What is the first animal that comes to mind when you think of New York City? If you thought of rats, you’re not alone. The rat population of the Big Apple, which is over 3 million rats strong, has become an infamous part of city life. Rats are not only annoying, they are a threat to our health.
Jeanite Liliane Leclercq recognized this, and acted to address this issue. She became an inaugural member of the New York City Rat Pack. The Rat Pack is an organization created by Mayor Eric Adams and composed of “anti-rat activists” who are passionate about educating New Yorkers on methods for rat prevention.
In order to become a member of this squad, Liliane participated in a rat mitigation event, attended a Department of Rat Health Academy seminar, and took a Rat Walk to better understand the impact of the city environment and human activities on rat biology.
As a Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout with an interest in studying environmental and conservation sciences, Liliane quickly completed the requirements and earned her place in the Rat Pack. For her membership and commitment, she received a New York Rat Pack shirt, hat, and certificate.
Liliane has approached the city’s rat issue with a mindset and rat-itude that inspires curiosity about rat mitigation and how the rodents affect our lives in New York City. For information about becoming a member of the New York City Rat Pack, please visit https://www.nycservice.org/opportunity/a0TQq00000DwaIoMAJ/nyc-rat-pack.