NYC has always battled with its unfavorable rat population. So much so, that last spring Mayor Eric Adams even named an official NYC rat czar last April to mitigate the problem.
But what you might not know, is that NYC actually has a special map that tracks the whereabouts of city rats. Known as the Rat Information Portal, New Yorkers can view rat inspection history and results by address, neighborhood or block according to the NYC Health Department’s most recent inspection.
The map’s legend includes: passed at last inspection, rat activity at last inspection, failed for other reason at rat inspection, not inspected in the last 6 months, and NYC Health Department action.
Rats, similar to humans, look to live in an area that provides all living necessities: food, water, shelter, and as NYC Health put it, “safe ways for them to get around.” If rats begin to burrow and populate near you, they could lead to food contamination, a reduction in the quality of life, and the spread of disease.
The city advises residents to use rat-resistant containers, reduce garbage and clutter, remove tall weeds, fill and seal cracks in your building and to properly dispose of trash in a can when on the street or park.
To keep an even closer eye on NYC rats, you can check Rat Mitigation Zones, which are areas with high levels of rat activity in NYC. These designated regions of the city are currently being addressed with resources by city agencies.
Learn more about NYC’s rat problem here.