Bed Bug Control In Your Home

Published on January 25, 2013 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: Bed bug control, pest control, professional pest control.

Bed Bugs are not a pleasant pest to have in your home, causing itchiness and even sleeplessness in your family. They are also prolific breeders, laying several eggs a week and living for almost a year. However, bites may be due to mosquitoes or other insects, so don’t immediately think you have bedbugs if you wake up with small welts. You can check for bedbugs by looking for tiny blood stains on furniture, or little bugs in mattress linings and bed cracks. Homeowners can be proactive about bed bug control, so follow these easy tips to lessen the likelihood of a bed bug problem.

Don’t Introduce Them To Your Home

The easiest way to prevent bed bugs is by taking proactive measures to stop them entering your home. Bed bugs can be introduced to your home in a couple of ways you can control, so be aware and take steps to stop problems before they exist. If you have recently travelled check your luggage and clothing before you put it away with the rest of your things (especially if you have experienced itchiness through the trip). Whilst travelling, place your luggage in a cupboard or raised surface, not on the carpet or bed. If you suspect you have bed bugs wash and dry your clothing in hot water. Used furniture should be checked and possibly steam cleaned before being brought into your home for proactive bed bug control.

Seal Cracks And Entryways

Caulking cracks and crevices in furniture and walls is a good idea, to minimise the homes in your house for bed bugs and other pests. Before you do so, swipe a knife or playing card through cracks, to check for pests.

Steam Clean Beds And Bedding

If you suspect you have bed bugs, an easy bed bug control step is to steam clean your bedding. A hot dryer can be used on mattresses for a short term reduction of the problem, before your professional pest control expert can come in.

Work Together

If you live in an apartment building notify other homes (especially the adjoining ones) of your pest control issue. If your home has bedbugs you may have gotten them from them, or they may now also be infested. A permanent solution needs to be thorough, so working together is your best bet of stopping the bed bug problem for good.

Call Professional Pest Control

Professional pest control is often needed for bed bug control, because the small pests can be anywhere, and their breeding cycle needs to be broken for a permanent solution. Homeowners can discuss with their pest control expert how best to continue pest control in their own home.

Peter the Possum Man is your bed bug control expert. For more information on obtaining a free quote, or our range of services, click here.

Top Three Reasons To Not DIY Rat Pest Control

Published on January 18, 2013 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: pest control, possum pest control, professional pest control.

It can be tempting for homeowners to attempt to handle rat pest control on their own, rather than calling professional pest control. However, unlike some pests that may exist in only small numbers in your home, one rat is usually a sign of an existing or future infestation. DIY Rat pest control can be dangerous for your family, and exacerbate an existing problem. For the top three reasons NOT to DIY rat pest control, read on.

Swift Breeding

Rats are swift and prolific breeders. A rat will birth a litter that on average has 5-8 young, three times a year. These young take only 4 months to be ready to breed themselves. This obviously results in swift and prolific breeding-often in your home! Whilst rat bait may kill adult rats, it will not kill the young, who will soon become adults- trapping you in an endless cycle of baiting and waiting. This is why seeing one or two rats doesn’t necessarily mean you only have a small rat problem, you just can’t see the whole family.

Hazardous Pest

Rats, unlike some pests, are extremely hazardous to have in and around your home. They can chew on electrical wires, causing shortages or even fires. They also carry many diseases which they can spread through bite, or air contamination from their droppings. DIY Rat pest control can be dangerous, if you do not use the proper safety equipment to clean up droppings, nests, and dead bodies of rats.

Problems With Amateur Rat Baiting

Rat baiting without expertise, can lead to problems for children, pets and local wildlife. Chemicals in rat baits can be absorbed through skin, so correct handling is important. If you lay rat baits and possums live in your roof, they will eat them, and then most likely die in an inaccessible place- causing uncomfortable smells and unsightly stains. Professionals can use rat baits carefully, and make sure a possum problem is not also an issue in your home. Professional rat pest control also entails removal of droppings, nests and dead bodies- so that the cycle is broken permanently and safely.

Peter the Possum man is your domestic Rat pest control expert. For more information, click here.

How To Keep Your Garden Pest Free

Published on January 8, 2013 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: pest control, professional pest control.

Most pests are harmless when they exist in small numbers, and aren’t inside your home! However if you have special plants, or are experiencing worrying numbers of pests outside, you may need to change a few things about your garden. Thankfully most pest control solutions for gardens are easy steps to take, as long as you’re proactive. Check out these easy tips we have put together to stop your plants getting eaten, and to lessen the likelihood of pests moving from outside, in. Professional pest control only needs to be called for gardens if you are experiencing an infestation, or a dangerous pest.

Clear Your Garden

Keeping your garden clear of piles of unused wood, mechanical items or other household goods are key to not creating homes or nests for pests. If you have wood for a fire make sure it is being used often, or else being stored somewhere cool and dry, to minimise the likelihood of it being used by rats and other pests. Compost should be kept in a proper container, and free from the organic rubbish (such as egg shells) that attracts rats. These easy steps stop your pests from getting out of hand, and requiring professional pest control.

Trim And Prune

Trimming back plants is a good way to keep your garden manageable, and not impinging on your home. Branches overhanging your roof can provide ways for possums to enter your home. Keeping grass low and neat also lessens the likelihood of mice, rats and snakes.

Keep Animal Food Inside

Animal food should be kept inside at night, to avoid attracting little animals you don’t want. If you need to leave an animal’s bowl outside, make sure it is completely clean. Bird feeders should be high off the ground, away from other less desirable creatures.

Sensor Lights

Sensor lights can be helpful in dissuading possums from making your home and garden, theirs. Consider fairy lights if you want a more stylish approach.

Net Special Plants

Netting special plants is important in protecting them from possums. Ask your local nursery when you buy plants if they are possum safe, or if they will need to be covered. Nets should cover the whole plant, and be used every night for the most effective results.

Use Professional Pest Control

If you have a mouse or rat infestation, or a bee swarm, you will need to use professional pest control. Professional pest control is the safest, permanent option for pest problems.

Peter the Possum man is your professional pest control expert. If you are experiencing trouble with pests, inside or out, contact us for a free quote.

Mice Extermination In Your Home

Published on December 27, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: Mice extermination., pest exterminators., Possum eradication..

Mice are annoying pests to have in your home, not least because they damage goods and leave unsightly droppings and chew marks. If you think you have mice, follow these steps to ensure a permanent and safe pest control solution for your home.

Identify Pest Problem

Identifying that you have a pest problem, and the pest you are dealing with, is the first step. You will notice that you have a pest problem if you hear noises in the night, see chew marks, droppings or even nests. Their droppings can identify whether you have mice or rats, however if you aren ‘t sure which, it isn ‘t awfully important-if you have a problem with either you will need an extermination service.

Use Professional Mice Extermination

Professional mice extermination is the safest option for your family and pets. Unlike DIY products professional mice extermination ensures mice are both exterminated and removed. Many poisonous products take time to kill mice, so they will wander off and die- leaving an odor and potential hazard for pets and wildlife. Professional pest control teams can also target nests as well as adults – ensuring a permanent mice solution. You should act fast if you have a pest problem- mice and rats breed extremely quickly, so a problem will only get worse if it is left alone.

Clean Up

After a mice infestation it is important to clean up your home, and anything that has come into contact with mice. Talk to your mice extermination expert about anything that has been contaminated and needs to be removed. Mice extermination teams should remove nests and other signs of mice, however some cleaning up may be left to you. Someone wearing gloves and a mask should pick up droppings, to avoid contamination and disease. Do not dust areas where droppings have been, because this will spread air born contaminants – instead use bleach or disinfectant.

Remove Attractants

Remove anything in your home that will attract more mice in the future. Don ‘t leave cat and dog food out during the night, and make sure all spills are cleaned up. Rats may also be attracted to your home due to food left outside – so make sure bird feeders are well off the ground.

Remove Entry Ways

Mice may enter your home through doorways, cracks, or any holes in your home. Remove these entryways by keeping screen doors closed, and sealing up any gaps. You should also seal any holes in internal walls, as they provide a home for mice.

Peter the Possum man is your friendly pest control expert in Melbourne and Brisbane. For safe and humane mice extermination, contact us and to obtain a free quote. We offer a 3 month warranty on all mice extermination.

Pests That Are Dangerous For Your Family And Pets – And When You Need Professional Pest Exterminatiors

Published on December 17, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: pest exterminators., Possum eradication..

Pests are not only annoying to deal with in your home, creating frustration and damage to belongings; they can also pose a risk to your family and pets. Whilst most Australian household pests won’t act aggressively against your family, many will react violently to attempts to catch or kill. This makes them dangerous for homeowners attempting to remove them. Pests in large numbers are also likely to become bolder. Small children and pets are always at danger with pests that can harm, because they might attempt to touch the pest, without realising the consequences. We’ve put together a list of the main pests that can cause harm to your family, and how to best avoid such harm. Pest exterminators are generally the safest option, as they are trained and have the appropriate equipment.

Rats (Also Generally Applies To Mice)

Rats can cause harm to your family in a number of ways. Rats may contaminate food or belongings that will then be dangerous to put near or in your mouth. They may also react aggressively if cornered, and a rat bite needs medical treatment. Rats can also cause your family harm by chewing at electrical wires, which has been known to start fires. If you have a rat problem call professional pest exterminators, as there are often more rats that you aren’t aware of, breeding in or around your home. Leaving out rat bait can be dangerous for children, pets and (if outside) even native animals.

WASPS (Also Applies To Bees)

Wasps are at their most dangerous if they build a hive in, or near your residence. One or two wasps are not a major cause of concern, although they can of course sting. The best course of action in the case of only a few wasps is to avoid them, as they will eventually go away. However, a hive means that many wasps now consider your home as theirs, and that they will exist there permanently, or until you remove them. Removing a hive yourself is very dangerous, as wasps are highly likely to swarm and attack the aggressor. Wasp stings, especially in large number, can be fatal. A professional pest exterminator can exterminate wasps and then remove the hive, a far safer option.

Fleas

Fleas do not pose a high level of actual harm to your family or pets. However, an infestation of fleas can be frustrating for both humans and pets. The flea cycle needs to be properly broken, in order to free both humans and pets from these annoying blood suckers. Pest exterminators can help break this cycle.

Other pests such as possums can pose a danger to your family, but only if they are aggressively cornered. Spiders are often a huge fear for humans, but most are not dangerous.

If you have a pest problem, contact us at Peter the Possum Man, for safe, effectively and timely removal. It is far safer for your family and pets that you use professional pest exterminators.

FAQS On Possum Damage And Possum Eradication

Published on December 7, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: Possum control, Possum eradication..

Possums are a common problem in many Australian households. As possums are native to Australia it is illegal to kill them, or remove them from their territories. That doesn’t mean however, that there is nothing you can do if possums are frustrating you and your family, or employees. Check out these FAQs, for more information on possums and possum eradication

What damage can possums cause?

Possums can cause a lot of nuisance and damage to your home and family. They are incredibly noisy houseguests, often keeping homeowners up late at night. Possums may also cause dogs to bark, also creating unwanted noise. However, possums can cause more damage than just frustration. Urine and droppings from possums can ruin your ceilings and create ghastly smells. You may also experience horrible smells if possums die in your roof. Structural damage may also occur if possums scratch holes in your walls, or move around insulation and cause fire hazards. Possum eradication should be seen to as soon as possible, to avoid extensive damage.

Can I remove the possum myself?

Whilst it is legal to remove a possum yourself, it is usually neither safe nor effective. Possums are protected in Australia, so you must not trap them without the correct permit. You must also release them near your home. Professional pest control companies can remove the possum legally, and safely. They can also assist you in closing up gaps and creating new homes for possums, to offer a more permanent solution.

How much does possum eradication cost?

The cost of possum removal depends on a variety of factors, including the size of a roof and access points. Properties need to be physically seen for a quote to be given. Free quotes should be offered, so homeowners can make an informed decision. Look for companies that can offer thorough solutions that stop possums returning.

Will the possums come back?

Possums are territorial animals, so it is likely they will want to, and probably try to, reenter your home. Possum proofing is an absolutely essential step in possum eradication. Open access points to the roof need to be blocked off, as well as any parts of the roof that could be easily moved aside by possums. Possum boxes are an option

Peter the Possum Man is your possum removal expert. For safe, humane and legal possum eradication, call a professional pest control company you can trust. We offer free, on site quotes, for possum removal and possum proofing of your home or business. Contact us now.

Top 10 Australian Household Pests

Published on December 1, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: Domestic pest control, pest control service., professional pest control companies.

Pest problems in Australian households are common, with most homeowners experiencing difficulties with pests at least a few times in their home. Proximity to the bush or parkland can increase your likelihood of some pests. Professional pest control companies can help with all pest problems, ensuring a permanent, safe and comprehensive solution. So what are the top ten household pests in Australia?

POSSUMS

Possums are native to Australia and although they are not technically considered a ‘pest’, they do have a tendency to be annoying and frustrating creatures to home owners – as they are notorious for making a home for themselves in the roof.

Possums are territorial, so if you don’t properly address a possum problem you will have a recurring issue.

As they are Australian natives, it is illegal to kill a possum, and in most states they cannot be removed more than 50 meters from where you have caught it. They must also be relocated by professional pest control companies. A handy tip to limit the amount of space for the possum to get through is to seal off any spaces you may have in your roof.

FLIES

Flies are a relatively harmless pest, however they can spread disease. Most homeowners don’t struggle with fly infestations, so fly screens and properly sealed food are usually the solution to any increase in flies.

ANTS

Ants are a common pest; however infestations can be frustrating and contaminate food. Professional pest control companies should be used to ensure proper extermination of ant nests and populations.

WASPS

Wasps are a scary pest, as their stings are dangerous. Large wasp nests are hazardous to remove, and amateur interference can result in severe trauma and even death. Wasp problems should be addressed immediately by professional pest control companies, who can neutralise wasp nests and remove effectively.

MICE

Mice are a common household problem, as mice love to nest indoors. Mice can spread disease in homes, plus give you a fright, so it is worthwhile seeking professional pest control services – especially if you notice nests or have regular sightings.

RATS

Rats can cause serious structural damage to homes, or even cause fires, by chewing their way through wood, wire and other integral parts of your home. Rats also carry disease, and if they bite a person or animal, immediate treatment is necessary.

SILVERFISH

Silverfish are a common pest problem, feeding on valuables such as books, clothes and paperwork. Silverfish generally exist in large populations, so it is necessary to call a professional promptly, to avoid damage to goods.

SPIDERS

Spiders are a common, but generally harmless, household pest. Most spiders in Australia will not cause harm to humans, however some are dangerous. Spiders can be discouraged from living in homes by regular cleaning and plastic, rather than cardboard, storage containers.

BEDBUGS

Bedbugs feed on human blood, leaving skin irritations that are annoying and unsightly. Bedbugs live in carpets and bedding. Getting rid of bedbugs involves both professional control and regular cleaning.

COCKROACHES

Cockroaches disgust most homeowners, and can contaminate food. Cockroach problems should be treated by professionals, to avoid recurring issues.

If you have a problem with any of the above pests, or others, call us at Peter the Possum Man, an effective pest control company. Peter the Possum Man can deal with all domestic pest control problems, offering a comprehensive and permanent solution.

The Dangers Of DIY Domestic Pest Control

Published on November 20, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: Domestic pest control, pest control, Possum control.

DIY Domestic Pest control can be an attractive option to homeowners looking to solve a problem with pests quickly and cheaply. However, whilst some pest control products can be a solution for a one off or small pest problem, many pest control products are hazardous, ineffective and short-term solutions. For the best results, homeowners should combine professional pest control with day-to-day preventative actions such as cleaning and proper food storage to manage and decrease the chance of pest problems. The dangers and ineffectiveness of DIY pest control are the reasons professional pest control services exist. So what are the dangers you ask? Why can’t a product I buy be just as efficient, for less?

Ineffective

Domestic DIY pest control can be ineffective, costing you plenty of money in the long run as you use more products, with fewer results. Due to government regulations DIY pest control products are often diluted and take more time, with less effect, than professional products. DIY products are also often ineffective because they fail to take into account the comprehensive approach that needs to be taken to pest control. This means that they do not come with professional advice and help on what to do in conjunction with the product to help stop the pests coming back.

Infestation

Pest control products are created to handle minor problems, such as the odd mouse or an unwanted ant trail. Infestations cannot be treated by DIY products. You also run the risk of reinfestation, as often homeowners are unable, or don’t know how, to properly apply pesticides. Whilst it may appear your pest problems have been solved, in a short time pests can move to other areas of your property or building, and continue to breed.

Dangers To Human And Animal Safety

DIY domestic pest control products can be dangerous to humans and animals, especially when used incorrectly. Using multiple products can also lead to contamination and create a toxic environment for humans, animals and the environment in general. Storing products can also be dangerous, with many products being both flammable and dangerous upon ingestion by small children or animals. For these reasons disposing of these products can be difficult, many local councils have strict rules about the disposal of such chemicals.

Animal And Nest Removal

Pesticides and insecticides are often not the legal or appropriate solution to a pest problem. If you have possums, animal removal, not extermination, is the only appropriate solution. Removing a possum by yourself can be dangerous, and often those attempting to do so, can breach strict laws and endanger the possum and themselves. Whilst extermination of wasps and other animals is legal, removing their nests effectively to stop breeding and infestation can be difficult. Pest control professionals can effectively and safely remove all traces of a nest.

If you need a domestic pest control solution, call us at Peter the Possum Man! We deal in all sorts of domestic pests, so we know how to handle your problem fast.

When Do You Need To Call A Professional Pest Control Service?

Published on November 8, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: pest control service., Possum control.

It is sometimes difficult to draw the line and distinguish when a few pests become a full scale problem that requires professional pest control services. So how do you know when to act? This depends obviously on the type of pests you are dealing with, and the number of them. Leaving a pest problem for too long causes a bigger problem, that can cost the health of yourself and others, not to mention end in costly damage.

Damage To Property And Goods

If you have noticed damage to your property and goods, your pest problem is probably a little worse than just a few annoying intruders. Whilst ants are common and can be treated easily by regular cleaning and tight containers, other pests such as mice or rats can contaminate your food- so it’s best advised to call a professional. If you have noticed damaged to the structures of your property, call a professional immediately- termites can cause hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage if not addressed.

Constant Sightings

If you have caught sight of any pest several times, you may wish to call a pest control service. Whilst the odd cockroach is harmless in your home, multiple and regular sightings may mean that you have an infestation. The same applies for any other pest. Common sightings mean that you probably have several intruders in your home, or in the case of smaller pests, potentially hundreds.

Nests/Breeding

If you see nests or baby pests in your home, this is a giveaway sign that they are breeding. Breaking the breeding cycle stops risks of infestation, halting a problem before it spirals out of control and becomes more costly and time consuming to treat. Large wasp or bee nests around your home need to be seen to by a professional, for safe and effective removal of both the nests and the nest’s inhabitants.

Stress Or Fear

If you are feeling stressed or fearful of pests inside your home, you need to call a professional. Professional pest exterminators can deal with your problem safely and effectively- so you don’t have to. Whether the pest gives you the creepy crawlies, or frightens you and your family, it is not worth it. Treating pest problems yourself can be dangerous, if you use products that are not human and pet friendly. Pest control experts can chat to you about prevention and control solutions, and ease your mind about any pest problems.

Peter the Possum Man is a domestic pest control service for a huge range of common pests. Call us today to chat to a helpful professional about pest control in your home.

Wasp Control In Your Home Or Business

Published on October 30, 2012 in Blog. 0 Comments Tags: wasp control.

Having wasps in or around your home and business can be scary. Wasps can be dangerous to humans especially if you, a member of your family or your staff are allergic. However, wasps are fairly common in residential and commercial environments. The main problem exists when wasps take up residence in or around your property; building nests that then house swarms of wasps. There are several things you can do to limit the likelihood of wasps in your property, however if a nest exists, call a wasp control professional immediately to exterminate the problem for you. A few prevention tips include:

Insecticide

Spraying an insecticide under your eaves is a good form of wasp control,it prevents wasps from taking up residence in your home. Whilst it does not act as a deterrent, it will kill the wasp if they come into contact with the eave. As eaves are prime real estate for wasp nests, this is a good proactive measure. Other steps to deter nest building include treating any wood with wasp repellent and blocking gutters with insect mesh.

Keep Food Away

Fruit should be kept in the refrigerator as some types of wasps are attracted to fruit and similar smells. If you leave fruit on your bench you may attract wasps, just as leaving food outside can attract rats.

Seal off Decks

Consider sealing off the bottom of your deck, as some wasps are attracted to wood for nest building. Having a sealed under section of your deck means that wasps are unable to build their nests under your home. Insect mesh is one form of effective wasp control sealer, which is easily removed if you need to access the underside of your deck.

Call a Professional

Remove a large mature wasp nest by yourself can be risky. Wasps are dangerous when provoked and may sting, in large swarms. A professional pest control serviceman can remove large nests for you, from eaves, trees and other places. Nests are often in difficult to reach places, so amateur removal is not always the best choice. Pest control specialists will spray the nest and exterminate the wasps, before removing the nest completely. Wasp control specialists can also spray the area, so a new nest is not built.

Peter The Possum man can remove your wasp nest, with no danger to yourself or others. Plus, all wasp removals come with a 3-month guarantee, so you’ll receive free servicing if all wasps are not removed. For wasp control, in either a commercial or domestic setting, contact us at Peter the Possum Man now.