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.
Thursday, 30 January 2014
Wednesday, 29 January 2014
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.
| 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 | |
Wednesday, 18 December 2013
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."
"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."
Tuesday, 17 December 2013
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
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 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
Thursday, 5 December 2013
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.
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.
Wednesday, 20 November 2013
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.
Pest Control Ipswich – Get in touch now for more information.
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.
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.
Pest Control Ipswich – Get in touch now for more information.
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.
Wednesday, 23 October 2013
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.
Bird Proofing Ipswich – click here to see our main website.
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.
Bird Proofing Ipswich – click here to see our main website.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)