8legs: South england, united kingdom

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Giant super rats set to be put 'on the pill' as poison fails to stop UK invasion

Experts are weighing fertility-based rat control as poisons lose effectiveness against super rats in the UK.
In Birmingham, residents report rabbit-sized rats roaming streets amid a broader northern and Scottish spread.
Researchers are testing a contraceptive bait called EP-1 that matched poison effectiveness in trials.
A virus-based bait aims to trigger sterilization without affecting other wildlife.
Researchers are developmentally pursuing a hormone-based solution to induce early menopause in female rats.
Experts warn hormones could contaminate water systems and trials may be years away from use.
The debate includes ethical concerns about predatory birds eating poisoned rats and the impact on wildlife.
Glue traps have been banned in Wales, with Scotland planning to follow, signaling a shift in methods.
The new strategies are to be discussed at an international conference on wildlife fertility control.
Experts emphasize a cautious approach, noting the timeline and ecological risks before any rollout.

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