chewing damage.
The program also safeguards public health. Norway rats carry numerous diseases, including leptospirosis, salmonella, and rat-bite fever, some fatal to humans. This prevents transmission of these pathogens. The effort has also prevented infrastructure damage, as rats gnaw on electrical wires, causing power outages and fires. This proactive approach protects the province’s economy, public well-being, and physical assets.