SSA 18 Rat Abatement Program

SSA#18 & the Northalsted Business Alliance are beginning a Rat Abatement Rat Birth Control Pilot Program in the SSA#18 footprint. We are coordinating with the 44th Ward, 46th Ward and Streets and Sanitation Rodent Division to improve shared services of Rat Abatement.

We are partnering with Evolve to start a Rat Birth Control Pilot Program in the SSA#18 footprint.

Evolve® Rat Birth Control® provides a specialized alternative for managing rodent populations. This palatable soft bait formula is designed to attract rats through appealing ingredients and is suitable for both interior and exterior applications. It works to decrease local infestations while maintaining safety for non-target wildlife, human residents, and domestic animals.

Rat Birth Control is a newer rodent management approach that reduces rat populations by limiting reproduction rather than killing rodents. Rats repeatedly consume contraceptive bait pellets, which gradually reduce fertility over time. Because the treatment relies on ongoing consumption, bait stations must be regularly refilled to remain effective.

Several similar rat birth programs have occurred or are currently in place for other Chicago business districts, as detailed in articles from Block Club Chicago and CBS Chicago. Additional information and case studies non-exclusive to Chicago are also available for review online. In Wicker Park Bucktown, as example, the pilot program identified an 88% reduction in density of rat tracks over a 5-6 month period.

We are hoping to find similar success here in SSA#18 to help mitigate the rat population.

Other Ways to Keep Rats Away

• Seal cracks, gaps, and holes around your area.
• Keep garbage in tightly closed containers.
• Store food, pet food, and birdseed in sealed containers.
• Remove clutter and nesting materials from basements, alleys, and yards.
• Fix leaking pipes and eliminate standing water.
• Check regularly for droppings, gnaw marks, or other signs of rats.

How To Use Evolve Bait

• Place the pellets inside a secure bait box.
• Add 6–12 pellets per bait box.
• Monitor pellet consumption regularly and adjust the quantity as needed.
• Continuous replenishment is essential to maintain consistent availability and support the effectiveness of birth-control.
• Continue monitoring and refilling the bait boxes as necessary.

Northalsted Business Alliance will have bait boxes and pellets available for purchase for residents who would like to participate in the program. More information to follow.

Please reach out to info@northalsted.com for more information.