Yearly Archive July 10, 2026

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Bald-Faced Hornets in the Lower Mainland of BC: What Every Homeowner Should Know

If you’ve noticed a large black-and-white flying insect buzzing around your yard this summer, chances are you’ve encountered a bald-faced hornet. Despite their name, bald-faced hornets aren’t true hornets—they’re actually a type of aerial yellowjacket wasp native to British Columbia. They are common throughout the Lower Mainland, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, Delta, Langley, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford, and surrounding communities.

At Go Green Pest Control, we safely remove bald-faced hornet nests throughout the Lower Mainland. If you discover a nest on your property, call 778-886-4111 for fast, professional service.

What Do Bald-Faced Hornets Look Like?

Bald-faced hornets are easy to identify by their distinctive appearance:

  • Black body with bold white markings on the face and abdomen
  • Approximately 15–20 mm (¾ inch) long
  • Fast, powerful flyers
  • Build large grey, football-shaped paper nests

Many people mistake them for the invasive Northern Giant Hornet (formerly called the Asian Giant Hornet), but bald-faced hornets are a native species in British Columbia. Provincial authorities identify them as one of the insects most commonly mistaken for invasive hornets.

Where Do They Build Their Nests?

Bald-faced hornets construct impressive paper nests using chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva.

Common nesting locations include:

  • Cedar hedges
  • Trees and shrubs
  • House eaves
  • Decks and patios
  • Garages
  • Sheds
  • Play structures
  • Dense landscaping

In the Lower Mainland, nests often begin in late spring and can grow to the size of a basketball—or even larger—by late summer.

Are Bald-Faced Hornets Dangerous?

While bald-faced hornets are beneficial predators that feed on flies, caterpillars, aphids, and other insects, they become highly defensive when protecting their nest.

Unlike honeybees, they can sting multiple times without dying. If a nest is disturbed, dozens of workers may attack at once.

Their stings can cause:

  • Immediate intense pain
  • Swelling and redness
  • Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
  • Multiple stings if the colony feels threatened

Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, facial swelling, dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction after being stung should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Why Are Bald-Faced Hornets More Active in Late Summer?

Homeowners often notice more hornets during August and September.

By late summer:

  • Colonies reach their largest size
  • Hundreds of workers are actively foraging
  • Food demand increases
  • Hornets become more defensive around their nest

This is also when accidental encounters become more common as people work in their gardens, trim hedges, or enjoy their patios.

Should You Remove the Nest Yourself?

DIY removal is not recommended.

Store-bought sprays often fail to eliminate the entire colony and can agitate the insects, increasing the risk of multiple stings. Climbing ladders while dealing with aggressive hornets adds another level of danger.

Professional pest control technicians have the proper protective equipment and treatment methods to safely eliminate nests.

Eco-Responsible Hornet Control

At Go Green Pest Control, we focus on targeted treatments that eliminate the nest while minimizing unnecessary pesticide use.

Our technicians:

  • Identify the species correctly
  • Locate the entire colony
  • Apply professional treatments safely
  • Remove or deactivate the nest
  • Help prevent future nesting around your property

Our goal is to protect your family, pets, and property while using responsible pest management practices.

Tips to Reduce Hornet Activity Around Your Home

Although you can’t prevent every nest, these simple steps can reduce the chances of attracting bald-faced hornets:

  • Inspect your property regularly during spring and early summer.
  • Trim overgrown hedges and trees.
  • Seal openings around sheds and outbuildings.
  • Keep garbage bins tightly closed.
  • Clean up fallen fruit from trees.
  • Avoid disturbing any paper nests you discover.

Early detection makes removal much easier and safer.

Serving the Entire Lower Mainland

Go Green Pest Control proudly serves homeowners and businesses throughout:

  • Vancouver
  • Burnaby
  • Richmond
  • Delta
  • Surrey
  • Langley
  • White Rock
  • Coquitlam
  • Port Coquitlam
  • Port Moody
  • Maple Ridge
  • Pitt Meadows
  • Abbotsford
  • Mission
  • New Westminster
  • North Vancouver
  • West Vancouver

Need Bald-Faced Hornet Removal?

If you’ve found a hornet nest on your property, don’t take chances.

Go Green Pest Control provides prompt, professional bald-faced hornet removal throughout the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.

Call 778-886-4111 today to schedule an inspection or emergency hornet nest removal.

Protect your family and enjoy your outdoor space with safe, reliable pest control from your local experts.

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

How to Spot Bed Bugs While Traveling: Protect Your Vacation and Your Home

Traveling should create great memories—not unwanted pests. Unfortunately, bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers that can travel home with you in your luggage, clothing, and personal belongings. Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel, budget motel, vacation rental, or cruise ship, it’s always worth taking a few minutes to inspect your room before unpacking.

At Go Green Pest Control, we’ve helped many homeowners deal with bed bug infestations that started after a vacation or business trip. The good news is that a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.

Why Travelers Should Watch for Bed Bugs

Bed bugs don’t care if a hotel is expensive or inexpensive. They are attracted to people, not dirt or clutter, and they can be found anywhere guests come and go frequently.

Since bed bugs are small and hide during the day, it’s easy to overlook them until they have already made their way home with you.

How to Check Your Hotel Room for Bed Bugs

Before placing your luggage on the bed or floor, inspect the room carefully.

1. Keep Your Luggage Off the Bed

Place your suitcase in the bathroom or on a hard surface while you inspect the room. Bathrooms are one of the least likely places to find bed bugs.

2. Inspect the Mattress

Pull back the sheets and look closely at:

  • Mattress seams
  • Mattress tags
  • Corners of the mattress
  • Box spring edges
  • Under fitted sheets

Look for:

  • Live bed bugs (about the size of an apple seed)
  • Tiny white eggs
  • Dark black spots (bed bug droppings)
  • Rust-colored stains from crushed bugs
  • Shed skins left behind as bed bugs grow

3. Check the Headboard

Bed bugs often hide behind headboards because they stay close to sleeping people. If possible, shine your phone flashlight around the edges and behind the headboard.

4. Examine Nearby Furniture

Check:

  • Nightstands
  • Upholstered chairs
  • Sofa cushions
  • Luggage racks
  • Curtain folds
  • Cracks in furniture

Bed bugs prefer tight hiding places close to where people sleep.

5. Watch for Signs of Activity

Even if you don’t see live bugs, evidence such as dark spotting, shed skins, or tiny eggs may indicate an active infestation.

Smart Habits During Your Stay

While you’re staying at your destination:

  • Keep luggage on a luggage rack away from walls whenever possible.
  • Avoid placing clothing on the floor.
  • Store dirty laundry in sealed plastic bags.
  • Keep suitcases zipped when not in use.
  • Avoid leaving personal belongings on upholstered furniture.

These small habits can help prevent bed bugs from climbing into your belongings.

What to Do Before You Leave

Before packing for home:

  • Inspect your suitcase.
  • Shake out clothing.
  • Check shoes and backpacks.
  • Look inside suitcase pockets and seams.
  • Seal dirty clothes in plastic bags.

A quick inspection can help catch hitchhiking bed bugs before they travel home with you.

What to Do When You Get Home

The first hour after returning home is the best time to prevent an infestation.

Don’t Bring Luggage Straight Into the Bedroom

Unpack in the garage, laundry room, or another area away from bedrooms if possible.

Wash Everything

Wash all clothing—even items you didn’t wear—in hot water whenever the fabric allows.

Dry on High Heat

Place clothing in the dryer on the hottest setting the fabric can safely handle for at least 30 minutes. Heat is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs and their eggs.

Vacuum Your Suitcase

Pay close attention to:

  • Zippers
  • Seams
  • Pockets
  • Wheels
  • Handles

Dispose of the vacuum contents immediately in an outdoor garbage bin.

Inspect Your Luggage

Use a flashlight to carefully examine every seam and compartment before storing your suitcase.

Watch for Warning Signs at Home

Over the next several weeks, be alert for:

  • Itchy bites that appear overnight
  • Small blood spots on sheets
  • Tiny black spots on mattresses
  • Live bed bugs around the bed
  • Shed skins or eggs

Early detection makes treatment faster, less expensive, and more successful.

If You Suspect Bed Bugs

Avoid moving furniture from room to room or trying to solve the problem with store-bought sprays. These products often scatter bed bugs into new hiding places, making the infestation harder to eliminate.

Professional inspection and treatment offer the best chance of completely removing bed bugs from your home.

Go Green Pest Control Can Help

If you’ve recently traveled and think you may have brought home bed bugs, don’t wait until the infestation spreads.

At Go Green Pest Control, we provide professional bed bug inspections and effective treatment solutions to help protect your home and your family. We proudly serve homeowners with prompt, reliable, and environmentally responsible pest control services.

Go Green Pest Control

Phone: 778-886-4111

If you suspect bed bugs or need a professional inspection, contact us today. Early action can save you time, money, and the stress of a larger infestation.

https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/how-to-spot-bed-…on-and-your-home

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Wasp Removal Surrey, Delta & the Lower Mainland: Wasp vs. Hornet – Which One Is the Meanest?

When homeowners call Go Green Pest Control, one of the most common questions we hear is:

“Is that a wasp or a hornet… and which one is more aggressive?”

The truth is that both insects can become dangerous when they build nests around your home or business. If you’re searching for Wasp Removal Surrey, Hornet Nest Removal Delta, or Wasp Control Langley, understanding the difference can help you protect your family before someone gets stung.

Wasp vs. Hornet: What’s the Difference?

Many people think hornets are completely different insects, but they’re actually one of the largest members of the wasp family.

Wasps

The wasps most homeowners encounter in British Columbia are usually yellowjackets or paper wasps.

They are:

  • Smaller than hornets
  • Bright yellow and black
  • Extremely protective of their nests
  • Able to sting multiple times

You’ll often find wasp nests:

  • Under decks
  • Inside sheds
  • In roof eaves
  • Underground
  • Inside walls
  • Around fences and retaining walls

These are the pests most commonly requiring Wasp Removal in Surrey, Langley, Richmond, Burnaby, Delta, and Vancouver.

Hornets

Hornets are much larger than yellowjackets and have thicker bodies with powerful jaws.

Although they aren’t seen as often in the Lower Mainland, hornets build large paper nests in:

  • Trees
  • Bushes
  • Attics
  • Roof overhangs
  • Garages

If disturbed, hornets will aggressively defend their colony and can sting repeatedly.

Many homeowners searching for Hornet Nest Removal Delta or Hornet Removal Surrey contact us after discovering a large football-shaped nest hanging from a tree or roofline.

Which One Is Meaner?

The Winner Is… Yellowjackets.

Despite their smaller size, yellowjackets are generally far more aggressive toward people than hornets.

They will:

  • Chase people long distances
  • Swarm quickly
  • Sting multiple times
  • Defend their nest without hesitation

They’re especially aggressive during late summer and early fall, when food becomes scarce.

This is why yellowjacket nest removal is one of the most requested pest control services throughout Surrey, Langley, Delta, Richmond, and the Greater Vancouver area.

Are Hornets More Dangerous?

Hornets have a painful sting because they’re larger, but they usually don’t seek out people unless their nest is threatened.

However, if you accidentally disturb a hornet nest while:

  • Pruning trees
  • Cleaning gutters
  • Working on your roof
  • Painting your home
  • Mowing the lawn

they may attack as a group to protect their colony.

Can Wasps Sting More Than Once?

Yes.

Unlike honeybees, both wasps and hornets have smooth stingers, allowing them to sting repeatedly.

For most people, the sting causes:

  • Sharp pain
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Itching

However, anyone with an allergy to stinging insects should seek emergency medical attention immediately if they experience:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the throat or face
  • Dizziness
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Widespread hives

Why DIY Wasp Removal Can Be Dangerous

Every year, homeowners attempt to spray, knock down, or burn nests themselves.

Unfortunately, these methods often make the insects extremely aggressive.

Professional technicians wear specialized protective equipment and use treatment methods designed to eliminate the colony safely while reducing the risk of painful stings.

How to Prevent Wasps Around Your Home

A few simple steps can reduce your chances of attracting wasps:

  • Keep garbage bins tightly sealed.
  • Clean outdoor recycling containers regularly.
  • Remove fallen fruit from trees.
  • Keep barbecue areas clean.
  • Seal openings around siding, soffits, and vents.
  • Inspect decks, sheds, fences, and rooflines during spring before nests become established.

Early treatment is easier, safer, and much less expensive than dealing with a fully developed colony.

Professional Wasp Removal Throughout the Lower Mainland

Go Green Pest Control provides fast, professional wasp and hornet removal for residential and commercial properties throughout:

  • Surrey
  • Delta
  • Langley
  • Richmond
  • Burnaby
  • Vancouver
  • Coquitlam
  • Port Coquitlam
  • Port Moody
  • New Westminster
  • White Rock
  • Maple Ridge
  • Pitt Meadows
  • North Vancouver
  • West Vancouver
  • Abbotsford
  • Mission
  • Chilliwack

Whether you need Wasp Removal Surrey, Hornet Nest Removal Delta, Wasp Control Langley, or emergency nest removal anywhere in the Lower Mainland, our experienced technicians can safely locate, treat, and remove the colony.

Call Go Green Pest Control Today

Don’t wait until someone gets stung.

If you’ve noticed increased wasp activity or discovered a nest on your property, contact Go Green Pest Control for fast, safe, and effective service.

📞 Call 778-886-4111 today

We proudly provide environmentally responsible wasp and hornet control services throughout Surrey, Delta, Langley, Richmond, Burnaby, Vancouver, and communities across the Lower Mainland.

https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/wasp-removal-sur…e-is-the-meanest

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Mice in Your House? Expert Mouse Control for Vancouver & the Lower Mainland

If you’ve noticed scratching in the walls, mouse droppings in your pantry, or a mouse running across your floor, you’re not alone. Mouse infestations are one of the most common pest problems for homeowners throughout Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, Surrey, Delta, Langley, Coquitlam, and communities across the Lower Mainland.

At Go Green Pest Control, we provide professional mouse control services that help homeowners eliminate mice, protect their property, and prevent future infestations using effective, environmentally responsible pest management solutions.

Why Are Mice Entering Homes in the Lower Mainland?

Mice are active year-round, but infestations often increase during the fall and winter as temperatures drop. Homes throughout Metro Vancouver provide everything mice need to survive:

  • Warm shelter
  • Easy access to food
  • Water sources
  • Safe places to build nests

Whether you live in an older home in Vancouver, a townhouse in Richmond, a newer subdivision in Langley, or a rural property in Delta, mice are constantly searching for places to settle.

Even clean, well-maintained homes can become targets.

How Do Mice Get Into Your Home?

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a mouse can squeeze through an opening only about 6–7 mm wide—roughly the size of a dime.

Common entry points include:

  • Cracks in foundations
  • Gaps around utility pipes
  • Openings around electrical cables
  • Damaged weather stripping
  • Garage doors
  • Roof vents
  • Dryer and bathroom exhaust vents
  • Crawl space vents
  • Gaps beneath exterior doors

Once inside, mice typically travel along walls, behind kitchen cabinets, inside ceilings, attics, crawl spaces, and basements.

Why Are Mouse Problems Common in Metro Vancouver?

The Lower Mainland’s mild climate allows mice to remain active throughout the year. Unlike colder regions where rodents slow down during winter, mice in Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, Surrey, Coquitlam, Delta, and Langley continue breeding and searching for food in every season.

Urban development also pushes rodents from fields, green spaces, and construction sites into nearby neighbourhoods, making residential infestations increasingly common.

Homes located near parks, rivers, farms, forests, and greenbelts are often at greater risk.

Signs You May Have Mice

A mouse infestation usually starts quietly. Common warning signs include:

  • Small black droppings in cupboards, drawers, or pantries
  • Scratching sounds inside walls or ceilings, especially at night
  • Gnaw marks on food containers, wood, or electrical wiring
  • Shredded paper or insulation used for nesting
  • Greasy marks along walls where mice travel
  • A musky odour in hidden areas
  • Pets paying unusual attention to certain walls or cabinets

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly before the population grows.

Why Mice Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Mice are more than an inconvenience. They can create serious problems inside your home.

They may:

  • Contaminate food with urine and droppings
  • Spread bacteria and other disease-causing organisms
  • Damage insulation
  • Chew through drywall and wood
  • Destroy stored belongings
  • Damage electrical wiring, increasing the risk of fire
  • Reproduce rapidly, leading to larger infestations in a matter of weeks

A single pair of mice can multiply into dozens in just a few months if left untreated.

What To Do If You Find Mice

If you suspect mice in your home:

  • Store food in sealed containers.
  • Clean crumbs and spills promptly.
  • Keep storage areas organized and reduce clutter.
  • Seal visible cracks and openings around the exterior.
  • Avoid relying only on store-bought traps if activity continues.

While traps can reduce activity temporarily, they rarely eliminate an entire infestation if nesting sites and entry points remain hidden.

A professional inspection can identify where mice are entering and help prevent them from returning.

How to Prevent Mice From Coming Back

Prevention is the most effective long-term solution.

Homeowners should:

  • Inspect the exterior of the home regularly.
  • Replace damaged weather stripping.
  • Seal openings around plumbing and utilities.
  • Keep shrubs and tree branches trimmed away from the house.
  • Store firewood away from exterior walls.
  • Keep garbage bins tightly sealed.
  • Store pet food and bird seed in rodent-proof containers.
  • Schedule regular inspections if you’ve experienced mouse problems before.

Taking these steps can significantly reduce the chances of another infestation.

Why Choose Go Green Pest Control?

At Go Green Pest Control, we understand the unique pest challenges facing homeowners throughout Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, Surrey, Delta, Langley, Coquitlam, and the Lower Mainland.

Our experienced technicians provide:

  • Thorough home inspections
  • Professional mouse removal
  • Identification of entry points
  • Effective trapping and control strategies
  • Recommendations for exclusion and long-term prevention
  • Environmentally responsible pest management whenever possible

Our goal is not only to remove mice but to help ensure they don’t return.

Serving Homeowners Across the Lower Mainland

Go Green Pest Control proudly serves residential and commercial customers throughout:

  • Vancouver
  • Richmond
  • Burnaby
  • Surrey
  • Delta
  • Langley
  • Coquitlam
  • Port Coquitlam
  • Port Moody
  • New Westminster
  • Maple Ridge
  • Pitt Meadows
  • White Rock
  • North Vancouver
  • West Vancouver
  • Tsawwassen
  • Ladner
  • Abbotsford and surrounding communities

Wherever you are in the Lower Mainland, our team is ready to help.

Contact Go Green Pest Control Today

If you’ve seen signs of mice, heard scratching in your walls, or want to protect your home before an infestation becomes serious, contact Go Green Pest Control today.

Phone: 778-886-4111

Our knowledgeable team provides fast, reliable mouse control services throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, helping homeowners enjoy a cleaner, safer, and rodent-free home.

https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/mice-in-your-hou…e-lower-mainland

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mice-your-house-expert-mouse-control-vancouver-lower-mainland-randy-uebpc

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Fleas in Your Home and Home: Why They’re There and How to Get Rid of Them

Few pests are as frustrating as fleas. These tiny insects can quickly turn your yard into an uncomfortable space and your home into an itchy nightmare for both people and pets. If you’ve noticed flea bites or your pets are scratching more than usual, it’s important to act quickly before the infestation grows.

At Go Green Pest Control, we help homeowners eliminate flea infestations safely and effectively throughout the Lower Mainland. If you’re dealing with fleas, call 778-886-4111 for professional assistance.

Why Do I Have Fleas?

Fleas don’t just appear out of nowhere. They are usually introduced by animals that visit your property.

Common sources include:

  • Dogs and cats
  • Raccoons
  • Squirrels
  • Rats and mice
  • Skunks
  • Opossums
  • Wildlife nesting under decks or sheds

Even if you don’t own pets, neighbourhood animals and wildlife can leave fleas behind in your yard. Once fleas establish themselves outdoors, they can easily hitch a ride into your home on shoes, clothing, or pets.

Where Do Fleas Live in Your Yard?

Fleas prefer cool, shaded, and humid areas where they are protected from direct sunlight.

Common hiding places include:

  • Under decks and porches
  • Tall grass
  • Dense shrubs
  • Leaf piles
  • Wood piles
  • Along fences
  • Areas where pets frequently rest
  • Places where wildlife sleeps or nests

A single female flea can lay dozens of eggs every day, allowing populations to explode in a surprisingly short period of time.

How Do Fleas Get Into Your Home?

Once fleas are established outdoors, they often find their way inside.

They commonly enter by:

  • Riding on dogs or cats
  • Clinging to clothing or shoes
  • Hitching rides on wildlife entering attics or crawl spaces
  • Moving indoors during warm weather

Inside the home, fleas hide in:

  • Carpets
  • Area rugs
  • Upholstered furniture
  • Pet bedding
  • Hardwood floor cracks
  • Baseboards

Because flea eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults all develop in different locations, eliminating only the visible adult fleas rarely solves the problem.

Signs You Have a Flea Infestation

You may have fleas if you notice:

  • Pets scratching excessively
  • Small, itchy bites around your ankles or lower legs
  • Tiny jumping insects on carpets or furniture
  • Flea dirt (small black specks) on your pet’s fur
  • Increased pest activity after wildlife has visited your yard

The earlier fleas are treated, the easier they are to eliminate.

How to Get Rid of Fleas

Successful flea control requires treating both the yard and the home.

1. Treat Your Pets

Your veterinarian can recommend safe flea treatments for dogs and cats. Without treating pets, fleas will continue to reproduce.

2. Vacuum Frequently

Vacuum:

  • Carpets
  • Furniture
  • Baseboards
  • Pet sleeping areas

Dispose of the vacuum contents immediately after cleaning.

3. Wash Bedding

Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and washable fabrics in hot water.

4. Reduce Outdoor Habitat

Keep your yard less inviting by:

  • Mowing regularly
  • Removing leaf litter
  • Trimming dense shrubs
  • Limiting wildlife access
  • Keeping pet resting areas clean

5. Professional Flea Treatment

Heavy infestations often require professional pest control because flea eggs and pupae are resistant to many over-the-counter products.

Professional treatments target every stage of the flea life cycle, helping prevent reinfestation.

Why DIY Flea Treatments Often Fail

Many store-bought sprays kill only adult fleas.

The eggs and pupae remain hidden in carpets, soil, furniture, and shaded areas outdoors. As they hatch, the infestation starts all over again.

Professional pest control combines targeted products, proper application techniques, and follow-up treatments when necessary to break the flea life cycle.

Preventing Future Flea Problems

After treatment, you can reduce the chances of fleas returning by:

  • Keeping pets on veterinarian-approved flea prevention
  • Regularly mowing your lawn
  • Removing wildlife attractants
  • Cleaning pet bedding frequently
  • Vacuuming regularly
  • Sealing openings that allow wildlife under decks or into crawl spaces

Routine maintenance goes a long way toward keeping fleas from becoming an ongoing problem.

Trust Go Green Pest Control

At Go Green Pest Control, we understand how stressful flea infestations can be. We provide professional flea control solutions for both residential and commercial properties using effective treatment methods designed to eliminate fleas at every stage of their life cycle.

Whether the infestation started in your yard or has spread throughout your home, our experienced technicians can identify the source and develop a treatment plan tailored to your property.

If you’re tired of itchy bites and scratching pets, we’re here to help.

Call Go Green Pest Control today at 778-886-4111 to schedule your professional flea inspection and treatment. We’ll help you take back your home and enjoy your yard again.

https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/fleas-in-your-ho…-get-rid-of-them

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fleas-your-home-why-theyre-how-get-rid-them-randy-bilesky-dh18c

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Title: Protect Your Family from Mosquitoes and Ticks with the Right Insect Repellent

Summer in British Columbia means spending more time outdoors, but it also brings mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. While professional pest control helps reduce pest populations around your home, using the right insect repellent is an important part of protecting yourself and your family during outdoor activities.

At Go Green Pest Control, we help homeowners throughout the Lower Mainland reduce mosquito breeding areas and control unwanted pests. If you’re planning to hike, camp, garden, or simply enjoy your backyard, here are some important tips for choosing and using insect repellents.

Which Insect Repellents Work Best?

Not all insect repellents provide the same level of protection. Independent laboratory testing consistently shows that repellents containing the following active ingredients offer the best defense against mosquitoes and ticks:

  • DEET (25%–30%) – Provides the longest-lasting and most reliable protection.
  • Picaridin (20%) – An effective alternative for those who prefer not to use DEET.
  • Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) (30%) – A plant-derived option that offers strong protection for adults and children over three years old.

Many products made with essential oils such as citronella, peppermint, or soybean oil generally provide much shorter protection and often require frequent reapplication.

Why the Active Ingredient Matters

The effectiveness of an insect repellent depends more on its active ingredient and concentration than its brand or packaging. Products with 25% to 30% DEET consistently provide several hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks.

While picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus can also perform well, not every product containing these ingredients offers the same level of protection. Always read product labels carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tips for Applying Insect Repellent Safely

To maximize protection:

  • Apply repellent evenly to exposed skin.
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and irritated skin.
  • Spray onto your hands before applying to your face.
  • Adults should apply repellent to young children.
  • Wash treated skin after returning indoors.
  • Reapply only as directed on the product label.

Repellents containing DEET should not be used on infants younger than two months. Oil of lemon eucalyptus products are generally not recommended for children under three years of age.

Repellent Helps—but Pest Control Provides Longer-Term Protection

Personal insect repellent protects you while you’re outdoors, but it doesn’t reduce mosquito populations around your property. Standing water, clogged gutters, bird baths, and overgrown vegetation create ideal breeding and resting areas for mosquitoes.

Professional pest management helps identify and eliminate these conditions, making your outdoor spaces more enjoyable throughout the season.

At Go Green Pest Control, we use environmentally responsible methods to help control mosquitoes and other nuisance pests while protecting your family, pets, and the environment.

Reduce Mosquitoes Around Your Home

You can also help reduce mosquito activity by:

  • Emptying standing water from containers every few days.
  • Cleaning gutters regularly.
  • Keeping grass and shrubs trimmed.
  • Refreshing bird baths frequently.
  • Repairing window and door screens.
  • Using outdoor fans on patios, as mosquitoes are weak fliers.

Combining these simple steps with professional pest control and quality insect repellent provides the best overall protection.

Need Professional Mosquito or Pest Control?

If mosquitoes, ants, wasps, rodents, or other pests are taking over your property, Go Green Pest Control is here to help.

We proudly provide safe, effective residential and commercial pest control services throughout Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

Go Green Pest Control
📞 778-886-4111
🌐 www.gogreenpestcontrol.ca

Contact us today to schedule an inspection and enjoy a safer, more comfortable outdoor season.

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Bats and Rabies in British Columbia: Protect Your Home and Your Family

A bat flying through your home may seem like a minor nuisance, but it can be a serious health concern. In British Columbia, bats are the wildlife species most commonly associated with rabies exposure in humans. Although only a small percentage of bats carry the virus, even a single bite or scratch can require urgent medical attention.

The good news is that rabies is almost entirely preventable when a potential exposure is recognized and treated quickly. The key is knowing what to do—and who to call.

If you’ve discovered a bat in your home, attic, garage, or other building, don’t take unnecessary risks. The team at Go Green Pest Control provides safe, humane bat exclusion services that help protect your family, your pets, and your property. Call 778-886-4111 to schedule a professional inspection and keep your home bat-free.

By the Team at Go Green Pest Control

Finding a bat in your home can be alarming. While bats play an important role in British Columbia’s ecosystem by consuming thousands of insects every night, they can also present a health risk when they enter homes or have close contact with people or pets.

At Go Green Pest Control, we help homeowners throughout British Columbia safely remove bats from their properties while protecting both your family and local wildlife. If you suspect bats have entered your attic, walls, or living space, call us at 778-886-4111 for professional assistance.

Do Bats in British Columbia Carry Rabies?

Although only a small percentage of bats carry the rabies virus, bats are the most common source of human rabies exposure in Canada. Because a bat’s teeth are very small, a bite may not leave an obvious mark. For this reason, any direct contact with a bat should be taken seriously.

Public health authorities recommend seeking immediate medical advice if:

  • A bat bites or scratches you.
  • You wake up and find a bat in your bedroom.
  • A bat is found in a room with a sleeping person, young child, or someone who may not be able to report a bite.
  • A pet has had contact with a bat.

Prompt medical assessment can determine whether rabies post-exposure treatment is needed.

How Serious Is Rabies?

Rabies is one of the most serious viral diseases affecting humans. Once symptoms develop, the disease is almost always fatal. The good news is that rabies is preventable when medical treatment is started promptly after a potential exposure.

This is why every possible bat exposure should be treated seriously. Acting quickly can make all the difference.

Signs and Stages of Rabies in Humans

Rabies does not cause symptoms immediately. The virus can take weeks or even months to travel through the body before illness develops.

Early Symptoms

The first symptoms often resemble the flu and may include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Pain, tingling, or numbness near the bite or scratch site

As the virus reaches the brain, symptoms become much more severe.

Advanced Illness

As rabies progresses, a person may develop:

  • Anxiety or confusion
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive saliva production
  • Muscle spasms
  • Agitation
  • Paralysis
  • Difficulty breathing

Once these neurological symptoms appear, treatment is generally no longer effective. This is why immediate medical evaluation after any possible exposure is critical.

How to Protect Yourself from Bat-Related Rabies

You can greatly reduce your risk by following a few simple precautions:

  • Never touch a bat with bare hands.
  • Teach children never to pick up injured or grounded bats.
  • Keep pets vaccinated against rabies.
  • Seal openings around your home’s roofline, vents, soffits, chimneys, and siding.
  • Install chimney caps and properly screened attic vents.
  • Contact a professional if bats are roosting inside your home.

If you discover a bat indoors, isolate the room if possible, keep people and pets away, and contact a professional for safe removal.

Why DIY Bat Removal Isn’t Recommended

Removing bats without proper equipment can increase your risk of bites or scratches. In addition, bats are protected wildlife, and improper exclusion methods can trap young bats inside structures or cause unnecessary harm.

Professional bat exclusion focuses on safely allowing bats to leave while preventing them from returning.

Signs You May Have Bats in Your Home

Watch for these common indicators:

  • Scratching or fluttering sounds in the attic around dusk or dawn
  • Bats flying around your roofline at sunset
  • Small dark droppings (guano) in the attic or near entry points
  • Brown or black staining around gaps where bats enter
  • Strong ammonia-like odours from accumulated guano

Early intervention helps prevent larger colonies from becoming established.

Why Choose Go Green Pest Control?

At Go Green Pest Control, we use responsible, humane bat exclusion methods designed to solve the problem while respecting British Columbia’s wildlife regulations.

Our experienced team will:

  • Inspect your property to locate bat entry points.
  • Safely remove and exclude bats.
  • Seal potential entry areas.
  • Provide recommendations to help prevent future infestations.
  • Help homeowners understand when medical follow-up may be appropriate after potential exposure.

If you’ve found a bat in your home or suspect bats are living in your attic, don’t wait.

Call Go Green Pest Control today at 778-886-4111 for professional bat removal and exclusion services.

Protect Your Family Before a Small Bat Problem Becomes a Big One

Bats are valuable members of our ecosystem, but they do not belong inside your home. Professional removal protects your family, your pets, and the bats themselves.

Contact Go Green Pest Control at 778-886-4111 to schedule an inspection and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a safe, bat-free home.

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Wasp & Hornet Nests in the Lower Mainland: How Big Can They Get and When Should You Be Concerned?

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As temperatures rise across the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, wasps and hornets become increasingly active. What begins as a tiny nest in spring can grow into a massive colony by late summer, creating a serious nuisance—and in some cases, a safety hazard for your family, pets, and visitors.

At Go Green Pest Control, we remove wasp and hornet nests safely and efficiently throughout Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

How Large Can Wasp Nests Get?

Many homeowners are surprised at how quickly a wasp nest can grow.

A nest that starts in April or May with a single queen may contain:

  • Several hundred workers by early summer.
  • Over 2,000 to 5,000 wasps by late August or September.
  • Football-sized or even basketball-sized paper nests in protected locations.

Some exceptionally large nests found in barns, sheds, attics, or covered decks can exceed 50 cm (20 inches) across when conditions are ideal.

The longer a nest remains undisturbed, the larger and more aggressive the colony becomes.

What About Hornets?

In British Columbia, homeowners often refer to large yellowjackets as “hornets.” While true hornets are not established in the Lower Mainland, Bald-faced Hornets are commonly seen. They are actually a large species of yellowjacket that builds impressive enclosed paper nests in trees, shrubs, eaves, and occasionally on buildings.

Their colonies can contain several hundred workers and become highly defensive if disturbed.

Why the Lower Mainland Is Ideal for Wasps

The Lower Mainland provides excellent conditions for wasps because of:

  • Mild winters that allow many queens to survive.
  • Warm springs that encourage early nest building.
  • Long summers that extend colony growth.
  • Plenty of food sources including garbage, fruit trees, hummingbird feeders, compost bins, pet food, and outdoor dining areas.
  • Numerous sheltered nesting locations around homes.

This combination often results in particularly active wasp seasons.

Common Nesting Locations

Wasps commonly build nests:

  • Under decks
  • Inside sheds
  • Beneath roof eaves
  • Inside wall cavities
  • In attics
  • Around play structures
  • In hedges and shrubs
  • Underground in abandoned rodent burrows
  • Inside fence posts and retaining walls

Many nests remain hidden until the colony has become quite large.

Why Wasps Become More Aggressive in Late Summer

One of the most common questions we receive is why wasps suddenly seem “angry” in August and September.

Late in the season:

  • Colonies are at their largest.
  • Natural food sources begin to decline.
  • Worker wasps aggressively search for sugary foods and protein.
  • They become increasingly protective of the nest.

This is why backyard barbecues, patios, parks, and outdoor events often experience increased wasp activity during late summer.

Should You Remove a Wasp Nest Yourself?

Small, visible nests early in the season may appear easy to remove, but disturbing an active colony can provoke hundreds of defensive wasps within seconds.

DIY sprays often fail to eliminate the entire colony, especially when nests are hidden inside walls, attics, underground, or beneath decks.

If anyone in your household has allergies to stings, attempting removal yourself can be particularly dangerous.

Professional treatment helps ensure the colony is eliminated safely while reducing the risk of repeated stings.

Preventing Future Nests

While no property can be completely wasp-proof, you can reduce the chances of attracting colonies by:

  • Keeping garbage bins tightly sealed.
  • Cleaning up fallen fruit.
  • Covering compost bins.
  • Sealing openings into sheds and wall voids.
  • Inspecting eaves and rooflines each spring.
  • Removing small starter nests before they become established.

Regular property inspections can often identify nests before they grow into major infestations.

Call Go Green Pest Control

If you’ve noticed heavy wasp activity around your home or discovered a nest on your property, don’t wait until it grows larger.

Go Green Pest Control provides professional wasp and hornet nest removal throughout the Lower Mainland using safe, effective treatment methods designed to protect your family and property.

Call 778-886-4111 today to schedule an inspection or wasp nest removal service.

The sooner a nest is treated, the safer and easier it is to eliminate.

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Fleas in Your Backyard? Raccoons Living Under Sheds Could Be the Hidden Cause

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If you’re noticing fleas in your backyard, your pets are constantly scratching, or you’ve started finding fleas inside your home, the problem may not be your dog or cat. One of the most common hidden sources of flea infestations is wildlife—especially raccoons that have taken up residence under a shed, deck, or other outdoor structure.

At Go Green Pest Control, we help homeowners identify the source of flea infestations and eliminate the problem safely and effectively.

How Raccoons Bring Fleas Into Your Yard

Raccoons are frequent visitors to residential neighborhoods. They often seek shelter beneath sheds, decks, porches, and crawl spaces where they can safely raise their young. Unfortunately, raccoons commonly carry fleas.

As raccoons move in and out of their den, fleas drop into the surrounding soil, grass, and shaded areas. Once a raccoon leaves—or is removed—the hungry fleas remain behind, waiting for a new host. Pets and people walking through the yard can quickly become targets.

Signs Fleas May Be Coming From Wildlife

You may have a wildlife-related flea problem if you notice:

  • Pets picking up fleas after spending time in the backyard.
  • Flea bites on your ankles or lower legs while gardening or mowing the lawn.
  • Fleas concentrated near a shed, deck, or fence line.
  • Evidence of raccoons, such as overturned garbage, footprints, droppings, or noises under a structure.
  • Fleas returning despite treating your pets.

Why Flea Problems Often Get Worse After Wildlife Leaves

Many homeowners are surprised to discover a flea infestation after raccoons have disappeared.

Here’s why: fleas feed on the raccoon while it lives under your shed. Once the animal is gone, thousands of flea eggs, larvae, and pupae remain in the nesting area. Without their original host, adult fleas begin searching for a new food source—which is often your family or pets.

Professional Flea and Wildlife Solutions

Successful flea control means treating both the fleas and the source of the infestation.

At Go Green Pest Control, we can:

  • Inspect your property for signs of raccoons and other wildlife.
  • Identify areas where fleas are breeding.
  • Provide professional flea treatments for affected outdoor areas.
  • Recommend exclusion and prevention methods to stop wildlife from returning.
  • Help reduce the risk of fleas spreading into your home.

Preventing Future Flea Infestations

To reduce the chance of fleas returning:

  • Seal openings beneath sheds and decks after confirming no animals are inside.
  • Keep grass trimmed and remove excess debris where fleas thrive.
  • Avoid leaving pet food outdoors.
  • Have pets treated with veterinarian-approved flea prevention.
  • Address wildlife activity before it becomes an infestation.

Call Go Green Pest Control

If you suspect raccoons or other wildlife are causing flea problems in your backyard, don’t wait for the infestation to spread indoors.

Go Green Pest Control provides professional inspections, flea treatments, and wildlife-related pest solutions to help protect your home and family.

Call today: 778-886-4111

Whether you’re dealing with fleas under a shed, raccoons in your yard, or recurring pest problems, our experienced team can help you identify the source and provide effective, environmentally responsible solutions.

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ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Thatching Ants: The Hidden Lawn Destroyers in British Columbia

By Go Green Pest Control
Call: 778-886-4111

A lush, green lawn is something every homeowner takes pride in. Unfortunately, one of the most overlooked threats to healthy grass in British Columbia is the thatching ant. While these insects may seem harmless at first glance, large infestations can cause significant lawn damage, create unsightly mounds, and weaken turf over time.

What Are Thatching Ants?

Thatching ants are common throughout British Columbia and are known for building large colonies beneath lawns, gardens, and landscaped areas. They get their name from the layer of dried grass, needles, and plant material they use to construct their nests.

Unlike carpenter ants, which damage wood structures, thatching ants primarily affect outdoor spaces. However, their nesting habits can be devastating to residential lawns.

How Thatching Ants Damage Lawns

Many homeowners don’t realize they have a thatching ant problem until the damage becomes obvious. These ants can destroy lawns in several ways:

1. Killing Grass Roots

As colonies expand underground, thatching ants tunnel extensively through the soil. These tunnels disrupt root systems, making it difficult for grass to access water and nutrients. Over time, patches of grass become weak, thin, and eventually die.

2. Creating Unsightly Mounds

Large ant colonies push soil to the surface, creating mounds throughout the lawn. These mounds can:

  • Smother surrounding grass
  • Damage lawn equipment
  • Create uneven surfaces
  • Reduce curb appeal

3. Drying Out the Soil

The extensive tunnel networks built by thatching ants alter soil structure and drainage patterns. Grass around the colony often dries out faster, especially during hot summer months.

4. Encouraging Weed Growth

Damaged turf creates open spaces where weeds can establish themselves. As healthy grass declines, invasive weeds often take over affected areas.

Signs You Have Thatching Ants

Watch for these common indicators:

  • Small or large soil mounds throughout the lawn
  • Dead or thinning patches of grass
  • Increased ant activity during warm weather
  • Visible trails of ants moving between nests and food sources
  • Areas of turf that feel loose or unstable underfoot

Early detection can help prevent extensive lawn damage and costly repairs.

Why DIY Treatments Often Fail

Many homeowners attempt to eliminate thatching ants using store-bought sprays or surface treatments. Unfortunately, these products rarely reach the queen or the deep underground chambers where most of the colony resides.

As a result, the colony often survives and quickly rebuilds, causing ongoing lawn damage.

Professional Thatching Ant Control

Effective thatching ant control requires identifying the colony structure, locating active nests, and applying targeted treatments designed to eliminate the entire colony—not just the worker ants seen on the surface.

Professional pest control treatments can:

  • Eliminate active colonies
  • Prevent colony expansion
  • Protect healthy turf
  • Reduce future lawn damage
  • Restore the appearance of your property

Protect Your Lawn Before the Damage Spreads

The longer a thatching ant colony remains untreated, the more extensive the damage can become. Early intervention can save homeowners significant time and money on lawn restoration.

If you’re noticing ant mounds, dead patches of grass, or unusual ant activity on your property, it’s time to have your lawn inspected by a professional.

Contact Go Green Pest Control

Go Green Pest Control provides effective, environmentally responsible ant control solutions throughout the Lower Mainland.

Call today: 778-886-4111

Our experienced technicians can identify the source of the infestation, eliminate active colonies, and help protect your lawn from further damage.

Healthy lawns start with effective pest control.

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