The council is tackling a rat problem on a popular pedestrian and cycle path in Dumfries.
Environmental health, community safety and street teams from the local authority have come together to solve the rodent problem along the Caledonian Cycleway near Heathhall.
The move comes after members of the public reported rats along the path near the old Interfloor factory.
Now a warning to pet owners has been put on the council’s Facebook that baiting continues.
Lochar ward councillor Jeff Leaver said: “We’re warning dog walkers to keep their dogs on a lead at all times as we deal with it.
“Environmental health, community safety and streetscene are investigating the infestation. They (rats) may have been disturbed where they were previously and are now coming closer to the path.”
Milder winters and more littering have led to an increase in the rat population in recent years.
A council spokesperson said: “The rats are travelling looking for food so can be seen along the path towards the factory.
“Rats look for harbourage, food and water. There has been an increase in the rat population over the past couple of years due to the milder winters.
“We have had no complaints of rats within properties in the area.”
