Rat infestations are reported to be on the rise. We asked people in Birmingham whether they’ve noticed more pests in their area as the bin strike rumbles on.

Rat sightings in Birmingham appear to be increasing, according to residents who say pests are becoming a more common sight in streets, gardens, and alleyways.

Several people point to overflowing rubbish bins as a major factor, linking the surge to recent bin strikes that left waste piling up across the city.

“It’s no surprise the rats are out in force,” said one local, noting that uncollected bags of food waste provide an easy feast.

Watch the video: Richard Gullick reports

Others blame poor maintenance of derelict properties and warm weather extending breeding seasons.

Pest control services in the area say they’ve had a noticeable uptick in callouts in recent months.

The city council has urged residents to store rubbish securely until collection, but many say the problem is already well-established.

For some, the growing rat population is more than an inconvenience — it’s a public health concern that will require swift action to get under control.