Fleas
What are the diseases caused by fleas?
One of the most immediate discomforts caused by fleas is the itching their bites produce. In most cases, the red marks and irritation will clear up without causing any long-term effects on your health. Fleas are recognised parasites and disease vectors, and in more sensitive people or pets they can cause allergic reactions.
How do you tell if fleas are in your bed?
One of the key signs that your bed or bedding is infested with fleas is the presence of tiny black specks, sometimes referred to as flea dirt. These are the excrement left by fleas — if you place the particles on a damp surface, they will turn a dark reddish-brown colour, which confirms flea activity.
How do I get rid of fleas in my home?
The most effective way to treat a flea infestation is through professional pest control. Our technicians apply a residual insecticide to carpets, soft furnishings, skirting boards and pet resting areas. Any affected pets should also be treated by a vet at the same time, as treating the property alone is unlikely to fully resolve the problem.
Bed Bugs
What is the main cause of bed bugs?
Travel is one of the most widely recognised causes of bed bug infestations. Often without realising it, travellers can carry bed bugs back in their luggage or clothing from hotels and other accommodation, introducing them to a property.
How does pest control get rid of bed bugs?
The most common treatment used by pest controllers is a residual insecticide, applied either as a powder or a liquid spray. This is treated to all floored surfaces and affected areas to target bed bugs at various life stages.
How do I prevent bed bugs?
There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of bed bugs entering your home. Always inspect any used clothing or furniture before bringing it indoors, wash bedding at 60 degrees, and use a protective cover on your mattress. After travelling, check your luggage carefully before unpacking.
Rats and Mice
How do I know if I have mice or rats?
Common signs of a rodent infestation include fresh droppings, gnaw marks on packaging and fabrics, a persistent foul odour, and pets becoming unusually fixated on certain areas. You may also find evidence of nest-making from shredded materials around the property.
What attracts mice and rats to your house?
The two main things that draw rats and mice to a property are food and shelter. Leaving waste food on surfaces or floors will attract rodents, and they will also seek out warm spaces to shelter in, particularly during the colder winter months.
How do I get rid of rats permanently?
The most effective and quickest way to remove rats from your home is to use a professional pest controller. Identifying and sealing any access points will help to stop them from returning and prevent future infestations.
Pest Prevention
What are the main rules for pest prevention?
Like all living things, pests require food, water and shelter to survive. Removing waste food, cutting off access to water sources such as a pet bowl left out overnight, and blocking any entry points will make your property far less hospitable. Addressing all three elements gives you the best chance of keeping pests out.
What are the signs of a pest infestation?
Signs vary depending on the pest, but common indicators include droppings, gnaw marks on food packaging or woodwork, unusual odours, and scratching or scurrying sounds within walls or ceilings. Some infestations, such as fleas or bed bugs, may first make themselves known through unexplained bites or skin irritation.
Should I try DIY pest control before calling a professional?
For minor issues, some over-the-counter products may offer temporary relief, but they rarely deal with the root cause of an infestation. Pests such as rats, bed bugs and wasp nests require professional-grade treatment to resolve effectively. Calling a professional early is often quicker and more cost-effective than attempting DIY first.
Wasp Nests and Bees
Do wasp nests need to be removed?
Once a wasp nest has been treated, it does not need to be physically removed. Wasps will not return to or reuse another colony's nest, so it will remain empty and harmless. It will break down naturally over time.
Can you remove a wasp nest yourself?
Removing a live wasp nest yourself is dangerous and not recommended. Wasps that feel threatened will become aggressive and can sting repeatedly. Treatment and removal should always be carried out by a qualified pest controller.
How do I know if I have a wasp nest?
The most common sign is a high number of wasps flying to and from a specific point — often a gap in roof tiles, an air brick, a cavity wall, a shed or a loft space. You may also notice a faint buzzing or spot a papery grey structure in a sheltered area. If you suspect a nest, do not attempt to block or disturb it — contact a professional for advice.
Bird Proofing
What are the types of bird proofing?
There are different types of bird proofing depending on the species involved and what you need to protect. The two main methods are netting and spiking. If you are unsure which is most appropriate for your situation, it is always best to speak to a professional before proceeding.
What are the problems caused by birds?
Birds can cause a wide range of problems including fouling, physical damage to buildings, the spread of diseases, insects and parasites, blocked drainage systems, water damage and the consumption of stored food. They can also display aggressive behaviour, particularly during nesting season.
Does bird proofing harm birds?
No. Bird proofing methods such as netting and spiking are designed to deter birds from landing or nesting in certain areas without causing them any injury. They are a humane and long-term solution. Professional installation is important to ensure the system works correctly and does not inadvertently trap birds.
Contact Our Pest Control Services
If you are experiencing a pest infestation in Portsmouth, Southampton, Basingstoke or Hampshire, contact our pest control services today.
Fast, professional pest control for homes and businesses across Hampshire and Surrey.
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