Moths may not seem like harmful insects on first thought, but they can wreak havoc on your food and clothes. At home, it's important to control insect populations before they become a problem. While one or two moths may not be an issue, swarms of them can easily ruin your day. That said, there are many different species of moths and each has its own unique habits. One species may leave you alone while others just want to munch on your wardrobe or breakfast cereal.
Clothes moths
Start with clothes moths - these are typically a member of the Tinea pellionella species, which are small and have white or light tan wings according to the University of California. These moths are typically about 1/4 inch in length, or half the size of grain eating moths. If you notice small holes with ragged edges in your clothing, it could be a sign that these moths have gotten into your closet.
Here's how they damage your fabrics: The adult moth lays its eggs in or around the clothes, then, when the eggs hatch the moth larvae begin to eat the material. Small infestations can typically be controlled by using mothballs purchased at the store. Larger infestations - such as those in a secondhand clothing store - may require larger steps. If the infestation is out of control, it's recommended that you call a professional pest control service.
Grain moths
Has someone been eating your cereal? There are a number of creatures that could potentially sneak into your kitchen and munch on your grain goodies. Because dry products like grains, cereals, flour and oats stay fresh for a long time, many people tend to forget about them for long periods of time. Then, when they need the ingredients, it turns out the bugs have already gotten into them. At that point, the food is no longer safe to consume and should be thrown away.
According to the University of Minnesota, grain moths usually enter the home through packaged goods. While it seems unlikely that you would bring home a pest in your bag of flour, the bugs can sometimes get through the cracks. Always check your purchases for signs of pests before bringing them home. Once inside, they could spread to other products. Removing tainted products and vacuuming the shelves are great ways of controlling grain moth infestations.
As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:
As the middle of summer approaches, you need to be vigilant about keeping your garden free of pests. Many insects breed during the summertime, which means they're on the lookout for great places to lay their eggs. For many bugs, that means near a source of food. In fact, some species of insects will lay their eggs inside budding vegetables and fruit so their larvae have something to eat as soon as they hatch. That's why you have to keep harmful bugs out without damaging the bugs that could help you, such as bumble bees.
You might have noticed that, with the exception of the kitchen, you find more pests in your bathroom than in the rest of your home. This is because insects and rodents see the bathroom as a convenient watering hole. Pests love leaky pipes and standing water because these offer them a hydrating oasis in the otherwise dry biome that is your house or apartment. And if your bathroom develops mold, all the better for pests, who may eat fungus or use it to lay their eggs.
The kitchen is largest gathering place for pests in a residential home. The reason is simple: pests can grab a bite to eat and take a sip of water while they're here. And when they find such a bountiful place, they will return home to their nests and report the finding - before you know it, your whole pantry is a buffet for ants! The problem could get even worse if a piece of food falls somewhere and begins to rot. Similarly, fruit and vegetables you bring into your home may be harboring unseen pests waiting to hatch.
It's finally here - sweet, sweet summertime at last! But has your time outside already been rudely interrupted by swarms of pesky bugs trying to take a stab at you? This season, let's say no more to swatting, slapping or clapping at these insects who seem to be tormenting innocent outdoors enthusiasts every year. Fortunately, the solution isn't as chemical ridden as you might think. As it turns out, some of your favorite scents are insects least favorite.
Not every creature that visits your property is a dangerous nuisance. Many animals actually offer a number of benefits that keep your yard healthy. Predatory animals, in particular, actually offer natural pest control. Here are five common suburban creatures that can help keep more difficult or annoying animals at bay:
Discovering a mouse is loose in your home can be a real headache, and for restaurant owners, such an infestation can be an even bigger problem. Mice may be cute, but they simply do not belong in the kitchen, attic or anywhere else. If you've noticed any of these signs around your house or business, it may be time to call in a professional rodent exterminator:
The customer is always right, and this is especially true if he or she is complaining about seeing a mouse or cockroach. Pests have no place in your organization, as bugs and rodents will turn away potential business or even lead to a possible lawsuit. Keeping your company protected requires a proactive approach. Work with a pest removal specialist to identify the best ways to stop creatures from infesting your business. Here are just a few ideas for successfully mitigating and preventing any issues:
