Rat Infestation Worsens in Mexico City Parks Due to Accumulated Waste
Mexico City, March 16, 2026 – Visitors and residents across various parks in Mexico City have reported a significant increase in rat sightings, particularly in areas where garbage and food waste accumulate. Locations such as Paseo de la Reforma, Parque de la Bombilla, Alameda Tacubaya, and Parque de los Venados are among the spots where citizens frequently encounter these rodents.
Observations indicate that rats are most commonly seen at night, emerging from their nests to forage for food among discarded waste. This growing problem is directly linked to poor waste management and public littering habits.
Waste Fuels Rat Population Growth
At Parque de la Bombilla, situated in the Álvaro Obregón borough, visitors have noted rats near trash cans. Daniel Molina recounted seeing a rat near a bin, speculating it was collecting food for its young. Molina mentioned this was his first time observing rats in the park, where he typically only saw squirrels.
In Alameda Tacubaya, located in the Miguel Hidalgo borough, residents report that rats are visible throughout the day, morning, afternoon, and evening, especially within garden areas where trash accumulates. Some visitors have expressed that they have grown accustomed to the rodents’ presence, with one resident stating, “They are out all day,” and another adding, “You see them more at night; it’s unsettling when they suddenly appear as you pass by.”
Visitors to Alameda Tacubaya largely attribute the problem to the litter left behind by park-goers. They note that while temporary clean-ups reduce the issue, the rat population quickly resurfaces once waste begins to accumulate again. “They come, clean it up nicely, and then it’s all dirty again,” shared Ismael, a park visitor.
Similar situations are reported at Parque de los Venados in the Benito Juárez borough, where visitors claim rat nests are prevalent among the plants, offering both shelter and a food source.
Rat Control Efforts to Prevent Disease
In some parts of the city, authorities have initiated fumigation efforts to mitigate the rodent presence. In central Coyoacán, workers and vendors confirm that these sanitation measures have successfully reduced the rat problem. Controlling rat populations is a critical public health measure, as these animals are known carriers of diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets through contact with contaminated waste or food.
Specialists emphasize that maintaining clean parks and refraining from littering food are essential steps to curb the presence of rodents in public spaces. These actions are crucial for safeguarding public health and preserving the recreational value of urban green areas.
The issue highlights the ongoing challenge of urban waste management and the importance of public cooperation in maintaining clean and healthy environments within Mexico City’s parks.
Source: https://www.unotv.com/estados/ciudad-de-mexico/parques-cdmx-ratas-basura-aumenta-plaga/
