Monthly Archive December 13, 2024

Live Christmas trees can sometimes attract pests, and it’s important to be aware of them to ensure your tree stays healthy and pest-free during the holiday season. Here are some common pests that may be found on live Christmas trees:

1. Aphids

• Description: These small, soft-bodied insects can be green, black, or brown. They often cluster on the new growth at the tips of tree branches.
• Impact: Aphids suck sap from the tree, potentially causing leaf or needle damage and producing honeydew, which can lead to mold growth.
• Prevention/Control: Inspect the tree for aphids before bringing it inside. You can also rinse the tree with a hose to remove aphids, or use insecticidal soap if necessary.

2. Spider Mites

• Description: These tiny arachnids are difficult to see with the naked eye but can cause damage to the tree. They often live on the underside of needles.
• Impact: Spider mites feed on the sap of the tree, causing the needles to turn yellow or brown and eventually drop off.
• Prevention/Control: Treat the tree with an insecticidal soap or miticide before bringing it inside. Regularly inspect the tree for webbing or signs of damage.

3. Scale Insects

• Description: Scale insects can appear as small, hard bumps or shells on the tree branches and needles.
• Impact: They feed on the sap of the tree, weakening the plant and causing yellowing or browning of the needles.
• Prevention/Control: Inspect the tree carefully for scale insects before bringing it inside. Remove them manually or use insecticidal soap.

4. Mealybugs

• Description: These pests appear as white, cottony masses on the tree.
• Impact: Like aphids, mealybugs suck the sap from the tree, weakening it and sometimes causing needle drop.
• Prevention/Control: Mealybugs can be wiped off with a damp cloth or treated with insecticidal soap.

5. Bark Beetles

• Description: These beetles can burrow into the bark of the tree, although they are usually more of a concern in trees that have been cut for a longer period.
• Impact: Bark beetles can harm the tree’s structure and sometimes spread diseases.
• Prevention/Control: Check the tree’s trunk and branches carefully for signs of holes or sawdust, which are indicative of bark beetle activity.

6. Wood Borers

• Description: These pests burrow into the wood of the tree.
• Impact: While they are more of a problem in trees that have been cut for a long time, they can weaken the structure of the tree.
• Prevention/Control: Inspect the trunk and branches for holes. If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to remove the tree immediately.

7. Earwigs

• Description: These insects are often found hiding in the folds of the tree or in the crevices of the branches.
• Impact: Earwigs generally don’t harm the tree but may become a nuisance indoors.
• Prevention/Control: Shake the tree outside before bringing it indoors to dislodge any earwigs.

Tips to Minimize Pest Problems:

• Inspect the Tree: Before bringing the tree inside, give it a thorough inspection. Look for signs of pests, such as webbing, holes, or discolored needles.
• Shake the Tree: If possible, have the tree shaken at the lot to remove loose debris, insects, and eggs.
• Rinse the Tree: Rinse the tree with water to remove pests or eggs that may be hiding in the branches.
• Use Insecticidal Soap: If you find pests, treat the tree with insecticidal soap before bringing it inside. This is a safe, non-toxic way to eliminate most pests.
• Keep the Tree in a Cool Area: Pests like aphids and spider mites thrive in warm indoor environments, so try to keep your tree in a cooler area of your home if possible.

By being vigilant and taking steps to treat and inspect your tree, you can reduce the likelihood of pests making your holiday season less festive.

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Live Christmas Trees and the Insects on them.

Live Christmas Trees and the Insects on them.

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

December 11, 2024

Here are several ideas for rat control, ranging from preventive measures to traps and natural repellents:

1. Preventive Measures:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home or building for gaps, cracks, or holes around windows, doors, and foundations, and seal them to prevent rats from entering.
• Proper Waste Management: Store trash in sealed containers, and ensure that garbage is regularly removed. Avoid leaving food waste out in open bins overnight.
• Eliminate Food Sources: Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs or spills immediately. Keep pet food indoors or in rat-proof containers.
• Trim Overgrown Vegetation: Rats can use trees, bushes, or vines to climb into buildings. Trim tree branches and shrubs that are close to the structure.

2. Physical Barriers:

• Rodent-Proof Materials: Install metal mesh, wire netting, or steel wool to block small holes, especially in attics, basements, and crawlspaces.
• Rodent-Resistant Doors: Install rodent-proof doors with tight-fitting seals, particularly in warehouses and food storage areas.

3. Traps:

• Snap Traps: Use traditional snap traps with peanut butter, seeds, or dried fruit as bait. These traps are effective when placed along rat pathways.
• Electric Traps: These traps deliver a quick electric shock to kill the rat instantly and humanely. They are easy to use and clean.
• Live Traps: Catch and release traps allow you to capture rats alive and relocate them far away from your home. Be sure to release them in an area far enough to prevent them from returning.
• Glue Traps: Although controversial due to ethical concerns, glue traps can capture rats. However, they are not ideal for humane control and should be used with caution.

4. Natural Repellents:

• Peppermint Oil: Rats dislike strong smells like peppermint. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them in areas where rats are active.
• Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper in corners or near entry points to deter rats.
• Garlic or Onion: The strong scent of garlic or onions is known to repel rats. Place pieces of these near rat activity areas.
• Ammonia: Ammonia mimics the smell of predator urine. Soaking rags in ammonia and placing them near rat activity may help deter them.
• Ultrasonic Repellents: These devices emit high-frequency sound waves that are unpleasant to rats but inaudible to humans. They can be effective when used in multiple areas.

5. Biological Control:

• Predator Animals: Introducing natural predators, such as cats or certain breeds of dogs, can help reduce rat populations. However, this is more of a passive approach and may not be enough on its own.
• Rat-Killing Mites or Nematodes: In some cases, specialized parasites (such as rat mites) can be used to control rat populations, though this is a less common practice.

6. Community Involvement:

• Neighborhood Coordination: Rats often spread between homes in a neighborhood, so working with neighbors to clean up trash, seal entry points, and manage waste can help control the rat population.
• Local Ordinances or Professional Pest Control: If the problem becomes widespread, it may be necessary to work with pest control professionals or local authorities to tackle the issue effectively.

7. Ongoing Monitoring:

• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your property for signs of rat activity, including droppings, gnaw marks, or burrows. Early detection can prevent a large infestation.
• Rat Cameras or Motion Sensors: Installing motion-sensitive cameras in strategic areas can help you monitor rat activity and determine where to focus your efforts.

By combining a variety of these strategies and staying vigilant, you can effectively control and reduce rat populations in and around your home or business.

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Rats! Rats?? Rats #$%

Rats! Rats?? Rats #$%

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

December 10, 2024

Vancouver’s mild winters compared to other parts of Canada can still host a variety of pests, some of which become more active or invasive during colder months. Here are some of the worst winter pests in Vancouver and the reasons they pose problems:

1. Mice and Rats

• Why they’re a problem: As the weather cools, rodents like mice and rats seek warmth and food, often invading homes, garages, and businesses. They can cause significant damage by gnawing on wires, insulation, and wood, and they pose health risks by spreading diseases such as leptospirosis and hantavirus. Their droppings and urine can also contaminate food sources.
• Winter Adaptation: Rodents are highly adaptable and can find shelter inside walls, basements, attics, and even in furniture, making them a constant concern.

2. Ants, especially Sugar Ants

• Why they’re a problem: While ants are most active in warmer months, these ants continue their activity during the winter. These ants occupy kitchen, dens, utility rooms and bathrooms. Sugar ants can be particularly destructive in wooden homes and structures.
• Winter Adaptation: In winter, sugar ants often nest inside homes and businesses where temperatures remain stable, allowing them to thrive unnoticed until they cause visible damage.

3. Bed Bugs

• Why they’re a problem: Bed bugs remain a problem year-round in Vancouver, but winter can make them harder to detect, as they hibernate in cracks and crevices, only becoming active when it gets warmer inside homes. Their bites cause discomfort and itching and can lead to secondary infections if scratched.
• Winter Adaptation: Bed bugs are resilient and can live in various temperatures, and since they don’t need to feed every night, they can wait until the temperature rises again, making them difficult to control during colder months.

4. Spiders (Especially the House Spider)

• Why they’re a problem: In winter, spiders like the house spider seek warmth and shelter inside homes. While most spiders are harmless, their presence can be unsettling to people. Additionally, some species can cause allergic reactions or be a nuisance in large numbers.
• Winter Adaptation: Spiders are more likely to be seen inside homes during winter as they search for food sources like insects or warmth. Some spiders, such as the giant house spider, may even lay eggs indoors during this time.

5. Pill Bugs and Sow Bugs (Woodlice)

• Why they’re a problem: These small, shelled creatures, often referred to as “woodlice,” seek out damp environments, and during winter, they may move into homes where moisture levels are higher (basements or bathrooms). While they don’t cause structural damage, they can become a nuisance.
• Winter Adaptation: They prefer moist conditions, which can be easier to find indoors in the winter months. They typically don’t harm humans but can be an unwelcome sight.

6. Silverfish

• Why they’re a problem: Silverfish thrive in humid and warm environments, such as basements, attics, and bathrooms, making them a common winter pest in Vancouver. They feed on starchy substances like paper, glue, and textiles, causing damage to books, clothing, and wallpaper.
• Winter Adaptation: Silverfish can survive in low temperatures and are nocturnal, making them difficult to detect. They can also reproduce quickly, making infestations more challenging to control.

7. Fleas

• Why they’re a problem: Fleas are more common in pets during winter, as they can continue to reproduce indoors. Fleas are known for their ability to spread disease and cause itching and irritation. They can also affect humans if they are present in significant numbers.
• Winter Adaptation: Fleas thrive in warm, indoor environments and are able to survive even in colder temperatures as long as they are in a heated space. Pets can bring them inside from the outdoors.

8. Cockroaches

• Why they’re a problem: While Vancouver isn’t known for severe cockroach problems, the relatively mild winters can allow species like the German cockroach to thrive in heated, sheltered environments. Cockroaches are known to carry diseases and allergens that can affect respiratory health.
• Winter Adaptation: They hide in cracks and crevices and are more likely to be found in kitchens or bathrooms where food and warmth are readily available.

Why Winter Pests Persist in Vancouver

Despite Vancouver’s milder winters compared to other regions in Canada, the city’s high humidity levels and relatively stable indoor temperatures allow pests to thrive indoors. The presence of warm, insulated homes and buildings also provides ideal shelter and breeding grounds. Additionally, Vancouver’s relatively mild outdoor conditions in the winter may not be severe enough to kill off many pests, making it an ongoing concern for residents.

Taking preventative measures, such as sealing cracks and ensuring proper insulation, can help mitigate the intrusion of these pests during the colder months.

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The Worst Winter Pests in Vancouver