Britain is witnessing a growing rat problem, with both the number and size of these rodents increasing. Pest control experts say milder winters and greater access to food are major contributors. Paul Claydon, a pest control specialist from Fast Track Pest Control in Essex, has seen an unusually high number of rat-related calls this year, even during the summer, which is typically a slower season for such issues. Milder winters help rats survive longer and breed more frequently, according to Claydon. In addition, changes in waste management, such as bin strikes in cities like Birmingham, have led to large amounts of waste piling up, creating ideal conditions for rats. Factors like overflowing trash bins, food waste, takeaway containers, fly-tipping, bird feed, and compost bins in urban areas all contribute to the growing population of rats. Some of the rats now being encountered are unusually large, measuring up to 40cm (16 inches) in length. Claydon warns that these pests can pose serious risks, including spreading diseases, contaminating food, damaging buildings, and even starting fires by gnawing on electrical wires. In Torfaen, Wales, a family has been dealing with a severe rat infestation for about two years. They recently discovered the pests had moved into their home, crawling through the walls and leaving urine and droppings on their clothes and surfaces. The family believes the rats entered through structural faults in their Cwmbran property, which is managed by Bron Afon Housing Association. Despite using various traps, bait, and pest control methods, the pests have proven difficult to eliminate.