There’s lots of bugs and pests to be found in the world, and the UK, so following on from our previous blog we thought we’d add a few more of these unwanted guests to the list. Featuring information on what attracts these pests and how to prevent or get rid of them.
Ants are social insects that form colonies and are attracted to food sources in our homes. They often enter buildings through cracks in foundations or gaps around doors and windows.
Though small, you should notice if you have an ant problem as you’ll frequently see at least one of two scuttling along your floor, table, or near doors/windows. In certain areas, such as near where a nest may be, you might also spot small piles of sawdust-like material known as frass.
Ant or something else? Remember ants have three distinct body segments and bent (elbowed) antennae.
How to stop ants: Seal entry points, keep food stored in tightly sealed containers, clean up spills promptly, and use bait stations or ant traps to control infestations.
Termites are destructive pests that feed on wood and can cause significant damage to homes and other wooden structures. They often go unnoticed until the damage is already extensive.
Fortunately, they are not found in the UK, as the conditions in this region are too wet for them. There was one case of an infestation in Devon in 1994, something that took until 2021 to fully eradicate. This just goes to show how serious they can be, and how lucky it is we don’t typically get them in this country.
Spiders can be beneficial predators that feed on other insects, but as many people admit to arachnophobia or at least a wide dislike of spiders, they can become a nuisance when they invade our homes.
While most spiders in the UK are harmless, some species can bite and do have venom. so always use caution.
The most venomous spider in the UK, the false widow spider, doesn’t have enough venom to kill a human, but the bites can be extremely painful and lead to open sores that are prone to infection. These infections can sometimes lead to further complications that will require medical attention.
Signs of a spider infestation include the presence of webs, egg sacs, and spiders themselves in corners and crevices. They can be found all year round, but you may see more in September or October.
Getting Rid of Spiders: Keep indoor spaces clutter-free, vacuum regularly to remove spiders and their webs, seal cracks and crevices, and use spider repellents or traps as needed.
Silverfish are small, wingless insects that are commonly found in damp, dark areas such as bathrooms, and kitchens.
They feed on starchy materials such as paper, glue, and textiles, making books, wallpaper, and clothing vulnerable to damage. Signs of a silverfish infestation include the presence of silver, tear-shaped insects and yellowish stains on paper or fabric. You’ll occasionally see them moving fast and in a snake like or wiggly fashion towards the nearest crevice.
What they Look Like: Look for small, elongated insects with shiny, silver scales and three long bristles at the rear of their bodies.
Prevention and Control: Reduce humidity levels in your home, fix leaks and moisture issues, store paper and textiles in airtight containers. You can also try insecticides and traps.
Fleas are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of mammals, including humans, pets, and wildlife. They are often introduced into homes by pets or wildlife and can infest carpets, furniture, and bedding. Signs of a flea infestation include itchy bites on humans and pets, flea dirt (faeces) on bedding or pet fur, and the presence of adult fleas hopping around.
How to spot: It can be hard to see these creatures, look for very small, black dots that will suddenly jump. They are wingless insects with flattened bodies and their powerful hind legs are adapted for jumping long distances.
Stopping Fleas: Treat pets with flea combs and preventive medications, vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly, wash bedding and pet bedding in hot water, and use flea control products such as sprays or foggers as needed.
Woodlice are crustaceans that are commonly found in damp, dark areas occasionally indoors and in gardens. They feed on decaying organic matter and are harmless to humans, but they can become a nuisance if they enter homes in large numbers.
Look for small, greyish-brown crustaceans crawling on walls and floors. Their bodies are segmented with a flattened, oval-shaped body and antennae like bike handlebars.
How to Stop Them: Seal cracks and crevices, improve ventilation in damp areas, remove any decaying organic matter from around your home, and use insecticides or traps to control woodlice populations.
You might fancy yourself as an amateur bird spotter, but when they start nesting in or around your property, they can quickly become a noisy, messy nuisance.
Common pest birds in the include pigeons (known as flying rats after all), seagulls (even in inland locations), and starlings.
These birds can cause significant and unsightly damage to buildings and vehicles with their droppings, which are acidic and can erode materials over time. They can also be a health hazard, as their droppings can harbour diseases and parasites.
Getting Rid of Birds: Eliminate food sources, secure bins, and use bird spikes or netting to prevent them from roosting on your property. Learn more about our bird control service here.
Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem as pollinators. Unlike wasps, bees are generally non-aggressive, but they will defend their hive if threatened. Discovering a hive on your property can be daunting, especially for those allergic to stings. Common bees include honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees.
For a safe removal, contact us if you discover a bee infestation on your property.
Fruit flies and other small flies like gnats, can become a significant annoyance in homes and businesses, particularly in kitchens and food preparation areas.
These tiny pests are attracted to ripe or decaying fruits, vegetables, and other organic matter, as well as stagnant water. Certain plants may also attract certain small flies (you can often find fruit flies circling plants but they’re not actually attracted to them specifically).
To prevent infestations, it’s vital to maintain good sanitation practices, such as regularly cleaning countertops, disposing of overripe produce, and ensuring bins are tightly sealed.
If an infestation occurs, traps, baits and even nets can be effective in reducing their numbers.
Discovering a dead animal on your property can not only be upsetting but also pose serious health risks.
Decomposing animals can attract other pests such as flies and rodents, leading to further infestations. They can also emit foul odours and spread diseases.
It’s crucial to handle dead animals with care, using protective gloves and masks, and to dispose of them properly. If you come across a dead animal, it’s best to contact a professional pest control service.
If you’re unsure, don’t risk removing it yourself. We can safely remove animals such as foxes, rats, mice, birds and squirrels with our dead animal removal service.
Pest emergencies can occur unexpectedly and require immediate attention to prevent further damage and health risks.
What Counts as an Emergency?: Whether it’s a sudden infestation of rodents, the discovery of a dead fox, an aggressive wasp nest, or a swarm of bees, swift and professional action is needed.
We are available 24/7 and can be there fast (within 90 minutes of your call).
A lot of general insects and pests can be prevented or gotten rid of with a few simple techniques, DIY, and altering habits or routines. These tips are to help give you more knowledge and help identify certain problems.
But for the more stubborn infestations, or those that pose threat of bites, stings, disease, etc. Don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0330 096 1847.
We can be there quick to get rid of your pest problem, all at a time that suits you.