On Saturday, 29 August 2026, a resident of Montreal’s Parc‑Extension neighbourhood and his daughter reported seeing rats on the streets, noting that the sightings have become a daily occurrence. Their observation aligns with a citywide increase in rodent complaints that has been traced back to the period following the COVID‑19 pandemic.
The resident contacted a local exterminator for advice. The pest‑control professional confirmed that calls about rats have risen across Montreal since the pandemic, attributing the trend to changes in waste handling and reduced street cleaning that created more favorable conditions for rodents.
These daily sightings in Parc‑Extension are part of a broader pattern emerging in several districts. Municipal authorities have recorded a noticeable climb in reports of rodent activity and related damage, indicating that the problem is not confined to a single neighbourhood but reflects a citywide surge that has persisted for years.
Local residents expressed worry about potential health hazards and property damage caused by the growing rodent population. The exterminator advised homeowners to manage waste responsibly, seal possible entry points, and report infestations promptly to city services. He cautioned that without coordinated action, the rodent numbers could continue to expand.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenge for Montreal’s public‑health and sanitation departments as they work to mitigate the lingering effects of the pandemic on urban pest control.