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.

Wasp Sting You? What in that venom!

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/
14. https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/oh-the-moles-are-back/
15. Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF
16. President at Go Green
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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/
10. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pavement-ants-so-much-sand-being-pushed-up-randy-bilesky-fpc6c

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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Rodents Be Gone

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.

Rat Infestations – It’s BAD

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Rat Infestations – It’s BAD

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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Rats vs Mice and why?

May 31, 2024

If your pet dog encounters sewer rats a.k.a. roof or Norway rats, there are several potential issues to be aware of:

1. Disease Transmission: Rats can carry various diseases, including leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonellosis. These diseases can be transmitted to dogs through bites, scratches, or contact with contaminated areas.
2. Injury Risk: Rats, especially when cornered or threatened, may bite or scratch in self-defense. This can lead to injuries for your dog, including puncture wounds and infections.
3. Environmental Hazards: Sewers and other areas where rats dwell may contain hazards such as toxic substances, sharp objects, or sewage. Your dog could be exposed to these hazards while investigating or chasing rats.
4. Behavioral Issues: Depending on your dog’s temperament and level of prey drive, encountering rats could trigger undesirable behaviors such as increased aggression or obsession with hunting.

To minimize these risks, it’s essential to supervise your dog closely when in areas where rats are likely to be present, such as your yard, near sewers or in urban environments with high rodent populations. Keeping your dog on a leash and preventing them from investigating areas where rats may hide can help reduce the likelihood of encounters. Additionally, ensuring your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and promptly cleaning and treating any wounds or injuries they sustain is important for their health and safety.

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green 

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Your Healthy pet Dog and RATS

Your Healthy pet Dog and RATS

 May 27, 2024

The number of times a wasp can sting before running out of venom and its willingness to continue stinging depend on various factors, including the species of wasp, its individual health and energy levels, and the perceived threat level.

Unlike bees, which typically die after stinging due to their barbed stingers getting stuck in the skin, wasps can sting multiple times because their stingers are not barbed and can be withdrawn without harming them. However, each sting does consume some of the wasp’s venom reserves.

Regarding energy reserves, like all creatures, wasps have limited energy stores, and repeated stinging will gradually deplete these reserves. If a wasp perceives a significant threat, it may be more willing to use up its energy reserves in defense. However, once its energy is depleted, it may become less aggressive or less capable of stinging.

The exact number of times a wasp can sting before running out of venom or becoming too exhausted to continue stinging can vary widely and is difficult to quantify precisely. It’s generally best to avoid provoking wasps to minimize the risk of being stung.

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Randy BileskyBScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green 

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Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

1,214 articles

May 23, 2024

Cloth moths are attracted to natural fibers such as wool, silk, cotton, and fur because they contain keratin, a protein that serves as a food source for moth larvae. Moths lay their eggs on these materials, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the fibers, causing damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and other items made from these materials.

To get rid of cloth moths, follow these steps:

1. Professional Help: If you have a severe moth infestation consider hiring Go Green Pest Control to help eliminate the problem.
2. Identify Infested Items: Check your closet, drawers, and storage areas for signs of moth damage such as holes or webbing. Look for adult moths, larvae, or eggs.
3. Clean Infested Items: Wash or dry clean infested clothing, blankets, and other washable items to kill moth eggs and larvae. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture to remove any eggs or larvae.
4. Freeze Infested Items: If you have items that cannot be washed or dry cleaned, such as delicate wool or silk garments, you can freeze them to kill any moth eggs or larvae. Place the items in a sealed plastic bag and place them in the freezer for at least 48 hours.
5. Use Moth Repellents: Consider using moth repellents such as cedar chips, lavender sachets, or mothballs to deter moths from infesting your belongings. Be cautious with mothballs, as they contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans and pets if ingested.
6. Store Items Properly: Store clean, infestation-free items in airtight containers or garment bags to prevent moths from laying eggs on them.
7. Regular Cleaning and Inspection: Regularly clean and vacuum your home to remove dust, lint, and pet hair, which can attract moths. Inspect your clothing and other items for signs of moth damage on a regular basis.

By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of cloth moths and protect your belongings from further damage.

Published by

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

1,214 articles

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