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The KEY to controlling a specific pest is understanding the unique behavior and environmental requirement of each pest. Below is a short statement about each, click on the image to link to the University of California Integrated Pest Management web site for more information. |
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Spiders perform a wonderful job balancing insect populations. Some specialize in catching flying insects by building webs that act as a dragnet, other spiders are hunters that persue and capture prey such as the Wolf Spider. However, spider infestations left uncontrolled can range from annoying to downright dangerous. | ||
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Ants are one of nature's little cleanup crew. When an insect or animal dies, the ant along with a host of other insects are there to cunsume it and recycle. Ants also herd "honeydew" producing insects such as aphids and scales on plants. Unfortunately, they can't tell the difference between the wild and your home. They often invade homes and businesses in search of food, water and sometimes nesting sites. | ||
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Fleas and other parasites have absolutely no important environmental function other than making life miserable for you and your pets. Pests such as fleas, ticks, mosquitos and bedbugs exist only when suitable "hosts" are present and that host has no way to rid itself of or avoid the pest. | ||
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Cockroaches are masters of adaptation. Their specific needs are perfectly met by cohabitation with people. They love a nice warm place to sleep and an adequate food supply and water source, just like us. Once established within a structure, they are almost impossible to eliminate without professional help. | ||
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Yellow Jackets, Hornets and Wasps make up a group of stinging pests most people have come to fear. Most have early chilhood memories of being stung unexpectedly and have never forgoten it. The Yellow Jacket in particular is commonly found on the Central Coast near campgrounds, parks and lakes. Control is difficult unless the nest can be located. | ||
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Honey Bees are generally recognized as a beneficial insect if left alone to do their job. However, when they choose a nest site that is too close for comfort, a professional is definitely needed to remove or eliminate the threat. It is always best to contact a local bee keeper to remove the colony and relocate it. However this can be very expensive as the void they are nesting in (often your home) must be dismantled to expose the hive. | ||
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House Flies and other types of flies are often the most annoying pest you may encounter. In their prime breeding season, their populations can seem like a plague. They commonly overpopulate areas where breeding conditions are not adequately controlled. In and around homes and restaurants, tightly sealed refuse containers will be job number one. | ||
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Scorpions are similar to spiders in that they generally are hunters of primarily insects. They prey on insects and small animals or lizards and are usually only active at night. They only invade structures as they are searching for food.
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The House Mouse can be a troublesome pest when they find somewhere in your attic or wall to nest and raise young. The scratching and gnawing have many with a poor nights sleep. They also have a keen sense in locating the bread drawer and other food sources. Initial signs of droppings are often the first sign of an infestation.
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Rats are clever and intelligent. Getting control of a rat infestation can be very challenging, but understanding their habits and behaviors will be necessary if you have rats around your home. They adapt well to the human environment, finding their way into your home for a warm place to nest and locating unprotected food sources such as dry dog food in the garage.
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For more information on these and other residential pests, click the link below to the
University of California Integrated Pest Management web site. |
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| Before considering a pesticide for insect control, take a look at Chemical Safety. |  |
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