Bug Blog

Raccoons

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Raccoons can be fascinating creatures, but they can also cause problems when they come into close contact with humans. If you’re experiencing raccoon issues, here are some common problems they can cause and potential solutions:

  1. Property damage: Raccoons are known for their dexterity and curiosity, which can lead to damage to your property. They may tear up shingles, damage vents, or rip open garbage bags. To prevent property damage, make sure your home is properly sealed, especially in vulnerable areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Repair any existing damage and consider installing raccoon-proof barriers or covers.
  2. Garbage raiding: Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through trash in search of food. Secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids or use raccoon-proof bins. If possible, store your garbage cans in a secure location, such as a garage or shed, until collection day.
  3. Garden destruction: Raccoons are opportunistic feeders and may target vegetable gardens, fruit trees, or ornamental plants. Install a sturdy fence around your garden to deter raccoons from entering. Electric fences or motion-activated sprinkler systems can also be effective deterrents.
  4. Potential health risks: Raccoons can carry diseases like rabies and raccoon roundworm, which can be transmitted to humans and pets. Avoid direct contact with raccoons and their feces. If you suspect a raccoon is living in your attic or another area of your home, contact a professional wildlife removal service to handle the situation safely.
  5. Nesting in chimneys or attics: Raccoons may seek shelter in chimneys or attics, especially during breeding seasons. To prevent this, install a chimney cap or screen to keep them out. Seal any potential entry points to your attic, such as gaps or holes in the roof or eaves.

Go Green Pest Control

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“Go green pest control” refers to pest control methods and practices that prioritize environmental sustainability and minimize the use of harmful chemicals. It involves adopting eco-friendly and non-toxic approaches to control and manage pests while minimizing the impact on the environment, human health, and non-target species.

Here are some common practices associated with go green pest control:

  1. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): IPM is an effective and environmentally friendly approach that focuses on preventing and controlling pests through a combination of methods. It includes techniques such as inspection, monitoring, pest identification, habitat modification, biological control, and the judicious use of pesticides when necessary.
  2. Biological Control: This method involves using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to control pest populations. For example, releasing ladybugs to control aphids or using bacteria that are harmful to specific pests.
  3. Habitat Modification: By altering the environment, pest habitats can be made less attractive or inaccessible. This can involve sealing cracks and crevices, removing food and water sources, and implementing proper waste management practices.
  4. Mechanical Control: This approach involves physical methods to control pests, such as using traps, barriers, or nets to prevent pest entry or capture them.
  5. Organic and Natural Products: Instead of relying on synthetic chemical pesticides, go green pest control emphasizes the use of organic and natural products derived from plant extracts or naturally occurring substances. These products are often less harmful to the environment, humans, and pets.
  6. Education and Awareness: Promoting awareness about pest control practices that are environmentally friendly is crucial. Educating individuals about prevention techniques and sustainable pest management methods can help reduce the reliance on harmful chemicals.

It’s important to note that while go green pest control methods can be effective, complete eradication of pests may not always be possible. Integrated approaches and ongoing monitoring are typically required to maintain a pest-free environment.

If you are considering pest control services, look for companies that specialize in environmentally friendly practices and inquire about their approach to go green pest control.

Rats In Your Attic?

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Getting rid of rats in an attic can be a challenging task, but it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential health risks. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Identify the entry points: Inspect your attic and surrounding areas to locate any openings or gaps where the rats may be entering. Seal off these entry points to prevent more rats from getting in.
  2. Remove potential food sources: Rats are attracted to food, so make sure to remove any accessible food sources in the attic, such as stored birdseed or pet food. Securely store food in airtight containers.
  3. Traps: Set up rat traps in the attic to catch the existing rats. There are various types of traps available, such as snap traps or live traps. Place them along known rat paths or near their nesting areas. Check the traps regularly and dispose of any captured rats appropriately.
  4. Rodenticides: If traps alone are not effective, you may consider using rodenticides. However, exercise caution as they can be toxic to humans and pets. Read and follow the instructions carefully, and place the bait in areas inaccessible to children or pets.
  5. Clean and sanitize: Once you’ve removed the rats, thoroughly clean and sanitize the attic to eliminate any lingering odors and potential health hazards. Wear protective gloves and a mask while cleaning, and dispose of any contaminated materials properly.
  6. Professional help: If the infestation is severe or if you’re uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, it’s best to seek professional pest control services. They have the expertise and tools to effectively eliminate rats from your attic.

Remember, it’s essential to identify and address the root cause of the rat infestation, such as unsealed entry points or poor sanitation, to prevent future occurrences.

Chimney Squirrels

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Squirrels nesting in chimneys is a common problem faced by homeowners. Chimneys provide squirrels with a warm and protected space to build their nests, especially during colder months or when they’re seeking shelter. Here are some important points to consider if you’re dealing with squirrels nesting in your chimney:

  1. Identify the presence: Squirrels are typically active during the day, so you may hear scratching, scampering, or chirping sounds coming from your chimney. You might also notice debris, leaves, twigs, or nesting materials falling into your fireplace.
  2. Prevention: To prevent squirrels from entering your chimney, install a chimney cap or a mesh screen. These barriers allow smoke and gases to escape while keeping animals out. Ensure the cap or screen has small enough openings to prevent squirrels from squeezing through.
  3. Inspection: If you suspect squirrels have already made a nest in your chimney, it’s important to confirm their presence. Hire a professional chimney sweep or wildlife control expert to conduct a thorough inspection. They can assess the situation, remove any existing nests, and provide guidance on further preventive measures.
  4. Removal: Removing squirrels from a chimney can be challenging, so it’s advisable to seek professional help. Trapping and relocation are common methods used to safely remove squirrels. Attempting to remove them yourself can be dangerous and may result in injury to you or the squirrels.
  5. Repairs and cleaning: Once the squirrels are removed, it’s important to repair any entry points or damage to prevent future infestations. Remove nesting materials, droppings, and debris from the chimney and fireplace area. Make sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, while cleaning to avoid contact with parasites or pathogens that may be present.
  6. Ongoing maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your chimney to ensure it remains squirrel-proof. Keep nearby tree branches trimmed to discourage squirrels from accessing the chimney from above.

Remember, it’s crucial to handle squirrels nesting in chimneys with caution and respect for wildlife. Contacting a professional with experience in wildlife removal and pest control will help ensure a safe and humane resolution to the problem.

Silverfish & Madagascar (ugliest dinosaurs)

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How do we get rid of the ugliest insect – silverfish?   Here are some common approaches Go Green Pest Control will do for silverfish:

  1. Inspection: We will conduct a thorough inspection to identify the extent of the silverfish infestation and locate their hiding places. Silverfish tend to prefer dark and damp areas such as basements, attics, bathrooms, and kitchens.
  2. Insecticides: We use insecticides specifically designed to target silverfish. These products are usually applied as sprays or dusts in areas where silverfish are present or likely to hide. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by the pest control professional and take any necessary precautions to ensure safety.
  3. Dusts and Baits: Dusts and baits can be effective in controlling silverfish. These products are applied in areas where silverfish are active, such as cracks, crevices, and other hiding spots. Silverfish will come into contact with the dust or bait, ingest it, and carry it back to their nests, thereby spreading the control agent to other silverfish.
  4. Exclusion and Prevention: We may also provide recommendations for preventing future silverfish infestations. This may involve sealing cracks and gaps in walls, floors, and around pipes, as silverfish can enter through tiny openings. Addressing moisture issues and reducing humidity levels in affected areas will multiple dehumidifiers can also help discourage silverfish from thriving.
  5. Education: We may educate homeowners or residents about silverfish habits, biology, and prevention methods. This knowledge can help individuals take proactive steps to minimize conditions that attract silverfish and reduce the risk of reinfestation.

Why do pavement ants push up sand and swarm

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  1. Nest Building: Pavement ants push up sand or soil as part of their nest-building activities. They excavate and expand their nests by removing soil or sand from underground and pushing it up to the surface. This behavior helps them create chambers and tunnels within their nests.
  2. Colony Expansion: When a pavement ant colony grows too large for its current nest, the worker ants engage in “budding.” This process involves the creation of new satellite colonies adjacent to the original nest. As part of this process, worker ants may push up sand or soil to establish a connection between the old and new nests.
  3. Defense Mechanism: Pavement ants may also push up sand or soil as a defense mechanism. When their nests are disturbed or threatened, the ants may swarm out of the nest and aggressively defend it. They can bite or sting if they feel threatened, and the presence of swarming ants can discourage potential predators or intruders.

It’s important to note that while pavement ants are generally considered a nuisance due to their presence in urban areas, their behavior is typically harmless. However, if their nests are causing structural damage or becoming a major nuisance, it may be necessary to seek professional pest control assistance to manage their population.

Bed Bugs

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Here’s some information about bed bugs

  1. What are bed bugs? Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are flat and oval-shaped, about the size of an apple seed, and are usually brown or reddish-brown in color.
  2. Where do bed bugs live? Bed bugs are commonly found in places where people sleep or rest, such as beds, mattresses, couches, and chairs. They can also hide in cracks and crevices, including in walls, furniture, and luggage.
  3. How do bed bugs bite? Bed bugs have mouthparts that they use to bite into the skin of their host. They inject a tiny amount of saliva, which contains an anesthetic, into the skin to numb it, making their bites painless. Some people may have an allergic reaction to the bites, causing redness, itching, or swelling.
  4. How do bed bugs spread? Bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on clothing, luggage, or other personal belongings and travel from one place to another. They can be found in hotels, homes, schools, and other public places. It’s important to be cautious and check for signs of bed bugs when staying in a new place.
  5. How to prevent bed bugs?
  • Keep your living space clean and clutter-free.
  • Vacuum regularly, paying attention to cracks and crevices where bed bugs may hide.
  • When traveling, inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs. Keep your luggage off the floor and away from the bed.
  • Avoid bringing used furniture or mattresses into your home without carefully inspecting them first.
  • If you suspect a bed bug infestation, notify an adult or a professional pest control service.
  1. How to get rid of bed bugs? If you discover a bed bug infestation, it’s best to seek help from a professional pest control service. They have the expertise and tools to effectively eliminate bed bugs. It’s important not to try to get rid of bed bugs on your own, as it can be challenging and may spread the infestation further.

Remember, bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness. They can infest any home or place, so it’s important to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent and address any infestations.

Black Box – Rodent Control Bait Boxes

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Rodent bait boxes are used as a method of pest control to manage rodent populations. They are typically used by homeowners, property managers, businesses, and pest control professionals who want to eliminate or reduce rodent infestations. Here’s why and who needs rodent bait boxes:

  1. Pest control: Rodents, such as rats and mice, can cause various problems when they infest residential and commercial areas. They can damage property, contaminate food, spread diseases, and pose a threat to human health. Rodent bait boxes are an effective tool to control and eradicate these pests.
  2. Preventing damage: Rodents have a natural instinct to chew on various materials, including electrical wires, insulation, and structural components. This behavior can lead to costly repairs and potential fire hazards. By using bait boxes, property owners can prevent rodent damage by eliminating the pests before they cause harm.
  3. Food industry: Restaurants, warehouses, food processing facilities, and agricultural settings are particularly vulnerable to rodent infestations. Rodents can contaminate food products, leading to health code violations and potential business closures. Bait boxes are crucial in such environments to keep rodents away from food sources and maintain a hygienic environment.
  4. Public spaces: Parks, playgrounds, schools, and other public areas are susceptible to rodent infestations. Implementing bait boxes in these locations can help control rodent populations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.
  5. Residential areas: Homeowners may encounter rodent problems, especially in urban and suburban areas. Bait boxes placed strategically around the property can help control rodent populations, reducing the risk of property damage and protecting the health of occupants.

It’s important to note that when using rodent bait boxes, precautions should be taken to ensure they are used safely and effectively. It is recommended to consult with pest control professionals or follow local regulations and guidelines for proper bait box placement and maintenance.

What is an Ant Colony

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An ant colony is a social structure formed by ants, which are small, eusocial insects belonging to the family Formicidae. Ant colonies can vary in size from a few dozen individuals to millions of ants, depending on the species.

The structure of an ant colony typically consists of different castes or classes of ants, each with specific roles and responsibilities. The castes include the queen, male ants, and worker ants. The queen’s primary role is to lay eggs and ensure the survival of the colony. The male ants’ sole purpose is to mate with the queen, after which they usually die. The worker ants perform various tasks such as foraging for food, caring for the young (larvae and pupae), maintaining and expanding the nest, and defending the colony against potential threats.

Ants communicate with each other primarily through pheromones, chemical signals that they release and detect. These pheromones are used to mark trails to food sources, signal danger, and coordinate tasks within the colony.

Ant colonies build intricate nests or anthills, which can be located underground, in trees, or on the surface. The nest consists of chambers and tunnels that provide shelter and protection for the ants and their brood. Some species of ants construct elaborate and visible mounds on the ground, while others create more discreet underground tunnels.

Ants are known for their remarkable ability to work together as a unified group, displaying complex collective behavior. They can organize themselves to efficiently gather food, defend against predators, and solve problems. Ant colonies also exhibit division of labor, where different individuals specialize in specific tasks based on their age, size, and physical abilities.

Overall, ant colonies are fascinating examples of social organization in the animal kingdom, and the study of ants’ behavior and ecology has contributed significantly to our understanding of social insects and complex systems.

Oh No!! Silverfish

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  1. Not Harmful: Silverfish do not bite or sting humans. They lack venom glands, and their mouthparts are not capable of causing harm.
  2. Property Damage: Silverfish are known to cause damage to certain materials in homes. They feed on carbohydrates, such as starches and sugars, which can be found in various household items like paper, glue, clothing, and books. They can potentially damage these materials if infestations are left uncontrolled for long periods.
  3. Allergies: Although rare, some individuals may develop allergies to silverfish. This typically occurs due to exposure to shed skin or feces, rather than a direct bite.
  4. Unwanted Presence: The main concern with silverfish is their presence in homes. They are often considered pests due to their rapid reproduction and ability to infest multiple areas. However, they do not transmit diseases to humans.

To control silverfish infestations, it’s important to address the underlying moisture issues in the affected areas. Additionally, reducing clutter, sealing cracks and crevices, and using appropriate insecticides or natural remedies can help manage the problem. If you’re dealing with a significant silverfish infestation or have concerns about potential damage to your property, it may be advisable to seek assistance from a professional pest control service.