Recent Work : Bedbugs, cockroaches, silverfish, Pharaoh ants

We’ve been super busy over the last couple of months, mainly dealing with insect infestations as well as rodents. We’ve also commenced bird-proofing activities during this optimal window, allowing us to implement preventative measures without disrupting nesting. However, this opportunity is fleeting and typically spans just a few months. If you’re considering bird-proofing solutions, now is the ideal moment to reach out and explore your options with us.

Bedbugs

Bedbugs have been in the news recently as a result of multiple infestations in Paris, in places such as trains, cinemas, hospitals and private homes. Eurostar implemented deep cleaning measures to prevent them coming back to the UK but it’s so easy to bring some unwanted visitors back with you.

Treating a bed bug infestation can be challenging as they are resistant to many insecticides. The most effective treatment options include combining chemical treatments with heat or steam treatments. Bed bug prevention measures include regular cleaning, vacuuming, and inspecting second-hand furniture before bringing it into the home.

It is important to take bed bug infestations seriously as they can quickly spread and have significant impacts on physical and mental health. Early detection and prompt treatment can help prevent a small infestation from becoming a major problem.

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it is important to contact a pest control professional like Eradipest who can properly identify and treat the problem. Do not attempt to use insecticides on your own as this can be dangerous and ineffective. Additionally, be sure to inform any hotel or rental property where you stayed recently so that they can take measures to prevent the spread of bed bugs to other guests. By taking proactive measures and remaining vigilant, we can work towards preventing the spread of bed bugs and keeping our living environments safe and healthy.

Nature space update

In an era dominated by technology and urbanisation, the significance of connecting children with the natural world cannot be overstated. Nature offers a rich and diverse classroom, which can develop vital skills and knowledge that are often overlooked in traditional educational settings.

Nature has the ability to nurture cognitive development in children. The diverse sights, sounds, smells, and textures found in natural settings engage all their senses. Nature-based activities such as identifying different plants and animals, understanding ecosystems, and observing patterns in the environment can be fascinating for children.

Here in our wild flower garden, we are doing our best to encourage a diverse range of creatures and insects which benefit our environment. We need to remember that insects and other creatures also play a play a vital role in maintaining the balance of nature. Here we see the children (and Bertie) enjoying their time here!

With Eradipest’s approach to nature and the world around us, not only are we here to sustain a safe and hygienic environment for our customers but in a small way, we can also do our best to nurture a generation that appreciates the benefits of the natural world around us.

Carpet Pests

We recently treated a property which had a carpet pest infestation. You can see the tiny cocoons in these photos if you look carefully, which are sure signs of insect activity.

An area of carpet with indentations from furniture and small white grains which are actually carpet pest cocoons.

Carpet pests are insects and small creatures that can infest and damage carpets and other textiles in your home. Some common carpet pests include:

Carpet Beetles

These small, oval-shaped insects are known for feeding on natural fibres like wool and silk. They can cause irregular holes or patterns in carpets.

Carpet Moths

These moths lay eggs in dark, undisturbed areas of the home, such as closets. Their larvae feed on natural fibres, including those found in carpets, leading to damage like holes and thinning.

Carpet Mites

These microscopic arachnids feed on organic matter like skin flakes, pet dander, and pollen. While they don’t directly damage carpets, their presence can exacerbate allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals.

Fleas: Fleas are known to infest carpets when brought into the home by pets. They can bite both humans and animals and are often a nuisance in households with pets.

Dust Mites

While not visible to the naked eye, dust mites are microscopic pests that can inhabit carpets and feed on dead skin cells and other organic matter. Their waste can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in some people.

To prevent carpet pest infestations, it’s essential to maintain a clean and hygienic living environment, vacuum carpets regularly, and take measures to control humidity and moisture levels in your home.

If an infestation is suspected, it’s advisable to consult with a pest control professional like Eradipest for effective treatment.

Cockroaches

We have received quite a few calls from customers recently where cockroach issues have been identified. Although cockroaches are often brought into a home or business via foodstuffs, they can also be transported via furniture, picture frames, fridges and other white goods.

Here is a cockroach we found in Chichester.

Sometimes all it takes is to tread on an egg sac which is then moved to another location via your shoes.

We would recommend a course of treatments and then ongoing checks to ensure there are no further traces of infestation. As eggs take up to three months to hatch, it’s vital to keep an eye on things because a single treatment is unlikely to eradicate them permanently.

As you can see from these traps we laid, dozens of cockroaches can be caught over a period of time. The best thing about the traps is they only attract the target species so other creatures won’t be harmed by them.

Pharaoh Ants

We were recently called to Waterlooville to tackle some pesky Pharaoh ants. Pharaoh ants require specialist treatment as they’re no ordinary ants! Using the wrong approach can lead to queen ants scattering and creating new nests throughout the property.

A pharaoh ant on a white kitchen worktop.

Just like their cockroach counterparts, Pharaoh ants can spread harmful bacteria, potentially impacting your health, which is why it’s crucial to leave it to our expert pest technicians to deliver the correct treatments.

Here is Connor applying treatment for Pharaoh ants in Waterlooville.

Silverfish

Silverfish are small, wingless insects known for their distinctive, silvery appearance and their preference for dark, damp environments. Infestations of silverfish typically occur when these pests find their way into homes or buildings through cracks, gaps, or vents.

They thrive in areas with high humidity levels, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens, where they feed on starchy materials like paper, glue, textiles, and even certain food items. Once inside, silverfish can multiply rapidly, and their presence can be quite persistent.

Here are some silverfish from recent assignments, where we’ve captured close-up photos to assist customers in identifying them.

Prevention measures include reducing humidity, sealing entry points, and storing vulnerable items in airtight containers. If left unchecked, silverfish infestations can lead to damage to personal belongings and require professional pest control intervention.