What is the main reason sewer line breaks increase rat populations?

The main reason sewer line breaks increase rat populations is primarily related to the increased water supply available to them. When sewer lines break, they create a moist environment that is highly attractive to rats. This additional water source not only supports the rats' hydration needs but also enhances their ability to reproduce and thrive in an area. Moreover, the overflow of sewage can provide a food source, as it may contain waste that rats can consume.

Rats are highly adaptable animals, and even small changes in their environment can lead to significant population increases. The presence of water from broken sewer lines also creates an opportunity for them to establish nests nearby, contributing to a higher survival rate of both adult and juvenile rats.

While increased food supply, decreased competition, and availability of nesting sites may also play roles in supporting rat populations, the immediate impact of a broken sewer line providing a consistent water source is a primary factor that catalyzes these effects and leads to a rapid increase in their numbers. This highlights the importance of maintaining and quickly repairing infrastructure to manage and prevent potential infestations.