Difficulty: Summiteer (Level 3)
In 2024, Hong Kong rat catchers reported a 40 per cent year-on-year increase in the number of live rodents trapped.
About 89,600 were captured in total last year.
This result was supported by AI-powered surveillance technology. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department started using thermal imaging cameras with AI to monitor rodent activity.
In Tsuen Wan’s Hau Tei Square, the number of rats captured tripled from 89 in 2023 to about 270 last year. This increase shows that the new hi-tech measures are working well.
Chief health inspector So Yeung-fung said that by using thermal imaging, pest control teams could clearly see the movements of rats and the times they were active.
The department has started a trial programme to manage waste disposal from food businesses to keep the city’s alleyways clean. Under the scheme, restaurants and other food businesses can place large waste containers in alleys for private collection.
The department has also partnered with property management companies to promote anti-rat efforts. They provide free support on rodent control measures.
