Simple Home Repairs Will Prevent Scorpion Pest Control Problems

Many homeowners who are confronted with the possibility of a painful scorpion attack, are seeking natural pest control methods of deterring these venomous pests, from invading their dwelling. The reality is, if a scorpion cannot gain entry to the house, there is little (or no) chance of an encounter or attack; inside the home.

Homeowners should begin their natural pest control strategy, with a thorough inspection and clean up, of their property. Loose lumber and piles of rocks, debris or garbage, especially near foundation walls, should be thoroughly checked for scorpions; and removed from the area. Lawns and landscaping should be kept short and well-trimmed, ensuring as well that no branches are overhanging, near or above the house. Furthermore, all cracks and holes in interior or exterior walls, foundation or siding, must be repaired immediately. As well, make certain that all window and door screens are secure, and do not have any holes in them.

Scorpion stings are considered especially dangerous, when inflicted upon children or the elderly. As such, property owners with young or elderly family members/tenants present, should make every effort to ensure their safety; from a painful scorpion attack. Simple home repairs and improvements, can lay an effective pest control foundation, for the prevention of a scorpion invasion.

Declining Bat Population Means Loss of Pest Control Services

The decline of bat populations in the Northeastern United States, the most severely affected region so far, have exceeded seventy percent. In fact, populations of the Little Brown bat have declined so hastily, that scientists expect the species to disappear from the region completely; within the next twenty years.

Why is this so concerning? It is a little known fact that a single Little Brown bat, which has a body no bigger than an adult’s thumb, will consume four to eight grams of insects; each night. Although at first glance, this may not appear to be much, it can quickly add up. In fact, it is estimated that the natural pest control services provided by approximately one million bats, eliminates more than one thousand metric tons of insect pest problems; each year.

It has been said that insectivorous bats are among the most overlooked, economically important, non-domesticated animals; in North America. Pest management experts speculate that the loss of bats throughout the United States, will result in a consistent population increase for insects no longer being eliminated, by these efficient natural exterminators.

Citrus Oils Effectively Prevent Spider Pest Control Problems

In general, spiders are safe and provide organic insect pest control, for your home. With the obvious exception of the black widow and brown recluse, spiders pose no danger to humans. Nevertheless, the common fear of this household intruder, makes it more of a foe; than a friend.

Remarkably, spiders have their taste buds, on the tips of their legs. And, spiders do not like the taste of citrus, like lemon, orange and lime. As such, all citrus essential oils will act as an effective pest control method, of repelling spiders. Essential oils are aromatic volatile oils, extracted from the leaves, stems, flowers; and other parts of plants. In the case of citrus essential oils, they are extracted from the peel. It is important that only real essential oils are used, not synthetic fragrance oils, which do not "taste" like citrus.

To prevent an invasion of spiders, dust your windowsills and door frames inside and out with Lemon pledge, or a few drops of lemon or lavender oil, on a dusting cloth. As well, put a few drops of lemon essential oils on your broom, before dusting down cobwebs, both inside and outside the home.  Because the essential oils can stain some fabrics, homeowners should exercise caution when applying this pest control treatment, around furniture or clothing.

Hug Your Exterminator: April is National Pest Management Month

For more than thirty years, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has declared the month of April, to be National Pest Management Month. In this month, pest control industry professionals are honored for their important role, in protecting America's health and property; from significant pest control threats.

This year, the VP of Public Affairs for the NPMA said that "... the NPMA is dedicated to raising public awareness about the risks posed by household pests, and encouraging homeowners to take proactive steps to prevent pest infestations; in their homes and properties.” This focus was echoed by  the Executive Director of Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA), when she said that, “If consumers are educated about these risks, they are much more likely to realize the importance of working with a professional to protect their family, home and property.”

The goal of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is to encourage understanding about the threat that common pest control problems, such as termites, rodents and carpenter ants, can pose to American homes and property. As well, there are other pests, like ticks, mosquitoes, cockroaches and some stinging insects, that can carry sickness or disease; and pose a serious health threat to humans.

Are Spiders a Natural Exterminator or Pest Control Problem

The fear that many people have of spiders, prevents them from appreciating the natural pest control services, that members of the species provide. In fact, well known spiders like the Cellar spider, Jumping spider, Wolf spider and Daddy Long-Legs (Harvestmen), cause some concern in people who mistakenly believe; that they are venomous. Although these spiders are sometimes large, hairy and formidable-looking, their bite is (typically) less harmful; than a common bee sting.

Most species of spiders are predators and carnivores, making them a very effective natural exterminator of insects and bugs; including moths, mosquitoes, flies, beetles, aphids and mites. Eventhough spiders are generally carnivorous, there are some species, that will supplement their diet of garden pests, with nectar and pollen.

Make no mistake, although many spider species are considered beneficial insects, some are highly aggressive and notorious for attacking humans. Thankfully, many of these spiders do not have a bite strong enough to break a person's skin, or venom potent enough to cause serious side-effects. Nevertheless, these elusive invaders walk a thin line between natural exterminator, and pest control problem.