Media reported on the growth of rat populations in the world's megacities due to climate change

Scientists have documented a significant increase in rat populations in cities such as Washington, D.C., Toronto and San Francisco, CNN reported.

"Scientists warn that cities around the world are becoming heavily rat-infested, and this boom is primarily due to one factor: climate change," the Jan. 31 piece said.

According to the study, 11 of 16 cities showed "significant upward trends" in rat populations. The largest increases were seen in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Toronto, New York City and Amsterdam.

Researchers cite lack of vegetation as the reason for the increase in rat numbers in cities. However, the "predominant factor" was higher average temperatures.

"Higher temperatures, especially in winter, allow them (rats. - Ed.) to stay outdoors longer in search of food and, most importantly, to breed longer throughout the year," the channel reported.

CNN recalled that rats are a danger to human health. They also spoil the infrastructure and can cause a fire by chewing on wires.

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