A resident of Montreal's Parc-Extension neighbourhood says rats have become a daily presence on the streets, a pattern that mirrors a citywide rise in rodent complaints since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The homeowner notes that the rodents appear each day, and his young daughter has also observed them while walking outside.
The sightings have been consistent throughout 2026, with the resident describing the rats as a regular part of the neighbourhood's street scene. He reports that the animals are seen moving along sidewalks and near residential entrances, creating an ongoing concern for families in the area.
An exterminator consulted about the situation attributes the increase to a broader surge in rodent activity across Montreal that followed the pandemic. According to the pest‑control professional, the pandemic altered waste patterns and reduced street cleaning in some areas, providing more food and shelter for rats, which in turn led to higher populations.
City officials have recorded a climb in rodent‑related calls throughout Montreal since the onset of COVID‑19. The growing number of complaints has prompted heightened awareness among residents and local authorities, who are monitoring the situation closely. The trend is not limited to Parc‑Extension; similar reports have emerged from other districts, indicating that the issue is widespread.
While the resident continues to encounter rats on a daily basis, no specific remediation measures have been detailed beyond the involvement of an exterminator. The ongoing observations underscore the persistence of the problem and the need for continued attention from both the community and municipal services.