Article
Woman Prosecuted a Second Time after Wildlife Feeding Linked to School’s Rat Problem
18 June 2026
Neath Port Talbot Council’s Environmental Health Team has successfully prosecuted a woman in the Amman Valley for failing to stop feeding wildlife after her actions attracted a substantial number of rodents to the area.
A Primary School, an equine business and neighbouring residents in Tairgwaith were reporting many sightings of rats following the woman’s failure to comply with a legal notice that had been previously issued.
The problems arose from the continued accumulation of bird feed in her garden. She was also witnessed leaving meat containing bones on public land, which may have risked the safety of local dogs and other animals.
During sentencing at Swansea Magistrates Court on Thursday (4th June 2026), the prosecution referenced the defendant’s failure to comply with an Abatement Notice serviced under Section 79(1)(e) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
The court subsequently issued a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) containing a number of restrictions designed to prevent the defendant from feeding birds in public places. She was also ordered to pay a fine of £1,500.
The restrictions include, but are not limited to;
• Only 2 feeders to be used at a time in both front and rear garden.
• No scattering food on the floor.
• Each feeder must only be filled once a week.
• Only purpose-built approved feeders to be used.
• All food kept outside must be kept in a sealed container.
Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, Cllr Cen Phillips – whose portfolio includes pest control – says:
“This case reflects the importance of balancing individual actions with a wider impact on the community. Whilst feeding birds may be well intentioned, in this instance it resulted in a significant public health concern due to increased vermin activity affecting nearby homes, a school and a community facility.
“The Council’s priority is always to work with residents to resolve issues informally wherever possible. However, where there is a failure to comply with legal requirements and the impact on the local area continues, we will take appropriate action.
“We hope this outcome helps prevent further issues and supports the wellbeing of everyone in the community. Neath Port Talbot Council remains committed to maintaining safe, clean environments across the county.”
If you’re a Neath Port Talbot resident or business experiencing an environmental health problem, there are several methods for reporting it.
ONLINE: The quickest and preferred method of contact is to report it via the Council’s official page: npt.gov.uk/environmental-health
PHONE: Alternatively, you can call the Council’s contact centre on 01639 686868 (weekdays).
POST: Environmental Health, Neath Port Talbot Council, The Quays, Brunel Way, Baglan Energy Park, Neath, SA11 2GG.
