Thursday, March 29, 2018

Exterminate the Vermin: Get Pest Control


Rodents, insects, and other vermin do not care about you or your privacy. They intrude into your home and can cause serious structural damage. In addition, these types of vermin can even cause health problems for you and your family. Stop nuisances in their tracks and exterminate them through pest control. Let's explore some of the vermin that professionals are more than capable of exterminating for you.

Ticks

These blood-sucking vermin can be found all year, but they are most prevalent in the muggy summer months. Ticks fall into the category of parasite, which means that they are always looking for a host to leech off. However, should a host be unavailable to them, they can survive for up to one year on their own. Male ticks only die after they fertilize the female tick. On the other hand, the female tick will not be able to lay her eggs until she has ingested enough blood. Once she has fed, she will leave the host and lay over one thousand eggs before she dies as well.

Ticks can spread a number of diseases to humans because they feed on animals and humans alike. If a female is carried into your home on a family member or pet and is able to reproduce, she will crawl into a dark crevice to lay her eggs. This leads to a full-blown infestation, and what's more, some eggs can take longer than others to hatch. In other words, even when you think you have completely exterminated the parasite, you might not have. Contact the best pest control services in your locale to be sure these parasites are exterminated for you.

Mosquitoes

You may think that mosquitoes are just common insects that are impossible to manage. Besides, they are relatively harmless - and who cares about a little bite and itch? Well, you couldn't be more wrong! Mosquitoes are the number one killer of humans in the insect world. A single mosquito can spread numerous diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever, and West Nile Virus. If one of these insects gets into your home, they can breed with just a little bit of standing water and a little bit of your blood. Get the pest control specialists out to your house today and get rid of those pesky mosquitoes.

Spiders

These insects are generally good to have around your home in small numbers. They work as natural exterminators, feasting on all of those other pesky insects, and they do it for free! Usually, they will not harm humans, but if you have a large infestation of spiders or a dangerous breed of them, they may get out of hand. Almost all spiders have some sort of poison in their bite, and most of the time, spider bites are no big deal. However, there are two types of spiders hat are extremely lethal: the black widow and the brown recluse. If you are bitten by either of these spiders, it is important that you seek immediate medical treatment. Before this type of infestation becomes a serious concern, get pest control over to your residence to get rid of the dangerous spiders on your property.

Don't live in fear of your own home; contact pest control so the experts can efficiently exterminate all unwanted visitors in your residence.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

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Monday, March 26, 2018

The Four Most Important Pest Control Tips to Protect Your Home


Many animals and bugs that a person finds around their home may be classified as undesirable pests. Several examples include ants, spiders, termites, wasps, roaches, and some rodents such as rats. A person that notices these creatures around the home should not take their presence lightly as they can be more than just a nuisance. These uninvited houseguests, while small in size, have the potential to cause extensive damage to property and can also cause diseases and allergies that can be life-threatening.

This is why it's important for a homeowner to consider several pest control practices to prevent an infestation. Critters will be less likely to be attracted to the home if garbage is properly closed off to them and disposed of regularly. A person can keep unwelcome animals from entering the home by sealing any cracks and gaps. As some creatures are attracted to water and moisture, a person should keep the home dry, cool, and free of any standing water.

Store Garbage Properly

Of course, a large portion of what you'll find in a garbage bag is leftover food and table scraps that were discarded after dinner. Unfortunately, animals such rats and ants are attracted to the leftover food, and they will shamelessly dig through garbage bags to scavenge for free and easy food. Keep garbage bags inside a sturdy a trash can, and keep it tightly latched with a secure lid. Trash should be kept a safe distance away from the home.

Seal Cracks and Holes in the Home

Unwelcome critters can easily sneak into the home through cracks and holes. Alternatively, if they find an opportunity to get inside the home through the doorway, they'll be able to search for holes to hide inside. There, they'll create a new home and breeding ground without the knowledge of the homeowner. As a result, creatures such as termites will cause damage to property and thousands of dollars in repair work.

If a person wants to achieve pest control to preserve their home or business, he or she should regularly check for gaps and holes. The cracks found on the outside of the home should be sealed. Any crevices around cabinets and baseboards can be sealed off with caulk, which can be purchased at a hardware store. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, steel wool can be used to fill spaces around pipes.

Prevent Standing Water and Moisture in the Home

Pesky critters are not so different from humans when it comes to basic needs. Like humans, they require water to stay alive. Termites are not only attracted to wood, but they also thrive on dampness and moisture. This is why it's highly crucial for a homeowner to eliminate any standing water, humidity, and moisture for maximum pest control. Homeowners should never hesitate to repair a leaky pipe. Basements, attics, and crawlspaces can easily become humid and moist, so remember to keep these areas dry and ventilated to prevent a potential breeding ground for ants, termites, rats, and roaches. Additionally, a dry and ventilated home can prevent mold.

Cleanliness is a Preventative Measure

A person can never go wrong with keeping the home organized and clutter-free. Need another reason to organize the basement or garage? It'll keep the pests away as it'll create an unfavorable environment for the unwelcome guests.

Animals love clutter. A person may see stacks of boxes and stacks of old newspapers and unused junk, but a rat would see hiding places and a potential spot to raise a family. Once they start to breed in these hiding spots, it will be hard to locate them and get rid of them effectively.

These four basic steps go a long way toward protecting a home against infestation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

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Friday, March 23, 2018

What Can an Exterminator Do for You?


An exterminator is a professional to call when you are dealing with pests of any sort. The fact is any type of infestation can go from being a nuisance to being a long-term problem if you do not take care of it right away. The good news is that there are plenty of options available to help you with this. You should not put off getting the help you need to bring the infestation back under control, or even to get rid of it altogether. Do you think you need a professional? If you think you can just handle the problem yourself, think again. It may be more of a problem than you realize.

Find the Source

One of the most important things that an exterminator will do is to find the source of the problem. If you have ants in your home, they may be coming from the neighbor's yard. They could be coming from the woodpile outside your home. Once the source is located, the next step can begin. That is to get rid of the pests at this location so that you stop the infestation from occurring.

Pinpoint Damage

Did you know that many types of pests do more than just annoy you? Some of them carry diseases and can be deadly to come in contact with. Others actually do damage to your home. If you are like many people, you don't crawl around in your attic often and you may not realize that the mice have destroyed the wiring or the raccoons have gotten into the insulation. A professional can spot all of the potential problems so you can take care of them properly. Some situations, such as termites eating away at the wood structure of your home, can be extremely serious if left untreated.

Treat the Problem Safely

There are both eco-friendly and chemically based products on the market for dealing with pests. It is up to you and your exterminator to determine the best possible solution for getting rid of the problem. One thing is for certain, though: with the aid of these professionals, you can cut down on the risk of your children or pets getting sick because of the chemicals you are using. They will also handle the problem safely, so that pests are kept away from you and your family.

No matter how large or small the infestation is, it is a good idea to call a professional to manage it. An exterminator can help you to get rid of the problem and find a long-term solution, and ultimately can give you your house back.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Ace_Abbey/851844

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Tuesday, March 20, 2018

Professional Pest Control For Fleas - When It's Time to Call in the Pros



When Other Flea Control Methods Fail

For some people, it may be easier and more effective to let professionals handle the job of ridding their home of fleas. Although the professionals will most likely use the same products and methods you would use in your home, they will have better equipment, as well as the experience to know how to get rid of the fleas quickly and efficiently.

Flea extermination with guaranteed results

Professional pest control companies will not only provide professional service, but they also usually offer a guarantee. So, once you've paid for the service, you can generally be assured that your flea problem will be solved. If not, the pest control service will provide another treatment free of charge. However, be sure to ask the provider about guarantees before purchasing.

Once you request the extermination service, the company will do an initial visit to assess your needs, and determine the type of pest in your home, and their means of entry. In the case of fleas, before the treatment begins, you will most likely be requested to remove or wash all pet bedding, vacuum carpets, and do the other non-pesticide related steps.

In addition to preparing your home for treatment, you will of course also need to treat your pet for fleas.

Preparing your home for professional flea control

Once you've requested the professional extermination service, make sure that all outdoor areas, crawlspaces, and shaded areas are available for treatment. You will also have to arrange to be out of the house for several hours after treatment. Also, all pets, including birds and reptiles will need to be removed from the home as well. Fish tanks can be covered with a damp towel, and the air pump turned off.

Professional pest control services can be an easy and effective way to eliminate fleas in your home, especially for those without the time or inclination to attempt the process themselves. Be aware, however, that treatment of the pet will still have to be done by the owner or a veterinarian, as pest control services don't handle that aspect.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Travis_McGee/661763

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Saturday, March 17, 2018

The Weird and Wonderful Metamorphosis of the Butterfly - Franziska Bauer


In order to become a butterfly, a caterpillar’s body dissolves almost completely and is rebuilt from its own juices. Butterflies are just a few of the 800,000 insect species that transition from larvae to adults through complete metamorphosis. But how exactly does this process work? Franziska Bauer explains how these squishy larvae emerge as armored, aerodynamic, and nimble adults.

Lesson by Franziska Bauer, animation by Avi Ofer.

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Bedbugs Have Favorite Colors, Study Finds

ISTOCK

When they aren’t chewing on you, bedbugs spend most of their time hiding in tiny cracks and crevasses. However, not all hiding places are equal for bedbugs, new research finds. They may have a preference for hiding under certain colors, according to a new study in the Journal of Medical Entomology.

Scientists at the University of Florida set up Petri dishes with paper tents in various colors available for the bed bugs to hide under, then watched to see if they preferred specific colors. The Petri dishes either contained two or seven choices of colored paper tents for the bugs to choose from.


Each bedbug had 10 minutes alone in their Petri dish to choose a hiding place before the scientists recorded their preference. Some of the bedbugs in the study had been recently fed, while others had been starved of blood for a week. The trial was repeated 40 different times with bedbugs in various life stages, both male and female.

The bedbugs’ preferences changed depending on their sex and life stage, but in general, yellow and green colors seemed to repel them, while darker colors like red and black were more appealing hiding spots. Female bedbugs preferred purple hues, while males preferred red and black more. The bugs laid more eggs under blue, red, and black paper. So while buying bedsheets, couches, and luggage, just remember that bedbugs have the fashion preferences of Avril Lavigne circa 2003.

But yellow luggage will only do so much to deter bedbugs, obviously. If you’re worried about the blood suckers, check out our tips for avoiding them while traveling. Or just never leave the house.

[h/t CNN]

Article Source: http://mentalfloss.com/article/79002/bedbugs-have-favorite-colors-study-finds

Sunday, March 11, 2018

Pest Control Benefits for Home Owners


Many homeowners employ pest control to manage different aspects of their homes. It is a reality that there are several kinds of nuisance animals and insects in residential and even commercial areas. These nuisance animals and insects come in different forms. Insects make up the bulk of what plagues many homeowners.

Common Nuisances

In residential areas, the most common kinds of insects and animals that need to be managed include, but are not limited to ants, termites, wasps, bees, cockroaches, raccoons, rats, moles and many others. Insects can basically enter and take over a house if they are left unchecked because they are small enough to fit in the many nooks and crannies in a structure. Pest control for insects is necessary because they can invade a house and stay in it unnoticed for several months, even years due to their small size and subversive movements. Termites can eat almost half of the structure before an unobservant homeowner will be aware of their presence. Ants are not as destructive as termites but they can be a nuisance because they can be anywhere. Cockroaches are dirty insects that carry disease and can multiply at an alarming rate while living in between walls and under cupboards and cabinets. Wasps and bees basically stay outside of the house but can be dangerous especially when there are some people who are allergic to their sting. Some species also tend to be aggressive when guarding their hives. Mosquitoes also pose a risk of contagious diseases for homeowners that live near places where they multiply and they are pesky creatures that can cause allergic reactions to those they bite.

Rodents are very common animals that plague a house. Rats, raccoons, moles and squirrels can be among these pests. They usually invade a house because they are in search of food. Birds can also be a nuisance for some homeowners because they also tend to go inside open windows and get anything that catches their fancy inside the house, from food to shiny items. Some birds also leave bird droppings in the place where they roost and these can be a source of smell and irritation for homeowners. Pest control is also necessary for some animals like snakes and spiders.

Benefits

The benefits that homeowners get from contacting a pest control company for their needs include, but are not limited to, the professional know-how and services that the company can extend to their clients. These companies know the right methods and techniques for each kind of nuisance insect and animal. There are also many companies that practice humane treatment and disposal of the insects and animals that they manage. Another benefit of employing pest control companies to manage the problem is the safety that homeowners are assured of. Some people risk their health when they handle chemicals and other methods that should be handled by professionals only. Many of these companies also have the capacity to fumigate large areas for their clients.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

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Thursday, March 8, 2018

Choosing a Pest Control Method


No one likes to think about pest control because it means we have undesired guests living in our homes or yards that are not all that pleasant. Whether it's termites, spiders, ants, or rodents, there are a few things you can try, although nothing is as effective as calling on a professional. They can help you identify the best method for treating your problem with the least disruption to your daily life. Depending on your particular problem, one or more of the following methods may be used:

Baiting

This method uses some bait to attract insects into traps. The bait may be a pesticide, an organic material, or even a regular kitchen item. Some baits contain a poison that allows the insect to feed and return to their colony, where they will poison the entire population. Some recommended areas for using bait in your home are kitchen cupboards and drawers, under the sink, behind kitchen appliances, and near water installations in the bathroom. This method is preferred by many homeowners, since the bait is not easily seen by people in your home, does not have a strong odor, and is virtually non-toxic to people and pets.

Attracting Other Insects

This method is usually done outdoors for those pests that eat shrubs and garden plants. You can order beneficial insects that will naturally prey on the pesky ones, or plant species that are known to attract the right kind of bugs. This does take a little time, however, so it should be something you plan for early in the season, in order to give the beneficial insects time to grow and establish their hunting ground.

Chemical Control

Insecticides are a very common method, and can be administered by a homeowner or a professional service. Make sure you are using the insecticide that's appropriate for your particular situation, and always closely follow the application instructions. If you have any doubts or if you have a significant insect problem, you may want to consult a professional pest control service before spending time and money on an ineffective method that may cause harm to pets or vegetation.

Traps

This method is commonly used for non-insect pests, such as rats and mice. They catch rodents and hold them until you, or a professional, can empty the trap. You can purchase mouse traps at many retail locations. If you have an issue with larger rodents, such as moles ruining your landscape, you may want a professional pest control service to set traps outside and take care of disposing of the unwanted creatures.

As with many things in life, however, the best pest control is prevention. You can prevent infestations by making sure all possible entryways are sealed off, blocking any food sources, and managing excess moisture, which makes an optimum breeding ground for pests.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

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Friday, March 2, 2018

Stop the Bugs in Their Tracks! It's Time for Pest Control


Insect invaders are never welcome in your home. Put a stop their advancements with pest control services. These buggy creatures can cause a number of structural, health, and general hygienic problems in your residence. Don't expose your family to these vile creatures any longer. Get the professionals out to your home before these insects can cause you and your family some real trouble. Let's take a look at a few of the common insect infestations that homeowners should be aware of. If you notice any of the things below, do not hesitate to call pest control to exterminate these insects where they stand.

Fleas

Summertime brings pleasant, warm weather, but it's also the perfect time for a sharp increase in flea populations. While the majority of health problems that these lecherous insects cause will be to your pets, they can be quite an annoyance to your daily life, causing you itchy skin and red bumps. When you call out an exterminator to deal with your flea problem, they will ask you a number of questions to determine how bad your infestation is. You will also need to do a few things before they start the extermination process:

- Vacuum the entirety of your home and then place the used vacuum bags in the garbage.
- Pick up all loose books, toys, and other clutter off the floor.
- Wipe down or mop all tiled surfaces that cannot be vacuumed.
- Get your pets treated for fleas.
- Provide an empty home for at least four hours so the chemicals can do their job.

Post-extermination, you should vacuum as often as possible and keep a sharp eye on your pets to ensure that the infestation does not return.

Termites

These wood-eating insects are found in every single state except for Alaska. Almost all of these insects operate on the subterranean level, so it will be hard for you to see them. If these bugs cannot find wood to eat in their natural surroundings, they will turn their attentions on your home. Any wood in your home that makes contact with the soil allows termites easy access to your residence. Do not keep firewood right by your home, as this attracts termites. Getting regular pest control inspections for termites could save you thousands upon thousands of dollars in structural repairs. If you notice a number of discarded wings around your windowsills or small tunnels in your home's corners and other wooden places, call your exterminator as soon as possible.

Flies

There are over 240,000 documented species of these flying nuisances in existence. Over one third of these types can be found in the United States. These bugs are confirmed disease carriers, and they are quite adept at passing bacteria over to human beings. They breed anywhere that there is decaying matter, which allows them to attain and distribute numerous viruses and bacteria. These insects can go from egg to full blown fly in under seven days, so if you have a fly problem, it is best to get pest control out to your residence as quickly as possible to quell this growth.

Be vigilant in your home! Do not allow your residence to run rampant with insects.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

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