Monthly Archive August 28, 2024

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

August 28, 2024

Rats and mice typically start seeking shelter in homes as the weather begins to cool down, usually in the fall. As temperatures drop, these rodents look for warmer environments and reliable food sources, making homes an attractive option. They can also become more active indoors during the winter months when the outside conditions become harsher. If you’re noticing signs of rodent activity, it’s a good idea to check for potential entry points and take preventative measures before they settle in for the season.

1. Seal Entry Points: Check for gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior, including around pipes, vents, and foundations. Use materials like steel wool, caulking, or weather stripping to seal these openings.
2. Secure Food Sources: Store food in airtight containers and keep your kitchen and pantry clean. Don’t forget to secure pet food and bird seed.
3. Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Rodents are attracted to easy food sources.
4. Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs, trees, and other vegetation trimmed back from your home. Rodents can use these as pathways to get closer to your house.
5. Check Your Home’s Exterior: Inspect your home for any potential nesting sites and remove clutter from around the exterior of your house.
6. Install Rodent Deterrents: Consider using rodent repellents or traps as additional measures.

Taking these steps can help reduce the likelihood of rodents finding their way into your home.

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Spider bites can sometimes cause itching, redness, and swelling, but if you’re experiencing severe pain, spreading redness, or other symptoms like fever, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Here are a few things you can do in the meantime:

1. Clean the Area: Wash the bite with soap and water to help prevent infection.
2. Apply a Cold Compress: This can help reduce swelling and numb the area.
3. Use Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help with itching.
4. Apply a Topical Cream: Hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion may help reduce itching and inflammation.
5. Avoid Scratching: This can worsen the irritation or lead to infection.

If you start to experience more severe symptoms or if the bite looks unusual, it’s best to get it checked out by a healthcare professional.

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

Here are some prevention tips that are spot on! Here’s a quick summary and a few extra suggestions to keep in mind when you are dealing with bed bugs.

1. Inspect Secondhand Items: Always check for signs of bed bugs before bringing used items into your home.
2. Use Protective Covers: Mattress and box spring encasements can prevent bed bugs from taking up residence.
3. Reduce Clutter: Fewer hiding places mean fewer spots for bed bugs to live and breed.
4. Vacuum Regularly: Frequent vacuuming helps remove any bed bugs and eggs from surfaces.
5. Be Cautious When Traveling: Keep your luggage away from beds and inspect hotel rooms for any signs of bed bugs.
6. Seal Cracks and Crevices: Prevent entry and hiding places by sealing up gaps in walls and floors.
7. Monitor for Signs: Regularly check your home for bed bugs, especially in areas where they are known to hide.

Additional Tips:

• Use Bed Bug Monitors: These devices can help detect bed bugs early by attracting them with heat or carbon dioxide.
• Professional Inspections: Periodic inspections by a Go Green Pest Control can help catch infestations early.
• Proper Washing and Drying: Wash and dry bedding, clothing, and other fabric items on high heat to kill any bed bugs and eggs.

If you ever do suspect an infestation, early action and a quick call to Go Green Pest Control are key to managing and eliminating the problem effectively.

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• Mice: Female mice typically become sexually mature around 6-8 weeks of age, while males may reach maturity slightly later, around 8-10 weeks. They can start mating as soon as they reach this stage of maturity.
• Rats: Female rats usually become sexually mature around 5-6 weeks of age, while males reach maturity around 6-8 weeks. Like mice, they are capable of mating once they reach this level of maturity.
• Physical Development: By 2-3 months, the animals are fully developed physically, which can lead to healthier pregnancies and litters.
• Behavioral Maturity: Older animals are typically more stable and less likely to exhibit stress-related behaviors that can affect breeding and offspring.
• Health Considerations: Younger animals might still be undergoing growth and development, which can sometimes lead to complications in pregnancy and birth. Waiting until they are a bit older helps ensure that they are in better overall health.
• Reduced Risk: Breeding at a slightly older age can reduce the risk of health issues for both the breeding pair and the offspring.
• Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF
• President at Go Green
• August 26, 2024

It’s worth noting that for optimal health , breeding often happens when the animals are a bit older than the minimum maturity age, typically around 2-3 months old.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-mature-do-mice-rats-need-mate-randy-bilesky-bqg6c

Randy Bilesky BScF RPF CPA

President at Go Green

August 22, 2024

When it comes to painful stings, the bullet ant holds the top spot with the most excruciating sting. However, if you’re specifically asking about wasps and hornets, here are a few that are known for their particularly painful stings:

1. Asian Giant Hornet: Also known as the murder hornet, its sting is very painful and can cause severe allergic reactions. The venom contains toxins that can damage tissue and lead to significant pain and swelling.
2. European Hornet : This hornet’s sting is quite painful, though not as intense as the Asian Giant Hornet. It can cause a burning sensation, redness, and swelling.
3. Bald-faced hornets: The hornet is aggressive and will attack anyone or anything that invades their space. This is unlike other stinging insects that may only rarely sting when they feel extremely threatened. This makes bald-faced hornet removal, which should be left strictly to a professional for safety, somewhat difficult.
4. Yellow Jacket : While technically a type of wasp, yellow jackets are notorious for their aggressive behavior and painful stings. They can sting multiple times, which increases the pain and potential for an allergic reaction.
5. Paper Wasps : Their stings can be quite painful as well, though they typically don’t sting as aggressively as yellow jackets or hornets.

Each person’s reaction to a sting can vary, and some individuals may experience more severe reactions due to allergies or sensitivities severe allergic reactions. The venom contains toxins that can damage tissue and lead to significant pain and swelling.

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

August 14, 2024

Silverfish and firebrats are small, wingless insects known for their fish-like appearance due to their wriggling movement. They often seek out dark, damp environments, which can make your cupboards an attractive place for them. Here’s what you can do to deal with them:

Silverfish Identification

• Appearance: Silverfish are usually about 1/2 to 1 inch long, with a slender, elongated body covered in tiny scales that give them a metallic sheen.
• Behavior: They are nocturnal and prefer dark, humid environments. They’re often found in basements, attics, or in storage areas like cupboards.

Prevention and Control

1. Reduce Humidity: Silverfish thrive in damp conditions. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to reduce moisture levels in your home. Fix any leaks and ensure good ventilation.
2. Clean Regularly: Vacuum and clean your cupboards and other infested areas regularly to remove any potential food sources and silverfish themselves. Pay special attention to corners and cracks.
3. Store Food Properly: Store dry goods in airtight containers to prevent silverfish from feeding on them. Make sure your cupboards are clean and free of crumbs or food debris.
4. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Seal any cracks or gaps in walls, floors, or around cupboards to prevent silverfish from entering and moving around.
5. Use Silverfish Traps: Commercial traps can help monitor and reduce silverfish populations. You can find them at hardware or home improvement stores.
6. Natural Repellents: Silverfish dislike strong scents. You can use natural repellents like cedar blocks, bay leaves, or diatomaceous earth in your cupboards to deter them.
7. Insecticides: For severe infestations, consider using insecticides specifically designed for silverfish. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider consulting a pest control professional for persistent problems.

By addressing moisture issues, maintaining cleanliness, and taking preventive measures, you can effectively manage and reduce silverfish in your cupboards.

Firebrats vs. Silverfish

• Appearance: Firebrats are similar in shape to silverfish but are usually darker, ranging from gray to brown with a mottled appearance. They also have a more rounded body compared to the slender, elongated shape of silverfish.
• Habitat Preferences: While silverfish are often found in cooler, damp places, firebrats prefer warmer environments. They are commonly found in places with higher temperatures, such as near heating vents or in attics.

How to Manage Firebrats

1. Temperature Control
2. Moisture Management
3. Cleanliness
4. Proper Food Storage
5. Sealing Entry Points
6. Natural Repellents
7. Traps and Monitoring
8. Chemical Solutions
9. Call Go Green Pest Control Corp. 778-886-4111

Addressing the environmental factors that firebrats thrive in, along with cleanliness and sealing entry points, will help you manage and eventually get rid of these pests.

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Having lots of beetles in your house during the summer can be a bit annoying! Here are some common reasons why they might be showing up:

1. Warm Weather: Beetles are more active in warmer temperatures. Summer provides ideal conditions for them to be out and about.
2. Food Sources: Beetles are often attracted to food sources. If there are crumbs, spilled food, or even pet food left out, they might be drawn to these.
3. Humidity: High humidity can attract certain beetle species. If your home is particularly humid, it might be creating a suitable environment for them.
4. Entry Points: Beetles might be coming in through cracks or gaps in windows, doors, or even foundation. They’re often looking for a cool, sheltered place.
5. Outdoor Attractions: If there are beetles outside your house—such as near compost piles, gardens, or wood piles—they might find their way inside.

To manage them, try to keep your home clean, seal up any entry points, and address any moisture issues. You might also want to identify the type of beetle to see if there are specific measures you can take.

Several types of beetles might find their way into your home during the summer. Here are a few common ones:

1. Ladybugs (Ladybird Beetles): They often seek shelter indoors as temperatures rise or as their food sources, like aphids, become scarce. They are mostly harmless and even beneficial for pest control.
2. Carpet Beetles: These beetles are known for infesting homes and can damage carpets, clothing, and other fabrics. They’re attracted to natural fibers and can be a nuisance during the summer.
3. Drugstore Beetles: These small beetles are commonly found in homes and can infest food products and stored goods. They are attracted to dried food and spices.
4. Elm Leaf Beetles: If you have elm trees near your home, these beetles might come indoors as they seek shelter or food sources. They can cause damage to the trees and occasionally enter homes.
5. Beetles from Outdoors: Various beetles that are attracted to outdoor attractions like compost piles, gardens, or wood piles might end up inside if they find an entry point.

If you’re dealing with a beetle infestation, identifying the specific type can help in determining the best course of action for control and prevention.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-so-many-beetles-your-house-summer-randy-bilesky-jlfvc

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

August 12, 2024

Mice are drawn to houses for a few reasons:

1. Food Sources: Homes provide easy access to food. Crumbs, pet food, and pantry staples are all attractive to mice.
2. Shelter: Houses offer warmth and protection from predators. Mice seek out cozy, secluded spots like inside walls, attics, or basements.
3. Water: Besides food, mice need water, which they can often find in homes through leaky pipes, pet water dishes, or even condensation.
4. Temperature: Mice are sensitive to temperature changes. A house provides a stable environment, which is especially appealing in colder months.
5. Nesting Materials: Homes offer a variety of materials for nesting, such as insulation, paper, and fabric.

Nesting Behavior

1. Materials: Mice use a variety of materials for nesting, including paper, cardboard, fabric, insulation, and even dryer lint. They’ll gather these materials to build a comfortable and insulated nest.
2. Location: Mice prefer to nest in hidden, quiet areas that provide safety and warmth. Common nesting sites include inside walls, attics, basements, under appliances, and in cluttered storage areas.
3. Construction: The nest is usually a compact, round structure. Mice use their front paws to shape and arrange the materials. They line the nest with softer materials for added comfort.
4. Breeding: A well-constructed nest provides a safe environment for breeding. Female mice can reproduce quickly, with each litter consisting of several pups. The nest ensures that the young are kept warm and protected.

Why Nesting Matters

1. Safety: A good nest protects mice from predators and harsh environmental conditions. It gives them a secure place to rest and raise their young.
2. Temperature Regulation: Nesting materials help insulate mice from temperature extremes, which is especially important in colder months.
3. Resource Efficiency: By nesting in a home, mice can easily access food and water, making it a convenient environment for their survival and reproduction.

Preventing Nesting

1. Seal Entry Points: Close off potential entry points to your home, such as gaps around pipes, vents, and doors.
2. Store Food Properly: Keep food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs and spills promptly.
3. Maintain Cleanliness: Reduce clutter and keep your home tidy to minimize nesting sites.
4. Regular Inspections: Check for signs of nesting, such as droppings, gnawed materials, or nests themselves, and address any problems promptly.

Understanding how mice build and use their nests can help you take effective steps to prevent them from making themselves at home in yours.

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green Pest Control Corp.

August 9, 2024

BBQs and pests can definitely be a troublesome combo! Here are a few tips to help you keep those unwanted guests at bay:

1. Clean Up Thoroughly: After cooking, make sure to clean up any spills and crumbs immediately. Pests are attracted to food residue, so keeping your BBQ area spotless is key.
2. Secure Trash: Keep trash cans tightly sealed and dispose of waste promptly. If you’re using a trash bin, consider one with a lid that closes securely.
3. Use Repellents: Natural repellents like citronella candles, essential oils (e.g., eucalyptus, lavender), or even a bowl of soapy water can help deter mosquitoes and flies.
4. Avoid Sweet Smells: Sweet and sugary foods can attract insects, so be mindful of what you’re cooking and how you store it.
5. Cover Food: Keep food covered until it’s ready to be served. This helps prevent pests from getting a taste of your delicious BBQ.
6. Create Barriers: If possible, set up physical barriers like screens or netting to keep pests away from your food.
7. Inspect for Nests: Before starting your BBQ, check for any nests or hives nearby and take appropriate measures to handle them safely.

Wasps can be a real nuisance during BBQs. Here’s how to manage them and keep your outdoor feast pleasant:

1. Avoid Sweet Foods and Drinks: Wasps are particularly attracted to sugary foods and beverages. Try to keep sugary items covered and avoid leaving them out.
2. Use Wasp Traps: Commercial wasp traps or DIY traps made from a soda bottle with a sugary liquid can help lure wasps away from your BBQ area. Place them away from your eating area to draw the wasps away.
3. Keep Food Covered: When not serving, cover your food with lids or wraps to minimize the chances of attracting wasps.
4. Clean Up Spills Promptly: Any spilled food or drinks should be cleaned up immediately to avoid attracting wasps.
5. Seal Trash: Ensure trash cans are tightly sealed to prevent wasps from being attracted to food scraps.
6. Use Wasps’ Predators: Some natural predators, like certain species of birds or hornets, can help keep wasp populations in check. Encouraging these predators might help control wasp numbers around your BBQ.
7. Be Cautious with Perfumes and Scents: Strong scents, including perfumes and scented lotions, can attract wasps. Opt for unscented products if you know wasps are a concern.
8. Handle Wasp Nests Safely: If you spot a wasp nest near your BBQ area, avoid disturbing it. Contact a professional pest control service to handle it safely.
9. Wasp Repellents: Some people use natural repellents like peppermint oil or vinegar solutions to keep wasps at bay. Spray these around your BBQ area to deter them.

Mosquitoes can definitely put a damper on a BBQ. Here are some strategies to help keep them away:

1. Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin. Look for products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus for effective protection.
2. Set Up Mosquito Traps: Use mosquito traps or zappers around your BBQ area to help reduce the mosquito population.
3. Use Citronella: Citronella candles or torches can help deter mosquitoes. They work by masking the scents that attract mosquitoes and providing a barrier around your BBQ area.
4. Avoid Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Check your outdoor area for any sources of stagnant water, like puddles or flowerpot saucers, and eliminate them.
5. Install Mosquito Netting: If you have a larger outdoor area or a tent, installing mosquito netting can create a barrier between you and the mosquitoes.
6. Use Fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. Setting up fans can create a breeze that makes it more difficult for them to land on you.
7. Wear Appropriate Clothing: Long sleeves and pants can help reduce mosquito bites. Light-colored clothing is also less attractive to mosquitoes.
8. Plant Mosquito-Repellent Plants: Plants like lavender, marigolds, and basil are known to repel mosquitoes. Consider planting these around your BBQ area.
9. Keep Your Yard Tidy: Overgrown vegetation can provide resting places for mosquitoes. Keep your yard well-maintained to reduce potential hiding spots.
10. https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/summer-bbqs-and-those-pests/
11. https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/summer-bbqs-and-those-pests/
12. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/summer-bbqs-those-pests-randy-bilesky-1tmmc

Black widow spiders are fascinating but can be a bit intimidating!

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

August 8, 2024

1. How often will you see one? Black widow spiders are more common in certain regions, especially in the southern and western parts. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas like piles of wood, sheds, or under rocks. If you live in an area where they are common, you might encounter them occasionally, but they’re not usually aggressive and tend to avoid human contact.
2. Why do they have venom? Like many spiders, black widows use venom primarily to subdue their prey. Their venom contains neurotoxins that affect the nervous system, allowing them to immobilize and digest their prey more easily. It’s a defense mechanism too; the venom helps protect them from potential threats.
3. How strong is the venom? The venom of a black widow is quite potent compared to many other spiders, but it’s not usually deadly to humans. The effects can be severe, though, particularly for children, the elderly, or those with compromised health. Symptoms of a bite can include severe pain, muscle cramps, and nausea.
4. What is in the venom? Black widow venom contains a mix of compounds, primarily neurotoxins, which affect nerve cells. The most notable component is a protein called latrotoxin. This toxin interferes with the release of neurotransmitters, causing excessive stimulation of nerves, which leads to the symptoms of a bite.

Latrotoxin is a fascinating and complex protein found in the venom of black widow spiders. Here’s a bit more detail about it:

• Function: Latrotoxin targets the nervous system. It causes the release of neurotransmitters from nerve cells, leading to excessive stimulation of the nerves. This disruption results in symptoms like intense pain, muscle cramps, and other systemic reactions.
• Mechanism: The toxin binds to the surface of nerve cells and forms pores in the cell membrane. This allows calcium ions to enter the cell, triggering an overwhelming release of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine. This massive neurotransmitter release causes continuous nerve signaling, which manifests as pain and muscle contractions.
• Effects: The symptoms of latrotoxin exposure can be quite severe and include intense pain at the bite site, muscle cramps, sweating, nausea, and in some cases, systemic reactions affecting the whole body. Fortunately, while the bite can be very painful and distressing, it is rarely fatal with proper medical treatment.
• Medical Treatment: Antivenom is available and can be effective in treating severe cases. Pain management and supportive care are also crucial in managing symptoms.
• https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/black-widow-spider-the-widow-maker/
• https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/black-widow-spider-the-widow-maker/
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/black-widow-spider-maker-randy-bilesky-gdpkc