Kathy Corradi, NYC's Director of Rodent Mitigation, delves into innovative strategies to combat the city's notorious rat population. Joining her is Bethany Brookshire, a science journalist and author, who explores the cultural perceptions surrounding these misunderstood creatures. They discuss the historical misconceptions linking rats to the Black Death, the ethical challenges of rat control, and the critical role of sanitation. The conversation also uncovers why our disdain for rats may reflect human biases rather than true health threats.
New York City's rat population has surged due to sanitation issues exacerbated by COVID-19, prompting a comprehensive mitigation plan.
The stigma against rats, often viewed as disease carriers, is challenged by research suggesting their complex relationship with humans and urban environments.
Deep dives
The Crisis of Urban Rats
New York City's rat population has notably increased, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a pressing concern for city officials. Kathy Karate, the citywide director of rodent mitigation, describes the challenges of managing rat populations, which thrive on human waste and urban environments. As sanitation issues persist in the city, rats exploit poorly maintained spaces, compounding the problem. The city's approach to addressing this involves a comprehensive 99-page rat mitigation plan emphasizing sanitation and waste management to reduce food sources for these rodents.
Rats and Public Perception
Rats are often reviled due to their association with disease, particularly the historical narrative surrounding the Black Death. However, recent research suggests that the role of rats in spreading plague may be overstated, as human parasites could have been significant contributors to past pandemics. This shift in understanding challenges the persistent stigma against rats and points to the complexity of their relationship with humans. Cultural differences also influence perceptions of rats, with some societies viewing them positively while others see them purely as pests.
The Intelligent Urban Survivor
Rats are highly adaptive creatures, showcasing remarkable intelligence that enables them to thrive in urban environments. Their ability to live closely with humans and change behavior based on environmental cues highlights their survival skills. Studies indicate that rats exhibit empathy and social behaviors, contradicting the widely held belief that they are merely disease-ridden vermin. This adaptability emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to managing rat populations instead of outright eradication, recognizing their role as part of the urban ecosystem.
Rats as Cultural Symbols
The narrative surrounding rats extends beyond urban challenges, as they have been culturally vilified while also finding unique representation in stories and media. Anecdotes about rats being revered in different cultures, such as in a temple in India where they are considered sacred, illustrate the varying human-animal relationships. Conversely, famous Western narratives often depict rats as sinister creatures responsible for disease and decay. This dichotomy reflects broader societal attitudes toward animals considered pests, questioning who the true villains are in urban settings.
New York City’s mayor calls them “public enemy number one.” History books say they caused the Black Death — although recent scientific evidence disputes that claim. So is the rat a scapegoat? And what does our rat hatred say about us? (Part one of a three-part series.)