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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

January 31, 2025

Sugar ants are often attracted to sugary or sweet substances. If they’re coming into your house, they might have found food sources like crumbs, spills, or even pet food. They can also be drawn to moisture in areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Sugar ants, also known as sweet ants, are a type of small ant that primarily seeks out sugary food sources. While they’re not actually a specific species, the term “sugar ant” is often used to describe several species of ants that prefer sweet foods, especially in homes. They are commonly attracted to things like sugar, syrup, honey, and other sugary snacks, but will also go after greasy or fatty foods if necessary.

The most common species referred to as “sugar ants” they’re typically small, about 1/8 inch long, and can form long trails when they find food.

These ants usually build their nests outdoors, but they can invade homes in search of food, especially during warmer months or if there’s easy access to a food source indoors.

Here’s how to get rid of them:

1. Clean up food sources: Make sure to wipe down surfaces, clean up crumbs, and store food in airtight containers. Also, take out the trash regularly.
2. Seal entry points: Try to figure out where they’re coming in from, such as cracks around windows or doors, and seal those off with caulk.
3. Create barriers: You can use natural deterrents like cinnamon, vinegar, or lemon juice along entry points or ant trails. Sugar ants don’t like strong scents!
4. Ant bait: If the problem persists, ant bait can be helpful. The ants take the bait back to their colony, which can help eliminate them at the source.
5. DIY sprays: A mix of water and dish soap in a spray bottle can work to kill ants on contact, and the soap can block their scent trails.
6. https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/sugar-ants-in-your-house/
7. https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/sugar-ants-in-your-house/
8. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/sugar-ants-your-house-randy-bilesky-w0s9c

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

January 28, 2025

Unwanted guests in your ceiling—likely mice or rats. Common rodents that tend to invade homes include:

1. House Mice: Small, quick-moving, and can fit through tiny cracks. They are often the culprits in ceilings and walls.
2. Norway Rats: Larger than mice, these rats tend to nest in attics or ceilings and are known for being persistent.
3. Roof Rats: These are also a possibility, especially if you have a high roof or access points in the attic. They’re agile climbers and typically nest in higher places.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Check for Entry Points: Inspect your ceiling, attic, or roof for gaps or cracks that rodents might be using to get in. Seal up any holes you find, particularly around vents, pipes, or ducts.
2. Set Traps: You can use snap traps, live traps, or glue traps. The choice depends on your preference, but snap traps are the most effective for quick kills.
3. Rodent Repellents: Some people have success using ultrasonic repellents, peppermint oil, or commercially available rodent repellents. However, their effectiveness can vary.
4. Clean Up and Remove Food: If you’re leaving food or trash easily accessible, it’s a big invitation for rodents. Make sure your living space is clean and food is stored in sealed containers.
5. Call a Professional: If you’re dealing with an infestation or if you’re not comfortable handling it yourself, calling Go Green Pest Control is the best solution. We can safely remove rodents and help prevent them from returning.

Have you noticed any droppings or sounds in the ceiling? This might help narrow down which type of rodent you’re dealing with.

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Rodents in your ceiling? Here is what you can do!

Rodents in your ceiling? Here is what you can do!

Silverfish come from outside or from neighboring infested areas. They tend to move in through cracks in walls, windows, or even when bringing in infested items like old books, clothing, or cardboard. Because they’re nocturnal and elusive, they can spread unnoticed for a while.

Damage They Cause: Silverfish can cause a fair amount of destruction, especially to things like:

• Books, paper, and wallpaper: They’ll munch on glue, paper, and starches, leaving behind irregular holes or frayed edges.
• Clothing and fabric: They can damage fabric, particularly if it’s made from natural fibers like cotton or linen.
• Food: They’ll often sneak into dry food packages, contaminating them with their droppings.

Getting Rid of Them:

1. Reduce humidity: Silverfish love damp environments, so lowering humidity can make your home less appealing to them. Consider using a dehumidifier or improving ventilation.
2. Seal cracks: Check for gaps around windows, doors, or baseboards, and seal them up to prevent silverfish from getting inside.
3. Remove food sources: Make sure food (especially starchy or sugary foods) is stored in airtight containers. Clean up crumbs or spills promptly.
4. Declutter: Silverfish hide in dark, cluttered areas, so organizing basements, attics, and closets can discourage them.
5. Traps and insecticides: You can use traps to catch silverfish or insecticides that target them, though they typically don’t fully resolve an infestation.
6. Professional pest control: If you have a larger infestation, it might be best to call in the pros, Go Green Pest Control. We can assess the situation and provide more long-term solutions like targeted treatments or pest-proofing your home.

If you’ve noticed any signs of silverfish, like droppings or damage to items, it’s best to act fast to avoid a full-on invasion. Have you noticed any silverfish around your home?

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Silverfish definitely aren’t the most pleasant houseguests

Silverfish definitely aren’t the most pleasant houseguests

Feeding raccoons and birds can lead to a variety of problems because it creates an artificial food source that attracts other wildlife, including mice, rats, squirrels, and skunks. Here are some reasons why this can be problematic:

1. Attracting Pests: Leftover food can attract rodents like mice and rats, which are drawn to easy food sources. These animals can become a nuisance and pose health risks by spreading diseases.
2. Wildlife Overpopulation: Regular feeding can lead to increased populations of raccoons and other animals, which can cause competition for resources and lead to aggressive behavior among them.
3. Health Risks: Raccoons and other wildlife can carry diseases such as rabies and leptospirosis. Close encounters with them can increase the risk of transmission to pets and humans.
4. Property Damage: Animals drawn to feeders may dig through trash, chew on structures, or cause damage to gardens and landscaping in search of food.
5. Dependency: Animals may become reliant on human-provided food, which can disrupt their natural foraging behaviors and lead to issues when the food source is removed.
6. Conflict with Pets: Attracting wildlife can lead to dangerous encounters with pets, especially if they feel threatened or are protecting their young.

To minimize these risks, it’s advisable to avoid feeding wildlife and to use bird feeders designed to limit access to larger animals. Keeping outdoor areas clean and securing trash can also help deter unwanted wildlife.

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Feeding Birds and Raccoons?

Feeding Birds and Raccoons?

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

January 13, 2025

Raccoons can be a real nuisance when it comes to lawns and gardens. Here’s a summary of how they damage lawns and how to prevent it:

How Raccoons Damage Lawns:

1. Digging Holes: Raccoons dig to find food (like grubs), create dens, or out of curiosity, which leads to unsightly holes.
2. Uprooted Plants: While digging, they can uproot plants, which can disrupt landscaping efforts.
3. Uneven Turf: The digging often leaves behind patches of uneven turf, harming the lawn’s appearance.
4. Torn-Up Mess: After foraging for grubs and insects, raccoons can leave a messy, torn-up lawn behind.

How to Prevent Raccoons from Damaging Lawns:

1. Motion-Sensor Lights or Sprinklers: These can startle raccoons and deter them from using your lawn as a place to search for food.
2. Cover with Netting: If you’ve just laid sod, cover it with bird netting or chicken wire to prevent raccoons from digging it up.
3. Bright Lights: Lights that mimic daylight can help scare raccoons away.
4. Hot Sauce Repellent: A repellent made with hot sauce can be effective in deterring raccoons from digging and foraging.

Other Ways to Raccoon-Proof Your Yard:

• Seal Entry Points: Make sure any access points to your home, such as vents or chimneys, are sealed off.
• Secure Water Sources: Raccoons are drawn to water, so keep outdoor water sources covered or removed.
• Keep Garbage Secure: Always seal garbage cans tightly to prevent access to food.
• Avoid Leaving Pet Food Outside: Raccoons can easily be attracted to pet food, so bring it inside at night.
• Store Bird Feeders Indoors at Night: Remove bird feeders after dusk to prevent attracting raccoons.
• Fence Off Gardens and Fruit Trees: A physical barrier like a fence can prevent raccoons from accessing your plants.
• Keep Your Yard Clean: Regularly clean your yard of food scraps and debris that may attract raccoons.

By taking these steps, you can reduce or even prevent raccoons from causing damage to your lawn and other outdoor spaces.

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Raccoons destroying your Lawn?

Raccoons destroying your Lawn?

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

December 30, 2024

The future for rats and mice in 2025 will likely be shaped by a combination of ecological, environmental, and scientific factors. Here’s an overview of some key areas that could impact these rodents in the near future:

1. Urban Environments

Rats and mice will continue to thrive in urban settings due to the abundant food sources and shelter these environments provide. As human populations grow in cities and urban sprawl continues, these rodents are likely to adapt and increase in number. Their ability to survive in dense environments and near human infrastructure will ensure their persistence.

2. Climate Change

Climate change may also have an impact on rodent populations. Warmer temperatures could extend their breeding seasons, leading to larger populations, while shifts in ecosystems could alter the availability of food and shelter. Additionally, climate-related changes in weather patterns may force rats and mice to migrate to new areas, potentially introducing them to regions where they were previously less common.

3. Pest Control Technologies

In 2025, advancements in pest control could potentially influence the number of rats and mice in human environments. Newer technologies, such as genetically engineered poisons, automated traps, or even biological pest control (e.g., introducing predators or parasites that target rodents), could help manage rodent populations more effectively. However, these methods may also come with ethical and ecological concerns.

4. Genetic Research and Conservation

Interestingly, genetic research may also play a role in the future of rats and mice. Studies in genetic modification could lead to ways to control populations or even alter the behavior and traits of rodents to make them less disruptive. For instance, efforts might focus on reducing their ability to spread disease or harm agricultural crops.

5. Disease and Health

Rodents have long been vectors for diseases like leptospirosis, salmonella, and the bubonic plague. In the coming years, public health initiatives and advancements in disease prevention could help reduce the health risks posed by rats and mice. For example, vaccines or targeted treatments could help minimize the spread of diseases carried by rodents.

6. Research and Ethics

Rats and mice are commonly used in scientific research, particularly in medical studies. The future of these rodents may be influenced by evolving ethical standards and increased scrutiny over animal testing. There may be greater emphasis on finding alternative models, like computer simulations or lab-grown tissues, to reduce the need for live animal subjects.

In summary, the future for rats and mice in 2025 will likely be a mixture of both challenges and opportunities. While they will continue to adapt and thrive in urban environments, advancements in pest control and scientific research may help manage their populations and minimize their negative impact on human health and the environment.

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What is the future for rats and mice in 2025

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

December 23, 2024

IPM is a comprehensive approach to rodent control that emphasizes long-term prevention and minimizes the use of pesticides. It involves:

• Preventing rodents from entering your home,
• Monitoring and identifying rodent activity,
• Using traps and alternatives to chemicals, and
• Resorting to pesticides only when absolutely necessary.

Key Steps in IPM for Rodents:

1. Prevention Preventing rodents from entering your home is the first step in managing rodent problems:
2. Identification Proper identification helps tailor control strategies:
3. Monitoring Regular checks are crucial to early detection:
4. Threshold Determine when control actions are necessary:
5. Treatment If monitoring shows a need for action:
6. Evaluation Assess the effectiveness of your efforts:

Conclusion:

By following the IPM approach, residents can effectively manage rodent populations while protecting health, pets, wildlife, and the environment. Prevention, through a clean, sealed, and clutter-free environment, is the best long-term strategy to keep rodents away.

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Why Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?

Why Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?

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