Rats
Rats are very adaptable animals, making their homes in houses, sheds, garages and gardens. They eat rubbish, pet food, food scraps in uncovered bins and compost heaps, fallen fruit and nuts, bird seeds and dog droppings.
Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to completely eradicate rats. However, as a property owner or occupier, you are responsible for controlling rats on your own property.
We can help with general rodent control and advice. For more information on identifying and controlling the breeding of vermin on your property, please click here to read information on rodent control.
Please be advised that the distribution of rodenticide will no longer be provided by EHA. Rat bait can be purchased from your local hardware store or accessed through a professional pest controller.
If you can’t adequately control rats and vermin on your property, we recommend you contact a professional pest contractor.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes need to be controlled to protect the community from mosquito-related disease. We can help you to do this is by:
- inspecting potential problem areas; and
- providing advice to help control and eliminate breeding sites
For more information, please refer to the mosquito control fact sheet (PDF), or go to the SA Health website.
Pigeons
Feral pigeons can be public health pests. They can accumulate wherever there is food and shelter, and can take up residence almost anywhere, including around houses, tall city buildings or schools.
Feral pigeons are common in the urban environment and although they are generally considered to be no more than a nuisance, they can potentially pose a risk to human health.
For more information please refer to the feral pigeon control fact sheet (PDF).
Keeping poultry
Many people like keeping a small number of chickens in the backyard. They are great for helping you live sustainably through recycling kitchen scraps into fertiliser, with a bonus of delicious fresh eggs.
Keeping poultry can become a nuisance for your neighbours. For further information and tips on responsible keeping of poultry please refer to the poultry keeping fact sheet.
Contact your local Council to find out:
- whether there are any size restrictions and if you need planning approval
- location and set back distances
- the number of birds allowed
- restrictions on the keeping of roosters
