Pest Control Basildon

Basildon is one of the largest towns in Essex in terms of population, so as a result it has an extensive range of pubs, restaurants, takeaways, bars and coffee houses to feed the growing number of inhabitants. While an extensive choice of food outlets is of great benefit to those who live in the town, eateries can attract various pests including ants, wasps, rats, mice, pigeons and flour moths.

If you run a restaurant and have a pest problem that needs to be tackled, Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions can help. Our Colchester based team of technicians are on hand to provide pest prevention advice as well as extermination and elimination services to rid buildings of infestations promptly and discreetly. We always go the extra mile for our customers, so if you are worried about the possibility of vermin on your premises, we can provide unmarked vans on request.

At Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions we provide a wide range of pest control services, including contracts for restaurants and other commercial organisations in Essex towns and villages such as Basildon, Braintree, Colchester, Witham, Maldon, Harwich, Clacton-on-Sea, Chelmsford, and Hatfield Peverel.

Pest Control Basildon - Click here to enquire about our competitively priced preventative pest control contracts in the Essex area for the food industry.

About Basildon

A major reason why Basildon is a popular place to settle is that it is just 30 minutes from Central London, so it is within easy commuting distance to the capital. It offers a host of work opportunities, as while the town itself is home to a number of big organisations – such as Selex ES, CNH Tractor Plant and Argos’s regional warehouse – the city of Chelmsford is only 10 miles away.

As a result Basildon has a variety of eating establishments to choose from to cater for the ever expanding population, from European to American, English and Asian restaurants. And, as well as the town centre eateries, Festival Leisure Park is also a popular place to head for to dine, watch films, drink and enjoy leisure activities such as bowling or wakeboarding.

With so much competition in the area, if you are running a food establishment it is vital to keep your reputation intact by complying with kitchen hygiene regulations. Here at Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, we do all we can to ensure that your business is pest-free as we offer commercial contracts that encompass a variety of services including free site audits and recommendations, free callouts for pests covered, and environmental and risk assessments.

Meanwhile, here are some of the most recent testimonials we have received for appointments in the Basildon area. Whether you require wasp nest removal, need help tackling flies, or want pest control for rats in your area, read on to find out about what our customers have said about us in Basildon.

Pest Control in Basildon

Whether you are a domestic or commercial organisation in Basildon, contacting a reputable pest control organisation such as Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions will bring you the fastest and most effective results. While prevention and proofing is the most effective method of pest control (and we can advise on this), we also provide pest extermination services if necessary.

One of the questions we are asked is whether Basildon Council provides a vermin control service to owners of homes or businesses. The answer is that they only respond to specific problems in certain circumstances, such as if vermin is spotted in a park or other public land. They don’t offer a pest control service to council or private tenants, home owners or businesses.

While it may be tempting to tackle the problem yourself, the best solution is to call on the professionals. Organisations such as Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions will understand the extent of the problem, and use the most effective treatment and control methods.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions – Contact us for a thorough and effective vermin control service in the Essex area.

Tackling Birds Nesting Under Your Solar Panels

There’s nothing more relaxing than the sound of birdsong when you are out for a stroll in the countryside…but it’s quite the opposite when you’ve woken up to a dawn chorus coming from your rooftop; even less so when the sound emanates from under your newly installed solar panels.

The number of homes powered by solar power energy has rocketed in the UK and almost doubled in 2014 alone, thanks to a government backed energy saving funding scheme. The scheme means qualifying homeowners can generate free solar energy without paying for their solar panels in advance.

….but like all great schemes, there is a downside.

The increase in solar power in East Anglia has gone hand in hand with the rise in pigeons nesting on rooftops, much to the frustration of property owners. However, there are several ways professional pest control companies such as Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions can tackle the problem.

Why do pigeons nest under solar panels?

Pigeons and other smaller birds nestle under solar panels for two reasons: they like the warmth from the lingering heat in the panels, and they see it as a safe place to shelter, away from predators and close enough to food sources.

Why is it a problem?

This creates a serious problem for homeowners for several reasons:

• Noise – No one likes to be woken up early by a dawn chorus, and as some properties attract a dozen or more pigeons at a time this can prove extremely irritating for home owners.
• Insects – A host of insect types infest nests, which can then invade your home, especially when young pigeons fledge.
• Excrement – A flock of birds on the roof, means an awful lot of bird droppings, which can hold up rainwater on the roof, leading to possible water ingress.
• Danger – The nesting material left under the panels can create a potential fire hazard in the summer months, putting home owners and neighbouring properties at risk. 

Can I tackle this problem myself?

While there are ways that you can tackle this problem yourself, such as attaching a plastic bird of prey to the roof, this method is not always effective so it is likely that the pigeons will continue to be a problem.

Not only this, but bird proofing can be extremely dangerous to install, and unless you have the right safety equipment it is simply not worth the risk. Instead, the best bet is to call on the services of professional pest control companies, such as Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, who follow the right health and safety procedures and can eradicate the problem in the quickest, most environmentally-friendly way.

What can be done?

The problem of birds nesting under or between solar panels can be resolved in two main ways. We can clip wire mesh to the outer edge of your panels which acts as barrier to keep the pigeons out, or we can place spikes along the edge of the panels which not only creates an impenetrable barrier, but also prevents pigeons nesting as it no longer gives them a comfortable place to settle.

Does any  preparation need to be done first?

A few things need to be done before the panels are pigeon-proofed to ensure an effective solution. The first step is to remove all the birds from under the solar panels first, as well as any dead pigeons and nesting materials.

If relevant, we will also remove bird-droppings from the gutter, and ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

About Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions provide a friendly and effective service and have all the relevant health and safety equipment for the safe removal of pigeons. We operate in the Essex, Suffolk, Ipswich, Colchester, Clacton, Harwich, Witham, Sudbury, Stowmarket, Woodbridge and Manningtree areas. Just click on the link above to find out more.

Answers to Ten Common Questions About Wasps

Summer is the season we spend more time outdoors soaking up the sunshine, enjoying long walks, inviting friends round for barbecues, and dining al fresco, either in our own back gardens or at a local public house or restaurant. Although it’s the most popular season in Britain, the endless sunshine and glorious heat has its downside too. Mid-summer also spells the start of the wasp season. So, whether you are enjoying an ice cream at the beach, or tucking into a dessert at a café near you, you may find yourself swatting the wasps away at a rapid rate. 

July and August is Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions’ peak time to tackle wasps in Ipswich and Colchester’s pubs, restaurants, homes, parks, gardens, shops and factories. We provide a prompt wasp nest removal service and can also provide wasp prevention services to homes and local businesses. Meanwhile, if you want some facts and information about these striped pests, here are ten answers to common questions about wasps.

Wasps Ipswich – Click here to arrange expert pest control services in Essex and Suffolk.

What do Wasps Eat?

Wasps don’t have a mouth, instead they have tubes that they use to suck liquids, such as nectar and sugary drinks. They also prey upon a host of insects, including spiders, ants, flies and caterpillars to bring back to the nest for their young to consume. In return, the larvae will regurgitate this food in a sugary form for the adult wasps to ingest.

How Many Species of Wasps Are There?

According to National Geographic, there are around 30,000 species of wasps worldwide. Only the female varieties sting, although most wasp species are fairly passive and don’t sting. It tends to be the brighter, striped varieties (such yellow jackets and European hornets) that sting. 

Where are Wasps’ Most Popular Nesting Places?

The Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions team has found wasps’ nests in all sorts of locations in the Ipswich and Colchester areas. We have found nests in roof spaces, sheds, porches, garages, chimneys and summer houses. Wasps can also nest in trees, on bushes, hedges, in holes in the ground, or on compost heaps.

Why are They Striped?

The non-stinging varieties don’t tend to be striped and, as they are preyed on by other insects, their colours generally blend in with their background to avoid capture. The bright, striped ones are so coloured in order to serve as a warning to possible predators that they are venomous. 

How Harmful Are They to Humans?

Apart from the obvious anxiety that wasps cause when they are buzzing around your picnic table, for a minority of people wasp venom can cause allergic reactions. In the worst case, this can develop into anaphylactic shock – a severe state of shock which can prove fatal. For most people a wasp sting is simply just painful…but, unlike bees, unfortunately a wasp can sting more than once. 

Are there any Insects/Species that Prey on Wasps?

Yes, there are various insects that prey on wasps and these can include spiders, dragonflies and beetles. Other species that eat wasps include birds, such as magpies and starlings, and reptiles, including frogs, toads and lizards.

Can Wasps Build Nests in Homes?

Yes, wasps can and do build nests in homes, such as attics and even bedrooms and wardrobes. In recent years a wasps’ nest discovered on top of a bed in a spare room captured the attention of the nation’s media. 

Can Wasps Damage Buildings?

Yes, wasps strip material such as wooden beams and plasterboard to make the pulp that is used to build their nests. They take the strips of wood back to their young who turn it into a paste, which the adults use to build their nest. As a result, wasps can damage the fabric of a building.

What Can I do to Prevent Wasps?

One way to prevent wasps is to make sure that all rubbish and sticky food is placed in bins with secure lids to stop wasps flying in and out. Wasp traps are another preventative measure. We sell these at Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions and can advise you where to place them. 

How Can I Get Rid of their Nests?

It’s dangerous to tackle a wasp nest yourself. Instead, the safest and most effective way is to contact Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions who have experience in wasp nest removal. We follow tough health and safety guidelines and use all the necessary safety equipment for pest control. One way we remove wasps is through the use of insecticide sprays or dusts, and we also have fibre-glass extension lances to eliminate wasp nests at height.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions – Click here for a friendly and effective pest elimination service in Ipswich, Colchester and the surrounding areas.

Facts and Information About Fleas

Fleas are more than just irritating little biting insects; they can cause infection and spread disease. What’s more they breed at an alarming rate. A female flea can lay 500 hundred eggs during her adult lifetime, creating up to 250 potential breeding pairs; so as you can imagine, a flea problem can soon escalate out of control. Fleas are a pest all year round, but last year’s mild winter, followed by a long, hot summer has been said to cause a big rise in fleas bedding down in carpets and soft furnishings. They are extremely hardy creatures too: surviving up to two months without a blood meal and withstanding immense force and impact (up to 100GS). So, if you find your home or business infested with fleas it is best to contact Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions – flea extermination experts in Colchester and Ipswich, for effective pest control.

Colchester and Ipswich Pest Control Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are experienced in eliminating pests and vermin, including biting insects, so you know you can count on us to eradicate a flea infestation. Just click on the link above to find out more about our services.

Meanwhile, read on to find some facts and information about fleas and how to get rid of these in your home.

Q. I know fleas feast on pets, but do they bite humans too?

A. Yes, they can…as they feast on pets and humans. Even if you don’t have pets it is possible to get fleas in your home. Larvae and eggs can remain dormant in carpets, curtains, clothes, bedding and sofas and adult fleas can live for long periods of time without sucking on blood. Fleas can come from friends or neighbours’ pets, or even from parks or gardens.

Q. How can I tell if I have been bitten by a flea?

A. A flea bite looks small and red and might appear in a line or a cluster. They can appear on folds of skin such as armpits or waist areas, or legs and ankles and get very itchy, although too much scratching can cause a secondary infection. Fleas can consume up to 15 times their body weight in blood and can bite up to 400 times a day, so you may have several bites at a time. So, if you have a flea infestation, it is important to call Colchester and Ipswich pest control experts, Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions.

Q. Can fleas pose a health risk?

A. Yes, some major diseases were caused by fleas. There are hundreds of different types of fleas worldwide, and it was the rat flea that was responsible for spreading the Black Death (also known as the Bubonic Plague) in the Middle Ages. Other diseases from fleas include Murine Typhus (usually passed on by rats), and fleas can also cause allergies.

Q. What conditions do fleas need to breed?

A. They need warm temperatures and a host to thrive, so centrally heated homes create the perfect environment all year round. Contrary to what many people believe, fleas don’t die off in winter; instead they lay dormant.

Q. Can fleas be found in businesses as well as homes?

A. Fleas spend much of their time off the host (pet or human) and infest homes as well as commercial businesses. It is possible to bring them home from a flea infested pub or hotel, or you could move into a new home with an existing flea infestation. The cocoons can survive in an empty home for as long as 12 months.

Q. How will I know I have a flea infestation?

If your pets or you are scratching frequently, you will know you have got a flea infestation. You might also be able to spot these bugs – a scattering of black dirt like specs on the skin of pets is one sign or they can look like tiny brown lines from above. The flea larvae look like small white grubs with a dark centre.

Q. Are fleas easy to get rid of myself?

If your home or business is infested with fleas, it is important to get the problem treated straight away as they breed so quickly. There are over the counter treatments, but they only have limited effectiveness. Vacuuming will help to rid carpets of the eggs and washing pet bedding and sheets in the washing machine will also help control the flea population, as will taking your pets to the vet regularly.

Q. How do I successfully tackle a flea infestation?

While the above precautions can help to prevent flea numbers getting out of hand, if the problem persists or infestation is widespread, the only way to successfully deal with a flea problem is to call in the pest control experts, Ipswich and Colchester. Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are experienced in pest and flea elimination and use environmentally-friendly products where possible. You would need to leave the property for a few hours until treatment is complete.

Flea Control Colchester and Ipswich –  Click here to contact Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions.

Pest Control, Ipswich – What You Need to Know About German Cockroaches

Glimpse a sight of a cockroach and it is enough to make your skin crawl. Most insects leave pretty much anyone scurrying in the opposite direction – but cockroaches are one of the least appealing of all. There are lots of facts and myths surrounding cockroaches: one of the most common is that they can survive a nuclear blast. Whether this is true or not is almost impossible to say, but amazingly, these creatures can survive a week without their heads, dying only through lack of water.

As one of the least popular insects, it is no surprise that if you have a German Cockroach infestation, you will want it dealt with straight away. Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are the pest control experts, tackling infestations in and around Ipswich, Colchester, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Manningtree, Harwich, Clacton and further afield. As experienced pest exterminators, with a history of high standards for private and contract clients, you know you can count us.

Pest Control Ipswich –  Click here to find out how Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions can help eliminate a German Cockroach infestation.

This article looks at basic facts and information about German Cockroaches and who to count on to tackle an infestation in your Essex or Suffolk home or business.

What do German Cockroaches Look Like?

German cockroaches are about 1 – 1.5 cms in length and are brown in colour. Although there are many other types of cockroaches, these are the most common type in the UK, and worldwide. They were thought to have originated from Southeast Asia, and came to Europe via trade ships in the 17th century.  

What do they Eat?

Cockroaches are omnivores, which means that they eat meat or plant food, and this includes pet or human food lying around on surfaces, or in bins. They are attracted to sweet foods, but they can also eat kitchen grease and even munch through glue, book bindings, or household products such as soap. They need mainly water to survive as they can live for up to seven days without food. Although German Cockroaches wouldn’t normally bite humans, they will if there is a major infestation and they can’t get access to food.

How Long do they Live and What is their Breeding Cycle?

Cockroaches can live up to 200 days, depending on the conditions in which they live and whether or not they have access to food and water. The females carry their egg case around, and an average of 15-18 young (or nymphs) can hatch at any one time. Once the nymphs have hatched, they can transmute to the adult stage in just a matter of weeks; they reproduce quickly, so as you can imagine an infestation can develop very quickly.

Why are they a Health Threat?

German cockroaches are a serious health threat as they can contaminate food products with their secretions and faeces. They can spread all sorts of diseases such as food poisoning and salmonella, and even typhoid, which can be spread to multiple organs and can be fatal. In addition to this, cockroaches also generate some allergic reactions in humans from their faeces and the skin that they shed.

Not only is health at risk but there is the psychological impact too, as cockroaches are mainly associated with contamination of dirty buildings – although they are not only known to infest insanitary buildings, but also clean ones too.

Where do they Live?

German cockroaches can inhabit homes and apartment buildings and are also a threat to supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, public houses, and even shipping containers. They can fit into tiny cracks and crevices and are usually found in bathrooms and kitchens but can also inhabit storage areas, drains and sewers.

How Can I Prevent a Cockroach Infestation?

The best way to prevent a cockroach problem is to keep kitchens clean and sanitary and to keep bins sealed. Once you have a cockroach infestation, this is difficult to bring under control yourself because they breed so rapidly.

There are various sprays and baits that you can buy over the counter but the best option is to bring in professional pest control experts who can deal with infestations quickly and effectively.

How do Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions tackle a German Cockroach infestation?

Essex and Suffolk pest solutions are the pest control experts for Ipswich, Colchester and the surrounding areas. In addition to carrying out free surveys of commercial or residential properties, we also offer service contracts which include constant monitoring and full site inspections.

We provide advice on proofing for German cockroaches, and because of the nature of these creatures (they are generally nocturnal), we can carry out night time inspections before treatment. We can also arrive in unmarked vehicles on request.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions - Click here to contact the region’s pest control experts.

Why it’s Vital to Secure Your Bins

Households and businesses collectively produce an incredible 180 million tonnes of rubbish a year in England alone, according to Government statistics. Add to this fact that you are never too far away from a rat – or any pest for that matter – if you don’t secure your bins properly, you put your home or business premises at risk of attracting unwanted visitors such as rodents, seagulls, squirrels, cockroaches and wasps.

Nick Collinson, managing director of Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, who offer professional pest control services in Colchester, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Ipswich, Harwich, Braintree and Chelmsford, says incorrect waste disposal can be a huge problem.

Professional Pest Control Services Colchester – Click here to see our full range of pest control solutions in Essex and Suffolk.

“If waste is not put into bins or the bins are overflowing, then rats and gulls can get to the contents,” he said. “Rats need water and a food source, and harbourage too, if they have all three of these, they breed very quickly.

“Rats only have a three week gestation period and they can have eight young at a time. These young mature at 10-12 weeks, so you only have to do the maths and the numbers can escalate very quickly in a year.”

He said incorrect waste disposal included:

• Overflowing bins,
• Rubbish bags left out on the street instead of being secured in plastic bins,
• Unsecured bins,
• Bins with holes in, and 
• Food spillages that haven’t been cleared up, including spillages of grain and cereals in agricultural industries.

A number of pest control callouts in Essex and Suffolk also involve blocks of flats where people are not disposing of their waste properly in the communal bins.

“Problems come about when people sling their rubbish over the bin stores, don’t shut the bins, or leave their rubbish in bags outside the bin stores to avoid unlocking them,” said Mr Collinson.

Food industries, such as restaurants, cafes, pubs and hotels, are another food source for bin pests – and at certain times of the year around half of the company’s commercial pest callouts are to do with improper waste control.

It is thought that the problem has escalated since fortnightly bin collections were introduced in 2005, and if people skip a week and forget to put their waste out, rubbish can soon mount up.

So What’s the Solution?

If you have a rat or bin pest problem, the best thing to do is to call on the experts at Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions. We will carry out a full survey of your premises, provide pest control solutions and offer advice on pest proofing.

In addition to residential pest control, we also offer contract services which include free site audits and recommendations, free callouts and full pest reports at each visit. We will ensure your bin stores are proofed, provide regular inspections and if rats are a problem their food supply can be replaced with rodenticides.

Here are eight common pests that are attracted to unsecured bins:

Rats – Once they spot a food source, such as overflowing bin stores and bags of rubbish being regularly left out the street, rats will harbour as near as possible to it, which can be in a hedge or in a house. They are attracted to waste such as leftover food and can multiply very quickly.

Mice – Like rats, they live where humans do and are attracted by a ready food source such as overflowing bins and spilled food. And, as they can get through gaps as small as 25 mm they can be a real menace. Kitchen hygiene and proper waste disposal is vital to keep these rodents at bay.  

Seagulls – Unsecured bins or bags of rubbish left open are a target for gulls who can raid bins and rip open bin bags, scattering your waste across the street. It is advisable to put household bags out on the day of collection and invest in a lidded bin, if you haven’t been supplied with a wheelie bin.

Ants – As these insects leave a trail of pheromone to identify a food source to other ants, your bins can soon be overrun by these tiny creatures. Clean up waste and empty bins, including household bins, regularly.

Flies/Maggots – Flies are attracted to rubbish if they have access to it; they lay their eggs in the bins, which hatch into maggots. Maggots will take between 10 days to a month to hatch depending on the weather conditions. Restaurants bins containing food waste are particularly affected, so it is advisable to keep bin lids closed and to wrap food before throwing it away.  Regular cleaning of both inside and outside of bins will discourage flies and will also help to prevent them completing their life-cycle.

Cockroaches – These are less of a problem for outside bin stores, because of the temperature, but they are associated with poor hygiene and are attracted to waste and spillages inside homes.

Squirrels – These don’t pose so much of a problem associated with waste disposal as the pests outlined above, but it depends on the food source. Grey squirrels can tear up bin bags and have even been known to chew through plastic food waste bins!

Wasps – Bins and exposed waste can be a magnet for wasps so make sure your rubbish is in a secure bin with a lid and repair any holes in bins.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are experienced in pest control – Click on the link to find out more about our service.

How Big is the Rat Problem in Suffolk and Essex?

Horror stories about giant rats found in homes and riverbeds have plagued the media in recent months. However, rats have been a problem for generations – anywhere that has water and a constant food source will attract rodents which can spread disease and nibble through the fabric of buildings.

Nick Collinson, managing director of Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, which provides rat control in Suffolk in Essex, said: “There is not really a giant rat problem in Ipswich – you’ll always find the biggest rat someone has ever seen – but we have had some horrendous cases.

“We once had a rat that was poisoned in the sewerage system and came out through a toilet. We have found rats in bedrooms, in kitchens and a rat who chewed through wiring at the back of a dishwasher in a pub.”

On average, around a fifth of calls to Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are for rat control, and this figure rises to about 30 per cent of callouts in winter. This article looks at which homes and business are most affected and how to tackle a rat problem.

Rat Control Suffolk and Essex – Click here to find out more about our household pest elimination services and pest control contracts for businesses.

Why Rats Invade Homes and Businesses

Rats invade properties when there is a readily available food source, so kitchen waste is a major contributor. Restaurants and food industries, particularly those situated in older buildings, are a prime target for rats, although the problem can affect homes and businesses across the board.

“Rats need daily water, food and harbourage,” said Mr Collinson. “They often get through the bottom of bins, through the bung hole that lets waste water out. They use bin waste, sometimes for months, until the infestation is noticed”. 

Rats live almost anywhere: on river banks, under buildings, and can burrow through drain faults in the sewerage system. From there, they can get into a property from underground and live in the fabric of a building, in walls, under flooring and behind built in units. They are even known to make their way through from one end of a terrace block to another.

Their gestation period is 21 days and a rat can get pregnant while suckling their young; as they can breed seven to eight young at any one time, as you can imagine, the problem can escalate very quickly.

One of the ways to stop this is to be more careful about rubbish disposal and ensure that bags of rubbish are not left out on the street, and bins are shut securely.

Why Rats are a Problem

Here are some of the risks that rats pose to humans:

Fire Risk – Rats will munch their way through almost anything, including through walls, beams and – worse still – wiring, which poses a fire risk.

Hygiene Risk – Rats carry disease, and some of these illness can prove fatal to humans:

• E. Coli – This is a bacteria that can contaminate food like meat and vegetables. It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, sickness and diarrhoea, and in more serious cases it can damage the kidneys.

• Salmonella – This bacterium can be found in uncooked meat and poultry and it can also be passed through the droppings of infected rats. Symptoms include chills, fever, nausea, diarrhoea, headaches and stomach cramps. It can sometimes take months to recover and in rare cases it can be deadly.

• Hantavirus – This is spread from the dust of dried urine from rats and other animals, as well as through saliva and faeces in infected animals. It is often difficult to diagnose as the symptoms are very similar to flu, and include fever and muscle aches. Some strains of the disease can prove fatal.

• Weil's Disease – This is a bacterial infection from rat urine, and the urine from other animals, and is most commonly spread via infected water. The disease has two stages and symptoms in the second stage can be similar to meningitis; in extreme cases it can cause organ failure.

What to Do About a Rat Problem

It’s difficult to tackle a rat problem yourself as they breed so quickly.  At Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions we provide free surveys of residential or business premises and offer service contracts which include constant monitoring of sites at regular service visits.  Our pest control technicians carry out a full inspection at each visit looking for signs of problems.   We offer free surveys of residential or business premises.

Our pest control technicians will advise on housekeeping, proofing and repairs to buildings.  This is especially important before the cold weather sets in and colonies of rats are drawn to the building.  Our ultimate aim is to eliminate the colony using baits and traps.  

We endeavour to get to the root of the problem, including providing drain surveys in which a camera probe is used to find faults or openings in the drain where the rats are coming through.

For more information on Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions and to find out about our contract services, click here

Don't Get Stung By Rogue Traders

Experts warn ‘Don’t get stung by rogue traders’

Homeowners searching for help to get rid of wasps nests this summer are being urged to avoid a costly sting in the tail.  Industry experts say reports of unqualified pest controllers charging hefty prices for jobs often left half-finished are all too common.  They are warning householders to tread carefully and say only by using professional technicians can residents be sure nests are properly removed for a fee that represents value for money.

“We’ve heard a number of reports of people having to pay way over the odds to have a wasps nest dealt with.  But if people entrust their pest control to unqualified part-timers or rogue traders, they’re leaving themselves open to problems like that.  By using technicians who are experts in their field they can be certain the job will be done properly and they won’t have to pay through the nose.”

Wasps begin building a new nest in spring and can expand their numbers to a peak of around 2000 by late August, so it’s best to remove it earlier in the summer when the colony is smaller and the wasps are less aggressive.  But it’s a job that should always be left to the professionals.

“Wasps feel threatened and are likely to become aggressive if their nest is tampered with, so householders attempting their own removal are dicing with danger.  A mature nest can contain thousands of wasps so it’s really not worth the risk.  A professional technician will provide an effective solution that keeps everyone safe, so I’d advise anyone who finds a nest to call in the experts.”

Fully trained and NPTA accredited professionals are obliged to stay up to date with the latest products, techniques and legislation.  They will give the best advice as well as safe, effective and legal treatment to destroy wasps nests and every other pest infestation.

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Pest Control Felixstowe - Are Wasps on the Rise and Why?

If you hear the sound of buzzing and see a striped insect flying in the direction of you and your lunch, this can really get the adrenalin pumping and, in some cases, can have you running very fast in the opposite direction. For those that fear wasps, the bad news is that the warmer weather we have experienced over the last few months may mean another rise in the number of these pests this year.

Nick Collinson, managing director of Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, who provides pest control in the Felixstowe, Ipswich, Woodbridge, Colchester, Manningtree and Braintree areas, said: “The number of callouts to tackle wasps varies wildly each year, and is weather related.” If it is a wet and windy spring, for example, this can affect the number of wasps and delay the development of colonies through to autumn.

“It is too early to tell at the moment whether there will be a rise in the number of wasps this year but if it is an early spring, as it has been, the queens come out of hibernation earlier.  So, depending on the weather, we can expect a large number of wasp related callouts.”

Pest Control Felixstowe - Contact us today for a friendly and effective pest control service in Suffolk and Essex.

Wasps hit the headlines in late August last year as pest control experts nationwide noticed a sharp rise in the number of these pests. After coming out of hibernation over the long winter, the late summer provided plenty of food.

These pests can build nests in homes, businesses, and even out in the open countryside in fields, banks, trees, bushes and in abandoned underground burrows. And, with the right habitat, and abundant food, it is estimated that there can be as many as 1,000 wasp nests per square mile.

Wasps also present a risk in urban areas where they build nests in gardens and porch ways and also at height – close to windows and in the roof voids of properties. This is not only a nuisance, it can also be very frightening for the occupants – especially the more vulnerable such as the elderly and the young – and it puts them at risk of being stung.

Mr Collinson said: “If wasps nest under tiles they can eat through the plasterboard ceilings and fly into the bedroom, which can be quite harrowing, especially as you can get thousands of wasps in a nest.” The average is 2,000 to 5,000 wasps per colony, but it is possible to get up to 20,000 in a nest.

Wasp Removal: Suffolk and Essex

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are one of the few pest control experts in the Felixstowe, Suffolk and Essex areas who have specialised equipment to tackle wasps at height. They have 8 metre fibreglass extension lances, which can blow dust up into the nest to kill off the wasps over a 24 hour period.

Other methods to tackle wasps include spray treatments, which are used when the wasps pose an immediate risk to people and the nest requires urgent removal (near schools or parkland for instance). Staff at Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions follow stringent health and safety guidelines for wasp removal, including the use of bee suits, veils and face masks, to prevent  contact with the pesticide.

Wasp traps are another method of tackling these pests and are a popular buy for people in the hospitality industry, such as pub, bar, cafe, restaurant or hotel owners. Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions not only sell wasp traps, but will also provide recommendations on the most effective places to site them.

Facts About Wasps

Only the female wasps sting, which they do using a tube which is connected to a sac which pumps venom into the victim. Unlike bees, one wasp can sting their victim several times. Wasps can also secrete distress chemicals when attacked to attract help from other wasps.

What Role do Wasps Play in the Ecosystem?

Although feared by many people, wasps do play a vital role in the ecosystem and are a food source for some common garden creatures such as hedgehogs, and birds, including house wrens and bluebirds. Wasps also seek out grubs and insects such as caterpillars, mosquitoes, houseflies, and greenflies, and they can steal from spider’s webs to feed their young.

Sky News Recently Featured an Article on the Asian Hornet making its way to the UK – Is it Likely to Pose a Significant Threat?

The Sky News article back in May revealed that the insect had been sighted in France and could make its way over the Channel to the UK.

However, Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions haven’t had any callouts in relation to this type of pest in Felixstowe and Suffolk and, on average, only get 2 - 3 callouts a year to tackle hornets’ nests – but get hundreds of calls for wasps.

A spokesman for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was quoted in the article as saying that it was likely the cold weather would prevent these insects from living successfully outside of the most southern parts of the UK.

For pest control in the Felixstowe, Suffolk and Essex areas, contact the experts by clicking on the link below.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions - click here to find out about our effective pest control services.

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The Annoying Buzz of Summer

Living With Bees

Your pest controller has advised you that the insects you have living in your property are bees.  They are therefore important and useful for the pollination of a large variety of plants, so should be preserved if at all possible.  Many species are either harmless or are very unaggressive, so it may be possible to live alongside them without fear.  Your pest controller will be able to advise you accordingly.  If possible, please live with the bees in your property.

However, from time to time bees can become a nuisance or even a danger to humans, so may need to be destroyed.  This is perfectly legal as no bees are protected by Law, but how they are dealt with is affected by a number of legal constraints, particularly if they are Honey Bees.

Honey Bees will have come from a nearby hive and anything done to your bees could affect other, innocent, hives.  Everyone, including you and your pest controller must by Law take every reasonable effort to prevent these other hives being affected by what is done to your unwanted bees.  This, unfortunately, may have significant cost implications.

Preventing Access to Your Treated Bees Nest

Bees can be controlled, but it may be difficult and therefore costly to take all the necessary measures to protect other bees from the control treatment carried out.  It will be necessary to seal up the nest entrance and to do this safely may require specialist access equipment.

Removing Treated Honey Combs

It is strongly advised that the honey combs made by your Honey Bees be removed as the honey they contain will eventually leak out and could cause significant damage to your property.  However, depending on where they are, this work may involve a builder or roofer to get to them and to make good your property afterwards.

These honey combs will also be contaminated with insecticide so must, by Law, be disposed of by incineration using a Licensed Waste Contractor.  Your pest controller may be able to arrange for this extra work to be done, but this will inevitably lead to additional costs.

Code of Practice

Your pest controller will be working within the constraints of a ‘Code of Practice Relating to the Control of Feral Honey Bees’.  If you would like to see a copy of this, contact the National Pest Technician’s Association on 01773 717716. 

We apologise for having to bring you this unwelcome news, but we all have a responsibility to protect these important creatures wherever we can.  Your co-operation is greatly appreciated.

Pest Control Ipswich - Click here to view our main website


Honey Bee:

 

Bumble Bee:

Everything You Need to Know About Clothes Moths

Do you have clothes moths multiplying in your wardrobe? If you do, it is vital to call on the services of Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions - the pest control experts of Colchester, Chelmsford, Witham, Braintree, Manningtree, Ipswich, Stowmarket and Felixstowe – before your moth problem spirals out of control.

We all cherish the clothes in our wardrobe, so it can be hugely upsetting to find moths have munched their way through some of our much-loved outfits and accessories. Clothes moths not only feed on wool fibres, but also on silks, cottons, linens, furs and rayons (usually blended with wool). In the worst cases they can cause hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds worth of damage. And, it’s not just clothes that are the target of these pests – clothes moths can also attack carpets, rugs, curtains and upholstery.

There is no doubt about it, it is devastating to put on a favourite jumper, T-shirt, suit, trousers, dress, skirt or scarf to find that clothes moths have feasted on the fabric, creating holes in the most obvious of places. Unfortunately, it isn’t the cheapest fabrics they go for. Moths have expensive taste and your favourite woollens, cashmere, silks and vintage clothing are, sadly, generally the ones that fall victim.

Once you have moths in your home, they can be very difficult to get rid of. While it is possible to repair some moth holes (by taking them to an experienced clothes menders), more damaged items, particularly woollens, can be impossible to mend. And if items have to be thrown away or replaced, this can prove extremely costly.

So, if you are worried about clothes moths, for complete peace of mind it is vital to call in the experts.  Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are the pest control experts of Colchester and Ipswich and will help rid our home of clothes moths, their eggs and larvae. And, as an untreated clothes moth problem can prove expensive, we offer a cost effective solution, which could save you valuable money in the long run.

Pest Control Colchester – contact us now for effective pest solutions.

What do clothes moths look like?

Clothes moths are quite distinct from common swift moths or other types of UK moths which have different characteristics.

The most common types of clothes moths are the webbing clothes moth and the casemaking clothes moth, which are similar in size. The webbing moth is gold in colour and the casemaking moth is browner, with dark coloured spots on the wings; both have hairs on the top of their head.

The larvae of the casemaking clothes moth carry with them a silken case, which takes on the same colour as the clothes they have eaten. The webbing moth leaves patches of silk webbing, like cobwebs, and produce excrement which contain dye from the clothes they have been feeding on, making them hard to spot.

What environments do they like best?

Contrary to popular belief, and unlike other moths, such as the common swift moth, clothes moths are not attracted to the light. So they fester in folds, collars and cuffs of clothing; under furniture and between upholstery; in the dark crevices and corners of wardrobes, and in attics and cellars.

As these species are attracted to undisturbed places, it is often difficult to discover a clothes moth infestation until it is too late. One solution is to check your clothes regularly, including the ones that you have put away in storage, so you can take action at the earliest opportunity.

Do adult moths eat clothes and fabric?

No, it is not the adult clothes moths that are the offenders, but the moth larvae which are responsible for the destruction of clothes and fabric – and, depending on the conditions, they can stay in this state for a year.

How quickly can they multiply?

Although adult moths have a relatively short life-span of up to three weeks, the female moths of both species can lay up to 100 eggs in this time. These only take a few days to hatch, after which the larvae to start to feed.

Are all fabrics at risk?

Natural and blended fibres are most at risk, as moths tend to avoid fabrics, carpets and upholstery made entirely of synthetic fibres. Moths generally avoid synthetics, unless the fabric has lots of sweat, saliva or food stains. Keeping your clothes clean with regular dry cleaning or laundering will help deter moths.

Are they a pest all year round?

Yes, clothes moths are a persistent pest all year round, and this is partly down to central heating and milder winters.

Is it possible to get rid of them yourself?

There are all sorts of moth deterrents on the market, including chemical and natural varieties such as lavender bags and cedar balls, although there are limits to how effective these can be.

Regularly laundering your clothes and vacuuming in the crevices of wardrobes, under beds and along skirting boards can help. As can storing your woollens in the freezer over winter, hanging them outside when it is frosty, and keeping them in sealed plastic bags.

Other home solutions include moth traps, sprays, ultra violet light bulbs and moth strips. However, if you have a persistent problem, it is vital to call in the experts.

How Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions can help

If you are worried about moths in your home, call your friendly local pest control experts of Colchester and Ipswich – Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions – who will carry out a full survey to discover the source of the infestation and will treat the problem to prevent further costly damage.

We use the most environmentally friendly products and ask householders to vacate the property both during treatment, and for a couple of hours after it, to allow our insecticide sprays to dry.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions – Contact us now to address the problem of clothes moths at your home or business.

Facts and Information about Bed Bugs

Do you have bed bugs in your home, hotel, guest house, hostel or B&B? For urgent pest control in the Manningtree and Ipswich areas, call on the services of Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions – or you could end up with a major problem on your hands.

Bed bugs feed on the blood of humans and their bites can cause adverse reactions such as allergies, rashes and psychological distress. Bed bug bites could damage the reputation of your establishment and your company may end up being ‘named and shamed’ with a bad review. So if you have bed bugs, it is vital to call Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions immediately, as we are experienced in this field and can rid your establishment of these persistent pests.

Whether you require pest control in the Manningtree and Ipswich areas, or further afield in Suffolk and Essex, we are the people to contact. We provide a friendly, local service at very competitive prices and, in addition to this, we can guarantee our work so you can rely on us for our service.

Pest Control Manningtree – Contact us now for fast and effective pest control services in Essex, and all areas of Suffolk.

Where are you most likely to find bed bugs?

Bed bugs are most associated with hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guest houses. However, they can also be found in privately owned homes, rented establishments, hospitals, residential homes, student accommodation and hostels, including homeless shelters. Not only can they be found in the creases and folds of mattresses and sofas, but in some cases, even on walls and furniture.

Are bed bugs on the rise and why?

Before DDT was banned in the UK in 1984, bed bugs were almost eradicated from homes in the western world. However, unfortunately the population has escalated dramatically in the last two decades. This is for several reasons but one of the main ones is international travel, as bed bugs can get to and from buildings on people, clothing and in bags and suitcases. A second is the rise in popularity of second hand furniture and other items, which again can transfer bed bugs from one place to another if they have come from a place that is already infested. Another is that these pests are becoming more resistant to popularly used insecticides, which now makes them harder to get rid of.

How long do they live?

The life span of a bed bug varies according to temperatures and how often they feed, but they can live many weeks, or even months. During their lifetime, a female can lay up to 500 eggs.

Can you get rid of them yourself?

Keeping premises clean and well vacuumed, including regular hot washing and tumble drying of fabrics, is a good way to keep the bed bug population down. Wrapping mattresses also helps.

However, bed bugs are hard to get rid of and tend to be resistant to over-the-counter pesticides.

So, for effective pest control in Manningtree, Ipswich, Colchester and Stowmarket, it is always best to call Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions who can eliminate the problem so you and your guests can sleep easy.

How do Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions tackle bed bugs?

Our first step is to complete a thorough review of the premises to check how extensive the problem is.

Carpets, bedding, clothing and infested furniture are thoroughly cleaned and washed and an insecticide applied. Up to three treatments, once a fortnight, are recommended to eradicate these pests.

Nine things to know about bed bugs:

• These creatures are generally nocturnal, so humans won’t notice when they are feeding.

• Bed bugs, their faeces and their sticky eggs can be found in their hundreds, or even thousands on furniture and upholstery of infested property.

• Once they have fed on human blood, they can return to their host for another feeding by following a chemical trail.

• They have a distinctive odour which has been likened to rotting fruit.

• Their droppings, if wetted, look a bit like blood smears on fabric.

• They feed every five to ten days.

• Female bed bugs can lay up to five eggs a day.

• Bed bugs can be eaten by cockroaches, ants and spiders.

• They are a problem not just in the UK, but all over the world.

For prompt and discreet pest control in the Ipswich and Manningtree areas, click on the link below.

Pest Control Manningtree – Contact us now to tackle the problem of bed bugs at your home or business.

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Pest Control Witham – FAQ About Ants

While ants may only be the tiniest of creatures, they can be a major pest: entering homes and businesses to seek out sweet stuff which, once found, can attract hundreds more ants in one place. This is why if you have an ant infestation, you need to call on the services of Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions who are pest control experts covering Witham, Stowmarket and the surrounding areas. Here we address the most common questions we are asked about ants, including how to control them.

Pest Control Witham -contact us now for efficient and effective pest control services in Essex, Stowmarket and other areas of Suffolk.

What are the characteristics of ants?

There are more than 12,000 species of ants and they can be black, yellow, brown or red in colour. They are around 1mm upwards in length, although some of the tropical species are up to 25 mm long. Like other insects, their body is divided into three sections: the head, the chest area (otherwise known as the thorax) and the stomach, although unlike other insects they can carry up to 50 times their body-weight. There are thought to be around 1.5 million ants on the planet per human; they live in colonies, and one colony can house anything from 500 to several thousand ants.

Why are ants a problem in homes?

If you have an ant colony near you and have spilled something sweet in your kitchen, you can soon get an ant infestation in your home. If sugar is found by foraging ants, they will leave a trail of pheromones (special scents) to guide other ants in their colony to the food source. These ants will follow the path, adding yet more scent to the trail. This means very quickly you may have hundreds, or even thousands, of ants converging on the food source in your home and this can become a major problem if it is not dealt with quickly enough. Ants can climb walls, windows, doors and bins and are attracted to sweet things, such as sugary food and jam, as well as proteins, including dog food.

Why are they a problem in gardens?

Ants are more of a nuisance than a pest in gardens, as they rarely eat plants. Large colonies of ants can prevent you sitting out and enjoying your garden, while tunnels of ants in pot plants can cause the plants to wilt. They can also cause a problem on lawns as there will be earth left outside the nest entrance which can prevent your mowed lawn looking neat and tidy.

In addition to this, ants can destabilise paving slabs if they remove the sand, which poses a danger to pedestrians, and can cause the outside of domestic or commercial properties to look unkempt.

Why are they a problem in commercial properties – and which buildings are most affected?

Just as with domestic properties, ants can also cause problems in commercial properties, especially in office kitchens. However, they also pose a major threat to food-based organisations such as factories, restaurants, bars, hotels, supermarkets and warehouses, where they can contaminate food and threaten the reputation of your organisation. They can also be a big problem in hospitals and care homes, and can be hard to control as they enter premises through the tiniest of openings.

If you have an ant infestation in your commercial property, it is important to call Essex and Suffolk Pest Control, so that an infestation can be dealt with straight away to keep your reputation intact, and to prevent any potential loss of revenue.

When is the ant season?

Female ants usually emerge in spring to lay eggs and the larva are fed by the queen for about four weeks until they pupate. This generally happens in April/June time and is the stage when the larva changes into its adult form.  Winged ants emerge by the end of the summer and mate between August and September. They go back to the soil in the winter and the process begins again.

Ants have a fairly lengthy lifespan as queens can live up to 15 years, and worker ants can live as long as seven years. If you don’t tackle the problem and organise pest control for your Witham or Stowmarket home or business, ants are not only a nuisance for the season, they can return year after year.

Can you tackle an ant problem yourself?

It is possible to buy over-the-counter ant control solutions, including pellets and sprays. There are also various DIY methods which involve putting adhesive on window sills, using lemon juice, cinnamon or chalk to deter ants. However, none of these compare with professional pest control. What is a good deterrent, however, is making sure surfaces are always thoroughly cleaned after use, so that ants are not attracted to your premises.

How is an ant infestation problem tackled by the experts?

Garden ants, such as the Black Garden Ants (Lasius niger), also and the Rogers Ant (Hypoponera punctatissima), can be treated using baits or insecticide. However, the Pharaohs Ants, which are the species that can infest food industries, need to be more thoroughly tackled or they will multiply. These yellow to light brown, almost transparent ants, nest in buildings and can spread disease, so it is essential to call in the pest control experts, Witham and Stowmarket to eliminate the problem as soon as you spot the first signs of infestation.

Pest Control Stowmarket – contact us now so we can combat an ant infestation at your domestic or commercial property.

Pest Control Colchester, Felixstowe and Woodbridge: FAQS About Squirrels

At first sight, squirrels may appear like attractive animals with their lively scamper, glossy coat, bright eyes and bushy tails; but the truth is that they can cause a great deal of damage. If they have found their way into your attic, or are creating havoc in your garden, it’s time to call upon the services of Essex & Suffolk Pest Solutions, the pest control experts in Colchester, Woodbridge and Felixstowe. We provide a quick and successful grey squirrel removal service for domestic and commercial organisations, and to keep our services low key, we can arrive in an unmarked vehicle on request.

Pest Control Colchester – contact us now for a friendly, efficient pest control service in Essex, Woodbridge and Felixstowe.

Meanwhile, at Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions we are often asked for information about various pests in the Colchester, Woodbridge and Felixstowe area, and here are our answers to some of the common questions we are asked about squirrels:

What species of squirrels are there?

The most common species of squirrels in the UK are red and grey squirrels. Whereas the red squirrel is native to Britain, and is a protected species, grey squirrels are considered to be a pest. They carry a pox which is deadly to their native cousins, and compete with the reds for food. Unfortunately, while the red squirrels are declining at an alarming rate, the grey squirrels are rising in number and there are estimated to be around 2.5 million greys in the UK.

Black squirrels are a lesser known species of squirrel and, like the greys, they originated from North America. The two species share a similar nature and habitat and black squirrels are commonly spotted in rural parts of Cambridgeshire.

What do grey squirrels eat?

Grey squirrels eat all sorts of plant based material such as buds, bulbs, flowers, fruit, roots, nuts, acorns and tree shoots. They sometimes steal birds’ eggs and eat fledglings.

What is a squirrel’s lifespan?

A grey squirrel can live up to a decade, although their lifespan will generally fall between three and four years. They are a pest at any time of year, and this doesn’t depend on the season.

When is their breeding period?

Female grey squirrels usually give birth around March and April time and if they have a healthy access to food, they sometimes produce a second litter, commonly around June or July. They produce up to nine young at a time.

Why are squirrels a problem in domestic properties?

Squirrels can cause considerable damage to property. Over time, they have become much more courageous in their search for food, and they can sometimes enter kitchens to take scraps. At Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, each year we get a number of enquiries to deal with the problem of squirrels settling in lofts and roof voids – you will know if they are in your attic as you can hear them running about. If you do have a squirrel problem, these pests are best dealt with straight away as they can chew through walls, beams, insulation and electrical cables.

What damage can they create in commercial buildings?

In commercial buildings, grey squirrels can cause similar problems to those listed above; and if they do chew through cables, at the very least it can cause electricity failure, but more worryingly, this can create a serious fire risk which could put your staff and business in jeopardy. This is why it is so important to deal with a squirrel problem straight away.

What damage can they cause in parklands and woodland?

Grey squirrels are not only a threat to property, but they are also a concern in gardens, parks, open spaces and commercial woodland. They chew through bark to get at the sap which can kill off a tree as it prevents vital nutrients from travelling up to the branches.  Squirrels are also prone to digging holes in gardens (to bury their food) and will seek out newly planted bulbs to eat. 

Can I carry out DIY squirrel pest control?

There are various DIY measures on the market if you have a problem with grey squirrels. These include government approved spring traps, and pest repellers to stop squirrels roaming into your garden. However, this is not always an effective form of pest control so it is important to bring in the experts from Colchester, Woodbridge and Felixstowe, who can tackle the problem and prevent it happening again.

It is also important to note that although grey squirrels are not protected by law, it is an offence to kill or injure red squirrels.

Do Essex & Suffolk Pest Solutions take preventative measures?

Yes. As with all our pest control measures in Colchester, Woodbridge and Felixstowe, we feel that prevention is the best course of action. After treatment we will also make sure that your domestic or commercial building is left squirrel proof and lay strong wire mesh to prevent the problem from re-occurring.

What other ways do Essex & Suffolk Pest Solutions address a squirrel problem?

Our pest control measures are extremely effective, which is why we can offer a guarantee. We generally use traps, which are simple to use and are very successful for the treatment of grey squirrels, although poison may be necessary in some cases.

Pest Control Felixstowe –  contact us now to address the problem of grey squirrels at your domestic or commercial property.

Cannibal Rats Are All At Sea

Cannibal rats causing alarm

The thought of rats turning to cannibalism after being left on an abandoned cruise liner floating in the north Atlantic has got the press into something of a flurry.

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The thought of disease infested rats turning to cannibalism after being left on an abandoned cruise liner floating in the north Atlantic, and due to beach on a west country UK shore, has got the press into something of a flurry. However, it is now thought that the Lyubov Orlova cruise liner – dubbed the ‘ghost ship’– which was heading towards British shores may have sunk. The ship has been adrift ever since it broke loose en route to the scrap yard in the Dominican Republic. ‘Experts’ in the press say it was likely to still contain hundreds of carnivorous rats that have been eating each other to survive. All good stuff!

The Lyubov Orlova' sitting derelict at dockside in St John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, October 2012 © Dan Conlin

The Lyubov Orlova cruise liner has been drifting across the Atlantic for nearly a year. About the only people happy at the thought of it arriving on a British beach are salvage hunters hoping to trace the 4,250-ton vessel valued at €1 million (£829,000) as scrap. Built in Yugoslavia in 1976, the unlucky vessel was abandoned in a Canadian harbour in 2010 after its owners were embroiled in a debt scandal and did not pay the crew. Newfoundland authorities attempted to sell the hull for scrap to the Dominican Republic, but cut their losses when it came loose in a storm on the way. The ship has been adrift ever since. Click here for more information about rat control

Testimonial from Letting Agency

We would like to share this testimonial received this week from Lorna Savoy, the Lettings Manager at Gobbit & Kirby Property Services in Woodbridge.

"Whether our pest control emergency had wings, feathers or fur we have always found Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions resove it quickly with minimal fuss.  Distressed clients with rats in residence or their carpet unexpectedly alive with fleas are reassured by the calm, matter of fact manner the situation is brought under control.  Their helpful advice about how soon a family can sleep in their house, if fleas will be hatching and biting again or ideas to prevent wasps nesting is always welcome.  Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions offer excellent service and value for money from the telephone enquiry to after care service."

 

For further advice about Flea Control

 

Pest Control Ipswich – Putting the Spotlight on Bird Proofing in Suffolk and Essex

Seagulls and feral pigeons are a major nuisance and also create a health hazard. So, if you have a colony of birds nesting on your property it’s time to call on the pest control experts in Ipswich, Manningtree and the surrounding area who can offer professional bird proofing to put a stop to the problem.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are experienced in dealing with all types of pests including cockroaches, bed bugs, wasps, rodents, and birds. We offer a variety of bird proofing solutions for a range of domestic and commercial properties in the Suffolk and Essex area including warehouses, educational premises, town centre buildings, country homes and high rise buildings.

Pest Control Ipswich – get in touch now for professional bird proofing solutions.

Seagulls and Pigeons – Do they Create Different Problems?

Yes. Seagulls, also known as gulls, avoid steep pitches and instead are more likely to nest on flat surfaces that are high up, such as warehouse roofs, ledges and air conditioning units. They live between 20 – 30 years, and return to the same place to nest, so their colonies keep on growing. Gulls are increasingly moving into urban areas, which is why pest control, especially in towns such as Ipswich and Manningtree is so essential.

The months of May and June are when the gulls pose the biggest threat as this is the time of year that they nest and raise their chicks. When their eggs hatch, the gulls become more aggressive and start swooping down on people to protect their young. They foul cars, which can damage the paintwork, and scavenge through bins and waste tips to hunt for food, creating a litter problem which can attract rodents.

The life expectancy of pigeons will vary greatly from 3 – 15 years and this depends on many factors including natural predation and human interference. It is normally 3-5 years. However, unlike seagulls they breed all year round and pose a major health risk as their droppings are not only unpleasant to see, but also carry germs. Another problem is that when their youngsters fledge, which is when their wing muscles are developed enough so they can leave their nest, they can infest premises with biting insects such as poultry mites and bird fleas.

Pigeons prefer to be sheltered from the wind and nest on the face of buildings in nooks, crevices and roof voids, particularly in the backs of shops. Pest control is also required in residential areas in Ipswich and Colchester, particularly in apartment blocks where pigeons can be found resting on balconies and in roof voids. And, in the lighter, summer months, they can wake residents by cooing in the early hours of the morning, which is extremely annoying.

Tackling Bird Proofing Work on High Rise Buildings

Tackling bird proofing on high rise buildings in Ipswich and its surrounding areas is a risky business, so we carry out a full assessment in advance of every job we do.

Bird proofing work on high rise buildings can be done in several ways, depending on accessibility. In most cases staff wearing safety harnessing stand on cherry pickers to apply netting and spikes.

Another alternative is to construct scaffolding to provide a safe platform to stand on, or we can use safety abseilers. Abseilers are generally used when the access to the exterior of the building is limited and lorries are restricted from parking outside, leaving insufficient room for cherry pickers or scaffolding.

Is There an Alternative to Netting and Spikes?

Yes, if our customers feel spikes or netting are too unsightly we can offer another option: the use of Fire Gel, otherwise known as Optical Bird Gel. This is extremely effective as it creates the illusion of flames which stops birds landing on your building. As the gel can’t be seen from the ground, it is much more aesthetically pleasing than other methods. However, the main drawback is that it is not as long lasting: the gel may need to be replaced every two years or so.

Addressing the Problems of Gulls and Pigeons – A Recent Case Study

The only way to tackle the population of gulls and pigeons, which are protected by law, is to bring in Ipswich based pest control experts such as Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions. We offer a variety of bird control measures and here is just one example of a recent study in Ipswich at premises above a shop on Buttermarket Street, Ipswich.

Work such as this can take between one and two days to complete, depending on the size of the area to address, and the location. In this particular case, bird proofing was used to prevent pigeons roosting on the premises at the back of a shop.

The first step was to install spikes on the guttering and to thoroughly clean the area, ridding it of droppings which were not only hazardous but also affected the look of the building (see picture 1).

The next step, illustrated by picture 2 shows the wiring that we strung up to surround the site to create a readymade frame.

In the final stage, picture 3, pigeon netting was attached to the wire frame to prevent the pigeons nesting.

Our client was delighted with the results, and said: I am landlord of a commercial property in Ipswich town centre which was suffering with a pigeon problem.  I called Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions, who provided a fast, efficient and professional service at a good price.  They thoroughly cleaned and disinfected the whole area, including the gutters and floor area below, and removed all the waste from site.  Netting and spikes were then installed to prevent future problems. 

I was delighted with the results and would definitely use Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions again and would also recommend their services to anybody else requiring bird-proofing work or help with bird control.  A first class and friendly service.

Bird Proofing Ipswich  – get in touch now for professional pest control solutions

The Risk of Hantavirus Infection to Human Health

Disease Hantaviruses are a group of viruses that are normally carried by rodents such as rats, mice and voles. They are present throughout the world and they cause a range of diseases in humans ranging from mild, flu-like illness to severe respiratory illness or haemorrhagic disease with kidney involvement. Old world hantaviruses (those present in Europe, Asia and Africa) tend to cause haemorrhagic and kidney disease, whilst new world hantaviruses tend to cause severe respiratory disease.

Public Health England is to carry out a study to determine the risk of exposure to hantavirus infection in those groups who have close contact with domesticated and wild rats in England. The results of this study will inform public health advice and risk assessment for those who are at risk of exposure. One of the study groups identified for inclusion in the study is those with occupational exposure to rats, including pest control workers.

A pest control worker is unlikely to know if the rats they come into contact with are infected with hantavirus unless they have been tested in a laboratory. Rodents are chronically infected with hantaviruses but are not directly affected by the virus, meaning that they do not show signs of disease. However, they shed live virus in their excreta, such as urine and faeces, into the environment.

At the moment we do not know the risk of becoming infected with hantavirus. Hantavirus infection has been found in wild and pet rats in the UK very recently and the Public Health England study hopes to find out the size of the problem.

General hygiene and protective personal equipment measures to reduce the risk of other rat associated infections should provide some protection against hantavirus.

Controlling Rodents in Winter

Rodents can be a particular problem in the winter, and pest control experts are often called in to help Ipswich and Suffolk households and companies get rid of them. Some estimates suggest the number of rats in the UK could be as high as 80 million, and there are also millions of mice. Although these rodents are with us all year round, they often move into buildings when the weather gets colder and so can cause more of a health hazard then.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions are the experts in dealing with rodents and are called in by households and businesses in the Ipswich area, including food producers, warehouses and farms, to get rid of infestations and make their premises rodent-proof. We provide a same-day emergency response, and our operatives will use unmarked vans if required. Our company is highly experienced in pest control and we are also accredited members of the National Pest Technicians Association.

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Rodent-Proofing Your Home

In the winter, food sources for rodents may become increasingly scarce, as the crops are gone from the fields following the harvest. This encourages them to seek out new supplies, and means they are more likely to infest homes and businesses. The cold weather also leads to more mice moving into houses, while rats also go into buildings and people's gardens.

There are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent rodent problems arising, such as making sure that bird food is placed on a table and not just on the ground and that any leftovers are cleared up. Food rubbish should also not be left outside in bags, where it can be an attraction for rats. Use of a rodent-proof composter, such as the Aerobin 400,  which we supply, is another good way to avoid attracting vermin and ensure that kitchen waste are disposed of safely, helping the garden rather than encouraging pests. Filling in any gaps in outbuildings so that rats can't get in is another essential preventative measure.

However, if you do notice telltale signs of mice, such as droppings being left or electrical wires being chewed, or you suspect that there are rats in your outbuildings, then you need expert help. By calling in experts, you can be sure that you will get rid of the creatures properly and also that your home will be rodent-proofed so that they don't come back. We offer an expert pest control service for homes in the Ipswich and Manningtree areas, which includes carrying out a full survey to find the extent of the problem, tackling the infestation and giving advice on how to prevent it recurring. 

Tackling Rodent Problems for Businesses
It isn't just homes that have problems with rodents in the winter, they are also a greater threat to businesses at this time of year, as they seek food and a place to shelter from the cold. Rats carry a host of diseases including Weil's Disease, E.Coli and Salmonella, as well as parasites and viruses, while mice also pose health hazards, carrying infection and contaminating foodstuffs. Vermin can seriously damage your business and your reputation, as well as posing a threat to your staff and customers' health. So it is important to tackle them quickly, as soon as you realise that there is a problem.

Warehouses and Factories: Rats and mice are often attracted by the space, with plenty of corners where they can hide away, and the availability of food in these areas, particularly in winter. There is a danger that rodents can contaminate products and harm a supply chain, leading to a loss of customers, or to the plant being hit by closure on health grounds.

Food Firms, Supermarkets and Caterers: These types of business are especially attractive to rodents because of the large supply of food. Any contamination of food products by rodents obviously has serious implications for public health and could also lead to supplies having to be thrown out, or even the closure of a business.

Farms: Cold weather tends to drive rats into farm buildings in large numbers, as they come out of the fields after the crops have gone. These pests are a problem on both arable and livestock farms. It's estimated that a single rat can eat as much as 30g of grain in a day, meaning a loss to the business in itself as well as the contagion. For all these reasons, action is vital at this time of year to get rid of the pests and prevent them coming back. 

Schools: Rodents can spread disease if they get into school grounds or premises, causing a health hazard to staff and pupils and even leading to the school having to be closed down. They also cause damage such as chewing through wiring. It is clearly vital that youngsters are protected from these risks.

Offices: Many offices have outbuildings which can harbour vermin, but they can also move into the main buildings. If they damage equipment, this can lead to industrial accidents as well as again posing a health hazard.

Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions offer businesses a commercial service, issuing contracts for peace of mind, and will come out quickly if a problem occurs. We understand the priorities of businesses and will ensure that pests are dealt with thoroughly and discreetly. 

Essex & Suffolk Pest Control Solutions
As pest control experts based in Holbrook, near Ipswich, we serve customers in a wide surrounding area across Suffolk and Essex. We use the most environmentally-friendly and effective methods to deal with all kinds of pests, including rodents. 

Suffolk Pest Control  – Contact us now for details of our service.

Calling in the Experts to Carry Out Bird Proofing

When you think about pest control in Ipswich and the surrounding area, feral pigeons and gulls may not be the first species that come to mind. However, the fact is that colonies of these birds pose a real health hazard, and this needs to be tackled before the numbers grow still further. Dealing with these types of birds yourself can be tricky and dangerous; So, to carry out full bird-proofing and get rid of the problem, the best solution is to call in the experts.

Nesting birds can cause a problem for many different types of businesses and organisations, including schools, hotels and food shops. The droppings are unsightly and carry bacteria, while the birds themselves are noisy and may pester people in the area.

Essex & Suffolk Pest Solutions is a pest control company based in the Ipswich area with the expert knowledge and experience needed to deal with bird problems. We will come out quickly –on the same day if an emergency appointment is requested – and provide a discreet and effective service, using unmarked vehicles if you prefer.

Pest Control Ipswich  – get in touch now for expert help.

Problems Caused by Pigeons and Gulls

Feral pigeons are descended from domestic pigeons, which were themselves originally bred from rock doves, and the three species can all interbreed. Years ago people used to go to feed huge flocks of pigeons at places like London's Trafalgar Square, where they were regarded as a tourist attraction. However, it is now realised the birds are a hazard to the public through the germs they carry, and feeding is discouraged.

Pigeons can cause a problem for businesses if they take up residence there, so it is important to get rid of them. They breed all year round, as many as six times a year, so you could soon be facing a large flock if you do not act early on. Pigeons can also contaminate products, for instance in a factory setting. The birds carry diseases including psittacosis, an infectious condition which can cause fevers and even pneumonia. Another problem is that their nests and droppings attract insects, such as fleas, and so can lead to a second pest problem on your site.

Gulls are another type of bird increasingly requiring pest control, especially in coastal towns such as Ipswich, Felixstowe, Manningtree and Clacton. They are traditionally known as "seagulls", but have now increasingly moved into urban settings. Herring gulls and lesser black backed gulls often nest on roofs, ledges and balconies, where they may damage tiles and can block gutters and even chimney flues.

These birds nest from May onwards and often pose a particular problem during the summer months, when they are raising their chicks and become more aggressive. Passers-by may often find gulls swooping down on them in a bid to protect their offspring, and this can be intimidating. Gulls' screaming calls also cause a noise nuisance, and, as with pigeons, their droppings are unsightly.

Calling in the Experts to Bird-Proof Your Premises

Wild birds in general are protected by law, so it is important to ensure you only take legally sanctioned measures against feral populations. This is one good reason to bring in experts rather than trying to deal with the problem yourself. We at Essex & Suffolk Pest Solutions have full knowledge of the relevant legislation and will ensure that all action taken is correctly licensed.

Another reason to call in the experts is that trying to reach nesting sites yourself, for instance by climbing on a roof, can be dangerous. Our expert personnel will ensure that there is no risk either to your staff or to the public while old nests are removed. We start by carrying out a site survey to assess the damage and examine how widespread the problem is. We then remove used nesting materials and droppings and clean all affected areas.  Because of the risk of bacteria spreading, it is vital that this is handled by the professionals.

Once the old nests and fouling/guano have been removed and the areas treated with biocide, the next stage is to bird-proof the premises, usually through bird wires or spikes. Bird wires are a humane and discreet option, with wires attached to posts at different heights to deter pigeons and gulls from perching there. These wires are almost invisible and so won't spoil the look of your building. They can be fitted to many different types of premises, including historic buildings, and are especially useful for long ledges.

Bird spikes are another humane method and ideal for areas with a heavy population of pigeons or gulls. They consist of networks of angled steel or plastic wires which make it hard for the birds to land, but do not harm them.

High quality bird netting is another popular and humane method of bird control and can be used in a wide range of areas, from agricultural buildings to transport hubs, such as train stations and bus depots.

Similarly, Optical Bird Gel, otherwise known as Bird-free Fire Gel, is another good option as it is non-toxic and does not harm birds.  It creates the illusion of flames to birds, thus preventing them landing on your premises and fouling.  The substance is invisible from the ground - so it won’t affect the appearance of buildings - and lasts for up to two years.

If it is not possible to bird-proof the premises effectively, then a series of humane culls could be considered, carried out by a trained marksman.

About Essex and Suffolk Pest Solutions

When there is a need for pest control and bird proofing, Ipswich households and businesses can always call on our expertise. We serve customers across Suffolk and Essex and deal with a wide range of pests, including pigeons, gulls, wasps, rats and mice. Get in touch now to find out more.

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