Author Archive Randy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

To manage skunk and raccoon and crow damage to lawns, particularly caused by their search for grubs there are several strategies you can employ:

1. Assessment of Grub Population: Start by assessing the population of white grubs in the soil. You can do this by inspecting nearby undamaged areas or areas that have previously shown signs of grub damage. If the grub population is low, no treatment may be necessary, until it is. Once the pests start tearing up your lawn there is no relief. 
2. Grub Control: If the grub population is high enough to attract skunks and raccoons for feeding, consider implementing grub control measures. There are various methods for controlling grubs, including biological controls.   
3. Physical Barriers: Install physical barriers to deter skunks and raccoons from digging up the lawn. This could include installing lawn mesh barriers around the perimeter of the lawn or covering vulnerable areas with wire mesh or netting.
4. Scare Tactics: Use scare tactics to frighten skunks and raccoons away from the lawn. This could involve using motion-activated lights or sprinkler systems, playing loud country western noises or using strong scents that these animals find unpleasant.

Grubs and raccoons and skunks and crows, and oh what a mess. Chafer grubs are the larvae of chafer beetles, which are common garden pests known for feeding on the roots of grass and other plants. Raccoons and those other two, on the other hand, are omnivorous mammals known for their scavenging habits. By consulting us at Go Green Pest Control we can manage these pests effectively, by addressing both the chafer grub infestation and implementing strategies to deter raccoons, skunks and crows, we can help mitigate damage to your lawn or garden. These animals are opportunistic feeders and may indeed consume chafer grubs if they find them in the soil. They are known to dig up lawns and gardens in search of food, including grubs, insects, small animals, fruits, and vegetables. However, it’s important to note that while these pests may target areas where chafer grubs are present, they typically do not solely rely on them as a food source.

If you’re dealing with chafer grub infestation in your lawn or garden and are concerned about raccoons causing damage while foraging for grubs, here are several measures you can take to address the issue. These include: grub control, physical barriers, secure garbage bins, scare tactics and habitat modification.  

Indeed, warmer temperatures can significantly impact rat behavior and reproduction. Rats are known to breed more frequently in warmer weather conditions. This is because warmer temperatures create a more favorable environment for reproduction and survival of offspring. Warmer weather provides rats with better access to food, water, and shelter, which are essential for successful breeding and raising young. In our regions with milder climates now, rats may breed year-round both indoors and outdoors. However, when temperatures rise, outdoor populations of rats may experience increased breeding activity, leading to larger rat populations overall. It’s important to note that the increase in rat breeding during warmer weather can exacerbate issues related to pest control and public health. Rats are known carriers of various diseases and can cause damage to property and infrastructure. Therefore, implementing effective pest control measures and maintaining proper sanitation practices are crucial for managing rat populations, especially in areas prone to warmer weather conditions. This may include sealing entry points, eliminating food sources, and using traps or baits to control rat populations effectively.

Spider farming for pest control

Spider farming for pest control involves breeding and maintaining populations of spiders that are effective predators of various pests, such as insects and other arthropods. This approach can offer a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Here’s how spider farming for pest control might work:

1. Species selection: Different species of spiders have varying prey preferences and hunting behaviors. Farmers would select species that are known to prey on the target pests in their specific environment. Common pest-eating spider species include jumping spiders, wolf spiders, orb-weavers, and cellar spiders.
2. Habitat management: Spider farms would need to provide suitable habitats for the spiders to thrive. This includes providing appropriate shelter, humidity levels, temperature, and access to prey. Farms might utilize specially designed enclosures or natural environments that mimic the spiders’ natural habitats.
3. Feeding and maintenance: Spiders would need to be regularly fed and cared for to maintain healthy populations. This might involve providing a steady supply of live prey, such as insects or other small arthropods. Farmers would also need to monitor the health and behavior of the spiders and address any issues that arise.
4. Release strategies: Depending on the scale and target of pest control efforts, farmed spiders could be released directly into agricultural fields, greenhouses, or other areas where pest populations are a problem. Alternatively, spiders could be used in conjunction with other pest control methods, such as integrated pest management (IPM), where they complement existing practices rather than serving as the sole means of pest control.
5. Monitoring and evaluation: Farmers would need to monitor the effectiveness of spider populations in controlling pest populations. This might involve regular surveys of pest populations, as well as assessing the health and abundance of spider populations. Adjustments to farming practices may be necessary based on the results of monitoring efforts.

Benefits of spider farming for pest control include:

• Reduced reliance on chemical pesticides, which can have negative environmental and health impacts.
• Targeted control of specific pest species, minimizing damage to crops and reducing the risk of pesticide resistance.
• Promotion of biodiversity by supporting natural predator-prey relationships.
• Potential cost savings for farmers compared to traditional pest control methods.

Overall, while spider farming for pest control shows promise as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to pest management, further research and development are needed to optimize farming practices and address potential challenges.

Carpenter ants typically become more active in the spring and summer months when the weather is warmer. However, there could be several reasons why you’re observing carpenter ants in January:

1. Mild Winter Weather: If the winter temperatures are unusually mild, it could trigger early ant activity. Carpenter ants are more active in warmer conditions.
2. Indoor Nests: Carpenter ants might have established nests inside structures, such as homes, where the temperature is more stable. This allows them to be active even during colder months.
3. Seeking Food: If there is a food source available, carpenter ants may become active earlier. They could be foraging for food within your home or nearby.
4. Colony Growth: Large colonies of carpenter ants may have matured and grown to a size where some individuals are active year-round.

If you are concerned about carpenter ants in your home, it’s advisable to inspect for potential nesting sites and address any conditions that may be attracting them. If the issue persists, consulting with Go Green Pest Control to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Small flying sugar ants are likely referring to a species of ants commonly known as sugar ants or flying ants. It’s important to note that “sugar ant” is a general term that people use for various ant species, and the appearance and behavior can vary.

If you’re dealing with small flying ants in your home, they could be winged reproductive ants, also known as swarmers. These ants are usually looking to establish new colonies, especially during certain times of the year.

To manage small flying sugar ants, consider the following tips:

Identify the Species: Knowing the specific ant species can help you understand their behavior and tailor your control methods accordingly.

Cleanliness: Keep your living space clean, especially in areas where food is stored or prepared. This can help reduce the attractiveness of your home to ants.

Seal Entry Points: Make sure to seal any cracks or openings in doors, windows, and walls to prevent ants from entering your home.

Remove Food Sources: Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs promptly, and avoid leaving open food containers around.

Natural Repellents: Some natural substances, such as cinnamon, vinegar, or lemon, can act as ant repellents. Sprinkle these around entry points or areas where ants are seen.

Professional Help: If the infestation persists, consider seeking help from Go Green Pest Control for more targeted solutions.

Remember that effective ant control may require a combination of these methods.

Skunks may be attracted to your yard for various reasons, and keeping them away involves addressing those factors. Here are some common reasons why skunks might be in your yard and ways to deter them:

1. Food Sources:
   • Garbage: Ensure that your garbage cans are tightly sealed, as skunks are attracted to food scraps.
   • Pet Food: If you have outdoor pets, don’t leave their food bowls outside overnight.
2. Gardens and Lawns:
   • Grubs: Skunks feed on insects, especially grubs. If you have a lawn, treat it for grubs to reduce their presence.
3. Shelter:
   • Under Decks or Porches: Skunks often seek shelter under decks or porches. Seal off these areas to prevent access.
4. Secure Structures:
   • Fencing: Install a fence around your property to keep skunks out. Make sure it extends below the ground to prevent them from digging underneath.
5. Natural Repellents:
   • Citrus Peels: Skunks dislike the smell of citrus. Placing citrus peels in your yard may deter them.
   • Ammonia: Soak rags in ammonia and place them in areas where skunks frequent. However, be cautious as ammonia has a strong odor.
6. Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers:
   • Skunks are nocturnal, and they often prefer dark areas. Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle them and discourage their presence.
7. Professional Assistance:
   • If the skunk problem persists, consider contacting Go Green Pest Control 778-886-4111

Remember to check local regulations before attempting to trap or relocate skunks, as it may require a permit in some areas. Additionally, it’s important to approach the situation with caution, as skunks can spray if they feel threatened.

If you suspect there is a rodent in your wall, attic or crawlspace, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:

1. Listen for Sounds: Try to listen for any scratching or scurrying sounds coming from the wall. Rats are often active at night, so you might hear them more clearly during the evening. Squirrels are active during day light and mice are active all day long.
2. Inspect for Entry Points: Look for any openings or cracks in and around your home, especially near the suspected wall. Rodents can enter through small gaps, so sealing these entry points can prevent further infestation.
3. Set Traps: Consider setting traps to catch the rodent. There are various types of traps available, including snap traps, live traps, and electronic traps. Place them in areas where you suspect rodent activity.
4. Use Bait: Bait the traps with appropriate food, such as peanut butter. This can attract the rodent to the trap.
5. Consult Go Green Pest Control 778-886-4111
6. Clean and Sanitize: Rodents can leave behind droppings and urine, which may pose health risks. Clean and sanitize the affected areas to reduce the chances of disease transmission.
7. Prevent Future Infestations: Take measures to prevent future rodent infestations by keeping food stored in sealed containers, maintaining a clean living environment, and addressing any potential entry points.

Remember, if you’re unsure about how to handle the situation, seeking the help of Go Green Pest Control 778-886-4111 service is a prudent step.

Raccoons, skunks and crows can be a nuisance when they start digging up lawns. They usually do this in search of  grubs. Thankfully, there are several methods you can try to deter them from tearing up your lawn. Here are some effective solutions:

1. Make it difficult for them to dig: They won’t waste a lot of effort digging if it’s difficult for them. Consider installing a chain-link fence or laying netting over the area they are prone to dig. This makes it harder for them to access the soil.
2. Apply nematodes: Nematodes are natural predators of grubs, which are a common food source for them. Apply nematodes to your lawn in late summer or early fall when the grub larvae are young and vulnerable. This can help reduce their food source and discourage them from digging.
3. Keep the soil wet: They prefer to dig in dry soil, so keeping the soil wet can make it less attractive to them. Water your lawn regularly, especially in areas where they frequently dig.
4. Use cayenne pepper:  Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the areas where raccoons typically dig or mix it with water to create a spray. However, note that this method may be hit or miss and may need to be reapplied regularly.
5. Unroll chicken wire: If your lawn is small enough, unrolling chicken wire over the areas where raccoons dig can frustrate them. Be sure to move the wire every few days so it doesn’t become embedded in the lawn.
6. Motion-activated sprinklers: Consider installing motion-activated sprinklers, such as “the scarecrow,” in your yard. These sprinklers can startle raccoons when they approach and deter them from digging.
7. Develop a healthy lawn: Maintaining a healthy lawn with strong roots can make it more difficult for raccoons to dig. Focus on proper lawn care practices, such as fertilizing, aerating, and over-seeding, to promote a healthy, well-rooted lawn.

Remember, these animals are smart and stubborn, so it may take a combination of these methods to successfully deter them from digging up your lawn. It’s also important to note that prevention is key. By addressing the underlying issue of grubs and maintaining a well-kept lawn, you can reduce the likelihood of  them being attracted to your yard.

If you have rats in your garage, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage and health concerns. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Identify Entry Points:
   • Inspect your garage for any openings or gaps that rats could use to enter. Seal these openings with materials like steel wool or caulk. Although, the rat may have snuck in while the garage door was opened. 
2. Remove Attractants:
   • Keep food sources sealed in airtight containers. This includes, grass seeds, bulbs and even fertilizer. 
   • Remove any standing water, or any water in plastic bottles, as rats need water almost daily to survive.
3. Set Traps:
   • Place rat traps in strategic locations. Use bait like peanut butter or dried fruit.
   • Consider humane traps if you prefer catch-and-release methods.
4. Use Rodenticides:
   • If traps alone aren’t effective, you may use rodenticides, although retail rodenticides are now not available, only horn husks. Follow instructions carefully and place them in areas inaccessible to pets and children.
5. Clean and Organize:
   • Declutter your garage to eliminate potential hiding spots.
   • Regularly clean up any food crumbs or spills.
6. Professional Help:
   • If the infestation persists, consider hiring a Go Green Pest Control  service to assess and address the issue.

Remember to take precautions when handling traps or rodenticides, and prioritize methods that are safe for both humans and pets. Regular maintenance and vigilance will help prevent future infestations.