How To Mosquito Proof Your Property This Spring
Top 9 Q&As About Mosquitoes in Spring
Warm weather is coming! That means short sleeves, blooming flowers, and more outdoor activities for all. Unfortunately, higher temperatures also attract some less than savory pests that can not only put a damper on any yard parties, but they can potentially be dangerous.
As soon as the temperature rises, so returns the nasty biting insect that can leave itchy welts and pass several deadly diseases: the mosquito. As the coming of spring in Pa. brings warmth, it is also the perfect time for mosquito eggs to hatch. If you want to put a stop to these pests before they cause an issue for your home, we are here to help.
9. When Do Mosquitoes Arrive?
These pests can be around much earlier than you think. While April and March are prime months for mosquitoes, they only need a temperature of 50 degrees to thrive. In fact, they never really go away. Mosquito eggs can remain suspended in water until the temps rise again. Regardless, of the time of year, when it is warm enough, mosquito eggs will hatch.
8. What Do I Need To Watch Out For?
The female mosquito is constantly on the lookout for the perfect place to lay her eggs. Her ideal spot is a pool of stagnant water. These pests lay their eggs in warm, unmoving pools that can form just about anywhere. Puddles, melting snow piles, gutters, and birdbaths are just a few of the possible havens. When temperatures rise, it’s a good idea to check your yard for any potential spots.
7. When Do Mosquitoes Thrive?
Mosquitoes can thrive once temperatures hit more than 50 degrees. In fact, for these blood-sucking pests, the warmer the better. The mosquito population experiences huge growth in hot weather. Basically, the warmer the weather, the more mosquitoes. While they do drop in numbers during the winter, this doesn’t mean they will die. While the adults will perish, the eggs can live on.
6. Where Should I Be On The Lookout For Mosquitos?
If you happen to live in a warmer region, chances are you will have more mosquitoes. Places like Arizona and Florida will have an abundance of mosquitoes over somewhere like Alaska. Even Alaska experiences a mosquito influx, though for a much shorter time period. As soon as the temperatures rise, those pests will be there.
5. Where Else Can I Find Them?
Mosquitoes tend to linger around areas where they can lay their eggs, but you can encounter them just about anywhere. The prime spots are in damp, warm areas near ponds, lakes, or other still bodies of water. Additionally, you can find them in mud puddles, low lying areas, and places with thick vegetation or overgrown grass. In your yard, if anything catches water during rainfall, it can be a breeding ground: boats, tarps, pool covers, old tires, or even an overturned wheelbarrow. They do not need much; just still, warm water, and protein.
4. What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Female mosquitoes are on the lookout for two things: protein and a place to lay their eggs. The females need protein to create their eggs, and unfortunately, that’s bad news for any warm-blooded animal. She’ll bite just about anything for the blood to fuel her egg production, and there are plenty of viable targets. When she has blood, a female mosquito can lay a batch of 200-300 eggs.
3. Are Mosquitoes More Than Mild Annoyances?
Yes; mosquitoes are known to carry very deadly diseases. A bite can transmit one of the following: West Nile Virus, Malaria, Yellow Fever, Dengue, and Zika Virus. These diseases are big in tropical regions - and tend to strike more often during a disaster. You don’t need to be in a tropical environment or in the midst of a disaster to worry about this. Mosquitoes and spread disease very fast, and there are a lot of them.
2. Okay - No Stagnant Water. What Else Can I Do To Kill The Eggs?
You can take a few precautions to keep mosquitos away from your home. Clear away all brush and keep your lawn trimmed. These biting insects thrive in overgrown areas. Also, try not to overwater your garden yards. Mosquitoes don’t need much water to lay their eggs. If you have a pond on your property, adding mosquito-eating fish can help drop the population. Additionally, if you venture out, apply a repellent with at least 20% DEET. DEET does a great job of repelling other blood-sucking insects, like ticks as well.
1. Is There Something I Can Use To Keep Adult Mosquitoes Away?
If you want to trap and kill adult mosquitoes, CO2 Mosquito traps are the way to go. They attract female mosquitoes with warmth, CO2, and moisture. The biting insects are sucked in, trapped, and then they dehydrate. The most ideal time to set up these traps is in late March or early April. Doing so should catch these pests at their peak.
Staying Vigilant
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your sleeveless season. Follow these simple tips and keep you and your family safe from these pests. If you think you may have a bigger mosquito problem than you can handle, consider contacting your local pest control expert to help protect your home.
DIY Pest Expert Spray | Is It Safe for My Family and Pets?
DIY Pest Expert Spray: Dangers & Facts
All-year-round pests can be a nuisance. Whether they are invading your home, infesting your garden, or taking over your back yard – pests are not only a headache for you, but they can potentially be dangerous to your family.
No matter the creature - cockroaches, moths, rodents or any other variety of invaders - they can be difficult to deal with. The trick to keeping these pests away is knowing how to get rid of them. Often, homeowners look for an easy, do-it-yourself way to handle the problem first before they call in a professional.
It’s important to know what pests you are dealing with to effectively put an end to your invasion. If you are considering using a DIY pest expert spray, take a moment to research how it could affect your family and pets.
What is Pest Expert Spray?
When it comes to dealing with pests, some homeowners aiming to take a DIY approach try using pest expert spray. Normally, this spray is a chemical concoction used to kill invading creatures.
The type of spray you use is dependent on the pest and location of the infestation. Outdoor sprays can be used on your landscape, porch, or home’s exterior. There are other killers available that can be used to exterminate any indoor invaders.
Before attempting do-it-yourself extermination, be sure you are using the right treatment and the proper tools. Neglecting to do so can be harmful to you and your family.
When Should You Use Pest Expert Spray?
Many homeowners want an easy, quick solution to a pest problem without the hassle of hiring an exterminator. If you want to fortify your home with a quick, easy solution, a quality pest spray can form a barrier around the vulnerable areas outside your home. When applied properly, most of these solutions will kill pests on contact for a period.
Before getting started, be sure to follow the instructions closely. Depending on where you need to use it, your pest expert spray may require specific instructions. In addition to carefully following the guidelines, make sure that you have the proper equipment. Do a thorough inspection of your property to pinpoint the source of the infestation.
First, consider the infestation; it may not be wise to handle the problem on your own; i.e., if the infestation is near electrical wires, involves a living animal, or is in an out-of-reach area. Another factor to consider is the sheer size of the infestation and the type of pest.
A single wasp’s nest or an outdoor invasion of aphids isn’t as difficult as a termite infestation or bed bug problem. If the situation is contained, take the proper steps to apply the pest expert spray to the effective areas. Use your best judgment before trying a DIY solution.
After you’ve located your property’s problem areas and assessed the situation, you can carry out your treatment. For maximum results, apply as instructed. Remember: pest spray is not a permanent solution. You will need to reapply to ensure your pest problem stays away. If you find you are having trouble getting rid of the problem, seek other options.
Pest Spray: Safety Tips
Before buying, do your research and find the right one for your family. When selecting the best treatment, it’s important to note that not all pest sprays are created equal. Many treatments are not safe for use around children or animals. This is especially crucial for any spray you plan to use indoors or on items you use daily.
Be careful with the spray you select. There options available that are both pet-friendly and safe to use around your family. In addition to safety, not using the product as directed can result in property damage.
Is Pest Expert Spray Right for You?
No two pest problems are the same. The size, type, and location of a pest problem should indicate whether you can handle the infestation with a DIY spray.
Carefully consider which product would be a good fit for your situation and take the time to apply it properly. With a little planning and the right product, you can keep those nasty critters at bay. Take the time to do the research and take a stand against pests today.
Top 15 Qualities to Seek in Commercial Pest Removal Services
Commercial Pest Removal Services
A pest infestation can not only be a stressful situation, but it can potentially be dangerous. Whether you are experiencing a pest problem at home or your business, invaders can be a nuisance that just won’t go away.
That’s where the experts come in. Commercial pest control experts are just the ticket for removing those unwanted visitors. With so many options available, it may be difficult to choose the right service for your situation. If you are looking for a pest control specialist, here are the top 15 qualities to look for in a service.
15. Industry knowledge
The first thing that you should look for in a pest control specialist is thorough industry knowledge. Your specialist should be able to identify, find, and treat different pest infestations. They should be aware of the top treatments available and determine which would be most effective for your specific problem. Additionally, a quality pest control expert should be up-to-date on any health regulations and new treatments available.
14. Trained Technicians
Each technician employed by a commercial service should be an expert pest control specialist. Pest experts should be able to provide certifications, display industry knowledge, and thorough training. When they arrive, they should have an action plan based on your specific needs and the ability to spot an infestation easily.
13. Experience
Pest control experts need to have experience in their craft. If they are committed to fighting off invaders, they should be able to prove to their customer base that they have what it takes. Additionally, when you are looking for an expert, start with the experience of others - check out other customer reviews and see how your pest control expert measures up.
12. Inspections
A good commercial pest control service offers inspections. Inspections are crucial for discovering the size and depth of your infestation. Whether you want a routine inspection, or you suspect a bigger problem, a good pest control expert should be available to get to the root of your problem.
11. Examine
With expert knowledge and industry experience, a commercial pest expert should know where to look for any issues on your property. They should be able to spot weak points and discuss how to fix the problems. It’s important that they take their time to identify the pest they are dealing with, whether it is a rodent, insect, or wildlife intruder, and come up with a proper game plan to tackle your infestation.
10. Specific Plans
Once your problem is identified, a good pest control expert should be able to build a specific plan for your unique situation. Depending on your infestation, they should have a tailored strategy to remove every trace from your home or property. Whether you are dealing with rodents or insects, a good technician will have the proper plan for you.
9. Removal Service
Every pest situation is not a one size fits all. A commercial pest service should offer many techniques to fit with your specific situation. Whether you want an organic approach, or your situation calls for chemicals, your technician should be able to provide what you need to get rid of your infestation for good. A good service will be able to remove any unwanted visitors from your home and property: wildlife, rodents, insects, etc. Pay close attention to what the service offers and select the one best for you.
8. Thorough Reporting
Following an inspection, your pest control expert should have a full report for you. A good service will provide a clear, itemized explanation of your situation. In addition, once your inspection is complete, your technician should be able to pitch a few plans of action to battle your infestation and offer a clear explanation of what you should expect following the treatment.
7. Availability
If you are experiencing a dangerous infestation, you don’t want to wait around for a specialist. A good commercial pest service will be available to take on a pest problem at any time. An overwhelming invasion should be taken care of ASAP and good service will see it taken care of when you need it.
6. Flexibility
When it comes to pest control, a good service will be flexible. If one plan doesn’t work, a reliable expert should be prepared with another plan in mind. No matter how relentless, a good pest control specialist will be able to take care of your infestation using different techniques in a reasonable amount of time.
5. Dependable
It can be difficult to uproot your life and flee from your home for days while technicians tackle your problem. You shouldn’t have to wait for days for a response or stay in a hotel for an outrageous amount of time. Your commercial pest control service should be dependable.
Whether you need immediate attention, have an appoint scheduled, or have a difficult infestation, you should be able to depend on their presence. Additionally, a reputable pest control specialist will handle your infestation quickly and efficiently.
4. Dedication
Regardless of the type or size of infestation, your pest control expert should be dedicated to you. Also, no matter how well your house is serviced, there is always a chance that an infestation may resurface. When selecting a specialist, be sure to select a pest control expert that will be dedicated to you and the welfare of your property for the long-term.
3. Follow-Up Service
A pest problem doesn’t just vanish when the infestation is gone. You want to be certain that no more unwanted visitors show up. A good commercial pest service will not only be with you every step of the way during your invasion, but they will also take the time to follow-up on their services. If you should experience any problems in the aftermath or you just want to make sure those pests are gone for good, a quality technician will go the extra mile.
2. Protection
After your home is pest free, a reliable pest control expert will help you fortify your home against future invasions. It is not enough to have property inspections. A good commercial pest control service will give you the knowledge and tools to stop future infestations. They will take the time to discover any weak spots in your property and help you eliminate them.
1. Guarantee
Quality pest control experts won’t stop until your pest problem is gone for good. A good service will not only provide you with quick, reliable service, but it will also give you peace of mind. It’s not enough to take care of a pest problem - you want to know you are protected against any future events by quality experts. If you are tired of the common pests invading your home or business, consider these tips and stop your pest problem today.
Christmas Tree Bugs: Beware the Spotted Lanternfly
Christmas Tree Bugs
‘Tis the season for decorating and seasonal magic, but be careful if you are trying to recapture that traditional Christmas Spirit with a real pine tree. You may be inviting more than grandma over for the holidays.
Every year, families from all over bring living Christmas trees into their homes to decorate, but often, they contain creepy, crawly surprises.
While most of these insects are common, there is one that can cause serious damage and may be lurking here in Northeast Pennsylvania - the Spotted Lanternfly.
Before cutting down that tree or buying one from a tree farm, here are some pests to be aware of this season.
Christmas Tree Bug Stowaways
As we pick out the perfect Christmas tree, sometimes we forget where we are taking it from nature. Sometimes instead of just the overwhelming pine or citrus scent, we end up with a few other unwanted surprises.
- Aphids
- Spiders and mites
- Adelgids
- Pine Needle Scale
- Sawflies
- Bark beetles
- Praying mantises
Many of these insects are more of a nuisance than harmful. They tend to nest and house themselves in the branches and lay their eggs. While these activities are fine for the outdoors, it could prove quite a scare in your household.
In addition to bringing home hidden bugs, you may find a feathered friend in the branches as well. Be sure to inspect your tree before bringing it into your home. If not, you may end up bringing in invasive species.
Beware the Spotted Lanternfly
Recently, in Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey, this invasive insect has been causing destruction, and it may possibly be headed to Luzerne or Lackawanna County. The Spotted Lanternfly is a tree-killing insect, though it is not limited to just trees.
Native to Asia, this invasive bug has already made its way through the eastern parts of the Keystone State. They prey on crops and trees, including pines.
Hitchhikers by nature, they attach to Christmas trees, plants, or other greenery to lay their eggs and multiply. Initially, they are difficult to spot, but are unmistakable once seen; they have the appearance of a bumble-bee with butterfly wings. Spotted Lanternflies have a yellow abdomen with black bands and spotted wings. They will cling to branches and lay two egg masses, yielding between 30-50 eggs.
While these pests cannot harm people or pets, they can prove devastating to our agriculture.
What Damage can Spotted Lanternflies do?
Spotted Lanternflies, or lycorma delicatula, feed on the sap of their host plants and encourage fungal growth. When they find a host, the adults lay their eggs in the fall and they breed on the plants. These large egg masses are gray in color and can be found on the tree or on nearby smooth surfaces. Throughout their life stages, these insects can kill large pine trees, vineyard grapes, fruit trees, and other essential plants.
Removing Spotted Lanternflies
It is important to physically remove the life stages and the host trees. This includes adults, eggs, and the immature stages of the Spotted Lanternfly life cycle. The Penn State Extension of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) has a homeowner management plan to assist in controlling the spread.
You can also contact a pest control specialist to help quarantine the area. If you are purchasing a Christmas tree, or any other tree or plant, inspect them thoroughly. Additionally, inspect any outdoor items before bringing them inside. Familiarize yourself with what these insects look like in order to report and destroy them properly.
Avoiding Christmas Stowaways
Plants with a Spotted Lanternfly infestation will have weeping wounds. They will have a greyish-black trail along the trunk of the tree and it will attract other bugs to eat. Adults will lay their eggs on the host or nearby.
These grey mud-like masses will dry and crack over time. To properly dispose of the egg masses, scrape them off and double bag them. You can also put them in alcohol or hand sanitizer. Most importantly, report all sightings.
Protect Against Additional Insects
When selecting trees, be sure to examine the branches for any stowaways. Prune the branches and make any additional adjustments before bringing them inside. You may want to leave your tree in a garage or other area for a few days. You can also try to shake out the insects over a white sheet or vacuum any insects up.
Should any of these critters continue to cause a problem, consult a pest professional? The holidays can be stressful enough without extra visitors. Take the time to examine your tree and keep your home pest-free!
Termite Exterminator | Seek These Top 5 Qualities
Termite Exterminator Tips
Pests can be a major problem for your home, especially if you don’t know how to properly dispose of them. One of the most destructive invaders is the termite. These pesky little insects can find their way into your home and quickly destroy beams, walls, floors, and furniture.
The problem with these sneaky intruders is that they are hard to detect. If you suspect that you may have a termite problem or want to be sure you are protected against them, the best way to go about it is to consult a pest professional.
With so many different exterminators, it could be difficult finding one who meets your quality standards and doesn’t break the bank. If you are looking to hire a pest control expert to protect your home from termite infestations, here are the top 5 qualities to look for.
1. Termite Knowledge
An exterminator should have a thorough knowledge of his craft; this means knowing all there is to know about pests like termites. There are many different termites: Drywood, Dampwood, Formosan, Subterranean, Conehead, and Desert just to name a few.
Each type has a unique nesting pattern, preferred food source, and life cycle. The key is identifying your infestation properly to provide your home with the best treatment. When it comes to treating your house, knowledge is power.
2. Service and Recommendations
A pest control expert should not only be knowledgeable, but they should be well-known for impeccable service. Cleansing your home is a process and it should be as painless as possible. A good termite exterminator will inspect your home thoroughly before drawing up a treatment plan.
A good exterminator will have clear pricing, be up-front about the cost, and give full explanations of their treatment options. A termite home invasion is stressful enough; a good service will take the guesswork out of the bottom line.
3. Spot and Treat an Infestation
A quality pest control expert will be able to pinpoint possible areas of infestation and any entry spots that your home may have. If you have a possible infestation the right exterminator will give your home a thorough investigation assessing areas like cracks in the cement, walls, floors, attics and even furniture. Before any treatments can be done, your property must have an inspection; termites can be difficult to spot by the untrained eye. There are several signs that may indicate that your home has a termite infestation:
- Mud-like tunnel: Termites use these to keep moisturized when searching for food.
- Termite wings: These are left behind after termites swarm.
- Termite droppings, or frass: Wood-colored fecal matter
- Swarmers or flying termites
It can be very difficult to spot an infestation; wings may be your only visible sign. A qualified exterminator will be able to discover a pest problem and take the next steps in fortifying your home.
4. Know Different Treatment Options
There are multiple ways an exterminator can treat your home. Depending on what you are looking for, it is a good idea to find a pest control specialist who will provide many options.
- Termiticide: If you are looking for a way to kill and deter termites, liquid termiticide is a liquid-barrier treatment for the job. Unfortunately, like any termite treatment, it can become very costly.
- Termite Bait: This tactic tricks the pests into taking ‘bait’ home to the colony and killing it at the source gradually. Used with a combination of other treatments, it could be very effective.
- Heat treatment: This is a chemical-free treatment that can take only a few hours. Though this treatment doesn’t use harsh chemicals, it may damage heat-sensitive items in your home. (note - this is not a procedure completed in the Northeastern area)
- Fumigation: Toxins are released to kill termites. Your family and pets must vacate during this treatment. This is effective, but it takes much longer to vent your home. (note - this is not a procedure completed in the Northeastern area)
When selecting your pest control expert, be sure to choose one with a treatment method in mind.
5. Fortify and Protect Your Home
Unfortunately, no termite treatment is permanent. It is possible for these pests to return after taking the proper treatment steps, but don’t fear!
A quality exterminator will provide you with the tips you need to prevent future invasions and be there to help should one occur. The best way to protect your home is to stop an infestation from happening. You can by taking a few extra steps.
- Keep your yard clean of wood, debris, and yard waste
- Clear away mulch
- Trim your greenery
- Repair any holes, leaky faucets, or cracks
- Keep vents dry
- Cover soil in crawl spaces
- Monitor your home
With these tips and a helpful pest control expert, your home will be safe from any invaders.
Keeping Termites Out!
The best way to deal with a termite invasion is to stop it from happening. Should you run into trouble, having a quality termite exterminator can help ease the stress. There’s no better way to fortify your home. Contact The Pest Rangers today if you need help with your termite extermination.
Bat Pest Control | 7 Things Pennsylvania Homeowners Should Know
Bats, the only mammals capable of flight, are a crucial part of our ecosystem. Living exterminators, these flying critters are responsible for controlling pests like mosquitoes from getting out of hand.
Bats once filled the great forests of the Lehigh Valley and even the suburbs surrounding Southeastern Pennsylvania. However, bats are a protected species that are considered at risk.
While the temptation to remove a bat by any means may cross your mind, wildlife experts and exterminators must follow specific protocols to protect bat populations in Pennsylvania.
While bats are critical for pest control in the ecosystem, they can cause a lot of damage to your home as nuisance wildlife themselves. If you have a bat infestation or are looking to get rid of a bat in your home, here are seven important things you should know about bats and bat exclusion.
1. Bats Are a Protected Species
Multiple bats are under threat of extinction as the US Fish and Wildlife Service recently classified the northern long-eared bat as an endangered species. Driving much of this decline is a loss of habitat and a vicious fungal virus, known as white-nose syndrome, killing an estimated 97% of this bat species.
Because bats are a protected species, this limits pest control options for homeowners dealing with bats in their home, including when and how they can be removed. For this reason, unless you have read up on the proper regulations, you need to call a professional to get rid of bats in your home.
2. Bat Exclusion Is the Proper Form of Pest Control
Due to their protected status, bats can only be removed from their habitat between July and October to prevent the bat mating cycle disruption.
The only long-term solution for bat pest control is bat exclusion services. This service includes a mix of preventative measures designed to prevent bats from entering your home in the first place, such as:
- Seal all cracks and access points around your home; bats can squeeze through openings as small as ½ inch.
- Cover open sections with netting or screens, especially around vents, chimneys, and eaves.
- Complete all roof repairs to eliminate gaps or damaged areas that bats could use to get inside.
- Plug up even the smallest holes using durable materials like caulk, steel wool, or hardware cloth.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by removing standing water around your property—bats are often drawn to areas with abundant insects.
- Make your home less appealing to bats by keeping outdoor lighting low and removing overhanging branches or clutter near the roofline.
Many bats like to roost in high or dark places, which could include many spots in a home. They often find their way underneath eaves and hide away in attics.
3. Bats Carry Disease and Can Damage Your Property
While many people are aware of the risk of rabies that comes with bats, they can also carry several other diseases, such as histoplasmosis, which is found in their droppings (guano).
However, bat guano can wreak havoc in many other ways. Due to the large volume of waste that bats excrete, they can actually damage your home, including your floors, siding, and walls, if left unchecked for long periods of time.
Additionally, should bats reside or get trapped inside your home, they can become ill, injured, or die in the nooks and crannies, causing additional problems.
4. There Are Multiple Bat Species in Pennsylvania
There are several species of bats found all across Pennsylvania that have their own unique traits and behaviour.
- Big Brown Bats: These bats are mid-sized mammals that are dark in color. They feed on insects and roost in any high point they can find. You can find them in your eaves, attics, and other high places during the day and hunting at night. They are common nesters during the winter months and can travel alone or in groups.
- Little Brown Bats: These little creatures are only about three inches long. They can hide in small spaces in the warmer months and seek shelter when they hibernate. Their favorite delicacy includes small, soft-bodied insects, or bugs, near slow-moving water.
5. Timing Is Everything When It Comes to Bat Exclusion
Timing is everything if you want to flush a bat infestation from your home. Bat exclusion is tricky; if done incorrectly, you can have more problems. It should be done after the young bats have had a chance to vacate and after the adults venture out to feed, typically in the summer. Your home could suffer more damage if done too early or too late.
Fleeing bats could become trapped and die. Females could be separated from their young and could continuously try to re-enter their home. Therefore, a professional should handle this process to ensure that the outcome is satisfactory for you and the wildlife.
6. DIY Bat Pest Control Is Not Recommended
While it may be tempting to try removing bats yourself, DIY exclusion can be dangerous, ineffective, and often illegal. Bats are protected in Pennsylvania, and mishandling them, especially during maternity season, can result in fines, health risks, and worse outcomes for the bats and your home.
Improper sealing can trap bats inside your attic or walls, creating a biohazard and leading to dead animals you’ll have to locate and remove. Additionally, guano cleanup must be done with care to avoid exposure to harmful spores that can cause lung infections like histoplasmosis.
7. Bats Are Mostly Harmless and Good for the Environment
Bats play a vital role in Pennsylvania’s ecosystem. A single bat can eat hundreds of mosquitoes and crop-damaging insects in one night, making them excellent natural pest control. They’re shy, non-aggressive animals that typically avoid human contact.
However, problems arise when bats roost too close to human living spaces. Their droppings can cause property damage and health issues, and though rabies in bats is rare, the risk still exists.
That’s why responsible removal is key. The Pest Rangers use exclusion methods that protect your home while respecting bat conservation efforts. We’ll help you keep bats out without harming them or violating wildlife laws.
If you suspect that you have a bat infestation, contact our licensed pest control experts to assess the problem and protect your home from nuisance wildlife.
FAQs
How do I know if bats are in my attic?
Look for signs like bat droppings (guano), strong odors, squeaking or fluttering sounds near dusk, and visible exit points near your roofline or chimney.
Can bats make me sick?
Yes, though usually indirectly. Guano can host a fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a lung disease. There is also a small risk of rabies from bat bites. Never attempt to handle bats yourself.
How do professionals remove bats humanely?
Professionals use one-way exclusion devices that let bats exit but prevent them from re-entering. Once all bats are gone, entry points are sealed to prevent future infestations.
7 Facts & Myths About Small Rodents in Pennsylvania
Rodents are common inhabitants of Pennsylvania, as our great commonwealth is home to two native species of mice, four voles, and several species of imported mice.
From voles that disrupt crops in rural areas like Bucks County to rats that fester in cities like Allentown, rodents can be an unwelcome surprise to property owners, and can quickly overstay their welcome.
Unfortunately, due to the many horrible myths floating around about these destructive pests, people have some sketchy rodent control information that makes taking care of the problem more difficult.
Will mice only explore during the night? Would getting a cat work if a rat can match it in size? Can you snag those critters with a hunk of cheese?
Here are some myths and facts about rodents in Pennsylvania and rodent control that will set the record straight.
Common Small Rodents in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to a variety of small rodent species that can fit through the tiniest cracks and find their way into your home if you’re not careful.
- House Mouse – Small, grayish-brown, and highly adaptable, house mice are common indoor pests, especially during colder months. They enter through tiny openings and often nest in walls, basements, or pantries.
- Deer Mouse – Recognizable by its white belly and brown back, the deer mouse is often found in rural or wooded areas. While less likely to infest homes, it can carry hantavirus and pose a serious health risk when it does.
- Norway Rat – Large, heavy-bodied rats often found near sewers, basements, and lower levels of buildings. They’re aggressive, excellent burrowers, notorious for contaminating food and spreading disease.
- Roof Rat – More slender and agile than the Norway rat, roof rats prefer high places like attics, rafters, or trees. They’re quick climbers and capable of causing damage to insulation and wiring.
- Voles – Small, chunky rodents that resemble field mice. They burrow underground and are often responsible for damaging lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants by chewing roots and bark.
Signs a Small Rodent Is In Your House
Rodents are elusive and typically operate at night, but even the sneakiest intruder leaves behind evidence. Here are some of the most common and telling signs of a rodent infestation:
- Droppings – Rodent droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped. House mouse droppings are about 1/8 inch long with pointed ends, while rat droppings are larger and blunt. You’ll often find them concentrated near food sources, behind appliances, inside drawers, or along baseboards.
- Gnaw Marks – Rodents have ever-growing incisors that require constant gnawing to keep in check. Look for chew marks on wood, cardboard, plastic containers, and even electrical wiring—this can pose a serious fire hazard. Fresh gnaw marks are lighter in color and darken over time.
- Scratching Sounds – At night, you may hear scratching, scampering, or rustling noises coming from behind walls, ceilings, or under floorboards. These sounds are often a dead giveaway of rodent activity, particularly when the house is quiet.
- Grease Trails – As rodents travel the same routes repeatedly, the oils from their fur rub off on walls, baseboards, and floorboards, creating visible smudge marks or dark streaks along their paths.
- Nests – Rodents build nests using shredded materials like paper, fabric, insulation, and dried plant matter. These nests are typically hidden in quiet, dark areas such as inside wall cavities, behind appliances, or in storage boxes.
Spotting even a single sign should prompt a closer inspection. Rodents reproduce rapidly, and what starts as one or two can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable dealing with the problem yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed pest control professional.
7 Myths About Small Rodents in Pennsylvania
Unfortunately, some pernicious myths about rodents have stuck around, making it harder for homeowners to accurately and effectively deal with an ongoing rodent infestation. Here are seven common myths that must be dispelled to understand and eliminate rodents.
Myth #1 – Rats can be as large as a house cat.
Fact: Norway rats–the largest rat–can sometimes reach up to 1 pound and measure nearly 8 inches long; they are nowhere near the size of house cats, which are normally around 10-12 pounds.
These “big” rats are more than likely confused with another rodent species. Since many rodents use a water source to travel, it may be that rats are confused with much bigger animals.
Myth #2 – Cats will take care of a mouse problem.
Fact: A cat in a home may take care of your rodent problem, provided they are “mousers.” Not all cats are hunters, and not all hunters will hunt mice.
Well-fed cats may not be bothered to hunt any whiskered intruders. Of course, some cats will hunt for fun and thrill, but some cats do not. It’s also rare for a cat to challenge a rat.
Myth #3 – Rats and mice can get through tiny holes because they are boneless.
Fact: Rats and mice actually have internal skeletons but have very flexible ribs, allowing them to squeeze through the tiniest gaps. Rodents have more flexibility and lack a collarbone which makes getting into small places much easier. Quite simply, if they can get their head through it, they can bypass it.
Myth #4 – Seeing rodents in daylight means there’s an entire colony
Fact: Rats and mice are primarily nocturnal, but they always move about regardless of whether it is day or night. If you see one, it’s not necessarily a sign of a big infestation–it’s just much easier to see them in the daylight.
Mice will only explore when they feel safe or when they are hungry. Their senses are sharp and always alert for any potential threats. Additionally, they usually have their own routes where they can move around undetected. Also, they only sleep for a short period of time. Better signs of a major infestation include droppings, burrows, or actual property damage.
Myth #5 – Cheese is the best bait to catch a mouse or rat.
Fact: Though cartoon mice going after cheese are plentiful, it’s more likely that mice would enjoy grains, seeds, or fruits. Though a rodent may eat cheese, what they will go after depends on the species and their hunger.
They tend to go after foods higher in fiber or fat. The ideal bait options for catching mice include fruit, grains, and peanut butter.
Myth #6 – Rats and mice aren’t aggressive creatures
Fact: Like any cornered animal, rats and mice will attack when threatened. They will likely go on the offensive if surprised or if they feel trapped. They can easily puncture skin with a bite that could cut nerves, strike bone, and cause infection.
Rats won’t necessarily only attack when cornered–they will even bite if they smell food. While rats don’t necessarily carry the black plague, they can transmit some pretty nasty diseases, including leptospirosis and rat-bite fever.
Myth #7 – Having rodents means a home is run-down or in poor condition.
Fact: Though rodent control is needed in places with poor sanitation, they can be found just about anywhere. Rodents move along water sources like streams and sewers, and they can invade anywhere they can find access.
Like any other creature, they require water to survive and tend to stay near it. They rely on an adequate food source, which can be just about anything: garbage, pet food, bird seed, or fruit trees.
How to Get Rid of Small Rodents in Pennsylvania
A rodent infestation can be frustrating, but they are completely manageable if you follow the right steps.
Start by sealing up any potential entry points. Mice and rats can squeeze through incredibly small openings, so check around doors, windows, vents, pipes, and crawlspaces. Use steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing to block access—spray foam alone won’t stop them for long.
Next, make your home less inviting. Rodents are always on the hunt for food, so store pantry items in airtight containers, wipe up crumbs, and don’t leave pet food sitting out overnight. A clean kitchen goes a long way toward discouraging unwanted guests.
Strategically placed traps can help reduce the population, especially in high-traffic zones like behind appliances, along baseboards, or in the attic. Bait them with peanut butter, fruit, or grains for the best results.
Keep an eye out for new activity—fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or odd noises. These clues can help you pinpoint where rodents are hiding or moving through your home.
And if the problem seems bigger than you expected—or you’d rather not deal with it at all—don’t hesitate to call a professional. A licensed pest control expert can inspect your home, identify the culprits, and build a custom treatment plan to kick them out for good.
FAQs
Are mice and rats dangerous?
Aside from damaging property, rodents can spread diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella. Their droppings and urine can contaminate surfaces, and their constant gnawing can pose electrical fire risks.
Is it true that if I see one rodent, there are more?
Often, yes. Rodents are social and reproduce quickly. If you’ve spotted one, it’s a good idea to inspect further or bring in a professional to assess the extent of the infestation.
When should I call a pest control professional?
If DIY methods don’t work, the signs are widespread, or you want peace of mind, it’s smart to call in the pros. Professionals have the tools and expertise to safely eliminate rodents and prevent future invasions.
