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Keeping Ants Away From Homes In The Bay Area

 

Habitat Pest Control Discusses Methods to Ensure Ant Control In The Bay Area

San Jose, United States - November 14, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes all over the world. They live in large colonies, and once they invade a property are challenging to get rid of. Ants invade homes and yards looking for food and nesting sites. If a few ants find food on a property, they leave behind a pheromone trail that brings members of the colony to the same spot. The queens in colonies lay eggs, the males mate with the queen, and the workers are all sterile females who look for food, take care of the nest, and feed the larvae. 

Common species of ants in the Bay Area include Acrobat ants, Argentine ants, Carpenter ants, Crazy ants, Odorous house ants, Pavement ants, Nuisance ants, Fire ants, etc. Though some consider ants a mere nuisance, they can be harmful. Getting rid of them is not always easy, and a pest control company may be needed to do the job effectively. Habitat Pest Control is a leading local pest control company in Bay Area, and they provide ant extermination, removal, and control measures. In this article, Habitat Pest Control shares some tips to keep ants away from homes.

Why is ant extermination important?

Ant infestations can spread diseases and attract other pests to homes. They are a nuisance and can bite, causing discomfort. Carpenter ants can cause structural damage as they remove wood from building structures. This can cause dangers and also incur high repair costs. Ants in the garden can cause an increase in other pests. For example, ants feed on the honeydew created by insects like aphids, mites, and whiteflies. The honeydew can harm plants and also lead to the growth of a type of mold. The ants are attracted by the honeydew and also protect pests like aphids that produce honeydew. Some ants, like odorous ants and carpenter ants, can emit strong and unpleasant odors when disturbed or crushed. The sting of fire ants is known to be very painful. All species of ants carry bacteria and microorganisms that can cause disease as they walk through feces and animal droppings and carry traces onto the surfaces they walk across. 

How to keep ants away from homes

• Make sure all holes and cracks in the exterior walls are sealed.
• Maintain screens in windows and doors in good condition.
• Use essential oils like peppermint or tea tree by diffusing or diluting and spraying them throughout the home.
• Wipe surfaces like kitchen countertops and dining tables regularly to keep them free from food and grease.
• Vacuuming and sweeping floors will keep them clean and remove food that can attract ants.
• Keep food stored in containers that have well-fitting lids. 
• Sinks must be kept clean and dirty dishes must not be left overnight in the sink.
• A sealed container for trash and regular garbage disposal is essential to keep ants away.

Though many try DIY measures like borax, essential oils, or repellant sprays, a pest control professional may be needed for large or stubborn ant infestations. Habitat Pest Control offers a free inspection to assess the ant infestation problem. This pest control expert uses Eco-exempt products for pest control and provides prompt same-day service.  Habitat Pest Control develops a customized treatment plan for an individual home to eliminate ants. Homeowners who need ant extermination services in the Bay Area can contact Habitat Pest Control on the number (408) 922-9898. This professional pest control company is committed to providing its customers with the best pest control services. 

How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches?

 

Keeping Cockroaches Away From Homes

San Jose, United States - November 21, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Cockroaches are insects with flat oval bodies with their size ranging from half to three and a half inches. They hide in crevices and cracks in the daytime and dark, sheltered spaces with moisture content, like the motors of refrigerators and dishwashers, under cabinets, in unused drawers, along the gaskets of refrigerator and freezer doors, etc. 

Cockroaches are notorious for being able to survive almost anywhere. They can remain without food for a month and survive on very limited resources. But cockroaches thrive in warm climates like that in California and densely populated places. Because of their hardy nature, getting rid of cockroaches is difficult. If there is a cockroach infestation, homeowners may need the assistance of a professional pest control company. Habitat Pest Control in San Jose, California, offers commercial and residential pest control in the South Bay Area. With more than a decade of experience in pest control, this company is committed to providing customers with the best pest control services in South Bay Area. The team at Habitat Pest Control uses their training, skills, and the latest methods to resolve pest problems. 

Different types of cockroaches, like American cockroaches, German cockroaches, Brown-banded cockroaches, etc., are seen in California. They all have some common characteristics, like six spiny legs, two long antennae as their bodies, and flat, oval-shaped bodies. Though some cockroaches have wings, they usually scuttle around rather than fly. They typically move around at night. Cockroaches can carry diseases like diphtheria, listeria, and bubonic plague. 

Tips to prevent cockroaches

1. Keep homes clutter-free. Cluttered places act as cool and comfortable shelters for cockroaches, and they nest there.
2. Clean the surfaces beneath appliances meticulously (like beneath refrigerators or ovens), as they serve as comfortable places for cockroaches to live.
3. Keeping homes adequately ventilated helps to prevent cockroaches. They usually prefer damp or humid areas, like kitchens, basements, and poorly ventilated attics.
4. Keeping the surroundings dry and draining puddles will deprive cockroaches of water sources. Standing or stagnant water in bird baths or gutters can provide cockroaches with water for sustenance.
5. Avoid keeping trash outdoors as they attract cockroaches. If they are kept outside, it must be at a minimum time possible. 
6. Food must always be kept secure from cockroaches. Improperly stored food, leftovers kept open, and food remnants and crumbs that are not cleaned up are a sure-shot way of attracting cockroaches. 
7. When receiving deliveries or bringing things from outside, bags and packages must be checked for cockroaches or their eggs. Cockroaches can survive long distances and get transported via deliveries quite easily.
8. Removing composting or any organic materials like piles of leaves or wood from the surrounding is ideal, as these spots act as suitable habitats for cockroaches to live and multiply. 
9. Sealing all cracks and crevices in the home will help to prevent cockroaches from gaining entry to the home. Check the areas around windows, vents, and doors, especially for such crevices. The weatherstripping and screens must be functioning adequately. Use caulking to seal cracks in the foundation.
10. In general, cleanliness is very important to prevent cockroaches. Cleaning spilled food or crumbs, taking the trash out daily, having tight-lidded sturdy garbage containers, avoiding keeping dirty dishes in the sink overnight, etc., are all steps that help to prevent cockroach infestations. 

What to do if cockroaches are seen

Baiting can be used effectively to eliminate cockroaches. Baits can be used in areas where cockroaches thrive, providing the user with more control. Insecticidal sprays or aerosols may be used, but they may not always be effective in the long run.

Habitat Pest Control offers cockroach removal and control services.

Trained inspectors from this pest control company identify cockroach infestations and chalk out a customized plan to get rid of cockroaches in that home. Getting rid of cockroaches is a lengthy process. The professionals from Habitat Pest Control may take a year to completely eliminate the cockroaches, even though they may bring down their numbers drastically within the first few months. They conduct regular perimeter sprays and interior baiting to eradicate cockroaches. Habitat Pest Control guarantees a cockroach-free home if the steps they formulate are followed correctly. For a free inspection, homeowners in the South Bay Area who need cockroach infestation control can call (408) 922-9898 to get in touch with Habitat Pest Control, San Jose, CA. 

Importance of Pest Control In Offices

 

Habitat Pest Control Discusses Pest Control In Offices

San Jose, United States - November 8, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Pest infestations are a problem in offices, just as in homes. Common pests invade both homes and businesses. Sometimes certain pests can be more challenging to eliminate from office spaces.

Pests can cause employee health problems, damage properties, and harm businesses. Habitat Pest Control in San Jose, CA, has a decade of experience in residential and commercial pest control. Businesses can avail of commercial pest control services to prevent property damage and avoid a negative reputation due to pest infestations. Habitat Pest Control provides prompt, same-day pest control service in the South Bay Area. This locally owned and operated company uses ECO-exempt products for pest control. 

Signs of the presence of pests in offices

Rodents, ants, silverfish, cockroaches, spiders, and bed bugs can infest offices. Certain pests like ants and spiders may not be very harmful and might be a plain nuisance. But pests like rodents and termites can cause property damage. Rodents, bed bugs, and cockroaches can transmit diseases. 

Some signs of pests in office buildings are: 

• Squeaking or shuffling sounds 
• Noticeable damage to structures or objects, like chewed-up wooden furniture, paper, or textiles, has been gnawed. 
• Unpleasant or musty odors or the smell of ammonia
• Bite marks or stings on employees
• Pests droppings

When a pest infestation is suspected, hire a professional pest control company. Offices with a pest problem can get commercial pest control services in Bay Area, California from a professional, like Habitat Pest Control. 

Is pest control necessary for offices?

Sometimes residential pest control is given more importance than pest control in office buildings. Pests can make working in offices uncomfortable. Clients may refrain from patronizing businesses affected by pest problems. Some companies, like restaurants or hotels, can face legal action and lose business just by the presence of pests. Pests like rodents, cockroaches, fleas, and flies, can act as disease vectors. 

Pests can cause damage to the building structure and objects in offices leading to repair expenses. Manufacturing units or devices like computers and freezing units can be damaged by pests, resulting in substantial business losses.  Sometimes severe damage can occur to internal building structures when pests like carpenter ants or rodents infest them. Structural damage can cause harm to the occupants or equipment, or commodities in a building. 

Pest control tips for offices

Preventing pests is always better than having to require pest control. Habitat Pest Control suggests some pest control measures, as follows.

1. Seal all possible entry points, like holes in walls and foundations, with caulk, steel wool, or foam." Door sweeps and weather stripping can be installed.
2. Eliminate water sources for pests. No standing water must be allowed in a commercial building, and plumbing problems like leaks must be repaired. 
3. Keep office spaces clean and without food sources for pests.

 

Habitat Pest Control is renowned for excellence in pest control in the San Jose area of California. This pest control company provides service with integrity.  Their customers' satisfaction is reflected in the business's great reviews from clients. Habitat Pest Control integrates non-chemical and natural pest control solutions for homes and businesses. As a leading local pest control company in the Bay Area, Habitat Pest Control is committed to protecting the health of customers and the environment. For effective, eco-friendly, and safe commercial pest control in Bay Area, California, business owners can call Habitat Pest Control on the number (408) 922-9898. The company has proven methods for pest control and offers Written Guaranteed Results. 

Getting Rid Of Fleas

 Friday, October 21st 2022, 4:00 AM

How To Tackle A Flea Infestation

San Jose, United States - October 21, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Fleas are a common pest, especially in families with pets like dogs or cats. Pets get fleas in no time, and it takes no time for them to breed and become an infestation. While they cause a lot of distress to the affected pets, fleas can also become an issue for the whole household.

Fleas are tiny, and it isn't easy to get rid of them. With their tiny bodies jumping high and far, cornering them or squishing them is almost impossible.  Habitat Pest Control shares some ways to eliminate them. This pest control company in San Jose, CA, has tried and tested different methods of dealing with different pests. They offer Written Guaranteed Results for their pest control services. 

Fleas are very tiny wingless insects. They are parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts to stay alive. Though they do not fly, they move quickly, using their back legs to jump up to 50 times their body length. Pets like dogs and cats get fleas from other animals. These insects need mammal blood to survive and easily move from pets to humans. They breed fast, and just a few can multiply into an infestation. They can then infest the carpets, bedding, and furniture. Fleas are tiny, with flattened bodies and tough exoskeletons that make them difficult to crush. Because they jump away quickly, they escape most attempts to kill them.

Signs Of Flea Infestation

• Pets scratch themselves a lot
• Pets might be irritable
• Seeing fleas when pet fur is examined
• Flea bites that are reddened on the pet's skin
• Red flea bite marks on humans
• Flea dirt which is the dried feces and blood fleas leave 

Ways Of Getting Rid Of Fleas

Killing Fleas On Pets

The first thing families with pets must do is treat the pet for fleas, as pets are most likely the primary source of fleas. It might be better to consult a vet. But those who want to try DIY care can use a flea comb first. The neck and tail of the pet must be combed well. The fleas caught in the flea comb must be immediately dropped into hot soapy water to kill them. A vet would be able to recommend the best flea treatment method for a pet.  A safe, effective flea treatment may be chosen from topical, oral, or spot treatments using shampoos, powder, sprays, etc. It must be done regularly, as suggested by the veterinarian.

Preparing the home for flea treatment

The carpeted area and floor must be cleared of all objects like toys or clothes. Any furniture with space underneath may need to be moved away. The aim is to vacuum as much of the carpet surface as possible, with no spaces for fleas to hide.

Take pets and children away

It is best to keep all pets and children away during flea treatment. Aquariums or fish bowls, cages, pet dishes, and bowls must all be covered if not removed. 

Dealing with affected objects

All pet bedding must be destroyed and discarded if there is a heavy flea infestation. However, in case of mild flea infestations, washing the bedding in hot soapy water is effective. Washing must be repeated at least once a week until the infestation is under control. 

Killing Fleas

The entire house must be inspected meticulously. Fleas may be found where pets sleep, in areas away from direct sunlight, and places where people walk about less. Flea dirt may also be spotted. When the floor is vacuumed, the areas where fleas or flea dirt are seen must be cleaned diligently. When vacuuming, it is important to vacuum under the beds and other furniture and pay attention to baseboards, heat vents, carpet edges, corners of rooms, and cracks on the floor. Bedding used by family and pets, favorite napping spots of pets, and carpets must be cleaned very well. Vacuuming removes the flea eggs, larvae, pupae, and flea dirt. 

Vacuuming causes fleas to leave cocoons ahead of time, making them vulnerable to insecticides. It also raises the carpet's nap, which helps the insecticide get deep into the fibers. All floorings must be vacuumed. Furniture, upholstery, curtains, cushions, etc., will have to be vacuumed.

Pest control professionals will usually do a steam cleaning before vacuuming for severe flea infestations. Vacuuming and steam cleaning may need to be repeated for several days to ensure that fleas are killed in various stages of their lifecycle. 

If fleas are present in high numbers outdoors in the yard, removing low-hanging branches and trimming shrubs and hedges for more exposure to sunlight may help. Insecticides and growth regulators may be needed in some cases. A professional pest control service best does this. It is best to take action against fleas on pets in the home and outdoors on the same day. Engaging a pest control company will make eliminating fleas easier. 

While keeping fleas away is an ongoing process, managing flea infestation is best done by pest control experts. Habitat Pest Control is a reliable option for residential and commercial pest control in San Jose and The Bay Area. This pest control company aims to eliminate pests while keeping the environment safe, using integrated pest management methods. Habitat Pest Control uses ECO-exempt products based on botanical activities. For prompt pest control service in the South Bay area on the same day, homeowners or business owners can call 001 (408) 922-9898 or book an appointment online for a free pest control quote. 

Why Are Roof Rats Dangerous?

Friday, October 14th 2022, 4:00 AM

The Dangers Of Roof Rats

San Jose, United States - October 14, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Rodents are notorious for spreading diseases worldwide. These pests may carry diseases without any apparent illness. So, identifying rodents at risk is not easy. The best way to prevent infections is to have rodent control in and around a house. 

Measures must be taken to prevent rats and mice from infesting a home. However, a pest control service might be the best option to eradicate rodent infestation. Home or business owners who need rodent control services in the Bay Area in Northern California can choose Habitat Pest Control. This company has a team of pest control service professionals who are experts on the pest problems of the local environment. Habitat Pest Control provides customized treatment plans designed to find and treat the foundation of the pest infestation problem of each customer. In this article, Habitat Pest Control shares information on roof rats.

When the weather changes or is harsh, pests like rodents seek shelter in homes. Roof rats are a nuisance,  affecting the safety of homes. They are also called ship rats or black rats. Roof rats are dark brown and black, contrasting lighter or black undersides and scaly tails, and can grow up to 16 inches long, including their tails. Roof rats get their name because they are sleek and agile creatures and good climbers.  They thrive in the attics and upper levels of buildings. 

Why Are Roof Rats Dangerous?

1. Roof rats can contaminate food supplies. Food can be contaminated by the urine and droppings of roof rats, leading to medical problems.
2. Rats chew and gnaw at things to keep their teeth sharp. Roof rats can damage wires, insulation, wood, wall material, etc. Electrical fires may result from damaged electrical wires. They shred electrical insulation and use it to build their nests. These pests are estimated to cause damages worth around $19 billion annually. Pest control is vital for safety and to keep damages low. 
3. Roof rats can carry fleas and other bugs that can infest homes and trouble family members and pets.
4. Roof rats can act as disease carriers of diseases like leptospirosis and rat-bite fever. They can also spread salmonella when they run around food or any surface where food is stored.

Preventing The Entry of Roof Rats

Getting rid of roof rats is difficult. It is better to prevent their entry as far as possible. The following are some tips to keep roof rats away:

• The home and surroundings must be kept clean, and households must dispose of trash promptly and properly. 
• There must be no leaks or other water sources that rats can access.
• Property owners must maintain roofs in good condition. Loose or missing shingles must be replaced. 
• A chimney cap can prevent rodent entry through chimneys. 
• Families must place outdoor trash cans at a distance from the home and use well-fitting lids.
• Trimming bushes and trees can reduce the entry of rats into homes.
• The gaps around windows and doors must be caulked.
• Food must always be kept in sealed containers or refrigerated.

If a home in the Bay Area of Northern California needs roof rat control services, it can be done by Habitat Pest Control. This residential pest control provider will get a trained inspector to assess the type of infestation. A customized treatment plan for rodent control is shared with the customer. Rodents are trapped, and rodent-proofing of the house is completed. Habitat Pest Control technicians clean the affected areas like attics and crawl spaces and sanitize and deodorize the area. They offer regular monitoring to keep the environment rodent-free. Homeowners can call Habitat Pest Control at (408) 922-9898 to schedule a free inspection for pest control. 

Indications Of A Bed Bug Infestation

 Monday, October 10th 2022, 4:00 AM

Signs Of Bed Bugs To Look Out For

San Jose, United States - October 10, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Bed bugs cause inconvenience, property losses, and expenses in the US and worldwide. Though not known to spread any disease, they cause itching and disturb sleep. Constant scratching due to itchiness can lead to secondary skin infections. Though bed bugs are not dangerous, medical attention may be required if there is an allergic reaction to their bites.

Bed bugs may be found in most areas where people sleep. The cleanliness of the area is not a factor that deters their presence. They can be found in apartments, hotels, dorm rooms, cruise ships, buses, and trains. Because bed bugs are considered public health pests, they must be controlled and prevented as far as possible. When signs of bed bug infestation are present, there are methods to exterminate them. In this article, Habitat Pest Control shares how homeowners can identify the presence of bed bugs. Habitat Pest Control, San Jose, CA,  has a decade of experience in the pest control business. The team is committed to providing the best pest control possible with a year-round advanced pest control service.

Signs of Bed Bugs 

1. Fecal Spots

A very common sign of when bed bugs are present is their fecal spots. They are dark spots on bedsheets, pillowcases, mattresses, sofas, curtains, etc. They may be black or brown. 

2. Strange Smells

A weird, musty odor in a room could be because of bed bugs. Bed bugs can produce a strange sweet or musty odor. When no particular source (like unattended laundry) can be identified for an odor, bed bugs may be the culprit.

3. Bite Marks on Skin

Bite marks on the skin are the most common sign of bed bugs. They can be in a cluster or line. The bite marks may be very itchy. They may be noticed when people wake up in the morning or are on a sofa without any other identifiable reason. Bed bug bites can be differentiated from mosquito bites by their unique pattern. Bed bug bites are usually present in a cluster or zig-zag patterns with 3 to 5 bite marks on the skin. People with sensitive skin can develop allergies or severe skin irritation from bed bug bites.

4. Blood Stains

Blood stains on sheets indicate the presence of bed bugs. Bed bugs feed on human blood. They can get crushed when the people shift or roll over when asleep. The crushed bed bugs leave blood stains that may be rust-colored or black on the sheets, pillowcases, and mattresses. 

5. Bed Bug Eggs

Tiny, oval-shaped, pearly white bed bug eggs are a definitive sign of bed bugs. They are around 1mm in length and are found around where adult bugs feed on human blood.

6. Pets Develop Scratching

Pets are also affected by bed bugs. If pets scratch themselves more than usual or become increasingly restless, it may be because bed bugs bite them. 

7. Bed Bug Shells

The discarded casings of young bed bugs are called bed bug shells. Finding these in homes indicates the high probability of a bed bug infestation. These shells are found wherever bed bugs breed or hatch. Bed bug shells may be seen in the seams of mattresses, upholstered furniture, and wooden furniture nooks. It is easier to spot bed bug shells than actual pests. They are translucent and white or yellow and look like hollow bed bugs.  

The home needs pest control if any signs of bed bugs are noticed. Even when bed bugs are suspected, homeowners can call a professional pest control company to inspect the house for bed bugs. Homeowners who need bed bug extermination in California can contact Habitat Pest Control. This pest control company offers commercial and residential pest control services in San Jose and the Bay Area in California. Habitat Pest Control advises preventative measures against bed bugs be taken. But once there is a bed bug infestation, heat treatment or bio-pesticide treatment may be done. Habitat Pest Control integrates non-chemical and natural pest control solutions for homes and businesses. This locally owned and operated pest control company delivers prompt, same-day service in the South Bay Area. Residents of the South Bay Area who need pest control, including bed bug extermination, can contact Habitat Pest Control on the phone number 001 (408) 922-9898.

Keeping Ants Away From Homes In The Bay Area, Images 4/11/22

 

How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches?, Images 4/11/22

 

Importance of Pest Control In Offices, Images 4/11/22