Thursday, April 14, 2011

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.

Monday, April 11, 2011

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.

Monday, April 4, 2011

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.

Friday, April 1, 2011

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.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

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.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Use Garlic to Repel Vampires and Cockroaches Too

Although cockroaches are not overly aggressive or destructive, they can potentially carry a variety of sickness and disease; and infect your home and food.

Expressing concern for family members and pets, many homeowners are apprehensive about introducing harsh chemicals into their environment; to eliminate the threat of cockroaches. Instead, many people are searching for proven home remedies and natural alternatives, to the established and traditional pest control treatments.

Believe it or not, when it comes to resilient pests like cockroaches (and even vampires), garlic operates as a natural pest control method and effective repellant. Cockroaches dislike extremely strong smells and tastes, and few items in the kitchen or home; have as powerful a smell as garlic. By creating a garlic and water mixture and spraying suspected cockroach areas, or by simply placing the cloves of garlic in places where cockroaches have been seen; homeowners can deter an infestation of these unwanted invaders.

As you can imagine, the only drawback to this approach is the smell. Some may find the odor too offensive, and as such it may not be an effective strategy for everyone.

Monday, March 14, 2011

Aphid Lions Are Natural Exterminators of Common Garden Pests

Although the adult lacewing is a harmless, graceful insect that feeds on pollen, nectar and even honeydew, the young Green lacewing larvae have a big appetite and attack common garden pests so voraciously; that they have earned the nickname "aphid lions." Utilizing unique mouth parts that are elongated into sharp hollow needles, the Green lacewing larvae quickly pierce their prey; and drain them dry within minutes.

Aphid lions are particularly effective predators, perhaps more so than the lady bugs and preying mantis. In addition to aphids, Green lacewing larvae consume large numbers of spider mites, potato beetle larva, thrips, white flies, bud worms, long-tailed mealybugs, and the eggs of leaf hoppers, moths and leaf miners and other small pests; that can destroy garden vegetables.

Considering its role as a beneficial insect and natural exterminator, Green lacewing larvae are popular with gardeners and homeowners, because they offer a safe, non-chemical alternative; for controlling aphids and other unwanted garden pests.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Natural Exterminators of Cockroach Pests

Considered the most aggressive natural predator of cockroaches, the Emerald Cockroach wasp is an effective natural exterminator; and a cockroach's worst nightmare. Why you ask? Imagine this. The Emerald Cockroach wasp paralyzes the adult cockroach, and then lays its eggs into the cockroach's abdomen.

Some homeowners have successfully applied this strategy. However, many are concerned about generating an additional pest problem, by encouraging the growth and development of wasps; inside their home. Thankfully, these wasps do not sting people. Nevertheless, this pest control technique is far better suited for outdoor applications, and away from houses or dwellings.

Other natural exterminators of the dreaded cockroach pests, include spiders, birds, beetles, ants and mice. As well, some homeowners and tenants allow their pet frogs or geckos to roam freely at night, to hunt and eat the cockroaches. Regardless of the natural pest control method that individuals select, any and all of these natural exterminators can provide effective pest control services; to safely eliminate a cockroach invasion.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Using Soap as a Natural Pest Control Method Against Pests

Many people are unaware that common household soaps can be an effective exterminator of insects. Remarkably, the fatty acids found in the soap product, will destroy cellular membranes; in the pest invaders. Furthermore, it also produces a coating on the insects, that prevents them from breathing; through their spiracles.

An effective soap spray includes 40 percent water, 40 percent alcohol and 20 percent dish soap. Home-owners and gardeners can mix 1 cup cooking oil, with 1 tablespoon non-detergent liquid soap; to formulate a natural insecticide. Add 1 tablespoon of this mix to each cup of water, for an efficient and natural method; of preventing aphids, scales, mealybugs and spider mites. Furthermore, this insecticide mix will destroy the both the adults and eggs; of these common garden pests. Sprinkle laundry soap around the foundation of your home to keep ants out.

An experienced pest control technician or exterminator, will caution homeowners and gardeners not use these homemade mixtures on their plants, if the temperature tops 85 degrees. Application is this instance can result in negative effects, and result in damage to gardens and flower beds.

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Use Beer as a Natural Pest Control Method Versus Cockroaches

Believe it or not, beer can be very effective natural pest control method for deterring some common pests. Although pleasant to some creatures, beer is highly offensive to cockroaches, snails and slugs.

If homeowners or tenants soak a rag in beer, and place it in the middle of their floor at night, it will be covered in drunken cockroaches the next morning; waiting to be exterminated. As well, if a few pieces of bread are soaked in beer, and placed into empty coffee cans around the home or property; it will also help to deter cockroach invaders.

When the cockroaches come to investigate the beer soaked rag or bread, and consume any of it, they will quickly find themselves disoriented; and unable to escape. Keep in mind that it is entirely possible, that the beer soaked bread could even kill them. As such, homeowners or tenants should avoid this natural pest control strategy, if there are young children or pets in the home.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Using Spiders as a Natural Exterminator of Insect Pests

Spiders use a wide range of strategies to capture prey. Some species trap it in sticky webs, lassoing it with sticky bolas, mimicking the prey to avoid detection, or run it down. Most spiders detect their approaching prey by sensing vibrations, however the active hunters of the species have acute vision, and some hunters show signs of intelligence in their choice of tactics; and their ability to develop new ones.

This natural exterminator most often utilizes a sticky web, to capture its prey. Varying the placement of webs, allows different species of spider to trap different insects; in the same area. Although web-building spiders generally have poor vision, they are extremely sensitive to vibrations. On the other hand, Wolf spiders, Jumping spiders and some Crab spiders, capture prey by ambushing or chasing it, and rely mainly on their vision; to locate suitable prey.

In some spider species, males and females mimic different ant species. Ant-mimicking spiders will modify their behavior, to resemble that of the target species of ant. For example, some spiders may adopt a zig-zag pattern of movement, avoid jumping or imitate the behavior of a dying ant; to attract worker ants. Furthermore, several ant-mimicking spiders will prey on unwanted ant pests, as well as the ants' livestock, such as aphids; another common garden pest problem.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Five (5) Spicy Ways to Naturally Get Rid of Ants

There are 12,400 known species of ants in the world today. These species comprise 25% (or more) of the insect biomass on the planet, they collectively they weigh more than all the humans in the world, and many species cause serious pest control problems; for unprepared homeowners and tenants.

Many affected dwellings are home to families, with children and pets. As such, many homeowners are concerned about the use of chemicals to treat an ant invasion, and are eager to apply strategies that are safe for their family and the environment; but effective at deterring pests. With that in mind, here are five "spicy" and natural pest control methods, to help residents prevent or eliminate; an ant invasion:
  1. Place common Cinnamon at the site of the ant invasion.
  2. Black pepper is a nonlethal, poison free, cheap, and safe way to prevent ants. Sprinkle the Black pepper where you see ants congregating. Follow them to where they are entering/exiting and sprinkle the pepper at that spot to keep them from coming back. This strategy is safe to apply in cabinets, on windowsills, near pets/children and around food. As well, a line of Cayenne pepper will prevent invaders from advancing.
  3. Place Bay leaves on counter tops and anywhere along the trail where ant invaders are entering.
  4. Plant Mint all around your house, especially near doorways. Ants will crawl away from mint.
  5. Place whole Cloves around. Put them on the window sills, door jams and also around the bottom of cabinets.
The fact that ants live in communities, make gardens, keep farm animals, fight wars and enslave other ant species, has fascinated mankind for as long as we have observed them. This doesn't discount, that many invasive species of ants will create pest control problems, that cause damage to American homes and property; and require effective natural exterminating strategies to eliminate.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Legislation Not a Substitute for Natural Pest Control Methods

More and more people are voicing their concern, about the use of chemicals and pesticides, in traditional pest control treatments.  The side-effects and other possible dangers, create as much fear in homeowners and tenants; as the pests themselves do.

I agree that there is legislation in place to protect citizens, however there have been instances where unruley pest control companies have applied aggressive techniques, including pesticides; when there was a clear danger to the community. In fact, recently in New Jersey, a Newark pest control company was fined by the DEP, for applying prohibited chemicals; in more than 50 area homes. These chemical pesticides we clearly not approved for indoor use.

Nevertheless, the search for a "green" exterminator with dependable natural pest control services, is fueled by the public's outrage over incidents like the one in NJ, and the continued dangers these chemicals present; to unsuspecting residents and the environment.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Natural Pest Control Methods Can Become Pest Control Problems

Although beneficial insects offer a natural alternative to traditional pest control treatments, care should be taken when introducing any of new (beneficial) species; to your property, gardens or flower beds. If homeowners are not careful, beneficial bugs can quickly turn from a helpful natural exterminator, into a pest control problem.

Many homeowners do not stop to consider, where their natural pest control providers will go, when the cool Fall and Winter months arrive. For example, ladybugs will typically "swarm" houses and buildings, in September through November; depending on location and weather conditions. It goes without saying, that homes and buildings located near fields or wooded areas, would be more likely to see an invasion of ladybugs.

An assertive pest control strategy that addresses minor home repairs, can be applied to naturally prevent pests, as well as beneficial bugs; from moving indoors. Simple improvements like securing structural holes, cracks and openings that are one half inch or larger, using metal, concrete, or copper mesh wool; can provide relief from unwanted Winter house guests.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Ladybugs and Soldier Beetles are Natural Garden Exterminators

When considering natural pest control methods to battle unwanted garden pest problems, such as aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, and mites; beneficial insects can provide a natural pest control solution.

It can be highly advantageous to maintain the balance of nature in your garden, and provide a natural exterminator, like the Soldier beetle and/or ladybug; with a generous supply of food and a supportive habitat.

Homeowners and gardeners can encourage a strong population of both the Soldier beetle and ladybug, by introducing an environment that supports their continued growth and development. For instance, the Soldier beetle supplements it's aphids diet, with nectar and pollen. As such, incorporating plants into the area that produce this alternate food supply, will promote a healthy population of Soldier beetles; resulting in a natural form of pest control services for gardens.