Vermin – Rats & Mice

Property owners must ensure that their property is vermin proof. Vermin includes rats and mice, which are capable of carrying or transmitting a disease.

This means that vegetation or buildings should not act as a form of shelter or attraction for vermin. Regular maintenance of your yard and any buildings or structures can help in the eradication of vermin harbourage and breeding.

The most common pest rat in domestic situations in Townsville is the Black Rat (Rattus rattus). Despite its name, the Black Rat is usually brown or grey in colour. Rats are usually nocturnal, though not exclusively, and may not be seen unless they are very hungry or present in large numbers. They are opportunists with a variable diet depending on what is available.

Rats can pose a serious health risk by assisting the transmission of diseases such as leptospirosis, dysentery and gastroenteritis. They can also damage buildings by gnawing on materials such as wood, soft metals and electrical wiring.

For information about dealing with a vermin problem on your property, refer to Council’s information sheet Vermin - Managing Rats in Your Home (PDF, 888.7 KB).

Report a Vermin Problem

If you think rats or mice are breeding on a neighbouring property, contact Council to lodge a complaint. Personal details are of a confidential nature.