Pests In Ontario
Ontario residents face year-round pest challenges from insects and rodents alike, so knowing your enemy is essential to effective pest management. Pest control Brampton, Toronto and GTA Ontario is not difficult if you timely control them. Here is a breakdown of some common Ontario-based pests with helpful hints on how best to tackle them.
Ants:
Carpenter ants, pavement ants and Pharaoh ants are the three main household pests to watch out for when it comes to insects invading homes. These sweet-loving pests will typically find food sources such as honeydew for sweet treats to snack on but may also invade in search of proteins and fats in homes they invade.
Mosquitoes:
Mosquitoes can make outdoor experiences uncomfortable in areas close to water, turning an evening spent outside into an annoying battle against them. Not only are mosquitoes annoying; they may carry diseases such as West Nile Virus.
Wasps:
Wasps can be disruptive to outdoor activities, particularly during late summer when their populations peak.
Bed Bugs:
Bed bugs are one of the scariest creatures around, emerging at night to feed on human blood. Unfortunately, they’re difficult to eradicate and can hitch rides on luggage, furniture and clothing to reach new victims.
Cockroaches:
Cockroaches, well known for their resilience, can often be found living in urban areas. Cockroaches thrive by feeding on virtually anything; food scraps and moisture provide prime living environments.
Rodents
Mice and Rats: With winter approaching, mice and rats seek warmth and food within homes, where they can chew through wires, spread disease and quickly multiply without proper control measures in place.
Squirrels: Once considered cute, squirrels can cause significant structural damage by chewing through wood and electrical wiring in your attic.
Seasonal Pests
Cluster Flies, Ladybugs and Boxelder Bugs are seasonal pests which typically enter homes during autumn to overwinter. Although not harmful in large numbers, they can still become quite annoying.
Spiders: While spiders can be beneficial in controlling other insect populations, some, like the black widow spider, pose serious health threats.
Raccoons and Skunks:
Raccoons and skunks can become pests when they rummage through garbage or make themselves at home in your shed or porch, potentially becoming aggressive as well as carrying rabies.
Bats: Bats can be beneficial at controlling insects, but can become problematic if they roost in attics and potentially introduce diseases such as rabies.
Effective Pest Management
Prevention is key when it comes to effective pest control. Here are a few helpful hints:
Seal Entry Points: Small cracks and gaps provide entryway for insects and rodents. Use caulk or another suitable material to seal them up as soon as you spot one!
Maintain a Clean Environment: Regular cleaning helps deter pest infestation by eliminating food sources and clearing away clutter that pests use as hiding spots.
Properly Store Food and Trash: For food storage purposes, airtight containers with tight fitting lids should be used, while trash bins must have secure lids to deter pests from coming inside.
Natural Deterrents: For effective results, natural repellents like diatomaceous earth may help deter insects while peppermint oil will keep rodents at bay.
Professional Help: When DIY methods fail to deliver results, professional pest control services offer more effective solutions and peace of mind.
Maintain Safety and Legal Compliance
It is crucial that when using chemical treatments for pest control purposes in Ontario that they adhere to Ontario’s stringent pesticide use regulations. Doing so will safeguard both you and the environment as well as ensure the wellbeing of children and pets when selecting pest management methods.
Conclusion
Addressing pest problems in Brampton, Toronto, GTA and areas in Ontario requires taking an aggressive, pro-active approach. By understanding their habits and preferences, homeowners can choose the most effective and safe control strategies.
