Pest expert warns carved Halloween pumpkins could lure rats into UK homes because a hot summer has swelled rodent numbers

Rotting carved pumpkins left outside front doors provide an easy food source for rats and mice as the rodents search for warm shelter ahead of winter, according to Kevin Lawrenson, chief executive of the National Pest Technicians Association. A hot, dry summer has pushed rat populations sharply higher, placing pest controllers under strain as falling temperatures now drive rodents toward heated homes. Rentokil recorded a 15% year-on-year rise in rat sightings between June and August alone.

Lawrenson warned: 'The last thing you want on Halloween, or in the days afterwards, is rats running around your house.'

Rodent inquiries rose 26% in Manchester between 2024 and 2025, while Oxford recorded a 24% increase and Leeds and Bradford saw a 23% rise.

Birmingham remains on high alert after 'cat-sized' rats emerged during last year's bin-workers' strike, when uncollected rubbish mounted across the city.