Why Rats Are Taking Over The Treasure Valley

To some, they’re a menace, and to others, perhaps a few, they’re cute, cuddly, and members of their families. Now we're not talking about regular pets, but rats. Rats, not mice, if there is a difference between rats and mice. We all know that rats have spread their share of deadly diseases, from the plague back in the day.

a close up of a rat on a black surface — Photo by Nikolett Emmert on Unsplash

However, we live in the world of 2026. Where cars drive themselves. Computers think for us. So why in the world does Idaho, and particularly the Treasure Valley, have a rat problem?

It’s so bad that the state considered legislation to help local communities like Eagle and parts of Boise deal with the growing rat menace.

white mouse on brown cardboard box — Photo by slyfox photography on Unsplash

Ada County Commissioners Move in On Rats

Now the Ada County Commissioners are taking action by organizing a meeting on how to eliminate the threat of rats in Idaho. Ada County Commissioner Ryan Davidson issued an email inviting the public to hear from local mayors concerned about the rats taking over their homes.

brown rodent eating yellow fruit — Photo by Alexas_Fotos on Unsplash

Who Will Be At This Rat Meeting?

The meeting will take place on September 2nd at 6pm in the commissioner's meeting room. Here's a list of the local mayors and others who will be testifying against the rats.

Representatives from: Boise, Meridian, Star, Garden City, Eagle and Kuna. The public will not be allowed to speak, however other folks will give their insight. The rat problem has been growing since we first reported on the rats invading Eagle.

Ways to Help Prevent Rats in Idaho

Gallery Credit: Cory Mikhals

LOOK: 20 of the biggest insects in the world

Stacker compiled a list of 20 of the biggest insects in the world using a variety of news, scientific, and other sources.

Gallery Credit: Andrea Vale

5 of the World's Most Deadly Insects Are in Idaho Right Now

Field & Stream, an outdoor publication that's been around for more than 125 years, put together a list of the most deadly insects (and arachnids, they admitted to being "taxonomically laid back" in their article) in the world. Five of them can be found in Idaho!

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart