Canada's only rat-free province investigating after dead rodent found
Rat Patrol was dispatched after Bowden officials reported a dead rat and urged residents to report any sightings.
- On Thursday, Sept. 24, the Town of Bowden reported a dead rat found in the area, and the province's Rat Patrol has been dispatched to "investigate and dispose" of the carcass.
- Alberta's Rat Control Program, established in 1950, has kept the province "virtually rat-free" for more than 70 years, a success considered "one of the most successful pest management initiatives in the world."
- The government notes that rats transmit diseases like Rat Bite Fever and Leptospirosis and are blamed for 25 per cent of unknown fires caused by chewing electrical wires.
- Callum Reid, press secretary for Irrigation Minister Tara Sawyer, confirmed the single Norway rat likely hitched a ride in a vehicle; the team is monitoring the site in Bowden and found no other signs of infestation.
- Albertans should remain vigilant, checking vehicles after travel, and residents can report suspected sightings to Rat Patrol Alberta by emailing rats@gov.ab.ca or calling 310-FARM to ensure the province's zero-tolerance policy remains intact.
9 Articles
9 Articles
Dead rat found in Central Alberta
Open the article to view the coverage from Red Deer Advocate
Alberta's Rat Patrol Investigating Dead Rat in Bowden Days After Calgary Sighting
A dead rat found in Bowden, south of Red Deer, is being investigated by Alberta's Rat Control Program days after a separate rat sighting was reported in southeast Calgary. Neither means Alberta has lost its famous rat-free status.
The long-standing status of the Canadian province of Alberta as a completely rat-free region has been called into question after authorities in the town of Bowden announced that a dead rat had been found on their property.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium













