TOP FIVE PESTS DURING SUMMER

As the days get longer, and the temperatures rise, the number of pests that we encounter on a daily basis increases. For example, just think of all those British summer BBQ’s that you have been to that have been ruined by ant infestations and wasp attacks. But, such pests don’t need to ruin your summer.  

By being aware of the most common pest culprits you can reduce the likelihood of attack! But, if you do notice an infestation, and can’t face removal yourself, then you can get them removed by professional companies such as The Pest Detective

 

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1 – Wasps / Hornets

Wasps

Wasps are one of the most feared insect pests in the UK because of their sting. 

Like all living things wasps want to survive, and so usually become aggressive when their nests, which they typically build inside something such as a roof, or hedge, become dislodged. 

As we all become keen gardeners in the summer we can unknowingly knock wasp nests, and this can result in attack. 

Sometimes wasps can attack even when they are unprovoked, for example if they feel threatened by a large group of people, say at a BBQ. 

Wasp stings do hurt, and can be particularly risky for children or pets as severe reactions can occur. 

Never try and remove a wasp nest yourself as there could be thousands of wasps inside, and that many stings could be fatal. Instead, call in the professionals if you notice a wasp nest in, or near your home.

 

Hornets

 

Hornets are generally twice the size of the Wasp and and vary in colour ranging from black to brown with yellow stripes. They aren’t generally aggressive like the Wasp although i have experienced being stung by one and they do hurt a lot more than a Bee or wasp sting (Trust me). 

 

Like Wasps and Bees, Hornets can cause an anaphylactic shock to humans so be sure to contact us if you spot them nesting and let us take the worry of being stung away by removing them safely.

 

2 – Flies

Flies are often common features in our homes during the summer, flittering around fruit bowls, and picnic areas. However, in addition to being annoying, flies can spread bacteria and therefore increase the likelihood of summer stomach upsets and such like. 

In order to reduce the likelihood of fly infestations this summer, ensure that you always cover your food, and consider getting mesh screens for your windows. However, if you struggle to control flies then call in the professionals who will be able to help get rid of them for good.

3 – Cockroaches

Unbeknown to some, the UK is home to cockroaches which can be distinguished by their long antennae, flat bodies, and jittery walk. 

Typically, cockroaches live inside in the UK as they can’t tolerate the cold, however, when the summer comes around, they can multiply and cause an infestation. 

Cockroaches are not only unsightly, but they can also contaminate food and cause food poisoning. In order to reduce your chances of infestation, ensure that you do not leave food out overnight as cockroaches love to come out at night and feed.

4 – Bees

There are 3 main types of Bee in the Uk although there are variants of them all. Honey Bee , Bumble Bee and Masonry Bee.

 

 

 

Honey Bees

 

Honey Bees can swarm to a colony size of up to 30,000 so its important to contact us as soon as possible. Although not protected, we want to preserve our Honey Bees so we will ensure that we do everything possible to relocate them by working with the local Bee keepers Association. Honey Bees will Sting if threatened but will die after stinging. This is due to the barbs in their sting pulling out their venom sack.

 

Bumble Bees

 

Bumble Bees are larger than Honey Bees and look a lot chunkier. Their colony numbers are no where near the size of the Honey Bee but they can nest in similar areas to Honey Bees such as holes in the ground, Roof spaces, air bricks etc. Like Honey Bees, Bumbles can sting if threatened which in effect can cause an anaphylactic shock to humans which can be life threatening. So give us a call and let us safely deal with the situation.

 

Masonry Bees

 

Masonry Bees are solitary creatures and can be confused with the Honey Bee. They tend to burrow into badly pointed mortar and roof areas under tiles in peoples houses. Although they aren’t aggressive and rarely sting, the female of the species can sting if they are threatened. Masonry bees are difficult to treat due to the sheer number of holes that need to be repointed. However, give us a call and we will offer the best advice and treatment going forward.

 

5 – Rats

Brown rats are the most common species in the UK, and like all rats, they can breed and multiply really rapidly. As a result, if your home becomes a rat haven then your home can become damaged; for example, your wall insulation could be stripped. 

In addition, you and your family could be at risk of diseases spread by the rats. To identify rats look out for droppings, holes, rub and scratch marks, and footprints as it is often hard to see the rodent themselves. To get rid of rats- call in the professionals!

 

6 – Ants

Ants love the summer so they aren’t usually a problem in the UK. However, when we do get those warm summer days ants can cause havoc by crawling over food, and carrying disease. 

In order to limit ants in your home this summer it is important that you: first find out where they are coming from, and seal that point off; then clear up any sweet residues for example on the floor, or on work surfaces; and then, ensure that you cover up any food that is left out as it could be a tempting meal for ants. 

If all this is not enough, then call in the professionals such as The Pest Detective who will be able to eliminate ants in no time. 

Conclusion To conclude, by being aware of the top 5 pests in the UK this summer, and being aware of what attracts them, you should be able to reduce the risk of infestation in and around your home. However, if you are subject to attack, then make sure to call in the professionals to help you out!

Would you like more information about our pest infestation services? Contact the team on 0800 1455762.