Yearly Archive June 15, 2023

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Silverfish & Madagascar (ugliest dinosaurs)

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

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

Why do pavement ants push up sand and swarm

Pavement ants (Tetramorium caespitum) are a species of ants commonly found in urban areas, where they nest under pavement cracks, sidewalks, driveways, and other similar spaces. They exhibit certain behaviors that involve pushing up sand or soil and swarming. Here’s why:

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

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Bed bugs

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

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Black Box – Rodent Control Bait Boxes

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

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

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

What is an Ant Colony

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

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

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

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

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

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Oh No!! Silverfish

Silverfish are not harmful to humans and do not pose any significant health risks. While they may look a bit unsettling, they are generally considered nuisance pests rather than dangerous creatures. Here are a few key points about silverfish:

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

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Spiders

Spiders, in general, pose very little threat to humans. Most spiders are harmless and play a beneficial role in controlling populations of insects. However, there are a few species of spiders that can potentially cause harm if they bite a human. Here are some of the worst things spiders can do to you:

  1. Venomous Bites: Some spiders, such as the black widow or brown recluse spiders, have venomous bites that can cause varying degrees of harm. While bites from these spiders are relatively rare, they can lead to symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe pain, necrotic skin lesions, or systemic reactions.
  2. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to spider bites, even from non-venomous spiders. These reactions can vary in severity and may include symptoms like itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms after a spider bite.
  3. Psychological Impact: For individuals with arachnophobia (fear of spiders), the presence or sight of a spider can lead to intense fear and anxiety. This psychological impact can be distressing and affect their daily lives.

It’s worth noting that the vast majority of spider bites do not result in significant health problems. If you encounter a spider and are concerned about it, it’s generally recommended to leave it alone or, if necessary, remove it with caution. If you believe you’ve been bitten by a spider and are experiencing concerning symptoms, it’s best to seek medical advice to determine appropriate treatment.

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

All about moles and how to get rid of moles

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that are often considered pests due to their ability to create unsightly tunnels and damage lawns and gardens. Here’s some information about moles and methods for getting rid of them:

  1. Identification: Moles are typically small, cylindrical mammals with velvety fur, small eyes, and powerful front limbs with large claws for digging. They have adapted for an underground lifestyle and spend most of their time tunneling through the soil.
  2. Behavior: Moles primarily feed on earthworms and insects found in the soil. They create complex tunnel systems, including main tunnels used for travel and feeding, as well as shallower tunnels near the surface for foraging. Their digging activity can cause raised ridges and mounds of soil on the surface.

Methods to Get Rid of Moles:

  1. Mole Repellents: Various mole repellents are available, including castor oil-based products and ultrasonic devices that emit sound or vibrations to deter moles. However, the effectiveness of these repellents may vary, and results are often inconsistent.
  2. Physical Barriers: Installing physical barriers can help prevent moles from entering specific areas. For example, burying a barrier made of hardware cloth or wire mesh at least a foot deep around garden beds can help protect plant roots.
  3. Trapping: Trapping is a common method used to remove moles from an area. Traps designed specifically for moles are available, such as harpoon traps or scissor-jaw traps. It’s important to follow local regulations regarding trapping and handle traps safely and humanely.
  4. Habitat Modification: Making the environment less favorable for moles can discourage their presence. Regularly mowing the lawn and reducing excessive moisture levels can make the habitat less suitable for moles.
  5. Professional Assistance: If mole infestation persists or becomes overwhelming, it may be best to seek help from a professional pest control service experienced in mole removal. Call Go Green Pest Control 778-886-4111

It’s important to note that eliminating moles completely from an area can be challenging, as they are persistent diggers and can quickly repopulate if favorable conditions exist. Additionally, some people choose to tolerate moles as they can have positive effects on soil aeration and nutrient cycling.

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Why are City Raccoons considered to be Pests

Raccoons are considered pests primarily because of their behavior and the problems they can cause when they come into close proximity with humans. Here are a few reasons why raccoons are often seen as pests:

  1. Property Damage: Raccoons are known for their ability to cause damage to property. They can tear through roofs, siding, and screens while trying to gain access to attics, chimneys, or crawl spaces. Their strong paws and dexterous fingers allow them to manipulate objects, leading to potential damage to gardens, garbage bins, and outdoor structures.
  2. Garbage and Food Source Raids: Raccoons are highly opportunistic and have adapted to urban environments. They are notorious for rummaging through garbage cans and compost bins in search of food. Their scavenging behavior can result in messes and scattered debris.
  3. Disease Transmission: Raccoons can carry various diseases, including raccoon roundworm, leptospirosis, and rabies. Their feces can also pose health risks to humans and pets if not handled properly.
  4. Garden and Crop Damage: Raccoons are omnivorous and can cause damage to gardens, lawns, and crops. They may dig up lawns in search of insects, eat fruits and vegetables, or damage ornamental plants.
  5. Nuisance and Noise: Raccoons can create a nuisance by making noise during the night, especially if they have taken up residence in attics or crawl spaces. Their vocalizations and movements can disturb sleep and cause stress for homeowners.

It’s important to approach raccoon issues with caution, as they are wild animals and can become aggressive if cornered or feel threatened. If you’re experiencing raccoon-related problems, it’s advisable to contact a professional wildlife removal service or local animal control for assistance.

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

List of the worst pests in Delta

List of the worst pests in Delta

In Delta, several pests can be considered problematic. Here’s a list of some of the worst pests commonly encountered in the area:

  1. Rats: As mentioned earlier, rats are a significant concern in Delta. They reproduce rapidly, carry diseases, and can cause structural damage.
  2. Cockroaches: German cockroaches, in particular, are a common pest in Delta. They are adaptable, reproduce quickly, and can contaminate food and surfaces.
  3. Bed bugs: These small, blood-sucking insects have become a widespread issue globally. Delta is not exempt, and bed bug infestations can be challenging to eliminate without professional intervention.
  4. Ants: Various ant species can be problematic in the area, including pavement ants and carpenter ants. They can invade homes, damage structures, and contaminate food.
  5. Wasps: Several species of wasps, including yellow jackets, are found in Delta. They can be aggressive and pose a risk, especially to those with allergies.
  6. Squirrels: While they may seem harmless, squirrels can become pests when they enter attics, chew through electrical wires, and create disturbances.
  7. Raccoons: These intelligent creatures are adaptable and can cause damage to property, raid trash bins, and create a nuisance in residential areas.
  8. Mosquitoes: Although not exclusive to Delta, mosquitoes can be a seasonal annoyance, particularly in areas with stagnant water sources.

It’s important to note that effective pest control often involves a combination of preventive measures, such as sealing entry points, proper sanitation, and professional pest management services.