Northern Ireland rat crisis highlights airgun control role

Rising rodent reports across Northern Ireland

Airgunners could play a vital role in tackling a rodent crisis that has cost Northern Ireland more than £4m since 2020. More than 66,000 pest reports have been made to councils and housing authorities, with business owners in Dungannon, County Tyrone, reporting rats “the size of a small dog” in the town centre.

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Role of airguns in pest control

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) told Airgun World that population increases stem from high food availability, displacement via flooding, and disrupted waste collections. “Airguns are vital in controlling pest rodent populations,” a BPCA spokesman said, noting that opportunities for shooters are increasing in peri-urban spaces, rural areas, and community allotments.

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Integrated pest management essential

However, the BPCA stressed that shooters must secure formal land access and permissions. They further stated that airgun use should form part of an integrated pest management plan, with training and competency being “of utmost importance to ensure that humane control is carried out at all times.” Because rodents are public health pests, the BPCA advocates for improved communication between land managers and residents to keep populations in check.