NYC considers contraceptives to curb rat population growth

New York City is seriously addressing the problem of an excessive rat population. Council members will debate a truly shocking proposal.

Although very intelligent, rats are treated as pests. It’s no wonder—they can be aggressive and spread various diseases. Some cities are particularly vulnerable to the presence of these unwanted cohabitants.

It’s no surprise. The pop culture capital of the United States only recently discovered that rubbish bags should be put in bins to avoid being scattered on the streets, spreading stench and attracting animals. After introducing plastic bins for universal use, the next step in the fight against rats is... feeding the rodents contraceptives.

New York City council members will soon debate this controversial project. The bill proposes to introduce ContraPest on the streets, a measure that reduces the fertility of both female and male rats. Contraceptives would be administered in fat-filled granules.

If the city council approves the bill, a 12-month pilot period will be implemented. During this time, contraceptive ampoules for rodents will be placed in two of New York City's most rat-infested areas.

Council member and bill sponsor Shaun Abreu believes the project has a chance of success. He emphasises that less rubbish on the streets will force animals to consume granules of ContraPest more or less.