Rats in Medway

Medway is a conurbation of five towns — Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Rainham, and Strood — clustered along the River Medway estuary in north Kent. It is the largest urban area in the county.

Medway's density, older housing stock, river estuary, and proximity to marshland create persistent pest pressure. Terraced streets allow rats and mice to travel through shared cavities between properties. The dockyard and river areas have established rat populations.

Rats are nocturnal and cautious. They follow the same routes repeatedly, leaving greasy rub marks along walls and skirting boards. They are neophobic — suspicious of new objects in their environment — which is why DIY traps often fail. They can swim, climb, and gnaw through plastic, wood, and even soft metals.

Properties such as post-war estates across gillingham and chatham are particularly vulnerable. Features like rochester castle and cathedral contribute to local pest pressure. Rat activity indoors increases sharply from October onwards as temperatures drop and food becomes scarcer outside. They seek warmth and shelter in buildings throughout winter. Spring brings a surge in breeding activity.