Most homeowners only spot the signs of a pest invasion once their unwelcome visitors have already started to multiply and take over.
Generally, this is because they’re not really looking for indications of a problem. . . If you’re not looking for pests, you often won’t see them until an infestation has escalated.
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep a weather eye out for bugs and rodents, without constantly being on guard.
For instance, regular cleaning is the one of the best ways to prevent pest problems.
It gives homeowners a chance to visually inspect spaces and it removes the clutter and debris that insects love so much.
It is also a good idea to seal up cracks and gaps in windows as soon as they appear, because most bugs don’t need a lot of space to enter.
If you do spot signs of an uninvited guest, start looking for reliable Melbourne pest control services.
Cockroaches
These hardy critters like to hang out close to food or in areas that are especially moist like the kitchen or basement.
The clearest indication that they’re sharing your home is lots of small, cylindrical pellets of a dark brown colour.
This is cockroach poo, so wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning it up.
Also, take note of any unusual smells, because cockroaches can give off an unpleasantly musty odour.
Bed Bugs
At the moment, bed bugs are experiencing a major resurgence.
They have become a big problem for millions of homes across the US, UK, and Australia.
They feed by biting and sucking on human blood, usually while the occupants sleep.
This makes them especially reviled, even though they pose no danger to health.
Bed bugs can hide in any crevice or crack on wooden and fabric objects; this is why they are notoriously difficult to eliminate.
Fleas
Where there are pets, there may be fleas. , , so keep a flea control regime up to date!
These nasty little creatures feed on animal blood and produce itchy, unsightly skin rashes for pet owners.
Like bed bugs, they can be found in fabric, so pillows, duvets, throws, carpets, sofas, and curtains can all be affected.
One sure fire way to diagnose a serious infestation is to wear white socks while inspecting the house.
If they quickly collect lots of dark specks, you need to call pest control.
Termites
Termite can be found in any wooden structure throughout a building.
For example, staircases, wall frames, roof trusses, and floor beams.
Make sure you check around the outside of your house and keep the damp proof course and any termite barrier clear,
If you have broken tiles on the roof, check the attic for signs of termites; they are attracted to warmth and moisture.
Mice
Mice are one of the easiest pests to spot, because they’re bigger than many of the other pests found in domestic settings.
Often, the first indication is mouse poo.
Invading mice leave small, but distinct, pellets of waste behind in the places that they frequent.
They can sometimes produce a musty odour too, so be aware of this when you’re inspecting kitchens and moist, dark areas.
If you do have a mouse problem, you’ll need to relocate ingredients in the kitchen; as items left in accessible cupboards will be gnawed and chewed.
What to Do If You Find Signs of Pests
The first thing to remember is that not all pests are representative of an unclean home.
In fact, bed bugs and fleas don’t really care what kind of a house they choose, as long as there is plenty of food.
So, there is no shame in having to call on a pest control service for help.
They can fix the problem quickly and make sure that it does not return.
While many homeowners attempt independent solutions, the incidence of returning infestations is quite high.