Most folks would prefer a non-violent solution to a household pest problem, and setting a trap is an effective way to remove unwanted animals without causing any harm. These can be useful for getting rid of common creatures that may be found in your kitchen or attic, as well as for dealing with any issues in the backyard.
Here are some helpful tips for trapping household pests:
Bugs
In Habitat reported that many insects - from wasps to mosquitos - can be eliminated with simple home-made traps. By using ordinary household items, you can easily put together an effective lure and release the animals in the garden or at a neighborhood park.
Start by cutting the top off of a plastic soda bottle and filing it with oil to prevent any escapes. Next, attach the spout upside down with tape. Pour honey, soda or another sweet liquid inside that will lure any bugs. Depending on what type of insect you are trying to trap, you may need to make certain modifications. For example, roaches may be more attracted to a piece of fruit than other baits. Ants, meanwhile, may need help getting into your trap.
Be sure to monitor your trap and dispose of any bugs quickly. If you've caught any insects that bite or sting, be careful when releasing these pests.
Backyard critters
For larger animals, be it raccoons and opossums or pesky mice, there are dozens of different non-violent traps that will make it easy to remove pests safely. Depending on what animal you are dealing with, you will need to pick the right sized trap. It is also important to consider which bait will work best, according to Fleming Outdoors.
Identify where your pest spends time. If this is out back, look for paw prints or animal scat. In the kitchen or attic, find clues for where critters may be sleeping or nesting. Before placing your trap, be sure to wash up. Even faint human smells could dissuade animals from investigating an otherwise tasty treat.
Once you've caught a pest, approach with caution to ensure the trap has worked properly. Cover the entire device, as this will calm the animal down. Check with local officials for specific regulations related to the release of wildlife, and select a local green space far away from your home.
When to call in a professional
Pest removal services may be necessary if your infestation is larger than the occasional mouse or a few dozen ants. Otherwise, you may find that trapping is not enough to keep animals out of your home or yard. If you believe that a pest is breeding inside of your house, a professional may be your best bet.
Some creatures may also pose health risks. Bees and wasps, for example, can swarm in dangerous numbers and may also cause serious allergic reactions. Mammals, meanwhile, can harbor biting fleas or diseases such as rabies. For that reason, exercise extreme caution in handling any animals or simply call a pest professional.
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:
