Tips to Keep Bed Bugs out of your Home this Summer

Resources / December 22, 2022

Tips to Keep Bed Bugs out of your Home this Summer

Summer travelling can mean inadvertently coming into contact with unwanted pests such as bedbugs. Where is that most likely to occur, you might ask? It may surprise you that places where many people come and go, are most likely to be where these exist. Therefore it’s no surprise that hotels and public transportation are among the most common places to come into contact with these pests.

It’s a myth that bed bugs only get found in dirty places! Since they feed on the blood of their hosts, they can live anywhere that people do – upscale or not! The good news is that you don’t have to forgo your travels this summer to avoid needing bed bug treatment in your home, be vigilant and follow these essential tips.

Be in the know

First, you need to know what a bed bug looks like and how to inspect a room for signs of them before you think about the need for bed bug removal. They are generally reddish-brown, although the colour could vary, with a flat oval body. An adult bug is about 1/5 of an inch long.

Know how to inspect a room for bugs

Before staying in a hotel room, inspect the room for signs of these pests before unpacking. Don’t place your luggage on the bed until you have done so. Use the suitcase holder if provided, or leave your luggage in the bathtub or hallway until you’ve had a chance to complete the room inspection.

Don’t only inspect surfaces; pull back the sheets, check for tiny blood spots and bugs, and look in the seams of the bedding and the box springs. Also, you need to closely inspect the crevices and seams of wood and any upholstered furniture.

Take extra precautions when arriving home

When arriving home from travels, it’s best to take extra precautions with your belongings to ensure that pests have not hitched a ride into your home. Clothes should be stored in plastic bags and placed in the washing machine on the highest setting that clothes can handle.

Undress on a hard surface floor instead of carpeting so that you can wipe the floor. Vacuum luggage and hand wash other items with hot, soapy water, or wipe the item down thoroughly.

Avoid bed bugs in public places

Other common areas for picking up these pests are public transportation vehicles or other high-traffic areas. Basically, if a large number of people are coming and going in one area, there’s a chance they are present. The more people, the greater the possibility of pest presence and the subsequent need for bed bug removal.

To protect yourself in these situations, keep your personal belongings close to you and off of the ground. Keep purses and backpacks on your lap, and avoid setting them down in public areas.

Inspect second-hand goods before purchasing

Finally, we all love garage sales, but these can be opportunities for bed bugs to move into your home if you are not careful. To avoid the need for bed bug treatment, check used furniture and clothing for bugs. You will need to wash any used clothing immediately at a high temperature. Furniture should always be inspected carefully and wiped down before bringing it home. As a rule, avoid used mattresses as this is a favourite dwelling place of these pests and difficult to inspect the inside. Many times, used mattresses require bed bug treatment.

If you have any additional questions or are looking to schedule a treatment for bed bugs, call the experts at Ecopest today at 1-866-269-2847.

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Residential Pest Control Methods

Resources / December 22, 2022

Residential Pest Control Methods

Have bugs, rats, or roaches plagued you? Is your house perpetually inviting pests? Understanding the many sorts of pest control services in Canada is critical for restoring the health of your house. What are these procedures that we’re discussing? Pests, whether human, plant or animal, represent a significant danger to all life forms. Numerous pests, including mosquitoes, termites, flies, and fungi, are detrimental to humans, food sources, and the environment. You may be unaware that you share meals with these obnoxious living animals. It is revolting!

However, before developing pest management measures, it is necessary to ascertain the type of pest and its lifestyle. Identifying the issue will enable you to employ the proper technique and effectively eliminate them. If in doubt, we recommend consulting a pest control professional. The following table summarizes the many types of pest management strategies available:

Chemical Control of Pests

Specific organic remedies are ineffective, which is why some people opt for chemical pest control in Canada. Thousands of chemical items are available for household and business usage. These might be in solid, liquid, or aerosol format. However, certain chemical compounds are highly harmful to people and other living beings.

Natural Pest Control

Individuals typically select organic or natural methods to limit the harm caused by tiny animals and insects while protecting their children, pets, and plants. In this instance, you may employ bait, trapping, or spraying. You can incorporate poison into your bait; alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap, oil, or sprays.

Biological Control of Pests

Biological pest control is the practice of utilizing live organisms only for the goal of managing vermin populations. What makes biological pest control (or bio effector) so popular is that it is chemical-free and incredibly useful. It can regulate insect populations, mite populations, and so on.

Pest Control through Electronic Means

The advent of technology has made it feasible to capture and permanently eliminate household pests. Electromagnetic and ultrasonic pest control are two electronic pest control approaches.

Electromagnetic – affects the neurological systems of numerous animals, including mice. However, it is only effective against insects and rodents.

Ultrasonic – generates high-frequency, brief sound waves.

Control of Hygiene

A clean environment does not attract bugs. It does not leave food or a breeding ground for pests. As a result, always maintain proper hygiene in the workplace or home. After each meal, clean up by depositing residue and leftovers in a locked trash can, washing the dishes, and keeping all domestic areas and belongings clean.

Take Advantage of Pest Control Services

When selecting pest control services in Canada, ensure that the personnel are appropriately qualified and have extensive expertise in the industry. This experience guarantees that you get the most for your money. Ecopest Pest Control may be just what you’re looking for in this situation!

Pests, like people, prefer warm settings on chilly days. This warm setting pushes them to infiltrate your house, especially if they detect the presence of food. Cockroaches, flies, and rodents all contain hazardous infections that may easily make you sick.

Avoiding a pest infestation is as simple as barring access points and eliminating all food, water, and shelter sources. If, on the other hand, your pest infestation becomes out of control, you should seek home pest control services in Canada.

If you have any additional questions or are looking to schedule a treatment, call the experts at Ecopest today at 1-866-269-2847.

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Pigeon Control Edmonton: What You Need to Know

Resources / December 21, 2022

Pigeon Control Edmonton: What You Need to Know

Several pests can pose a severe threat to your home, and it is essential to know how to keep them out. Pigeons are one of the most common birds and can cause severe damage to your property and be a health hazard. For Pigeon Pest Control, Ecopest is a professional pest control company that can help protect your home from these pests. Pest control technicians will ensure your site is free of pigeons and other pests, and we guarantee our work. Contact us today for more information.

Pigeon Control

Pigeons are considered a pest in Canada. The law does not protect them, and you can hunt them year-round. Pigeons can cause significant damage to crops and plants; they are known to carry diseases and are considered a nuisance, which is why pigeon pest control has become a necessity. Pigeons are ubiquitous in urban areas, and there are many ways to control them. One way to control pigeons is to use electronic pigeon netting.

First, pest control technicians will inspect for any pigeon problem to analyze the situation and plan for appropriate pest control. After the inspection, the pest controller will make a detailed proposal for a site.

The pest controller will place the baits strategically all over the site and placement of avicidal baits to prevent pigeons from gathering on a site.

Another method is Pigeon Trapping which requires the strategic placement of pigeon traps. This treatment includes regular monitoring of the traps, resetting the traps, removing pigeons caught on the web, and releasing them at least 20 km from the site. This approach is suitable for long-term control.

Installed by Ecopest for Pigeon Pest Control Calgary, the electronic pigeon netting emits an ultrasonic sound that is not audible to humans but is audible to pigeons. The sound keeps pigeons away and doesn’t affect other animals or humans. The sound gets emitted continuously, so there is no need to set it off manually. The device also has a built-in motion sensor that detects when a person or animal is nearby and turns off the sound not to bother people or pets.

Another way to control pigeons is to use bird spikes. Bird spikes get placed on ledges and windowsills where pigeons like to roost. The spikes deter pigeons from landing on the ledge or perching on the windowsill. The spikes are easy to install and place without damaging the building. For pigeon pest control, Ecopest pest control company guarantees that their bird spikes will keep pigeons away from any property. The company’s bird spikes keep pigeons away from rooftops, ledges, balconies, windowsills, ledges, roof edges, gutters, downspouts, cornices, eaves, and other flat surfaces.

Summary

With excellent services for pigeon pest control in Edmonton, Ecopest will leave your property looking new. Our staff of professionals will clean up the mess and dispose of the droppings. We offer this service for both residential and commercial properties. We also offer special promotions for all customers. Our pest control services and unique offers make us the go-to pest controllers for our customers.

For Pigeon Pest Control, Edmonton Ecopest is one company that provides pest control services to help keep your property pest-free. The company has provided services for many years and has helped countless customers with trapping, baiting, exclusion, and nest removal services. Our services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you can book by phone or through the website. If you have pest problems and want a professional company to help, contact Ecopest for Pigeon Pest Control Edmonton.

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Pest-Proofing Tips from Professionals

Resources / December 21, 2022

Pest-Proofing Tips from Professionals

Spotting an unwanted pest in your home can ruin your day and cause unnecessary stress. Is it time to call in a professional at the sight of a spider or cockroach? It could be, but at a minimum, you need to do some further inspection.

Depending on what you find, it is either time to pest-proof your home or call a professional. The following are the top Edmonton pest control tips from professionals to get you started!

Keep Pests Out of Your Home

Your best defence is keeping them out in the first place. Your goal is to make it difficult for pests to find an entry point into your home. Check screens for holes and repair them if you find any. Check your doors and windows for gaps, and replace window stripping when needed.

Here’s a great way to inspect your home for entry points you may not have noticed. At night, turn on all the lights in your home and inspect your home from the outside. Light shining through indicates where undesirables could potentially enter. Any openings need to get sealed with a sealant appropriate for the surface to which it is applied.

Keep Your Kitchen Clean

A few innocent-looking crumbs here and there on your kitchen counter or floor are more like a feast for ants and other insects. Be vigilant about kitchen clean-up – wipe counters, sweep floors, remove the trash often, and put food away immediately after eating.

Another place in the kitchen that can attract vermin is the recycling bin. Make sure to wash out all food containers before placing them in the recycling.

A drawer for storing pots and pans is yet another spot that crumbs tend to gather – ensure this is kept clean. A little extra attention to cleaning the kitchen goes a long way toward prevention.

Reduce Moisture in and Around the Home

Pests thrive in areas where moisture is present, so reducing moisture around the home; will limit the opportunity for them to invade the home. Some moisture-reducing actions: clean out gutters, grade soil properly so that water moves away from the foundation, ventilate crawl spaces, and seal cracks in the foundation.

Pest-proof Storage Areas

Cluttered storage areas make attractive homes for mice, spiders, pigeons, cockroaches and others. You can keep them away by regularly cleaning and reorganizing your basement, garage and other storage areas. Avoid using cardboard boxes – instead, use durable plastic totes that cannot get chewed through.

Store Your Firewood Properly

Termites and ants are attracted to wood piles and can easily find their way from your firewood to your home. Firewood should be stored on racks above the ground and as far from your house or shed as possible.

Use Outdoor Lighting That Does Not Attract Insects

Did you know that the type of outdoor lighting you use can reduce the attractiveness of your home to insects? It’s true. Sodium vapour bulbs will reduce the attractiveness of your home to insects and reduce the number of predators that feed on insects, such as spiders and bats.

Know When To Bring In A Pest Control Professional

Sometimes by doing it alone, homeowners can mistreat a problem and make it worse. When a problem seems to be getting worse, it’s time to call in a professional. Considering how important your home is for your family’s wellness and safety, knowing you have an expert protecting your home is invaluable.

There are a lot of things a homeowner can do to prevent vermin around the home. Whether you do it all on your own or hire a professional pest control service with the best products, keep these tips in mind to keep your home safe.

If you have any additional questions or are looking to schedule a treatment, call the experts at Ecopest today at 1-866-269-2847.

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Cockroach Biology and Management

Resources / December 21, 2022

Cockroach Biology and Management

Cockroaches in Alberta have made a serious comeback in recent years. Cockroaches are a health hazard and thrive once introduced where humans live and work, such as in apartment buildings, residential homes, and food establishments. This article will provide a brief overview of the biology of cockroaches and provide some practical tips on controlling cockroach infestations.

Introduction

Cockroaches are serious pests throughout Canada. The German cockroach is the most frequently found species in Canada. They are annoying, and when abundant, they are also destructive. Cockroaches destroy food and damage fabrics, book bindings, and other materials. When they run over food, they leave filth and may also spread disease. They secrete an oily liquid with an offensive and sickening odour that may ruin food. They can also pass this odour on to clean dishes. Cockroach excrement, which they indiscriminately distribute in the form of pellets and looks like specks of brown or black ground pepper, contributes to this nauseating odour and has proven to produce allergies and is a leading cause of childhood asthma.

Biology and Lifecycle

The cockroach has three life stages: the egg, nymph, and adult (see diagram).

Identification From left to right: penny, adult female, adult male, 5th instar, 3rd instar, 1st instar

Cockroach eggs get deposited in groups in a leathery case or capsule called an ootheca. Once formed, this capsule is usually dropped or glued to some surface by the female; however, she carries the capsule, which protrudes from her body, until the eggs are ready to hatch.

There may be from 30 to 48 eggs in the capsule of the German cockroach, but capsules of other cockroaches may have only 10-28 eggs. The newly hatched nymphs have no wings and shed their skins (moult) several times before becoming winged adults. German cockroaches may have several generations or cycles per year.

Where to Look for Cockroaches

Cockroaches hide in dark, sheltered places during the day and come out to feed at night.

They may be found around the kitchen sink or drainboard, in cracks around or underneath cupboards and cabinets or inside them (especially in the upper corners), behind drawers, around pipes or conduits (where they pass along the wall or go through it), behind windows or door frames, behind loose baseboards or moulding strips, on the underside of tables and chairs, in the bathroom, and radio and TV cabinets. (see pictures on cockroach frass and nesting). The German cockroach is usually found in the kitchen and bathroom, although it may be all over the house.

The German cockroach is small, nocturnal, and fast-moving, so it can quickly escape into cracks and crevices in the wall. As such, the German cockroach gets transported through human activities, such as food and equipment dispersal.

Cockroach Frass

Effective Control Measures

It would help if you avoided regular spray schedules to reduce the likelihood of insecticide resistance. Instead, leveraging a professional’s integrated pest management approach (IPM) can be used effectively for German cockroach control. We strongly recommend using this holistic approach.

IPM utilizes Inspection and Prevention techniques, directed (rather than broad) insecticide treatments, Sanitation and Exclusion strategies to reduce the use of chemical sprays which may pose a danger to children and pets.

Inspection: Regular monitoring is the kind of early intervention that leads to minimal chemical exposure, especially important in sensitive environments and leads to preventative practices, which are crucial to cockroach control.

Good Sanitation & Elimination of Food Sources

Cockroaches do not need large amounts of food to survive, especially in the presence of water. Furthermore, food sources can compete with cockroach baits, decreasing their effectiveness. Elimination of food sources includes:

Store and dispose of garbage properly. The highest concentration of cockroaches in a home is usually around the garbage can and the refrigerator.
Seal garbage can lids to prevent cockroaches from accessing food sources. Also, keep garbage areas clean by wiping frequently.
Dump sink strainers frequently to prevent food build-up.
Wash dishes immediately after use. Dishes left unwashed are a significant source of food for a kitchen infestation.
Keep kitchen appliances such as toasters, toaster ovens, microwaves, stoves, ovens, and refrigerators free of crumbs and other food debris. In addition, clean the areas around these appliances.
Reseal all food after opening or store in the refrigerator.
Seal pet food tightly. Do not leave food and water out all the time.
Regularly vacuum or sweep under and around furniture where people eat, such as the dining room table. Vacuuming can also remove cockroach egg cases that insecticides will not kill. Remember to promptly dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag in an outdoor container.

Elimination of Water Sources

Water is the most critical factor in cockroach survival. German cockroaches can survive only 12 days with food but no water. However, if only water is present with no food, cockroaches can survive for about 42 days. Eliminate water sources by doing the following:

Tighten or patch leaky pipes in kitchen and bathroom areas.
Do not let water stand in sinks for long periods.
Do not over-water indoor plants because accumulated water will be available to cockroaches.
Empty pans under refrigerators used to catch water from condensation.
Be aware that pet drinking dishes, aquaria, and pipe condensation (under sinks, in wall voids) can also be sources of moisture.

Exclusion

German cockroaches can initially infest a structure when infested grocery bags and packaging get brought inside. Inspect groceries for cockroaches before storing them. Keep grocery bags in outside storage areas.
Cockroaches breed prolifically in corrugated cardboard boxes. Discard unnecessary boxes immediately.
Dwellings, such as apartments separated by a common wall, are particularly difficult. An infestation can migrate between apartments via the plumbing encased in a common wall. Therefore, cockroaches from one apartment can easily migrate to another, infesting a “clean” dwelling. To help prevent this, caulk holes in common walls and around the plumbing.

Eliminate Harborage

In addition to food and moisture, cockroaches require a place to live. The cockroach harbourage is critical to its survival. Cockroaches prefer dark places that are warm and moist. Places that provide tight spaces, such as stacks of newspaper or cardboard, piles of clothing, or cracks and crevices in structures, are ideal.
Seal cracks and crevices: Adult cockroaches can fit into cracks only about 1/16 inch and prefer spaces of about 3/8 inch.

Directed Insecticide Treatments

Baits have a high degree of effectiveness against populations of German cockroaches. This bait has the advantage over regular baseboard spray regimes; however, in large infestations, professionals may use trapping and targeted spraying in combination.

Finally, each building and type of infestation are different. An IPM approach should get utilized, which begins with a thorough inspection of the problem and then determining the control strategy based on the complete assessment.

For more information or advice, please call 1-866-ANY-BUGS (1-866-269-2847) today. Our professionals are ready to help you!

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10 Signs Of Bed Bugs to Never Ignore

Resources / December 21, 2022

10 Signs Of Bed Bugs To Never Ignore

We always think that bed bugs live on beds only. That is what the name suggests, but we are wrong. Bed bugs can live anywhere. You can find bedbugs on your office chair, sofa and bus.

You can pick up a bedbug from sitting in a public transport vehicle or your car. They hide in bedding in your home, hotels, or pet bedding. And they are so tiny they can hide almost anywhere. Indeed, finding bedbugs early on may ensure you don’t transmit them to your home–or prevent you from a growing infestation.

10 Signs Of Bed Bugs (And How to Check For Them)

You are aware of how dangerous Bedbugs are, and you are planning to avoid them by all means. Here are a few signs of bedbug Infestation; any of these experiences is a red flag, be careful:

1. A LIVE BEDBUG WALKING AROUND

A live bedbug crawling on your couch, mattress, or vehicle seat is an excellent sign of infestation. The seats, glove boxes, and mats are ideal hideouts for the bedbugs. The bedbug you see today might have been living there for a long; regular checking is significant for managing them.

Although their shape changes as they age, many bedbugs are reddish-brown, flat, and oval-shaped. Some Bedbugs can be small as poppy seeds; others can be as big as an apple seed. If you see an insect with such features on your journey, that is a bedbug.

Often, the bedbug shows up when it is slightly dark. You rarely see a live bedbug in broad daylight because bedbugs can hide perfectly. Vacuum your home regularly to hinder the survival of bedbugs.

2. BITES AND BUMPS ON YOUR SKIN

Human blood is the bedbug’s favourite food. You might suddenly notice red bumps on your body after driving or travelling but fail to know their cause. Bedbugs can nip you while driving or taking a nap in the car’s back seat.

In other cases, these insects might fail to bite you immediately. But they’ll latch onto you later when they are in your home. Do not assume that all the bites and bumps on your skin are from mosquitoes. Sometimes these bites look like those of mosquitoes; check for bedbug infestation whenever you see bites on your skin.

The bites of this specific insect have a distinctive pattern in that they occur in a line. However, you should not ignore any bite, especially if you are experiencing bedbugs for the first time. Be watchful for any bites so you can exterminate them early on.

3. EXOSKELETON NEAR CRACKS AND CREVICES

Bedbugs shed their exoskeleton at least once a week. In other circumstances, they shed the exoskeleton five times before reaching maturity. If you see any exoskeleton in your vicinity (bed, carpet, vehicle, pet bedding), you should call a professional exterminator

You can find the exoskeletons in the areas where bedbugs love to hide. Check inside the glove compartment, the console and between the vehicle seats. Check often, as they might be moving to different areas of the vehicle.

Tip– A double-sided tape is helpful when checking into areas that are hard to reach. Get yourself one to ease your access to floor mats and the edges of seat cushions. Look at the tape as you work with it to see if you’ve picked up any insects.

4. DARK RUSTY-COLORED SPOTS ON CARPET, SHEETS, MATTRESSES OR FABRICS

If you see dark spots on your textiles, you may have an infestation on your hands. Bedbugs usually leave fecal stains on the areas they walk or assemble in significant numbers. The spots smear if you touch them and can have an unpleasant smell.

The bedbugs convey from one spot to the next in purses, bookbags, moving boxes, suitcases, and sometimes our clothes. Once they’re on the move, the insects will live in the areas made of fabric. Ensure you frequently inspect your linens and textiles for telltale dark rusty spots.

Regular cleaning can help you detect any issue early.

5. EGGS AND BED BUG SHELLS

White and husk-like specks alert you to the presence of these insects. Bed bug eggs have such features, and what you are seeing is probably shells. As the bed bugs grow, they shed off their skin, creating this shell.

Although you might see the eggshells on the surface level, it is wise to uncover them by digging a little bit deeper. Lift and check on the fabric edge, as the parasite prefers fabric to plastic. Destroy the eggs to prevent further bed bug multiplication.

The shells may seem old, but you should not ignore the fact that you have had a problem. Bed bugs survive for long periods, hiding in your clothes, bedding, and carpets. They relocate when you destroy their habitat, so check routinely and prevent them from increasing.

6. NOTICING MUSTY ODORS

If you detect any uncommon and musty scent in the car, it can signify any insect issues. Unpleasant and musty smells often signify the presence of pesky critters, and bed bugs fall into this category. These particular insects produce pheromones that can be very strong when many congregate in one area.

7. YOU WAKE UP WITH ITCHY RED SPOTS

Your skin is itchy after a nap while travelling, and you wonder what caused it. The most noticeable sign of a bed bug infestation is the presence of bites on your skin. You might see the signs immediately or later.

Bedbug bites are small in size, red in colour, and constantly itchy. You might experience inflammation minutes after the bite, especially if weren’t on the lookout when scratching your skin.

People may unknowingly carry these insects because they mistake their bites for other stings.

8. TINY WHITE SPOTS ON THE JOINTS OF YOUR CAR

White spots in the crevices of a mattress, couch, or car seat are clear signs of an infestation. The insects lay tiny eggs on the joints and cracks of furnishings. Seeing these should prompt you to investigate the entire area. Otherwise, the eggs will hatch and grow out of control.

One female bed bug lays 200 to 250 eggs in her lifetime. They prefer laying their eggs in cracks and crevices because these are safe areas. The eggs hatch after just 6 and 10 days, so their number increase rapidly.

You might have these tiny insects for months without you noticing. Regular cleaning by vacuuming helps to control the population. Regularly using a vacuum cleaner can help eliminate any problems you might be unaware of.

Tip– use a flashlight to peer between and behind couches, chairs, mattresses, and even under your car seat. Peel back the fabric tucked to the bottom and take a good look!

9. BLOOD STAINS ON YOUR CLOTHES

Looking down and finding bloodstains on your clothes is alarming. Bloodstains are an apparent reason to suspect a bed bug infestation. Bloodstains and bites and red or itchy skin signal you might have a bedbug problem.

Sometimes you unconsciously squash the bedbugs while or after they feed on your blood. The squashing causes blood spots on your clothes. If you often wonder about such mystery stains, it indicates insects.

Time to call the exterminator!

10. YOUR FRIEND HAS MENTIONED BEDBUG ISSUES

You may not realize that bedbugs spread from one person to another. The friend you carpool with or your colleague on a business trip might unknowingly transmit bed bugs to your belongings.

Even the cleanest friend might be carrying insects along. The parasite does not care whether you are clean or unclean; it needs to feed on your blood.

What to Do If You've Found These Insects

So, you found bed bugs. Now what?

Call an exterminator right away. They can confirm if your infestation is what you believe or if it is some other critter. And they will assess the extent of the problem. Some companies will even bring in canines to sniff out problem areas you overlooked.

Speed is of the essence to stop the life cycle of this critter. The professional will know what to do to take care of the situation.

Final Thoughts On Handling A Bed Bug Infestation

Although they do not carry any diseases, bed bugs are annoying and stressful. Any person with experience with this insect can testify that just the mere thought of them makes people itch. Many people suffer sores that don’t heal well, insomnia, or a phobia after a brush with this insect.

Cushions and mattresses are the most obvious places to check when you suspect you have an infestation. However, these sneaky creatures find their way into places you least expect. It is not surprising to find them in closets, pet bedding, or your car.

If you have any additional questions or are looking to schedule a treatment for bed bugs, call the experts at Ecopest today at 1-866-269-2847.

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How Does Pest Control Get Rid of Rats?

Resources / November 23, 2022

How Does Pest Control Get Rid of Rats?

Rats may be found all over the world, and there are over 60 kinds of rats that cohabit with humans. A few prevalent species in Canada are known to infest homes and businesses. These are the bushy-tailed woodrat (Neotoma cinerea), the Eurasian black rat (Rattus Rattus), and the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). If you have a rat problem, one of these is most likely to blame. To get rid of rats, you must first understand the variations in their behaviour and nesting practices, which is why infestations necessitate expert solutions from Pest control for rats.

These professionals understand how to deal with various species of rats.

Avoid Rodents Attack

People don’t encounter rats very often, yet evidence of their existence is simple to spot. It is critical to identify which rat species is present to adopt efficient control techniques or get rid of rats. Sanitation measures, rodent-proofing, and population control often include an effective rat control approach (trapping).

Sanitation / Housekeeping: Rodent pests thrive in areas with easy access to food and water. Store all food in airtight containers or rooms. Garbage and trash should be sealed and secluded as well. Water and food dishes for pets or other items should not be left out overnight since this can encourage a rat infestation.
Rodent proofing: As a precautionary step, a homeowner or handyman can seal any potential rodent access points into the structure to prevent rats and mice from entering. The pest controllercan supply specifications and carry out rodent proofing of the premises in more difficult home and business contexts.
- Seal any potential access places for rodents, such as sewers and air vents.
- Repair or replace broken ventilation screens around the foundation and underneath the eaves.
- Provide a tight-fitting crawl space cover.
- Seal all holes surrounding pipes, cables, and wires entering the walls or the foundation.
- Check that any opening windows are screened and in good shape.
A professional understanding of rodent behaviour is required to eliminate a problem. For example, rats avoid baiting touched by human hands because they have a keen sense of smell and are “shrewd as a rat.” Sticky traps, mechanical traps, and selective usage of the newest generation rat bait are all possible pest management techniques. Any rat baiting program should employ safety dispensers where children and pets cannot get them, such as a roof void, sealed subfloor, and storage rooms.
We are extremely familiar with rodents. For example, did you know that each species prefers a particular diet and thrives in a distinct environment? Therefore, you can rely on us to use the most effective rat extermination procedures for each species. Ecopest is the leading Pest Control company for rats, available always, and can aid with emergencies.

Ecopest Professional Pest Control

At Ecopest, we will:

Provide you with a written inspection report and a plan of action.
Quotes should be based on inspection results rather than set prices.
If necessary, make recommendations for structural repairs.
Visit frequently till the task gets completed.
Put the bait in tamper-proof containers.
Educate you on how to keep rats at bay.
Work with you until the rats are no longer present.

We are pest and rodent control specialists with extensive expertise in dealing with all types of pests in Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Saskatoon and Canada. Mice and rats are examples of common rodents. In addition, squirrels, Cockroaches, ants, flies, bed bugs, spiders, hamsters, beavers, porcupines, and other animals present various challenges for residents.

If you want to try our services and want to know more about our pest control company, contact us:

Toll-Free: 1-866-269-2847
Edmonton: (780)-448-2661
Calgary: (587) 393-6991
Red Deer: (403)-340-3652
Prince Rupert: (250)-622-2847
Grande Prairie: (780)-539-1877
Fort McMurray: (780) 750-8149
Regina: (306)-271-1827
Saskatoon: (306)-986-5182

Call us anytime. We are always there to help you.

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Is Your City on the Bed Bug List?

Resources / November 21, 2022

Is Your City on the Bed Bug List?

Are you wondering if bed bugs are a real problem in your city? There is, in fact, a list that shows where the biggest number of such incidents occur.

A leading report ranked the Top 10 Bed Bug Cities in a Global News report, ranking metro areas based on the number of treatments the pest control company performed.

To protect your home and avoid becoming part of this growing statistic, here are tips to ensure your home does not require pest treatment in Edmonton.

The Top 10 cities are:

Toronto
Winnipeg
Vancouver
Ottawa
St. John’s
Edmonton
Halifax
Sudbury
Scarborough, Ont.
Calgary

A growing concern

Whereas 10 years ago, bedbugs were almost unheard of, there is now a significant number of occurrences happening in all developed nations, including Canada, the U.S and Europe.
These pests are starting to become a real challenge and are not limited by geography. In the United States, large and mid-sized cities are in the top 50 list.
What this means is that no matter where you live, you are not exempt from needing to be on the watch for these pests. As pest control professionals in Canada can attest, incidents are now common.
Contrary to intuition, it’s a myth that bed bugs are evidence of poor hygiene or cleanliness. No matter how clean the environment is, they can survive as long as their food source and blood are available. To illustrate how little the cleanliness of a home matters, these critters have been found everywhere, from million-dollar homes to public housing.

These pests are also good travellers; they can latch onto luggage, purses, and other items during travel. They not only reside in bedrooms, as their name implies, but bed bugs can also be at movie theatres, public transportation, offices, and libraries.

Tips for detecting bed bugs

It’s important to watch for signs of these pests. Spotting them early on can make it possible to avoid a larger infestation.
They can be difficult to spot because, fully grown, they are only the size of an apple seed. Besides seeing the bugs themselves, it is also possible to note the small dark stains they leave on bedding and sheets.
One necessary action is to inspect your home regularly, especially around the bed. Decreasing clutter can help as it will give the bugs fewer places to hide and make it more likely that you will spot the signs of their presence.
A couple more tips: when washing your bedding, dry linens on high heat; any time you bring new furniture into the home, make sure to inspect it thoroughly.
Another important time to be vigilant is when staying at hotels. Survey hotel rooms while travelling by examining the mattress, box spring and other furniture. Store your luggage away from the wall and examine your luggage while repacking. When arriving home after travels, place clothing in the dryer on the highest setting.
If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to call a pest control company for bed bug removal in Edmonton as soon as possible.

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How to Get Rid of Wasps the Safe Way

Resources / November 21, 2022

How to Get Rid of Wasps the Safe Way.

Undoubtedly, wasps can be a nuisance and disturbance to home occupants. However, getting rid of a nest can be dangerous and even deadly if things go wrong. Safely removing them is essential, as one homeowner in Thunder Bay, Ontario, learned recently. “Fire crews were called to a home on Rockwood Avenue after a man poured gasoline on a nest and set it on fire, only to ignite his own home,” reported CBC news.

Attempting to burn a nest is not the best way to remove it! Here are some tips for wasp control in Edmonton in a safe manner.

Consider a Wasp control professional in Edmonton

A pest control professional is the best option for removing a nest, especially if you are allergic to stings. Or if the nest is in a difficult-to-reach location, like a wall, attic, or underneath a concrete slab.

Stings can be dangerous, even deadly, if you are stung multiple times – even if you are not allergic to the stings! If you decide to remove the nest, careful planning is required.

Dress for the part

It is essential to wear protective clothing when you attempt to get rid of a wasp’s nest to reduce the likelihood of being stung. Try to cover all open areas of the body by wearing long jeans, socks and boots, a sweater with the hood pulled over your head and gloves. To protect the head and face, wrap a scarf around your neck and mouth and wear ski goggles or protective glasses over your eyes.

Keep pets and children safe

If you decide to use a pesticide spray or powder to kill them, it’s important to ensure the area stays clear of small children or pets for at least 24 hours. Dispose of any dead ones you find on the ground near the nest, as these killing products are extremely poisonous and can harm pets and children.

Keep pets and children safe

Timing of year and time of day is important

The best time in the year to destroy a nest is as early in the year as possible. In the spring, the nest is smaller, and the wasps are less aggressive. Toward the end of summer, they are more aggressive as next year’s queens are being born.

If you do not find the nest until late summer or fall, you may not need to destroy the nest at all. If freezing occurs in your area, the colony will die off naturally, and you can easily dispose of the nest in the winter. Then make plans to prevent nesting on your property next year.

If you plan to get rid of a nest yourself, it is best to do it at night or early in the morning, as this is when the wasps are least active, so their reaction time is slower, and they are less aggressive. However, looking for a professional in Edmonton in Wasp Control is the surest way.

Plan an escape route

Before you spray the nest, plan an escape route and make sure the path to safety is clear because they will quickly start to stream out of the nest while you spray and may swarm at you. Quickly take cover after targeting the nest and wait at least 24 hours before observing the nest to see if it is safe to approach and remove.

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Top Pigeon Prevention & Deterrent Tips

Resources / November 21, 2022

Top Pigeon Prevention & Deterrent Tips.

We all love the iconic image of feeding pigeons in the park. Still, the same swarming scenario becomes a severe pest problem when these birds invade the space of a home. The homeowners who live in areas where these birds are prevalent know all about the mess and property damage the birds cause when they use a house to congregate or dwell.

Damage includes bird droppings on every inch of the surface and damage to gardens, bird feeders, birdbaths, outdoor fountains, statues, or yard displays. Damage to the structure of a home can include the roof, soffits, gables, and eaves.

This article complies with the top pigeon control tips, including pigeon control spikes and pigeon netting, to help you stop damage.

Prevention

Preventing pigeons from finding your home and yard hospitable is essential and, as such, is the number one action a homeowner can take. Once they find a nesting spot, not only are they difficult to remove, but they have a memory of nesting places that can last for generations!

Food availability is necessary for all pests to make a home, and pigeons are no different. Keep your outside living spaces clean, including sealing trash, removing food scraps, cleaning your barbecue grill after each use and keeping pet food indoors.

Another key prevention factor is to mitigate pigeon-friendly spots around your home. Soffits and vents that are high up are instinctively inviting for them to establish a nest and start a family. Make sure vents and chimneys get sealed using fine-mesh screening. Soffits should be functional with no inviting gaps. Check gutters and eaves and consider gutter coverings if these birds are attracted to this area of your home.

Deterrents

There are several ways to deter birds from using your space. Here are a few of them, from easiest to most costly and involved.

Props and sounds

The easiest way to discourage these birds from your patio, deck, or balcony is by using props. Most garden centers and big-box stores carry fake owls and rubber snakes for this purpose. The birds will eventually recognize these props as fake, so you will need to move the props around from time to time to make the effect last longer.

Wind chimes, aluminum foil pans, and mylar-type balloons also work to deter them. With a bit of wind, these props make your home uninviting. However, this technique can fall flat when the wind dies down.

Barriers

A simple and low-cost option for a balcony that attracts birds is to attach a “slinky” type toy along the top. The barrier of the coils, wrapped around the railing, prevents the bird from finding a comfortable spot. Like this approach, tie a string a few centimeters on your balcony rail, and birds will have difficulty gaining a foothold on your railing.

Another level up is Pigeon control spikes, also known as anti-roosting spikes. These spikes are available at most home and garden centers or hardware stores. They can be attached anywhere the bird’s roosts and discourage perching. This approach can be expensive and requires installation, but they are effective and will stand the test of time.

For sheds, buildings, and gardens, consider installing pigeon netting. This product is readily available at garden centers and will effectively keep birds out – not to mention other pests! Installing netting is a more involved and costly process but a very effective and long-term solution.

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