Vole excrement, often called vole droppings or scat, is small and pellet-shaped, similar in appearance to mouse droppings. These droppings are typically dark brown or black and have a length of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch. They can be found along vole runways, near their burrow entrances, or in areas where voles are actively foraging for food.
Vole excrement is an indicator of their presence and activity, and it can be helpful in identifying areas where voles are active. However, it’s essential to exercise caution when handling vole droppings, as they may carry diseases or parasites. If you encounter vole excrement, it’s advisable to wear gloves and take appropriate precautions when cleaning and disposing of it.
Voles are not considered dangerous to humans or pets, but their activity can cause significant damage to vegetation and landscaping.
Boxelder bugs are not known to bite humans or pets. They are generally harmless, and their presence is more of a nuisance than a direct threat. However, their excrement can stain surfaces and fabrics, and their sheer numbers can be unsettling.
There are various pests and diseases that commonly afflict trees. The emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that attacks ash trees, causing damage to the tree’s transport system and leading to its demise. Dutch elm disease, caused by a fungus, affects elm trees and is transmitted by bark beetles, resulting in wilting and death. Pine beetles, including the mountain pine beetle and southern pine beetle, bore into pine tree bark, disrupting nutrient flow and causing extensive damage. Oak wilt, a fungal disease, affects oak trees and is spread through root grafts or beetles, leading to wilting, defoliation, and tree mortality. Sudden oak death, caused by a different fungus, causes leaf spotting, dieback, and can be fatal for oak trees. The gypsy moth larvae feed on the leaves of various tree species, defoliating and weakening them. Finally, white pine blister rust, a fungal disease, affects white pines, such as the eastern white pine and sugar pine. These common pests and diseases pose significant threats to tree health in different regions.
Checking for bed bugs involves a thorough inspection of your sleeping areas, primarily the bed and surrounding furniture. Use a bright flashlight to examine the seams, folds, and undersides of mattresses, box springs, and pillows. Look closely at bed frames, headboards, and bedside tables, especially within cracks and crevices. Bed bugs leave behind small, reddish-brown bugs (ranging from the size of a pinhead to an apple seed), tiny white eggs, rust-colored stains from crushed bugs, and black or brown fecal spots. While the bed is a primary hotspot, also inspect chairs, sofas, and other furniture pieces. If you suspect an infestation, it’s advisable to seek professional pest control assistance.
German cockroaches prefer indoor environments close to human activity, as these areas provide easy access to food, water, and warmth. They are commonly found in residential and commercial settings, especially kitchens, bathrooms, and dining areas. Within these environments, they seek out cracks and crevices behind appliances, under sinks, and inside cabinets or drawers as hiding spots. They are particularly adept at hiding in small spaces and can squeeze into cracks as thin as a credit card. German cockroaches also live behind wall coverings, within electronic appliances, and anywhere that offers them shelter and proximity to resources. They stay hidden during the day and come out to feed at night. Understanding their preferred habitats is crucial for effective pest control, as treatment efforts must target these areas to eliminate the infestation successfully.
Borax, scientifically known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. It has a wide range of uses in the home, from enhancing the cleaning power of laundry detergents to serving as a multi-purpose cleaner. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for many household tasks.
Borax is used as a DIY ant killer when mixed with a sweet substance like sugar. This mixture works as bait: the sugar attracts the ants, and the borax, ingested along with the sugar, poisons them. Ants carry the borax bait back to their colony, where it is distributed among other ants, effectively reaching a large portion of the population and exterminating them at the source.
When using borax around the home, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Borax should be placed out of reach of children and pets. Additionally, when handling borax, avoid direct contact with the skin and eyes to prevent irritation. Always wash hands thoroughly after any contact with borax, and use masks and gloves if necessary to prevent inhalation or direct exposure.
For those who prefer not to use chemicals like borax, several natural alternatives can be effective. Diatomaceous earth, which causes dehydration in ants upon contact, and essential oils like peppermint or lemon, which act as natural repellents, are safe, non-toxic options.
While DIY solutions can be effective for minor ant infestations, larger or more persistent problems may require professional intervention. Pest control professionals can assess the situation thoroughly, identify the ant species, and implement a targeted strategy that safely and effectively eliminates the ants.
Professional pest control services offer significant advantages. They have access to more powerful tools and compounds unavailable to the general public. Moreover, they can eradicate the entire ant colony with minimal risk to your home environment, pets, and family.
If you’re struggling with an ant problem, consider contacting Birch Fumigators. Our experienced team offers comprehensive ant control solutions tailored to your specific needs. We ensure effective and safe treatment plans that eliminate current infestations and prevent future ones. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pest-free home.
est. 1900
est. 1900
Monday – 8am-5pm
Tuesday – 8am-5pm
Wednesday – 8am-5pm
Thursday – 8am-5pm
Friday – 8am-5pm
Saturday – Closed
Sunday – Closed
