How to Get Rid of Rats

How can you prevent rats or mice from infesting your house?

Regularly clean cluttered areas in your house like the garage and basement.

Carefully store food, leftovers and edible products in a sealed container to avoid attracting mice.

Seal any cracks in and around your house.

Get rid of debris and wood piles that can become a nesting ground for these pests.

Tend to your garden and make sure that plants, shrubs, or trees do not harbour pests.

Use rat bait and rat traps. Baits can be sprinkled around hard-to-reach areas in your house where rats may be hiding.

Getting rid of rats or mice can be a bit tricky. A rodent infestation is not always apparent and can occur without any visible evidence. Mice tend to come out only at night and hide during the day, making it difficult to spot a mice infestation immediately. These pests are unsanitary and may spread harmful diseases. That is why it is important to get rid of this common pest.

Can rat traps or rat baits stop a pest infestation?

Mice baits and traps are commonly sold in the market and can be used to catch these rodents. However, using baits or traps does not offer a lasting solution to any rat infestation.

How can I get a long-term solution to a pest problem?

To stop a rat or mice infestation permanently, you’ll need to implement a strategic pest control process that involves:

Exclusion– Protect your home from a pest invasion by blocking entry points.

Restriction – Prevent pests from breeding and spreading in your property.

Destruction– Let pest control experts remove pests once and for all.

Rats should not be allowed to grow in number. The further they expand their territory, the worse it will get for you. Rats are able to reproduce very quickly. A rodent population can grow to hundreds within weeks. Imagine what it is like living in a house with 100 rats.

A Guide to Pest Remediation in the Home

The end of summer and beginning of fall is a time when many outdoor pests start looking for a winter home. Mice and rats in particular are a common problem for homeowners at this time of year. This is especially true for homeowners in rural areas, where outdoor pests are abundant. At this time of year, homeowners must do what they can to fortify their home and keep pests out.

Seal Holes in the Home Exterior

Many pests enter the house through foundation cracks, open vents, pipes and other holes into the house. Sealing these holes is very important. Use wire screen to cover vents, to allow air to flow to continue. Use caulk to seal cracks. Homeowners can find the holes that need to be covered up by walking around the house from the outside and inspecting areas like the attic and foundation. Homeowners can also find holes by entering the attic during the day and looking for areas where daylight is shining through.

Get Rid of Food and Water Sources

Pests need a steady source of water and food near their home. They are unlikely to live in a place where this cannot be easily found. Homeowners can deter pests by making food and water hard for rodents to access. Storing food in glass or plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes is a good way to make food inaccessible. Another way to do this is by fixing all plumbing leaks as soon as they become a problem, since leaks can be a source of water for rodents.

Clean Your Home Regularly

Rodents like to eat crumbs off the floor, and they also like to invade garbage cans. Cleaning the floor regularly and taking out the trash on a nightly basis can help keep rodents away. It’s also important to do the dishes every night, instead of allowing the dishes to sit in the sink.

Weather Strip the House

Most homeowners install weather stripping because it helps them to control the temperature in their home when the weather outside is very cold. A surprising benefit of weather stripping is that it prevents pests from gaining entry to the house. By sealing up the cracks, weather stripping closes up all entry points into the home and prevents rodents and other pests from entering. Weather stripping is installed on doors and windows. Homeowners can buy weather stripping at home improvement stores and hardware stores.

Pest control on your property

There are things you can do to control pests (insects or animals causing harm or nuisance) on your property.

You can:

contact your local council to find out if they provide pest control services – you may be charged a fee

hire a pest controller

Controlling pests yourself

You can:

only trap or kill permitted animals

use permitted methods to kill animals

only use poison to kill the pests it’s intended for – this will be written on the packaging

only use traps that have been approved for use with the species you want to control – you must follow the instructions for use

You cannot use the following control methods for any wildlife:

self-locking snares

bows and crossbows

explosives (other than legal ammunition for a licensed firearm)

live birds or animals, known as ‘live decoys’, to attract pests (unless you have a licence)

Get advice

Get professional advice if you do not know:

which animals you’re permitted to trap or kill

how to use control methods (such as traps and poisons) correctly

The Essential Guide to Rats

Infamous pests, rats target kitchens, spread diseases and are even known to bite people. The crafty rodents also breed fast and can infest a home or building quickly. Rats are known to hitch rides in goods transported by ships or planes.

In the Essential Guide to Rats, we look at the most common questions asked about rats and provide answers so you can know everything you need to know about rats. If you think you have rats on your property,

What is a rat?

A rat is a medium-sized rodent related closely to mice, as well as other rodents, such as shrews and moles. They are part of the mammalian order called Rodentia. They are very adaptable rodents, which means they have become populous around the world, existing in all areas of the world except for extreme areas such as Antarctica. Because rats are able to adapt to their environment so easily, they have become one of the most common pests and have been around for millions of years, likely living exclusively in the wild at one time, then adapting to humans as they gained prominence in the world.

Where do rats come from?

It is unknown for certain where rats originally came from. However, there are theories that rats might have originated somewhere in Asia. This is particularly true of the species of rat known as the Norway Rat and the Black Rat, which are two of the most prominent rats in the world. They soon hitched rides on ships and within containers as Asia was reached by Europeans and quickly populated Europe and other areas of the world. When humans then expanded to the Western hemisphere, rats once again stowed away on cargo and ships and came ashore, starting up new populations in North and South America.

Where do rats live? Where do rats live in the wild?

Rats live in a variety of places. There are rats who live in the wilderness such as woods and forests, as well as fields and meadows. There are wild tree rats that live on tropical islands and they are invasive species and have taken over entire populations of wildlife. In the wild, rats eat vegetation and other small animals meat.

How to Get Rid of Mice Now: The Ultimate Guide

One of the most common home invaders for centuries has been the rodent. Between mice and rats, these pests can damage your walls, eat your food, and cause all sorts of problems. Today we will pesent you with the ultimate guide on how to get rid of mice once and for all.

Why Are There Mice in Your Home?

Unfortunately, mice infest homes because their natural habitat is shrinking and they seek food, water, warmth, and shelter. It is important to identify whether you have one mouse or an infestation. Mice and rats are closely related, but methods for removing mice differ slightly from rat removal due to the size of the intruders. Luckily, it is possible to identify these invaders without having first spotted one.

Mice versus Rats

A rodent infestation needs the proper management depending on the rodent that invaded your home. Here are the main differences between mice and rats so you know what you need to do.

Mice are curious, so you will be seeing them around more often than you are likely to see rats.

Most mice species are smaller than most rats species.

You are more likely to find mice burrowed in walls. As a comparison, rats usually dig deep under the house, plants, etc.

Why Should You Get Rid of Mice?

Rodent infestations pose numerous health risks. While a larger infestation poses a more significant threat, even a small number of invaders can be dangerous. There is a chance that disease and parasites accompany your mouse problem.

Parasites

The term “plague rat” is based on the 14th century outbreak of bubonic plague, more commonly known as the “Black Death”. The plague’s bacteria Yersinia pestis remains a threat today; although another strain of Y. Pestis which caused the Justinian plague has become extinct. The virus is transmitted by fleas which generally feed on rats, gerbils, and other rodents.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT THE BARK SCORPION

Bark scorpions are small in size and light brown in color, and reside in arid and semi-arid regions.

THEY’RE NOCTURNAL HUNTERS

Bark scorpions are nightly predators, on the hunt for some of their favorite foods: crickets, roaches, spiders, and more. When they find their prey, they use their stinger to disable it and begin feeding. Humans most often encounter scorpions during the night. They have poor eyesight, so they often travel along baseboards in search of their next meal. They can go days without eating.

During the day, bark scorpions generally retreat to places of hiding—block walls, river rock in your yard, or in various nooks and crannies around the home. True to their name, they also like certain types of trees. Humans encounter scorpions during the day when this hiding place is accidentally disturbed.

MOST SCORPION STINGS ARE ACCIDENTAL

Put away the old idea of a large, dangerous scorpion chasing people through a crypt. Bark scorpions are typically non-aggressive, and seek to avoid human contact. A vast majority of stings occur when people accidentally brush up, step on, or touch the scorpion. The sting is a reflexive means of protecting the scorpion from predators.

DOES WHATEVER A SCORPION CAN

Remember how we mentioned that bark scorpions like trees? That’s probably why they’re the only type that can not only climb, but also suspend from ceilings and crawl across them. This only amplifies scorpions as a nuisance in the home: they can get to virtually anywhere at night while on the hunt.

Why a Scorpion Home Seal?

Sealing your house can solve many in home infestations. Insects and other pests often will enter a home through an unsealed door, torn screen, crack in the foundation or walls. After entry the pest will inhabit a portion of your home and reproduce. After a pest has infested your home it can be very difficult to exterminate. To prevent these pest from entering your home specific measures can be taken to seal these entry points.

How Scorpion Sealing Prevents Pests

By eliminating the entry points into your home pests will no longer be able to gain entry. This is the best defense you can take to prevent an indoor infestation. Sealing is also great at removing habitats for pests on the exterior of your home. These habitats and entry points can be located below ground in your foundation or on the top of your roof.

ow Scorpion Sealing Saves Energy

Even though your home will be sealed to prevent pests the entry ways for pests are also vectors of energy loss. Cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter can escape through these points just like the pests enter. Once all these gaps, cracks and holes are sealed your comfortable air will be trapped inside, saving on your energy bills.

How Scorpion Sealing Protects your home

Perhaps the most overlooked advantage of sealing your house is the deterrent it can be to burglars. Gaps in your doors or windows can provide an opening for a malcontent to use to gain entry. A broken screen or damage to your fence can be an open invitation to someone with a bad idea. Sealing will fix these issues causing your home to be less appealing to a criminal.

Scorpion Pest Control

SCORPION EXTERMINATOR

home to more than half of the scorpion species living in the entire United States. Throughout the year—especially during the summer months or “scorpion season”—these creepy critters invade homes, businesses, and other spaces across

Of all of the scorpions common to our area, the bark scorpion poses the greatest threat to your family and pets. Bark scorpions are the most dangerous and venomous in all of North America, and, in some cases, their sting can be fatal. If you have scorpions in your home or business, it’s important to have an experienced scorpion exterminator to ensure their complete removal.

Scorpion Control

Scorpions are very common, Mesa, and the surrounding area. While most scorpions are confined to the ground, the bark scorpion is an able climber and can enter your home through opening as thin as a credit card. Scorpions will seek out dark, undisturbed areas close to the moisture they need, and they may respond aggressively if they’re suddenly disturbed.

The most effective scorpion extermination begins with taking proactive measures to remove any potential scorpion hiding places and nesting spots

The best ways to control scorpions on your property include:

Eliminating as many hiding places as possible: Scorpions will hide in even small piles of debris on your property, especially close to the structure. Keep vegetation, firewood, rocks, bark, and clutter away from your house.

Remove all standing water: Scorpions seek out nesting areas close to sources of water. Eliminate their sources by making sure there’s no standing water around your house. Also, inspect plumbing for any drips or slow leaks that could attract them. Scorpions can survive for quite a while without food, but not water.

Maintaining your landscape: Overgrown yards are a haven for scorpions. Keeping a tidy landscape eliminates refuges for scorpions, so regularly mow and also keep branches and bushes away from your house that can provide a route to your roof.

Seal openings into your home: Inspect your house for holes and gaps that allow scorpions to come inside. Repair weather stripping and screens, and seal openings where cables and utilities come through walls.

Check your attic: Because of their climbing ability, scorpions can enter your home at floor level and crawl all the way up to your attic to nest.

Pest Control

In an ideal world, pests like ants, termites and scorpions would know to stay out of people’s homes. If you are dealing with an infestation of these or other pests, however, you know that things don’t often work out that way

you may have tried taking matters into your own hands to no avail. Here’s the thing: Eliminating the pests you actually see is like slapping a band aid on a gaping wound

Say Goodbye to Scorpions

After catching a glimpse of even a single scorpion in your home, you’re going to want to nip the issue in the bud promptly. Where there’s one, there are often others. Unfortunately, scorpions leave no other telltale signs of their presence, so they could very well have been hunkering down in your home for some time. These eight-legged pests have curved, erect tails with stingers on the tip. The venom from the stinger typically only causes a little pain and swelling, but it can also cause numbness, convulsions or make it difficult to breathe. They often get into homes by hitching rides in firewood and other materials, but they may also squeeze in through cracks and holes

Bid Adieu to Ants

Everyone knows what ants look like, but how do they get into a home? It’s usually through very tiny holes and cracks. The first few ants to get in leave scent trails. Upon realizing there’s food to be had, their cohorts start streaming in. Some ants sting humans, but even if the ones in your home don’t, they are unpleasant to have around and can wreak havoc in kitchens and other places where food is present.

Show Termites the Door

If one pest strikes fear into the heart of a homeowner, it’s the termite. These wily little pests consume cellulose-based materials to survive, and that often includes the wood that makes up a house. These destructive pests often fly under the radar until significant amounts of damage have been done, so it’s critical to act quickly upon realizing there’s an infestation. They usually gain entry through debris piles near foundations and exterior walls, and they won’t leave on their own.

Scorpion Control

Much like their cousins the Spider, Scorpions are also Arachnids. Although mostly harmless, these cool crustacean looking bugs have the ability to scare the living daylight out of you.

Most of the Scorpions we find locally here in Seaview are of the burrowing kind. They are light sensitive and rarely move around during the day. Its for this reason we have devised a special treatment that targets Scorpions as well as other night dwelling crawling insects. This way you can keep your kids as well as pets safe from the horrors that go bump in the night.

Scorpions as well as similar Arachnids can be quite tricky to handle. Unlike Insects such as Cockroaches and Ants, Scorpions do not constantly groom themselves. This means that unlike conventional Insects they don’t spread insecticide all over their body once in contact with it. Couple this with their slower that average metabolism and you’ve got a dangerous predatory insect that doesn’t die that easily.

Know your enemy, in this case scorpions:

Scorpions found here in Seaview and throughout live in burrows: This means they frequent homes with pretty decorations. Rock features as well as potted plants are all fair game to a desperate Scorpion looking for a place to hide.

Scorpions are a predatory species: In lay mans terms this means that if you have a bug problem, chances are they are attracting Scorpions as well as other predatory Insects. A general Pest Control Fumigation can keep away more pests than just your average Fishmoth.

Scorpions do need water to survive: Contrary to popular belief, Scorpions do need water to survive. Granted, they do get a lot of moisture from their prey. This doesn’t mean that they will stay clear of puddles as well as other stagnant water sources. Making sure your garden is clean and clear of pools and puddles will not only deter Scorpions. It will do a good job at deterring other Insect species Scorpions may prey on.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A PEST CONTROL SERVICE NEAR YOU

Deal with a variety of unwelcome pests such as raccoons, possum, rats and of course those pesky mosquitos we are famous for. No one wants to have to call a pest control service but it’s a fact of life at times. How do you know a good pest control company from a bad one? That’s just one of the questions many people ask when realizing they need professional help with their pest problem but there is a lot more to choosing the right company. You want to make sure you are getting the most for your money and not just clicking on the first result that comes up in Google

CAN THEY MEET YOUR NEEDS?

There are many pest control providers and the surrounding suburbs, however there is a stark difference in what providers specialize in or don’t specialize in. Just because they are a pest control service, does not mean they will offer the specific treatment or pest removal you may need. For example, let’s say you have an ant infestation or a flea problem around your home; you Google for a pest control provider Pest Control and explain to them the situation and they will likely be glad to help you; but that’s ants & fleas. What happens when you live near a bayou and a gator or raccoon wanders into your backyard? Do you just call the same pest control company for that as well? Maybe, but not all pest control companies will be suitable for every situation; some specialize in reptile removal, endangered bird relocation for example, and some only handle insects and small rodents. You have to know what you are dealing with to find the right provider that matches up with those needs

Everyday Pest Control Requests

Typically most of our calls are simply to prevent and control many of the pests common to the area such as ants, love bugs, crickets, spiders, fleas, rodents and other pests common to this region. There are some factors to deciding the proper treatment you will need for your home in order to achieve the best result based on your circumstances. Taking these variables into consideration will ensure that the treatment outcome matches your expectations and fulfills your pest control needs based on those variables.

What level of pest activity are you dealing with and what is your tolerance threshold for pest activity? This will make a big difference because 100% eradication of some pests like ants and spiders is just not feasible while more uncommon pests such as fleas and earwigs can be nearly 100% eradicated. Ants and spiders are so common to the ecosystem that you have to find the acceptable level of pest activity that does not interfere with your family’s peace of mind. For example, a small ant pile here or there might not be a problem; but, 3 foot high mounds all over your yard are definitely a different issue. Finding the answers to these questions will help us to know what type of control strategy to use so we can meet your expectations.

Are you open to a regular service plan? Typically if you want to maintain control of your home and yard and not just put a bandage on the situation, then a regular automatic service plan is the most popular option. Usually set up for bi-monthly visits, this will keep your yard free from infestation and keep your pest activity to a minimum. Treatments should be guaranteed and offer free emergency treatments between regularly scheduled ones should there be any unusual activity between visits due to weather or something else. Keep in mind that if you have a very heavy infestation or your tolerance for pest activity is very low most pest control companies also offer monthly services instead of the longer intervals between treatments.

POSSUMS AND HOUSE MICE AND RATS, OH MY!

Some people may think these furry critters are cute and cuddly, but when they’re infesting your home, they are anything but.

HOUSE MICE

Did you know that the word “mouse” is derived from the Sanskrit verb meaning “to steal”? These furry creatures have been living up to this reputation for thousands of years, and today, you can find this kind of mouse almost every region of the world. In fact, in most parts of the world, the house mouse is the #1 rodent pest.

ROOF RATS

This creature is known by many names, including black rat, house rat, and ship rat. Unlike the ground-dwelling rat, which can be found almost everywhere, the roof rat prefers dwelling in roofs and treetops. Because of this, the roof rat is less dependent on human foods than the rat. But that doesn’t mean the roof rat is a good houseguest. These rodents pose another threat: gnawing damage.

OPOSSUMS

You’ll be able to find these creatures in crawlspaces beneath buildings, like underneath porches, or in the attics of houses. If you truly want to protect your house from these creatures, “opossum-proofing” your house is your best option. That means locating the holes where they’re getting into the house and sealing those openings off when the opossums are gone. To get the opossums out in the first place, live trapping is very effective when you use the proper bait

Opossums are “true omnivores” and will eat anything they can, from small mammals and mushrooms to garbage and vegetables. In fact, that’s one reason you’ll see them by the road so often—they’re trying to feed on roadkill. Uncovered trash cans or trash bags left on the side of the road are easy targets for food, so placing your trash in a covered container will help lower your chances of their meddling with them and making a mess you’ll have to clean up later.

Opossums

Habits

Opossums may be ugly by some standards, but they are incredibly helpful mammals. Because they eat insects and snakes, a lot of property owners consider them beneficial. Opossums are nomadic, and seldom stay long in any place. They will use abandoned burrows or crawl spaces, but they will not dig their own. Opossums are nocturnal, slow-movers, and generally friendly toward humans. When threatened, the opossum has a seizure-like response, causing it to faint and “play dead”. This is not a voluntary response–opossums have developed that reaction biologically. They also release a foul-smelling liquid during this response that smells like rotten meat, because predators rarely choose to eat rotting meat.

Problems with Opossums

Opossums’ teeth are not meant for attacking or even preying on animals; their teeth are good for chewing and holding. They do not attack humans, and instead will play “dead” when danger is perceived. Opossums don’t dig holes, destroy gardens, bite, sting, or stay in one place for very long. In short, opossums aren’t really pests at all.

Prevention of Opossums

Opossums want two things: food and shelter. Here is a list of preventative measures:

Make sure all spaces around or under your home are carefully sealed or fenced off. Opossums do like sleeping under porches or in attics, if there’s a way in.

Make sure your garbage areas are controlled and tidy, and all lids or closures are secure.

Don’t leave pet food out at night.

If you do have any abandoned burrows in your yard, fill them in.

Eliminating Opossums

If you do have a problem with opossums in your yard, there are multiple methods of removing opossums. It’s always best to call a professional pest control expert, as they can choose the most effective way to rid your yard of these backyard loungers.

2020 How much does pest control cost?

If you have household pests, you want to get rid of them, fast! Not only can they be a nuisance, but they could – in the case of termites for one – cause significant structural damage to your home. The best and safest way to get rid of pests is to hire a professional pest control service. They have the expertise, training and license to carry out this sort of work – especially considering that noxious chemicals are often used.

You can expect pest control to cost anywhere from $300 to $700, depending on the service. You may pay $130 for a 3 bedroom house, $170 for a 4 bedroom house, $250 – $300 for rodent removal, $225 for possum removal, $250 for a pre-purchase pest inspection and $300 – $700 for a combined building and pest inspection

For a ballpark idea, think about the size of your property:

$130 for a 3 bedroom house (one-off treatment internal and external spray only)

$170 for a 4 bedroom house (one-off treatment internal and external spray only)

$150 – $275 for indoor flea and tick treatment

$250 – $300 for rodent removal

$225 for possum removal

$180 – $225 for termite control of an isolated area

$250 for a pre-purchase pest inspection

$300 – $600 for a combined building and pest inspection

Household pests come in all shapes and sizes – from diminutive bed bugs and termites to ‘cute’ furry possums and the widely reviled cockroach.

Possums can cause structural damage to ceilings and roofing, and can also keep you up all night. Removal is the most sensible option to get rid of them.

We’re not playing: Here’s how possums can help your household

Mother Nature Network lauded possums for their pest control attributes, explaining, “Since their diet allows them to indulge on snails, slugs and beetles, they are a welcome addition to the garden. Opossums also keep rats and cockroaches at bay by competing with them for food. In fact, it’s common for opossums to kill cockroaches and rats if they find them in their territory.”

Even if you can’t appreciate a possum’s ability to clear the woods of bacteria-laden carrion, the species has other adorable characteristics. Below are some little known tidbits about the critters: Possum or Opossum?

That means the undeveloped young they give birth to just 12 days after breeding then crawl into their mother’s pouch and attach to a teat. When they’re 80 or 90 days old, the young start riding on their mother’s back, sometimes five or 10 of them, with feet and tail firmly attached to her fur.

Possums are smartSure, they’re not so great at looking out for cars, but they have a remarkable memory. When possums were tested for the ability to remember where food is, they scored better than rats, rabbits, cats and even dogs. They can also make their way through a maze more quickly than either rats or cats.

Bat Removal and Control

Bats are usually classified as a pest species due to their habits of living in houses. The most common complaints include the following:

• Bats living in the attic
• Bats living in the chimney
• Odor due to bat droppings
• Bats swarming around building
• Loose bat stuck inside home

For these reasons, many people wish to have colonies of bats removed from the building. Please be aware that this is a specialty service.

Bat Removal – How To Get Bats Out of Buildings

Step 1

Perform a full inspection of the building. This is to determine exactly how the bats are getting in and out.
Step 2

Perform an attic inspection, and learn to identify the species of bat. This is important because different bats have different birthing and hibernating seasons.
Step 3

Exclude the bats – DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TRAP THEM. Read here why you should not try to do bat trapping, but rather bat exclusion, which is the process of letting them fly out, but not back in, to the building.
Step 4

 Seal up the house to keep bats out permanently. In fact, much of this is done prior to the exclusion – just be sure not to seal up the primary exit points while any bats are inside!!
Step 5

Clean the attic or walls, or space where the bats lived and defecated

Inspect the buildings for entry points and roosting areas.

Identify areas in and around buildings where bats can enter. This step is vital for effective placement of bat-eviction tubes and nets.

To witness bats entering or exiting the building, monitor it during early evening (dusk) and just before dawn. Note all the locations where the bats leave the building. During cooler months, you may need to inspect several nights in a row to establish exit/entry points, because bats do not leave the roost at night in cold weather.

When inspecting the exterior of the building, look along roof lines and behind gutter placement for rub marks, which are stains left by the oils and dirt rubbing off the bats’ hair. Like rodents, bats will leave some evidence of staining; however, bat stains are harder to see. Also look at ground level for guano—in most cases, the bat-entry points will have some guano buildup if the colony is large enough.

Inside, identify all parts of the building where they may have established roosts. These areas can include chimneys, attic spaces, wall spaces, ceiling spaces, expansion joints, and roof overhangs. Bats also roost behind gutters, in sports stadiums, and beneath or behind signs and fixtures.

Exclusion 

The process of exclusion involves using netting or tubes at entry points, which allow the bats to drop down and take flight but which confound re-entry. The excluders are left in place for a week, so that the bats give up. After they’re gone, the plugging and sealing and caulking can take place.

In parts of the country, bats migrate in fall to hibernate for the winter; if yours have left for the season, and you know where they’re coming in, late fall is the time to plug up all holes and cracks around windows, fascia and soffits, cornices, chimney flashing, etc. If the bats were living in the chimney, cover the top with a “box” made of fine-mesh screening.

If the bats have taken up residence, plan to evict them in late summer or early spring, not after birthing season, when pups (who can’t fly) would be orphaned and die. Don’t evict them in winter, when they’re hibernating and can’t fly out. 

Consider Offering Alternatives

Bats found roosting in your home aren’t malicious, and they certainly don’t mean you any harm – in fact, because of their role as insect-eaters and mosquito snatchers, bats are actually highly beneficial to the local ecosystem. That’s why it may be a good idea to offer bats an alternative roosting spot nearby – that way, they won’t be as tempted by the security of your attic.

Bat boxes and bat houses are as easy to set up as a birdhouse, but are designed to offer ideal roosting space for bats and their pups. Consider installing a bat house on a tree or a flat surface facing south or southeast (with around 6 to 8 hours of sun) at least 10 feet off the ground. By giving bats a better alternative nearby, you make your home less tempting and allow bats to live in peace – a helpful neighbor for those buggy summer nights.

Evicting bats

The best way to get bats to leave is to eliminate roost-friendly sites. To do that, bat experts recommend:

• Shining a bright light on the spot 24 hours a day for a week.

• Using nontoxic aerosol dog or cat repellents available at hardware and garden stores. Apply the spray during the daytime and only when bats are not present.

• Hanging Mylar balloons or strips of aluminum foil from the porch ceiling.

Don’t use sticky bird repellents. Some of them are marketed as a deterrent for bats, but they are inhumane. Bats can become trapped and die.

How to Choose Best Pest Control Services

When insects and rodents enter your yard and home, they can quickly become a nuisance. You can try to exterminate them yourself, but the likelihood of them returning, without regular treatment, is high. This is when an exterminator becomes handy. Pest control services are separated into two distinct categories: general household pest control and termite control. Depending upon which type of service you are looking for, there are a couple of things to take into consideration to choose the best pest control companies.

General household pest control services cover the extermination of cockroaches, fleas, ticks, termites, household and fire ants, beetles, gnats, fleas and several other pests. Due to the fact that these nuisances can enter your house by flying, crawling and being carried in, the residence must be treated year-round.

When selecting your general household pest control service, learn which chemicals they use and verify that you aren’t sensitive to them. The chemicals used to exterminate pests vary between the exterminators and the pests being exterminated. Regular exposure to intolerable chemicals can cause severe allergic reactions.

Study the contract closely to verify that it doesn’t contain any undisclosed clauses that may result in penalties should you cancel the service. Make sure the service will not charge you extra should you need them to spray between scheduled quarterly or yearly visits. Unfortunately, you can not predict when pests will pay a visit.

Verify that the company is licensed before signing a contract. The pest control service should have a Certified Operator within 100 miles of the office near you. Check that the pest control services have insurance coverage with an errors and omissions clause, which covers unexpected damage to your property

Tips for Choosing a Good Pest Control Expert

Pest management has never been a walk in the park. There are instances when you have pest infestations and you try to eliminate them on your own but in vain. Sometimes you also hire a pest exterminator and still the problem persists. That is an indication that you are not keen on the process of hiring a pest exterminator. This is why it is crucial that anytime that you think of hiring a pest extermination specialist, you make sure that you choose the best one. The following are important points to note anytime you are looking for a good pest control company. You can also check out exterminator Tampa Bay for more information.

License

You need to work within the constraints of the law to avoid problems with the government. That, however, cannot happen if you are going to hire a company that is not licensed. It essential to understand that a license is only given to those companies that prove to be capable of offering quality services and still be able to protect the environment. Therefore, if you meet a pest extermination specialist who is not licensed, then that is an indication that you are looking for a shoddy job.

Consider the Experience

The pest management company is another critical consideration to make when looking for a pest control company that you can rely on. This is important because treating some pests is hard because of the mutation process. A pest control specialists who have been in the business for many years is likely to have a clear understanding of how to deal with the stubborn pests.

Chemicals

Before hiring a pest specialist, it is good to find out the type of chemicals that they use to treat the pest infestations. This is essential because some insecticides used can be very catastrophic to humans and that is why you should pay special attention to this particular matter. Ensure that the insecticides used are certified with the relevant body.

Online Reviews

Always take time to read the online reviews before hiring a pest exterminator. The online reviews will always tell you more about what to expect if you hire those particular companies. A company that has many online reviews is better placed to give you the quality services that you seek.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PEST CONTROL COMPANY

Hiring a pest control company is often a necessary part of home maintenance. We cannot control nature and sometimes pests just try their best to get into our homes. The only answer is to hire a professional who will be able to deal with the pests and get things back to normal. Here are some of the best tips for choosing an exterminator for your home.

Choose Someone Local

You always want to choose a local exterminator. Though they may be part of a national chain, they are still going to know some of the issues you are facing better than someone who has come in from out of state. For example, if you live in Florida then you should be searching for the best pest control West Palm Beach has to offer. Someone here is going to fully understand some of the pest problems Floridians face, compared to if you were to bring in someone else.

Do Your Research

Just as you would not hire any other trade without conducting research, you need to make sure you are looking into the companies you are considering for this pest control job. There are so many little things that need to be checked out before you commit to a company.

What to Watch Out For

As with any industry, there will be some less-than-reputable characters trying to make a quick buck with bad practices. You may get a knock at the door from someone explaining they just cleared next door and want to check your home too in case the infestation has spread wider. Thank them and say you will look into it yourself. Never accept a cold-call like this or a door-to-door sales technique

Long-Term or One-Off Contract

Depending on where you live, you may want to engage the pest control company on a long-term inspection contract. At a rate agreeable to you, they will come to your property and perform a quick and non-invasive inspection to ensure that your property has no bugs. If any are found, they can then make an appointment to return and carry out the pest removal. This could be handy if you live in a state with lots of invasive local wildlife.

Pest Control: Tips and Secrets

This is the most comprehensive list of pest control tips and information on the web. Knowing that small steps taken by homeowners can dramatically reduce or eliminate many pest problems, we reached out to over 100 experts and asked them to weigh in with simple, actionable pest control tips

The experts are truly renowned and represent many sides of the pest control/DIY/entomology/gardening/organic/natural living spectrum. Naturally, there are a few differences of opinion, which we feel contribute to the authenticity of this resource. To round out a few topics, helpful tips already found on the web were curated from reliable sources and noted as such.

Commonly found in most homes and gardens, geraniums are known to repel cabbage worms, leafhoppers and red spider mites. However, a special variety of geranium known as the citronella geranium or mosquito plant has been known to repel mosquitoes. This plant contains citronella oil, the same oil that is contained in citronella candles, that can be released when the leaves are rubbed or crushed.

Before asking a pest management company to use the “green and organic stuff”, consumers should take a moment to understand what they are asking for.  There are three questions that consumers should ask themselves. 1.  How are green and organic defined? 2.  Why do I desire green and organic pest management? 3.  Am I willing to partner with a pest management provider towards green and organic goals? A true green and organic pest program begins with a thorough understanding of the environment, pest pressures and client tolerances.  Before any pesticides; even green, organic or exempt products, are selected, all reasonable and sustainable non-chemical pest removal and avoidance measures should be taken.  Even without declaring a pest program green and organic, these principles should still be applied.

Most people do not realize flies carry more disease-causing pathogens than cockroaches. By simply cleaning up animal feces and closing trash cans we can reduce the number of places that filth flies can breed.

How To Choose a Professional Termite Company

What should I look for when choosing a professional termite pest control company?

Every professional pest control company should offer a guarantee of effective services. Before signing with a company, make sure you understand the terms and conditions and how long the guarantee is good for.

Ask around for recommendations. A good reputation is an indicator of good and dependable service.

When you have a company in mind, check with your local Department of Agriculture or Better Business Bureau to find out if they have had any substantial complaints filed against them.

Don’t underestimate the power of credentials. The company you select should be a member of your state pest control association and the NPCA (National Pest Control Association). This is good indication that the company has access to the latest pest control technologies and education.

Don’t go with the first company recommended. Obtain proposals from a minimum of 3 reputable termite control companies. A proposal is very important and should document the company’s plan for chemical treatment procedures, bait station placements, repair or wood work, copies of insecticide labels, and warranties.

Find out about liability insurance.

Thoroughly compare bids before making a decision.

Make sure that follow-up inspections are included in the contract. The extermination contract should also include annual or semi-annual follow-up inspections to make sure the home is protected on an ongoing basis.

What should I know about annual termite pest control contracts?

It is a common misconception that an “annul contract” implies re-treatment by the pest control company on an annual basis. This is not how an annual contract works. Annual treatments are actually illegal under state and federal law, unless evidence of termite activity is present.

If an annual contract is written up, then the pest control company is liable for termite treatment only if you or the company can detect evidence of termite activity.

Termite treatments carry an automatic one-year guarantee in most cases, as do some homes. After one year, the contract may be renewed if deemed necessary.

On average, it costs between $75 and $200 to renew your annual contract. The exact price will depend on the size and construction of the structure.

The answer to this question is a matter of preference. Some things to consider:

If you have plans to sell your house in the near future, an annual contract is a good idea. This ensures that if termites are discovered at the time of inspection, the pest control company, NOT YOU will be responsible for termite treatment.

If you plan to sell your home, find out whether the pest control company allows for the transfer of the contract to a new homeowner, or if it automatically terminates.

If you do not plan on selling anytime soon and you feel comfortable with doing home inspections yourself, you don’t need an annual contract. The day that you find evidence of termite activity, however, you will need to decide if you can handle your own termite treatments or choose a professional company at that time.

Termites are always present in nature, but that does not mean they are always attacking our homes. However, it does mean there is a chance they will attack and that every home is at risk. Bait Stations can be a great tool for self-monitoring, to lend peace of mind.

Bat Pest Control

Bats, the only mammal capable of flight, are a crucial part of our ecosystem. Living exterminators, these flying critters are responsible for controlling pests like mosquitoes from getting out of hand. Regardless of how useful they are, these creatures have a bad reputation of being associated with the supernatural, and often have been referred to as “flying rats.”

There are several different bat species.

There are multiple bat species that could inhabit your home; each has different habits and habitats. In North America, the following species are most common.

Big Brown Bats: These bats are mid-sized mammals that are dark in color. They feed on insects and roost in any high point they can find. You can find them in your eaves, attics, and other high places during the day and hunting at night. They are common nesters during the winter months and can travel alone or in groups.

Little Brown Bats: These little creatures are only about three inches. They can hide in small spaces in the warmer months and seek shelter when they hibernate. Their favorite delicacy includes small, soft-bodied insects, or bugs near slow-moving water.

Mexican Free-Tailed Bats: These bats live in the southeast and west near the coast. They are tiny, about three inches, and are mostly tail. These wild animals tend to live in big colonies and seek shelter in a cave or cave-like areas.

Natural Insect Control With Bats

Bats get a bum deal. Thought of as blood suckers and destroyers of fruit, bats are seen as frightening pests when in fact almost all are beneficial. Those blood sucking bats? Out of some 1,000 species only three actually take blood from mammals. And those live only in the Central American tropics. Most of the fruit bats live in the tropics as well. The bats, like the tiny Indiana bat that populates most of the midwest and east? They’re not blood suckers. They’re bug suckers. Over 70% of all bats — and more in the U.S. — are insectivores.

Some smaller bats also feed on pollen and flower nectar. Like bees, they’re pollinators. Most of these bats also live south of the border and pollinate such fruits as guava, avocados, bananas, and mangoes. The lesser long tongued bat and the Mexican long tongued bat, both pollinators, migrate into the American southwest and California. Both, sadly, are on the endangered species list.

As organic gardeners, it’s important that we encourage every natural predator of harmful insects that we can. One thing we can do is provide bat houses near our garden to encourage bats to live there. About the same size as a bird house, bat houses can host dozens of bats (remember, most bats are small). A bat house, by providing a preferable alternative, will also discourage bats from roosting in your attic or garage. If you install a bat house outside, be patient. It may take bats a season or two to find the house and move in.

If you have a budding scientist at home, bat houses can make a swell gift. Keeping record of the traffic in and out of the bat house as evening sets in, and attempting to identify the type of bats using it, can be a fascinating pastime for bat-happy kids and a way to teach data recording and scientific observation. Bats have been little studied compared to most of the animal world, and learning about bats can make for a fine science project. Here’s a source of information (PDF) on bats. And here are plans for building your own bat house … another worthy project to do with your kids. Not so handy? We know where you can get one that’s ready to go.

Remember, that bats, like all wild animals, can be dangerous. They will bite to protect their territory and can carry rabies (there have been 15 case of rabies transmission from bats in the last 50 years). We used to find bats roosting at a perfect height for observation in dwarf fruit trees around our neighborhood. But you and your children should be taught never to disturb a roosting bat. It might be bad for you and it will certainly be bad for the bat. And you want them out there, cleaning up insect pests.

CHOOSE PEST CONTROL SPECIALISTS WHO KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BED BUGS AND BAT BUGS

If you’ve gone this long without hearing the endless news stories and constant complaints from tenants and homeowners about bedbugs, you must have been living under a rock.

A lot of fuss has been made about these tricky insects as bedbugs have a rightly-earned reputation as difficult-to-kill nuisances.

Many reasons are cited for the recent bed bug explosion: increased international travel, increased number of people renting furniture, the uptick in people relying on used clothing items, and of course, the intensifying effects of global climate change.

The trick to identifying a bat bug is by recognizing first that you have a bat issue. Once the little brown bat issue is dealt with, the bug issue can be tackled. It is very important to remember that bats are the catalyst and not the cause of the problem. Bats, possibly due to their nocturnal nature and secretive ways, have been widely mistrusted and feared

Bats are natural, effective pest control specialists — but their portrayal in popular media has led to their vilification. The truth is that almost all North American bats are insect feeders, catching their prey while in flight or plucking them from vegetation. Many people would likely be surprised to learn that a bat can consume more than its body weight in insects in a single night.

Give Bats an Easy Way Out — Embrace Expert Exclusion

Homeowners all around the region know that bats can be a common problem — but chances are you’d rather not get too close to determine exactly what kind of winged wildlife is haunting your home.

Most bats pose a threat to human health and, when threatened or fearful, will bite, with some carrying rabies. What’s worse, bats keep questionable company — namely, bat bugs. A relative of the dreaded bed bug, bat bugs feed on blood and, like the bats they flew in on, require professional pest removal in order to be fully eradicated from your home.

Where Bats May Be Hiding in Your Home

Bats are brilliant at breaking into spaces that might suit their needs. Barns, attics, eaves, garages, loose siding, even tucking behind shingles and shutters — all are ideal areas for bats to roost.

Dangers of Having Bats in Your Home

The greatest dangers of having bats in your home concern health and hygiene. While bats can carry disease, like rabies, bat guano presents the fungus histoplasmosis. When exposure to histoplasmosis is contained within the lungs, the result is a severe respiratory infection. Bad enough; however, if left untreated, histoplasmosis can spread throughout the body and prove fatal.

BAT CONTROL

Over the centuries, bats have gotten a bad rap from humans. Like many small and somewhat unappealing animals in the animal kingdom, they are often the subject of myths, misinformation, and misconceptions. In truth, these flying mammals are amazing creatures and an important part of the ecosystem. Because they devour a huge number of insects every night, they provide a real benefit to humans by reducing harmful pests in the great outdoors.

BATS POSE SERIOUS HEALTH RISKS FOR HUMANS

A bat’s bite and excrement can pose serious health risks to humans. You absolutely do not want to share your residence with a colony of bats. While it’s rare, bats do carry diseases and can transfer them to humans under the right circumstances.

Most prominently, bats have been known to carry rabies, and they can infect humans if they bite. Rabies is extremely deadly when left untreated, and bats can also transfer it to other animals, like your pets, if they’re allowed to linger. Bats can carry a disease known as histoplasmosis as well, which is an aggressive respiratory disease that attacks the lungs. Humans can become infected through bat guano, as histoplasmosis originates through a fungus that grows in the dung.

HOW TO HANDLE A SUSPECTED BAT INFESTATION

Bats are nocturnal and generally avoid contact with humans. Often the only signs that you have an infestation will be their distinctive noises, dark stains around the openings they use, and the characteristic droppings filled with parts of insects. If you notice any of these things, give our Tampa pest control professionals a call and we’ll respond quickly to confirm your infestation and provide immediate solutions.

Many companies market DIY repellents that utilize various chemicals, but their general effectiveness is fairly hit-or-miss. Spraying it around suspected entry points might not be effective at all, and the chemicals can even hurt the bats — which you should actively try to avoid. You also want to avoid sealing off crevices, as trapping bats in your house can create even more problems.

How to Choose a Pest Control Company: The Do’s & Don’ts

Finding insects and nuisance animals on your property or inside your home can be a burden, but choosing the right pest control company doesn’t have to be. Because of the various types of pests and the potentially dangerous chemicals used to eradicate them, it’s important to choose a reputable, professional pest control company.

Many times, a technician operates inside of your home, so homeowners should be careful when making their selection. Below is a guide of the do’s and don’ts in choosing a local, reputable pest control company to meet your needs.

Do Get Termites Insurance

Ask about what kind of insurance a pest control company can provide.This is particularly important when it comes to termites. Homeowners’ insurance does not always cover termite treatment or repairs, so homeowners should be proactive in finding a reputable company who will install a good baiting system or treat the exterior to prevent infestations.

Do Use Licensed Termite/Pest Control Companies

Only hire pest control companies that meet the licensing requirements for your particular state.You should note that licensing requirements do vary from state to state, and some are stricter than others. Hire companies that have experience handling your particular kind of bug or nuisance animal problem.

Do Resolve Termite Problems

Ask the company to walk you through how they would handle this problem if you were their customer.Would they use baits? Traps? Chemicals? Exclusion? You may want to have them present their pest control plan to you in writing for your records; you can then compare this information to the plans of any other pest control company you are considering for hire.

HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD PEST CONTROL COMPANY

Summertime in Arizona is definitely pest season. If you don’t want to be outside during this sweltering summer season, neither do the pests that try to infiltrate your home. More households call pest control companies during this time of year than any other season. However, not all pest control operations are created equal. It is important to do your research and window shop before going with just any pest control company in Mesa that is cheap. Finding an pest control exterminator in Mesa that is top notch, offers quality services, and isn’t greatly overpriced is very important. A poor pest control job could lead to more infestations and more money spent in the future.

Do they offer power spray?

Many pest control companies treat homes with something called a backpack sprayer. This small, somewhat wimpy pest control method is usually not enough to effectively prevent a deep infestation. A pest control company that offers power spraying may be the company you should go with. Power spraying the foundation of the home is the most effective way of treating it for pests. The intense pressure behind the power spraying hose penetrates rocks and soil around the home to effectively get all of the exterminating product as close to where pests may be burrowing as possible.

Do they offer granulate?

Power spraying is usually a preventative step- it does not necessarily kill the pests within a nest or colony. To get to the source of your pest problem, which is usually around the trunks of trees and roots of foliage, a reputable pest control company will use something called granulate. Granulate is a material that is applied to areas around trees, plants, gardens, and other spots where pests may initially get their source of food and water and where they might be breeding. A pest control company that offers granule treatment is usually a good choice.

Do they have good reviews?

Always trust verified reviews. If a customer is deeply unsatisfied with a company’s pest control services, the Internet will likely hear about it. Check the pest control business’ website for reviews, as well as review sites like Yelp, Better Business Bureau, or Google. Family Owned Pest Control is another good source for pest control company reviews.

Do they offer wall treatments?

A complete and thorough prevention and exterminating pest control treatment will include in-wall treatments. Pests can infest the walls and roofing of your home fairly easily. Avoiding a wall treatment could make way for a massive and hard to control infestation. Look for a pest control company that offers in-wall treatments in which they dust a pest control product inside your walls via outlets from the outside. This will effectively kill any remaining pests trying to infest your home, and should be mandatory instead of optional.

Tips On Choosing The Right Pest Control Company

With the current environmental changes, pest infestation has posed challenges to most individuals here in Singapore. This has necessitated the intervention of professionals to curb the situation. Unfortunately, residents have never had an easy time while looking for the ideal professionals. You will bear me witness that there are hundreds of pest consultants who dupe themselves as experts while they cannot deliver. The question is, which criteria should be use in identifying the right pest expert. We have conducted a research and here is what we came up with. Everybody should make use of these criteria is he/she should get the best from the pest experts

Experience

It takes some time for one to gain experience in every field. Of course you would not love to be experimented on by green practitioners. Establish the number of years that the company has been in business. How do they train the new recruits? Do they interact with experienced employees? On the other hand, it is important to confirm the experience that the firm has in dealing with problems like yours.

Reputation of the company

What do other customers say about the pest control firm? Are the customer reviews positive? You should never rely on the company’ advertisements since they will never post anything negative about their services. You should also request the company for customer reference so that you can verify their true picture.

Value and quality of work

It is important to find out if the company is able to offer quality services at affordable rates. The quality of services that they offer should match with their charges. It is also important to carry out a comparison with other companies so that the rates can be compared. If the company will request you to sign-up for a long term contract, what will be the costs? Can the company offer guarantee for its work? What terms are involved?

The customer relations

The best company is the one that is willing to adhere to the requirements the customer. It should be willing to address the customers’ issues with understanding and due respect. Some of the issues that should be clarified include, the degree of pest infestation and details of the pests e.g. behavior.

How to Choose the Right Pest Control Professional

Do Your Research

Ask friends and work colleagues for recommendations. If that’s not possible or fruitful, look for businesses that service your community. Websites can offer valuable company information and highlight expertise.

Staff Training and Licensure

There are various levels of training and certification among pest control professionals, ranging from certified technicians to licensed exterminators. It’s not uncommon for the licensed technicians, under the supervision of the exterminator, to provide the actual service delivery.

Insurance

Make sure the company is fully insured. Accidents can happen and something in your home could be damaged. You’ll want to be compensated by the pest control company.

Termite Guarantee

If termites are your problem, look for a pest control company that offers a guarantee on their work performed to eliminate termites and to protect your home from future infestations.

Choosing the right pest control professional may take a bit of effort. Be aware that a reputable company will not rush you into signing a contract or suggest you need immediate service

How to Choose the Right Pest Control Company

Do Your Research

When looking for a reputable pest control company, it’s very important to do your research. Pest control should always be done by a professional exterminator who has the years of experience and proper equipment to offer comprehensive and reliable pest control services.

Take Your Time and Do Your Homework

Discovering that there is a pest problem in your home will surely make you want to eliminate the problem immediately. The longer these pests are allowed to roam free on your property, the more damage they can potentially cause. However, most problems can wait a few days so you have time to select a competent company. This includes asking all of the right questions to get a better feel about them and their skillset

Questions You Should Ask…

How many years have you been in business?

Would you provide me with a list of references?

Will the person(s) performing the services be a certified, licensed pesticide applicator or a licensed technician?

Be Aware of Companies That….

Do not have a working telephone number.

Say they have a secret formula. (All pesticide products must be registered by the U.S. EPA and the United States Department of Agriculture.)

Pressure you to sign a contract and suggest that your house is structurally unsound and may collapse if not treated.

Say they have excess material left over from a previous job and offer a reduced price