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Over the years, scientists have linked climate change to rising sea levels, extreme weather and melting polar ice caps.

But as the mercury rises, urban rat populations too are increasing.

In the first research of its kind, scientists found that 11 of 16 cities studied had significant increasing trends in rat numbers, including Washington DC, New York, and Amsterdam. While the new study sheds light on the forces that may influence urban rat populations, cities remain highly complex environments.

On this episode of Climate Connections, Dr Jonathan Richardson, Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Richmond, who led the research, shares his insights.

Feature produced and edited by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Voiced by: Audrey Siek
Photo credits: University of Richmond; AP/Richard Drew
Music credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate Connections: Climate change is creating that perfect rat storm