Feeding ducks could be banned in two neighbourhoods of The Hague as the city council steps up efforts to curb the spread of rats.

The creatures have become a common sight in gardens and stairways in Moerwijk and Mariahoeve De Landen, where they feed on scraps of food in the street. The council wants to reduce the litter problem by introducing €95 fines for feeding wild animals.

The municipal authority has stepped up other measures, including checking that residents and businesses leave their rubbish out in the correct places on collection day and close bags properly. Information boards have also been put up around the area.

‘We are doing everything in our power to tackle vermin,’ said alderman Richard de Mos. ‘We will never be entirely free of rats in a big city like ours. I want to emphasise to people, because it starts with them: stop feeding them by throwing food on the street.’

The city council is voting on the proposal on Thursday evening.