After a Waukesha neighbor told TMJ4 he had captured his 40th rat in 2024, others began reaching out with similar stories.Neighbors, landlords, and business owners reported their rat sightings, with some describing rodents digging through brick walls.Im trying to get the community to understand what we have, Scott Boris, one of the residents, said. He showed a neighbor his trash can, saying, I opened my lid, and there were two of them lying there.Reece Field, a licensed trapper in Wisconsin since 2011, also contacted TMJ4 after seeing the story. Field, who has lived in Waukesha, said the rat problem has worsened in recent years.In the last two or three years, theres been a significant increase in rats unlike anything Ive seen before, Field said. I dont think people realize how bad it can get. Field said the rodents can not only ruin homes and cars but also pose a health risk.However, city data shows 73 rat complaints have been made so far this year, down from 124 at the same time in 2023.TMJ4s Waukesha County reporter, Kaylee Staral, went to city hall Tuesday after neighbors asked for help.The director of the citys Community Development Department was in a meeting, and the mayors office said no one was available for an interview Tuesday.Watch: Local trapper shares risk of rats as more Waukesha neighbors speak up Local trapper shares risk of rats as more Waukesha neighbors speak upIf left unchecked, theyll overrun a city like here in Waukesha, Field warned. It should be more of a concern for people. I do think the city should have a team of people like myself who specialize in that.Field said its in everyone's best interest to not put off proper pest management, even offering up his own services. Field can be reached at [email protected] with hiring pest control, the city recommends removing outdoor food sources, using tight lids on trash cans, and emptying them regularly.The city keeps track of all complaints and sends out mailers to neighborhoods impacted. If people have concerns, they can reach out to the Citys Community Development Department.Its about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for TMJ4 on your device.Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip