Environmentalists have issued a warning about black rat colonies, which are believed to spread to major cities in Spain. Rats could infect humans and pets with deadly diseases.

Anecpla warned the public that although black rats generally prefer parks and gardens, they often build their nests in trees, making it difficult to tell them apart from bird nests.

They also nest on rooftops and attics, moving nimbly through branches and popes.

Sergio Monge, President of Anecpla, said: “Until now, both environmental health companies and municipal prevention plans have specialized in sewage rats – the treatment of which is carried out inside the sewage system. ‘sewer.

“However, with the black rat, we are faced with specimens that move in gardens and green spaces, near schools and playgrounds, with heavy traffic of people and pets, which complicates greatly their management.

Pets should also be vaccinated against the bacteria called Leptospira.

Adult black rats can weigh between 150 and 250 grams and measure between 16 and 22 centimeters, including the tail.

Rats are extremely agile and can produce up to six litters per year, each producing up to 18 babies.

The black rat is included in the Spanish catalog of invasive alien species.

Additional reporting by Rita Sobot.