The Santiago (Chile) Times reports that number of pests in Chile has gone through the roof, causing up to 70 percent increased demand for pest control services. The most unwanted houseguests are rats, cockroaches and spiders.

President of the Chilean Association of Pest Control Companies (Achicpla), Juan Carlos Acuña, said that in the months before the winter there is usually an increase in the presence of rodents, which “migrate” from patios and gardens to the houses to keep warm. 

Acuna said this habitual behavior combined with the collapse of houses from the earthquake has seen the rat population expand more than usual.

Juan Pablo Jamett, general manager of Desan, said that the quake also triggered an increase in spiders. 

"The spiders are present throughout the year and generally become more visible in spring, but the movements of the earth have made them appear now," he said.

According to experts, the presence of pests in Chile is directly proportional to the intensity of the earthquake in the area. Cities such as Chillán, Curico, Talca and Concepción are facing major problems, especially because of rodents. 

Click here to read the entire article.

Source: Santiago Times