Author Archive Randy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

When a rat, it undergoes a process called decomposition. During decomposition, various organisms including bacteria, fungi, and insects play crucial roles in breaking down the organic matter. Flies, particularly blow flies, are among the first insects to be attracted to a decaying animal carcass. Here’s why and what happens:

1. Attracted by Odor: Blow flies are attracted to the strong odor emitted by decaying flesh. They can detect these odors from considerable distances and are highly sensitive to the chemical compounds released during decomposition.
2. Role in Decomposition: Blow flies lay their eggs (often hundreds at a time) on the carcass. These eggs hatch into larvae (maggots) within hours. The maggots then feed on the decaying tissue of the carcass, accelerating the decomposition process.
3. Species and Harm: Blow flies themselves are not harmful to humans in the sense of actively causing harm like biting or stinging. However, they are considered vectors of disease in some contexts because they can carry bacteria and other pathogens picked up from the decaying material. Proper handling and disposal of dead animals, including rats, are important to prevent potential health risks associated with the presence of blow flies and other decomposers.
4. Lifecycle: After feeding on the carcass, the blow fly larvae (maggots) eventually pupate and emerge as adult flies. These adult flies may then disperse and continue the cycle by seeking out other suitable locations for egg laying and larval development.

In summary, blow flies are attracted to and feed on decaying animal matter like a dead rat due to the strong odors released during decomposition. While they themselves are not harmful in the traditional sense, their presence can indicate a potential health risk if proper sanitation measures are not taken. Therefore, it’s important to handle and dispose of dead animals properly to minimize attraction to blow flies and reduce the associated health risks.

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF President at Go GreenJune 25, 2024

Asian giant hornets, gained significant attention due to their size, aggressive behavior, and potential threat to honeybee populations. They are native to East Asia and Japan but have been found in north Washington state, and particularly in The Fraser Lower Mainland of B.C. causing concern among beekeepers and environmentalists.

Here are some key points about murder hornets:

1. Size: They are among the largest hornet species in the world, with queens reaching up to 5 centimeters in length.
2. Dangerous Sting: Their sting is potent and can be dangerous to humans, especially if someone is allergic or receives multiple stings.
3. Predation on Bees: Murder hornets are known for attacking and decimating honeybee hives. They can kill thousands of bees in a short time, primarily to feed their larvae.
4. Invasive Species: In North America, their presence poses a threat to local ecosystems, particularly to pollinators and potentially to human health.
5. Control Efforts: Authorities in affected areas are working to track and eradicate these hornets to prevent their spread and mitigate their impact on local wildlife and agriculture.

But they face some level of predation:

1. Other Hornets and Predators: In their native habitats in Asia, Asian giant hornets may face predation from other large predators such as other hornets, mantises, and some bird species. Hornets of other species or larger predators might occasionally prey upon them.
2. Honey Badgers: In some areas, honey badgers have been observed to raid Asian giant hornets. Honey badgers are known for their fearlessness and may raid nests for larvae and pupae.
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6. Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPFPresident at Go GreenJune 25, 2024

Wasps and hornets are both members of the Vespidae family, but there are some key differences between them:

1. Size and Appearance: Wasps: Generally smaller and slimmer than hornets. They can vary in size but are typically less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. Wasps can be black, brown, yellow, or metallic blue in color.
2. Hornets: Larger and more robust than most wasps. They can range from 0.75 inches (1.9 cm) to over 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in length. Hornets often have a characteristic black and white or yellow striped pattern.
3. Nesting Habits: Wasps: Build nests in a variety of locations, including underground, in trees, in attics, or under eaves. Their nests are typically papery and can house several hundred to several thousand wasps, depending on the species.
4. Hornets: Build large, papery nests that are usually enclosed and can be found in trees, shrubs, or sometimes in attics or barns. Hornet nests can reach significant sizes and may contain hundreds to thousands of individuals.
5. Aggressiveness: Wasps: Can be aggressive if their nest is disturbed but generally do not seek out conflict. They can sting multiple times.
6. Hornets: Generally more aggressive and defensive of their nests. They have potent venom and can deliver painful stings. Hornets are known to aggressively defend their nests and can pursue threats over longer distances.
7. Venom: Wasps: Produce venom that contains a mixture of toxins aimed at paralyzing prey and defending against predators. Some people are allergic to wasp venom.
8. Hornets: Also produce venom that is similar to wasp venom but may have slightly different effects. Hornet stings can be particularly painful due to their larger size and potent venom.
9. Behavior: Wasps: Can be scavengers, predators, or pollinators depending on the species. They play a role in ecosystems by controlling insect populations.
10. Hornets: Predatory insects that primarily feed on other insects. They are efficient hunters and can contribute to pest control in agricultural settings.

In summary, while both wasps and hornets belong to the same family and share similarities in their biology and behavior, hornets tend to be larger, more aggressive, and build distinctively large nests compared to most types of wasps.

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Wasp venom is a complex substance produced by certain species of wasps for defense and predation. It typically contains a variety of bioactive compounds that serve different purposes:

1. Neurotoxins: These target the nervous system of the prey or predator, causing paralysis or pain. They are effective against insects and can also deter larger animals.
2. Cytolytic toxins: These toxins break down cells by disrupting their membranes, leading to tissue damage and inflammation. They help in digesting prey or deterring predators.
3. Vasoactive toxins: These affect blood vessels, causing changes in blood pressure and circulation. They can contribute to pain and inflammation at the site of a sting.
4. Allergens: Some people are allergic to wasp venom, which can lead to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. These allergens trigger an immune response that can be life-threatening in sensitive individuals.
5. Pheromones: Wasps use certain chemicals in their venom as pheromones to communicate with each other, marking territories or signaling danger.

The exact composition of wasp venom varies between species, and even within species, depending on factors like diet, environment, and individual variability. The primary function of venom is defensive, helping wasps protect themselves and their nests from threats.

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

June 21, 2024

Ground moles, also known as common moles or lawn moles, are small mammals. They are adapted to living underground and are characterized by their cylindrical bodies, velvety fur, small eyes, and powerful front limbs equipped with large claws for digging. So here we go:

1. What are ground moles? Ground moles are burrowing mammals that spend most of their lives underground. They are known for creating tunnel systems in lawns, gardens, and other grassy areas. Moles primarily feed on earthworms, grubs, and other small invertebrates found in the soil.
2. Why do ground moles exist? Ground moles play a role in ecosystems by aerating the soil and controlling insect populations. Their digging activities can improve soil drainage and nutrient circulation, which can benefit plant growth in some cases.
3. What good are ground moles? While ground moles can be considered pests when they damage lawns and gardens, they do provide ecological benefits by:
4. Whey do lawn moles tunnel and push up mounds of soil? Primarily for feeding and shelter purposes. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
5. Feeding Behavior: Moles are insectivores and primarily feed on earthworms, grubs, and other soil-dwelling invertebrates. Their tunnels allow them to search for and capture these prey items. As they dig through the soil, they create shallow tunnels near the surface where they can easily detect and consume their prey.
6. Shelter and Nesting: Moles also create deeper tunnels that serve as shelter and nesting sites. These tunnels provide protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. The deeper tunnels often have chambers where moles can rest and store food.
7. Soil Aeration and Nutrient Cycling: While not their primary intent, moles indirectly benefit the soil by aerating it through their tunneling activities. This can improve soil drainage, root growth, and nutrient circulation. The soil mounds (or molehills) created by moles are composed of excavated soil pushed to the surface as they dig their tunnels.
8. Behavioral Patterns: Moles are solitary animals and can cover large areas in search of food and suitable nesting sites. Their tunneling behavior can result in visible molehills or ridges on lawns and gardens, which can be considered a nuisance by humans.
9. So what do we typically use to effectively get rid of moles? Here are some strategies commonly employed by mole control experts:
10. Assessment and Identification: Professionals start by assessing the extent of the mole infestation and identifying active tunnels and feeding areas. This helps in determining the most effective methods for control.
11. Trapping: Live traps are often used to catch moles. These traps are placed in active tunnels identified by professionals. Trapping is considered one of the most humane methods of mole control because it allows the moles to be captured alive and relocated away from the property.
12. Exclusion: Professionals may recommend installing barriers or exclusion methods to prevent moles from entering certain areas of the property. This can include burying hardware cloth or mesh underground to block tunnel entrances.
13. https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/oh-the-moles-are-back/
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15. Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF
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Pavement ants push up sand or soil for various reasons. One primary reason is nest building and maintenance. They create tunnels and chambers underground, and pushing up sand or soil helps them expand their nest or regulate temperature and humidity levels inside. Sometimes, they also push up debris like sand and soil to create protective barriers around their nest entrances.

Ants from different colonies compete for resources like food and territory, pavement ants generally engage in large-scale fights like most other ant species. Conflicts can arise when two colonies’ foraging territories overlap. These disputes usually involve skirmishes between individual ants rather than full-blown battles.

To get rid of pavement ants, you can employ several strategies:

1. Professional Pest Control: If the infestation is severe or persists despite your efforts, consider hiring a Go Green Pest Control, a professional pest control service. We can assess the situation and employ more advanced methods to eliminate the ants.
2. Sanitation: Keep your surroundings clean. Ensure that food crumbs, spills, and other potential food sources are promptly cleaned up to discourage ant activity.
3. Seal Entry Points: Identify and seal any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation, walls, and around windows and doors where ants might be entering.
4. Baits: Place ant baits near ant trails and entry points. These baits contain slow-acting toxins that the ants carry back to their nests, effectively eliminating the entire colony.
5. Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around entry points and areas where ants are active. This substance is abrasive to insects’ exoskeletons and dehydrates them, effectively killing them. This is very messy and can cause more problems.
6. Natural Repellents: Google will tell you that certain substances like cinnamon, vinegar, or citrus oils can act as natural repellents for ants. Spray or place these near ant trails and entry points. But don’t waste your time or money on these.
7. The lifespan of an individual ant varies depending on factors like its role within the colony and environmental conditions. However, colonies of pavement ants can persist for several years, especially if they have a stable food source and suitable nesting conditions. Regular monitoring and proactive pest control measures can help prevent infestations and minimize their longevity.
8. https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/pavement-ants-so-much-sand-being-pushed-up/
9. https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/pavement-ants-so-much-sand-being-pushed-up/
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There are regulations and guidelines in place in British Columbia regarding the sale and use of certain rodenticides. These restrictions are due to concerns about their impact on wildlife and non-target animals, as well as their potential risks to human health.

To manage rat and mouse pests effectively while adhering to these restrictions, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques are recommended. Here are some key strategies outlined:

1. Preventive Measures:
   • Seal all openings larger than 6 mm with durable materials like steel wool, caulking, or plaster.
   • Keep garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and eliminate food and water sources that attract rodents.
   • Remove clutter and potential hiding spots around buildings, and maintain cleanliness in food storage and preparation areas.
   • Clean up areas where rodents have been to remove attractants and minimize health risks.
2. Collaboration and Community Efforts:
   • Work with neighbors and the community to address rodent problems collectively, as rodents can cross property lines.
   • Share prevention techniques, offer assistance to neighbors in need, and organize community efforts to prevent rodent issues in public spaces.
3. Prevent Dust Stirring: Before cleaning, ventilate the area for 30 minutes and wet down surfaces with household disinfectant to minimize the spread of dust and potential pathogens. A bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) can also be used, poured carefully onto the area to avoid stirring up dust.
4. Cleaning Procedure:
   • Use paper towels to wipe up droppings, nesting materials, and other waste. Avoid sweeping or vacuuming, as this can aerosolize dust and potentially harmful particles.
   • Double bag the waste, seal the bags tightly, and dispose of them according to local by-laws (burying, burning, or placing in the trash).
   • Clean floors, carpets, clothing, bedding, and disinfect surfaces that have been in contact with mice using household disinfectants or the bleach solution.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • Wear appropriate PPE, including a well-fitting filter mask, rubber gloves, and goggles, to protect yourself from potential hazards during the cleaning process.
   • Wash rubber gloves with disinfectant or soap and water before removing them, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

By implementing these preventive measures and collaborating with the community, you can effectively manage rat and mouse pests while complying with regulations and minimizing environmental and health risks.

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Dealing with a rat infestation can indeed be a nightmare. They’re not only destructive but also carry various diseases that can pose serious health risks to humans. The smell from their urine and feces can be overpowering, and the damage they cause by chewing wires and ruining insulation can lead to costly repairs. If you’re facing such a situation, it’s crucial to address it promptly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. Contacting Go Green Pest Control , pest control experts might be the best course of action to effectively tackle the infestation and ensure your home is safe and sanitary again.

So what happens if they die inside? The decomposition process for a rat can vary depending on several factors such as environmental conditions (temperature, humidity), presence of scavengers, and the size of the rat. In general, decomposition begins soon after death and progresses through stages including fresh, bloated, decay, and skeletonization.

Under optimal conditions, a small rat could decompose completely within a few weeks to a couple of months. However, factors such as colder temperatures or if the rat is in a sealed environment could slow down the decomposition process. It’s also worth noting that the presence of scavengers like insects or other animals could accelerate decomposition.

Then what do you do with all that dirty insulation? The cost of replacing insulation after a rat infestation can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the type of insulation, and the size of the affected area. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Extent of Damage: If the rats have extensively damaged the insulation throughout your home, the cost of replacement will be higher compared to localized damage.
2. Type of Insulation: The cost can also vary based on the type of insulation you choose to replace the damaged one with. Common types include fiberglass, spray foam, and cellulose.
3. Labor Costs: Labor costs for removal and installation will depend on the complexity of the job and local labor rates.
4. Cleanup Costs: If there is significant contamination from rat urine and feces, cleanup costs may also be incurred.
5. Additional Repairs: If the rats have chewed wires or caused other damage beyond the insulation, you may need to factor in the cost of repairing these damages as well.

It’s best to get a professional assessment and quote from insulation contractors who can inspect the damage and provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation. Costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on these factors.

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Flour weevils, also known as grain or wheat weevils, are small beetles that infest stored grains and flour products. These pests can be a nuisance in households and food storage facilities as they can contaminate food products and cause economic losses. Flour weevils typically lay their eggs in grains, and the larvae feed on the inside, causing damage to the grain. They are commonly found in flour, rice, cereals, and other grain products.

To prevent flour weevil infestations, it’s essential to store grain products in airtight containers and to regularly inspect stored food for signs of infestation, such as live or dead weevils, larvae, or small holes in the packaging. If an infestation is detected, it’s crucial to discard the affected food items and thoroughly clean the storage area to prevent further infestations.

Additionally, keeping the storage area clean and dry can help deter weevils, as they prefer humid environments. Using bay leaves or placing containers of dried chili peppers in the storage area may also act as natural repellents against weevils. If the infestation is severe, professional pest control services may be necessary to eradicate the problem.

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Both rats and mice play important roles in ecosystems and scientific research, but their necessity depends on the context.

1. Ecological Balance: In natural ecosystems, both rats and mice serve as prey for various predators, helping to maintain balance within food webs. They also contribute to nutrient cycling and seed dispersal, influencing plant diversity.
2. Research: Rats and mice are commonly used in scientific research due to their physiological and genetic similarities to humans. They are valuable models for studying various diseases, testing medications, and understanding basic biological processes. Many medical breakthroughs, such as treatments for cancer and diabetes, have been facilitated by research involving these animals.
3. Pest Control: However, in urban and agricultural settings, rats and mice can become pests, causing damage to property and spreading diseases. In such cases, efforts may be made to control their populations through trapping, poison, or other means.

So, while neither rats nor mice are strictly necessary in every context, they both serve important ecological and scientific functions. However, managing their populations in certain environments may be necessary for human safety and well-being.

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

1,217 articles

June 6, 2024

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