In a rare break from its long‑standing rodent‑free status, the Canadian province of Alberta has been forced to confront a rat after a dead specimen was found in the town of Bowden on Thursday.
Alberta has maintained a reputation as a “firewall” against rodent infestation for more than seventy years, with every location in the province officially declared rat‑free. The discovery in Bowden marks the first time a rat has been reported in the province in recent memory.
The town’s authorities immediately notified the provincial “rat patrol,” a network of specialists tasked with monitoring and eradicating rodent threats across Alberta. The patrol is expected to investigate the source of the animal and assess whether a broader infestation is present.
While the incident is a “verminous hit” to Alberta’s clean‑air image, officials say the response will be swift and thorough. The province has a history of proactive pest control measures, and the rat patrol’s involvement is intended to prevent any further spread.
Residents of Bowden and surrounding communities are advised to remain vigilant and report any signs of rodent activity to local authorities. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether Alberta’s rat‑free status can be maintained.
<small>Source: The Guardian — read the original story there.</small>
