How We Solved a Large-Scale Rat Problem in Goring Using uWatch Smart Monitoring
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Tackling a Community-Wide Rat Infestation in Goring
- Initial Assessment and Strategic Planning
- Using uWatch Smart Technology for Real-Time Rat Monitoring
- Pinpointing the Two Main Infestation Hotspots
- Coordinating with Environmental Health and Thames Water
- Eradicating the Rats and Restoring Community Confidence
- The Importance of Technology in Modern Pest Control
- Related Shire Pest Solutions Blog Posts
1. Introduction: Tackling a Community-Wide Rat Infestation in Goring
Rat infestations typically affect a small area, such as one or two gardens. In this case, however, our team at Shire Pest Solutions faced a far bigger challenge. Rats in goring and the problem stretched across the gardens of more than 20 homes.
Residents reported constant sightings of rats moving freely between properties, causing concern for health, hygiene, and property safety. Our mission was clear: find the source, stop the spread, and restore peace of mind to the neighbourhood.
2. Initial Assessment and Strategic Planning
From the outset, it was clear this was no small job. With so many gardens involved, we calculated that at least 40 rat bait stations were needed for full coverage.
However, placing bait stations alone would not guarantee success. An untouched station does not always mean an absence of rats — they may simply be taking a different route or finding food elsewhere. We needed a smarter solution to understand exactly where and when the rats were active.
3. Using uWatch Smart Technology for Real-Time Rat Monitoring
We contacted Norman, the owner of uWatch, a leading provider of smart pest control monitoring systems. We explained the scale of the issue and arranged to deploy the uWatch Cube system with motion detection tags inside our bait stations so that i would know it was the rats in goring setting the alerts off.
The aim was to receive instant alerts every time a rat entered, enabling us to track activity in real time. Norman exceeded expectations by sending a team member to install the system and connect it to a larger battery, ensuring smooth operation across all 40 stations.
The results were immediate. Within hours, our phones began receiving alerts, and we started mapping the rats’ activity patterns by time and location. With this data, we could act on evidence rather than guesswork.
4. Pinpointing the Two Main Infestation Hotspots
The monitoring system quickly identified two primary hotspots:
- Underneath a garden shed, where the rats had built a well-established nest.
- Around a problematic drain, which acted as an underground highway connecting several gardens.
We suspected the shed colony had been active for some time, gradually spreading into neighbouring green spaces and properties.
5. Coordinating with Environmental Health and Thames Water
With clear data in hand, we contacted the Environmental Health Officer (EHO) about the rats in goring, who coordinated efforts with Thames Water. Their engineers inspected and baited the drainage system, checking for faults or access points.
Addressing the drain was essential. By cutting off this underground route, we significantly reduced the rats’ ability to spread between properties.
6. Eradicating the Rats and Restoring Community Confidence
We continued to monitor all 40 bait stations throughout the treatment. The uWatch movement tags gave us precise, time-stamped alerts showing activity trends week by week.
After four weeks, the system recorded zero rat movements. The infestation had been eradicated, and more than 20 homeowners could once again enjoy their gardens with confidence. The data also allowed us to prove our results to the community.
7. The Importance of Technology in Modern Pest Control
This case study shows how technology can improve pest control outcomes:
- Rapid identification of problem zones.
- Resource efficiency by avoiding unnecessary treatments in inactive areas.
- Clear evidence of progress with time-stamped monitoring data.
- Effective partnerships with local authorities and utilities.
At Shire Pest Solutions, we combine expert knowledge with modern technology to solve pest issues quickly and effectively — whether for one property or an entire community.
If you’re in Didcot, Wallingford, or elsewhere in Oxfordshire, we can deliver the same smart, results-driven approach to your pest control needs.
8. Related Shire Pest Solutions Blog Posts
| Blog Post Title | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Preventing Rodent Issues Year-Round in Didcot and Wallingford | Seasonal prevention strategies to protect your property from rodent infestations. |
| Drain Problems and How to Prevent Rat Issues | How rats exploit drainage systems and how to block their entry points effectively. |
Visit our full blog for more pest control insights: Shire Pest Solutions Blog