Pests are generally creatures which threaten health or livelihood by causing damage, contamination or nuisance.

We listen to all the information the customer gives us and from there we carry out a survey to identify the pest and extent of the infestation.

We carry out a risk assessment before every treatment, so please do not worry about pets and children as these factors will all be taken into consideration.

Depending on the outcome of the survey, the method of treatment could be trapping, use of rodenticide or insecticide, changes to housekeeping etc.

Following treatments, if applicable, we will leave recommendations to prevent reinfestation.   This could be proofing of the building by filling holes, having a drain survey or perhaps clearing overgrown areas.

Listed below are some of the most common pests.

Bees

We do not treat bees. Bees provide a vital role in the pollination of plants, and we will aim to re-home them where possible.  Colonies of bumble bees will die off after summer so please try to live alongside them.  If you need a beekeeper to collect a swarm of bees, please see our links page.  Please note that beekeepers do not deal with bumble bees, only honeybees.

 Cluster flies

Usually found in lofts or around window frames during the colder months.  The larvae of cluster flies develop as parasites in the bodies of earthworms and the adult fly emerges in late summer, seeking somewhere protected to spend the winter.  These flies pose little threat to humans but are more of an annoyance.  They can be treated with a residual insecticide.

 Fleas

A particular problem for pet owners.  It is essential that you treat your pet for fleas before our treatment is carried out.  The whole property will need to be treated and must be left unvacuumed for a period of time for the treatment to be successful.  The property must be vacated, including any pets, during treatment and for 4-5 hours following treatment (until floors are dry).

 Masonry Bees

These are solitary bees that nest in holes and crevices in brickwork, usually south facing.  Sometimes you will see several them in the same location, but they will all be going into separate holes.  They are harmless to humans and will only sting if squeezed between your fingers!  They are excellent pollinators, like honeybees, so preventative action is preferable (re-pointing after the bees are no longer active).

Moles

Moles can cause devastation to lawns, leaving unsightly mounds of earth and instability underfoot with their tunnel systems.  They are solitary for most of the year, occupying exclusive territories until their breeding season (February to June).  We use the traditional trapping method, which we believe to cause the least suffering to the mole.

 Rats & Mice

Rats and mice can cause many problems with their gnawing and can spread disease.  First signs are usually droppings or scratching/scrabbling noises in the loft or wall cavities.  Rats and mice are most active from dusk to dawn.  Depending on the size of the infestation, treatment will either be trapping or the use of rodenticide.  Usually at least 3 visits will be necessary.  All bait will be removed at the end of treatment.

We carry out a risk assessment before every treatment, so please do not worry about pets and children as these factors will all be taken into consideration.

 Squirrels

Squirrels often gnaw through electrical wires in loft spaces, and this can cause fires.  They make more noise than rats and mice, with heavy thudding and loud scuttling noises.  The squirrel is most lively at dawn and dusk.  We may use live-catch traps or instant kill traps; a CCTV camera will be placed in the loft to monitor.

 Wasps & Hornets

Wasps and hornets can be a real nuisance and give a painful sting.  We specialise in the extermination of wasp nests and aim to attend the same day, where possible.  After the nest has been treated, activity will usually settle down after a couple of hours and by the following day, no activity should be noticed.  On the occasional instance when the treatment has not been successful, we offer a free re-treat (please allow 7 days before calling for this service).