Kent Pest Control - Hints & Tips

Invasion of the Ants!

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:03:42 GMT

Keeping Ant out of your home

Ants may be tiny, but they can be an enormous nuisance when they invade your home. They can contaminate your food, damage your property, and annoy you. But fear not. There are effective ways to keep these pests out of your house.

Understanding Ants as Pests

Ants are social insects that live in colonies. They have a highly organised system where each member ant has a specific role to play. Their primary goal is to find food and return it to the colony. Once they discover a food source, they leave a trail of pheromones for other ants to follow. This is why you often see ants marching in a straight line.

Ants can enter your home through the tiniest of cracks and crevices. They are attracted to sweet and sugary substances, but they also feed on other organic matter such as crumbs and grease. Once inside, they can quickly infest your kitchen and other areas of your home.

The best Ways to keep Ants out

1. Keep Your Home Clean and Tidy

The best way to prevent ants from entering your home is to keep it clean and tidy. This means wiping down counters and tables, sweeping or hoovering the floors, and taking out your waste regularly, particularly food waste. Make sure also to clean up any spills or crumbs immediately.

2. Seal Entry Points

Ants can enter your home through the smallest of openings, so it is important to seal any cracks or crevices on the outside of your home. This includes gaps around windows and doors, as well as phone lines and pipes. You can use caulk or weather stripping to seal these areas.

3. Store Food Properly

Ants are attracted to food, so it is important to store it properly. Keep all food in airtight containers and store them in cabinets or on shelves. Avoid leaving food out on counters or tables, and make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs immediately.

4. Use Natural Repellents

There are three great natural repellents that can help keep ants out of your home. These include:

· Vinegar: Wipe down counters and other surfaces with equal parts vinegar and water.

· Lemon juice: Squeeze lemon juice around entry points and wipe down surfaces with equal parts lemon juice and water.

· Peppermint oil: Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around entry points.

5. Use Ant Baits

If you already have an ant infestation, ant baits can be an effective way to eliminate them. Ant baits contain a slow-acting poison that the ants bring back to their colony, which eventually kills the entire colony. In many cases it is usually best to engage a pest management company, as their ant bait is more effective than commercially bought solutions.

Ants can be a frustrating pest to deal with, but by following these tips, you can keep them out of your home. Remember to keep your home clean and tidy, seal entry points, store food properly, use natural repellents, and use ant baits if necessary. With a little effort, you can enjoy an ant-free home.

Is there a bug in my bed?

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 07:37:03 GMT

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Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals while they sleep. They are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, so they are often found in bedding and other areas where people sleep.

If you suspect that you have bed bugs, there are a few signs to look for:

Bites on your skin: Bed bugs typically bite at night and leave small, red marks on the skin that may be itchy.
Blood stains on your sheets: If you find small blood stains on your bed sheets, it could be a sign of bed bugs.
Live bugs or eggs: You may find live bed bugs or their eggs in the seams of your mattress, in cracks in your bed frame, or in other areas near your bed.
A musty smell: Bed bugs can produce a musty odour, which you may notice if you have a large infestation.

If you think you have bed bugs, it's important to address them as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading to other areas of your home. You can try washing your bedding in hot water and drying it on the highest heat setting to kill the bugs or their eggs, or you may need to hire a professional pest control company to eliminate the infestation.

Feeling a little itchy? You might have a flea infestation

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:05:28 GMT

How can you keep your home Flea Free!

Fleas are small, wingless insects that are known for their ability to jump great distances. They are ectothermic, which means they cannot regulate their body temperature and must rely on external sources to warm or cool themselves. Fleas are common household pests, and they can cause many problems for people and their pets.

They can cause allergic reactions in some people and animals, resulting in skin irritation and discomfort. Flea bites can cause red, itchy bumps on the skin, and if left untreated, they can lead to more serious health problems.

To prevent fleas from becoming a problem in your home, it's important to groom and bathe your pets regularly and vacuum and clean your home regularly. Using a flea-preventative treatment on your pets can also help to keep fleas at bay. If you do notice a flea infestation in your home, it's important to take steps to eliminate the fleas as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse. This may involve using insecticides and working with a professional pest control company.

Pigeons as pests

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 22:35:57 GMT

Pigeons as Pests

Pigeons can be considered pests in some situations because they can cause damage to buildings and other structures, and their droppings can be unsanitary. In urban areas, pigeons often congregate in large numbers on roofs, ledges, and other elevated surfaces, where they may build nests and roost. Their droppings can accumulate in large quantities and create a mess, as well as pose a health risk due to the presence of bacteria and other pathogens. In addition, pigeons may damage buildings by pecking at wood, rubber, and other materials, and their nests can clog gutters and drainpipes, leading to water damage.

Several measures can be taken to control pigeon populations and reduce the impact of these birds on buildings and other structures. These may include:

Physical barriers: Installing physical barriers, such as netting, wire mesh, or plastic spikes, can deter pigeons from roosting on ledges, roofs, and other surfaces.

Repellents: There are several commercial repellents available that can be used to deter pigeons, such as visual repellents that use reflective tape or other materials to scare the birds away, or chemical repellents that release a scent that is unpleasant to pigeons.

Habitat modification: Removing sources of food and water, such as spilt grain or standing water, can discourage pigeons from congregating in an area.

Trapping and removal: In some cases, it may be necessary to trap and remove pigeons from an area. This should be done by a professional pest control company, as it is illegal to harm or kill pigeons in many jurisdictions.

It is important to note that pigeon control measures should be implemented humanely and ethically, and should be designed to minimize any negative impacts on the birds and the environment.

Rats - the serious winter pest

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 18:01:07 GMT

Rats - the serious winter pest

Rats are a common pest that if allowed can easily find their way into homes and businesses throughout the year. However, they can become particularly problematic during the winter months. As the weather turns colder, rats seek shelter in warm, dry places, often making their way into homes and other buildings. Not only are rats a nuisance, but they can also cause damage to property and pose a health risk to humans. In this article, we will discuss why rats are a serious winter pest and how to prevent them from making your home or your business premises their home.

Why are rats a problem in the winter?

Rats are ectothermic, which means that they are unable to regulate their body temperature internally. They rely on external sources of heat to keep warm, and as the weather gets colder, they will seek out warm, sheltered places to nest. This is why rats are more likely to enter homes and other buildings during the winter months.

Once inside, rats can cause a variety of problems. They can chew through electrical wiring, which can create a fire hazard. They can also damage insulation, walls, and other structural elements of a building. In addition, rats can contaminate food and surfaces with their urine and faeces, posing a serious health risk to humans.

It is important to keep your home clean and free of any potential food sources for rats. Sweep, vacuum, and mop regularly to ensure that no crumbs or spills are left behind. Additionally, make sure to store food in sealed containers and dispose of the garbage regularly. This will discourage the rats from taking up residence inside or near your home.

If rats have already made their way into your home, then it is important to contact a professional pest control service right away. They will be able to assess the situation and provide a safe and effective solution for removing rats from your home. Make sure to ask them about any preventive measures that you can put in place to reduce the chances of rats returning. By following their advice, you can help keep your home clean and free from rats. There are several steps you can take to prevent rats from entering your home:

Seal any entry points: Rats can squeeze through small openings, so it's important to seal any cracks or holes in the exterior of your home. Pay particular attention to areas around pipes and utility lines, as these are common entry points for rats. If you see a rat, act immediately by humanely trapping the animal or call in a professional pest controller. Remember to seal all entry points to your home to prevent future rat problems.
It is essential to keep your home free of clutter and remove all potential nesting sites for rats, such as piles of wood or debris. Rats are attracted to cluttered, cluttered spaces and can take advantage of these areas to build nests and reproduce. This can create an even bigger problem if left unchecked. To avoid this, make sure not to leave any open spaces in walls, ceilings or corners where rats can enter. Also, pay attention to the condition of the exterior of your home, ensuring that any holes or cracks are filled or covered to prevent rats from entering. Additionally, it is advisable to keep your yard and garden free of clutter as well. Make sure there are no piles of wood or debris near the house and trim back bushes that could provide cover for rats. Finally, get rid of any standing water or food sources that could act as an attractant for rats. Taking the necessary steps to remove potential nesting sites for rats will help protect your home from an infestation.
Rats are one of the most common and destructive pests that can invade your home. While they may seem harmless, they can cause a lot of damage if left unchecked. It is important to store food properly and keep it away from rats. Storing food in airtight containers will help to reduce the risk of attracting rats, as well as preventing the spread of any contaminants to humans. Additionally, disposing of garbage regularly is another important step in rat prevention. Garbage that sits for too long can attract rats and other pests, so it is important to take out the trash frequently. Not only does this reduce the risk of pest infestations, but also helps to maintain a clean and healthy environment at home. Rats can be a hassle to deal with, so taking preventive steps such as storing food properly and disposing of garbage regularly is essential in keeping them away from your home.
It is important to keep your home clean and free of any potential food sources for rats. Sweep, vacuum, and mop regularly to ensure no crumbs or spills are left behind. Additionally, make sure to store food in sealed containers and dispose of the garbage regularly. This will discourage the rats from taking up residence inside or near your home.
If rats have already made their way into your home, then it is important to contact a professional pest control service immediately. They will be able to assess the situation and provide a safe and effective solution for removing rats from your home. Make sure to ask them about any preventive measures that you can put in place to reduce the chances of rats returning. By following their advice, you can help keep your home clean and free from rats.

If you suspect a rat infestation in your home, it's important to take action as soon as possible. Rats can reproduce quickly, so a small infestation can quickly become a larger problem. Contact a professional pest control service to assess the situation and recommend a course of action.

Rats are a serious winter pest that can cause damage to property and pose serious health risks to humans. To prevent rats from entering your home, seal any entry points, remove potential nesting sites and store food properly. If you suspect that you have a rat infestation, don't hesitate to contact a professional pest control service for help.

Are Wasps Good for the Environment? The Surprisingly Positive Effects Of These Tiny Insects

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 13:41:12 GMT

Wasps - Surprisingly Positive for the Environment

Wasps are universally despised. They’re creepy, crawly and vindictive — what’s not to hate? The truth is, wasps are misunderstood. With more than 10,000 species worldwide, there’s a lot we don’t know about these iconic insects. Wasps are notorious for their aggressive behavior: Many of the black-and-yellow striped wasp species have painful stings that can be lethal to humans. But not all wasps are dangerous. In fact, some species of wasp can be downright beneficial to humans and other animals. Even though these little beasts may seem like villains lurking in the shadows, you might be surprised to learn how these tiny creatures influence our ecosystem in many positive ways...

Wasps Help to Maintain a Healthy Ecosystem

Wasps play a significant role in plant and animal diversity by pollinating flowers and feeding on pests. Insects are essential for healthy ecosystems. They are the source of food for many species of birds, amphibians, bats and other pollinators. However, human activities such as deforestation and overfishing have caused a decline in insect populations. If insect populations decrease, it disrupts the web of life on Earth. The ecosystem may not be able to function correctly, and it could cause humans to lose important services such as crop pollination. This is why it’s important to study how insects such as wasps affect ecosystems.

Soil Health and Rotting Corpses

Soil is an incredible resource that holds nearly half of the world’s carbon. Carbon is found in the soil and in the bodies of the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and insects in the soil. However, without insects to help decompose the organic matter in soil, the soil would remain in a semi-frozen state. This is especially true for temperate regions such as where most of the United States is located. In the winter, the ground stays frozen for up to six months at a time. Without insects to decompose the biomass, there would be no soil to grow crops or support wildlife in the winter. Wasp larvae have a special ability to break down biomass. They have built-in digestive enzymes that help them get energy from rotting corpses. This special diet gives the larvae nutrients they need to grow. As they mature into wasps, they help to break down soil biomass, which releases nutrients and makes the soil more fertile.

Food for Other Animals

You may be wondering how insects pollinating flowers and decomposing biomass are helpful to humans. The real value comes when you consider the food web. There are species of wasps that feed on other insects such as caterpillars that can be pests to plants and crops. When wasps feed on pests, they’re actually helping farmers reduce their need for harmful pesticides. Wasp populations can increase when the insects are able to find enough food to sustain their energy. When the wasps have enough energy, they can reproduce quickly. When insect populations are healthy, birds and other animals that depend on insects for food are able to thrive.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Stability

Biodiversity is the variety of life at all levels of organization, from genes and species to ecosystems. When ecosystems are diverse, they are less likely to be negatively affected by events like floods, droughts and diseases. Some species of wasps help build biodiversity by pollinating flowers. Without pollinators, many plants and trees would not be able to reproduce. Wasp nests are home to many insects. When wasps build their nests in human-made structures, like wooden furniture or barns, they increase the biodiversity in those places. Wasp nests are very important to ecosystem stability because they can provide shelter and protection for other insects and animals. If a wasp nest collapses, it doesn’t cause a disruption to the ecosystem like a human-made collapse would.

Wasps Are Good for the Environment

Insects are an essential part of the environment, but their populations have been declining for decades. This has caused many ecosystems to suffer. There are several ways to promote the growth of insect populations. For example, scientists can use natural pesticides derived from plants instead of synthetic chemicals. They can also encourage insects to nest in human-made structures, such as crawling spaces under porch floors or behind walls. Wasp populations have declined in recent years, and scientists don’t know why. Some have suggested that changes in climate have contributed to the decline of insect populations.

Conclusion

Wasps are fascinating creatures that are pivotal for the environment. They play an important role as pollinators, decomposers, and predators of other insects. It’s important to remember that not all wasps are harmful, and that these insects provide us with many benefits. In a world where humans and animals are trying to coexist, having a healthy ecosystem is crucial. And one of those things is the presence of wasps. They are good for the environment and help to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

The Ultimate Guide to Carpet Beetles: How to Get Rid of Them and Prevent Their Return

Mon, 09 May 2022 08:57:54 GMT

Carpet Beetles how to identify and treat them

What Are Carpet Beetles?

Commonly found throughout Europe and Britain, Adult beetles could be found feeding on pollen and nectar from flower heads in the summer months. The larvae of the insect need a high aanimal protein found naturally in bird’s nests. They appear in domestic homes feeding on carpets, clothes and even animal furs. They are often associated with birds’ nests.

Carpet How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles?

The source of the issue should be located and removed, if possible, i.e., old bird’s nests in the attic, but the insect could have just come inside after a walk in the woods or fields. If a heavily infested item is found it should be removed ASAP. Once the items have been removed and nests cleared, the areas should be thoroughly cleaned with a nozzle vacuum cleaner. Once vacuumed the affected areas should be treated with a bendiocarb or permethrin-based chemical/powder.

Natural Repellents for Carpet Beetles

Regular deep cleaning of carpets and washing of clothes on a 60 plus will help prevent any issues, if clothes and fabrics are not used regularly, they should be stored in an airtight bag or box to prevent insects from going unnoticed for long periods of time. Any holes in eaves or facias should be proofed to prevent birds from nesting and creating an issue.

How to Prevent Carpet Beetles?

Seal windows and doors with weather stripping
Use a vacuum that is designed for hardwood floors and carpets
Empty your vacuum daily and dispose of it as carefully as possible
Vacuum regularly to remove excess debris and keep the carpets clean
Use an insecticide to kill carpet beetles
Prevent carpets from becoming infested in the first place. It’s important to keep your home clean, especially your carpets. Carpets are especially prone to attracting these insects because they offer a nice place for the carpet beetles to hide. The best way to prevent carpet beetles from getting into your home is to keep your carpets clean and free from debris.
Inspect your home regularly for signs of infestation and remove any infected materials

Conclusion

Carpet beetles can cause minor damage to carpets and fabrics and even worse, they can multiply fast and the small population of the carpet beetle can lead to an infestation. If you have carpet beetles in your house, you’re not alone. These insects tend to multiply quickly and their populations tend to spread quickly. The advice given can help with your issue but if the treatment isn’t done correctly, it won’t work. We always recommend calling a professional for the job as they will have dealt with the pests before and know how to treat them, they also have access to better chemicals, that can help control the issue faster.

There's a mouse! Where? There on the stairs!

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 13:43:58 GMT

How to Keep Mice Out of Your Home: A Guide to Making Your Home Mouse-Free

Mice are pesky creatures, and as such, they’re great at finding their way into places where they don’t belong. Their small stature and incredible senses of smell and hearing, making them hard to keep away. To keep mice out of your home, you’ll need to understand their habits and know how to deter them. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping mice out of your home.

What Are Some of the Ways Mice Get Into Homes?

The most common way for mice to get into homes is through holes or openings in the walls, floors, or ceilings. Mice can also enter through wiring, plumbing, or a neighbouring home.

Mice can also enter your home through open doors and windows, or along existing wiring. If you’ve left these areas unsealed and open, mice can also enter through these openings. Mice can also travel along pipes and electrical conduits, making them especially noticeable in areas with HVAC systems.

How to Get Rid of Mice

If you have a mouse problem, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them. The first thing to do is to identify where the mice are entering your home. Once you know where they’re entering, you can begin to seal off these entry points.

You can use glue traps to catch small mice, as well as snap traps for larger mice. Make sure these traps are set out of reach of children and pets, as these animals can also become caught in them. Once you’ve set these traps, they should be checked every 12 hours. You can then use a flashlight to look for remaining bodies or dead mice, or for traps with captured mice. Once you’ve eliminated these mice, you can start to seal off entry points and prevent re-entry by using wire wool and a sealant to hold it in place.

Mice and Natural Remedies

Many people turn to natural remedies to get rid of mice, and there are a few things you can do to keep mice out of your home without using chemicals or invasive techniques.

One thing you can do is to make sure you have a sound mouse-proofing practice in place. This means ensuring there are no holes in the walls or floors where mice can enter your home.

You can also fill in all gaps and holes in the walls and floors with wire wool or mesh. Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as 1/4 inch. Once you’ve proofed these gaps it will help to keep mice from squeezing through these openings.

How to Keep Mice Out of Your Home—Without Pest Control Products

As mentioned above one of the best forms of prevention is proofing to help stop mice gaining ingress in the first place. This can be done by proofing holes and covering air bricks low down with vent covers.

Another thing you can do is to use sound to deter mice. There are many different tips of plugins that can be found online, but if you are going to try this they need to be plugged in low down as they emit a sound and need to be a ground level to stand a chance of working. These are also less effective if you already have a mouse issue.

Conclusion

Mice can be a nuisance, and as such, many people want to know how to keep mice out of their home. Unfortunately, there isn’t a whole lot you can do about them. They can get into your home in a number of ways, but following the steps above can lower your risk of getting a mouse issue.

If you have a mouse problem, whilst off the shelf products can help, usually the quickest and most effective method of removing this kind of pest is to seek expert help from a Pest Control Professional.

Do we have a rat problem in the UK?

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:40:41 GMT

Should I be worried about rats?

The UK has a rat problem. These rodents are becoming increasingly common, from rats in the sewers to rats on the streets. Rats can carry diseases like Weil's disease, Salmonella , Encephalitis , and Leptospirosis . They also have been known to chew through electrical cables and cause fires. Such a problem! Luckily for the UK's residents, there are ways to keep them out of your home without resorting to poison.

Here are some ways you can deter rat infestations at home so that you can prevent these critters from damaging your property or posing a public health risk to you or your family:

What is the size of the rat problem in the UK?

The problem of rats in the UK is not as big as it seems; there is estimated to be about 250 million rats in the UK. They are becoming more and more common in urban areas, but they have been a part of the country's ecosystem since the early 18 ^th century. Rats are commensal rodents (eat from man’s table) who feed on leftover food and garbage. They have always been drawn to human settlements because of the convenience of this food source.

Chances of a rat infestation near you

The chances of a rat infestation near you depend mainly on your location. For example, in urban areas, the prevalence of rats is much higher. This is because there are more buildings and homes for them to live in and access to food sources like garbage and organic material. The same can be said for cities in developing countries.

There is less of a chance that you will encounter rats in rural areas. This is mainly because there are fewer man-made structures for them to hide out in or eat things from. However, this does not mean that rural folks are entirely safe from a rat infestation by any means. If they happen to come across some food left out by people, they will most likely have no problem finding it.

The causes of rats in your home

Eliminate any gaps around pipes and under sheds, as rats only need a gap of 15mm to gain entry to a structure. You will need to search for potential entry points and seal these up with wire wool embedded in quick-setting cement. It would help to focus on low-level gaps first, as these are the most likely areas for rats to enter. You can then consider any higher up vents or openings.
Remove potential nesting sites by keeping yards and gardens clean and tidy, cutting back overgrown areas, and clearing any piles of wood or debris. Compost heaps can also become nesting sites, so our advice is to protect them with wire mesh to prevent rodents from digging a harbourage.
Ensure that drain inspection covers are in a good state of repair and any disused pipes are sealed off. A one-way valve can also be fitted to prevent rats from gaining ingress from the sewer.
If you feed garden birds, do not do this to excess and use a bird table or feeder basket, if possible, to catch any off-cast seed. In urban areas, taking in bird feed at dusk is a way to remove an easy food supply during normal feeding time.
Cover any household waste where rats can get access to it and close dustbin lids. Recycling containers should also be washed to remove any food residue.

How to get rid of rats in the house

Rats are hard-wired to survive! Rats are;

adaptable
highly mobile
and breed rapidly

Bearing this in mind, rat control is an uphill task for the untrained individual. With any rat infestation, it is recommended to contact a professional pest management company, which is a member of the BPCA .

However, you can choose to conduct the work yourself, buying amateur use rat poisons (rodenticides) and traps from a hardware store or garden centre. Most rats are wary of new objects such as traps or poisons placed in their environment. They will avoid them for a period before exploring them, so do not expect instant success with this approach. Additionally, when setting poison or traps, thought needs to be taken to ensure they are in a safe and secure place out of reach of non-target animals, children, and pets.

BPCA has a strong warning to anyone using rodenticides;

always follow the instructions on the label,
search for dead rodents
safely dispose of any dead rodents.

When a rat consumes poison, it will likely die in a cavity or roof space from which a bad smell can emit. If you cannot locate the dead rodent, it may take several weeks for the body to decompose, and the smell dissipate. Leaving these in the open can result in secondary poisoning of non-target animals, such as pets or birds scavenging on the carcass.

It is not recommended to tackle these pests yourself. If you do, you must take all necessary precautions to ensure you do not cause collateral damage or suffer personal injury to yourself. We would always recommend contacting a professional pest management company that is a member of BPCA . They are trained in rat control and will have access to a range of professional use rodenticides and tools, which are not available to the general public.

Knowing how much, where, and when to deploy products is where professionals can take control of situations efficiently. There is also a growing issue with resistance due to incorrect choice of rodenticide or widespread use by members of the public. Professional pest controllers will take an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to tackle your infestation. A pest professional will use monitoring equipment to confirm entry points into your property, the infestation’s size, and track the rat to its harbourage (nest). They can then recommend a proofing strategy and decide on the best course of action in terms of control; this could be traps, rodenticides, or both. You should always expect to receive a full, written report from a professional pest technician.

Conclusion

Rats are a widespread problem in the UK. They are most active at night, so they will not normally be seen during the day, but you may find droppings and chewed items, such as insulation, food, cardboard etc.

To get rid of them, you need to identify the food source and remove it. It makes sense to hire a professional Pest Control company to do the job in many cases. They have the training and correct equipment to eliminate the problem quickly and effectively.

Fly units.

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 09:09:25 GMT

Fly units in the kitchen.

As we come into the summer its important to make sure that your fly units are 100% ready for the months ahead.

Every year your units should be serviced with new starters and tubes so that they can attract flying insects in the months ahead.

The tubes start to deteriorate after about 11 months meaning they won’t work as they should when flying insects start entering the kitchen of your business.

If you have a glue board unit, the boards should be changed every 2-3 months (maybe even every month if full) even if they still have room on them as the glue on the board will no longer be sticky.

It is important that units are left on 24/7 as they will do their best work at night when there are no other lights on.

The unit also needs to be in correct place, so it is covering the areas of the kitchen where it is needed.

We would always recommend a glue board unit in the kitchen to help stop cross-contamination when catching flies.

The reason for this is bits from the flies can drop off when they are electrocuted in a normal electric fly unit, whereas with a glue board unit the fly just gets stuck meaning there is no chance of cross-contamination.

Glue board units will also catch the smaller flies that can sometimes get missed by electric units.

Fly units play a very important part in keeping your kitchen free of flying insects, but a good standard of cleaning is also important.

If there is stagnant water or food left in bins, it can quickly become a breading ground for insects in the hot weather.

We can include the service and maintenance of your fly units in your pest management program, meaning you do not have to worry about anything.

If you would like any help with your fly units and any other pest control needs you might have, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help.

Routine pest control

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 14:15:00 GMT

What are regular pest control inspections?

What are routine inspections and why should I have them?

Routine pest control inspections are a very important part of a business, it can help you monitor your business for pest activity and prevent any damage to your stock or reputation.

Regular inspections at a business also known as an intergraded pest management program, can help with your Hygiene inspections as well as for filling your legal obligation under the Public Health Act, Food Safety Act and The Prevention of Damage by Pests Act which all state that premises must be pest free and safe for staff and the public.

Kent Pest Management can help protect you and the environment with regular inspections at your place of business. We would do this by monitoring the site with non-toxic blocks and reacting to the activity in the most effective way that will have the least amount of impact on environment and non-target species.

So, what happens when you have a routine inspection?

On every visit all areas of the site both inside and out will be checked for pest activity. This would include making recommendations for proofing and removing of any herbages and possible attractions such as food or water source. By doing this we can reduce the chancres of pests finding there way into your property, there for preventing a pest issue before it starts. If pests do manage to gain ingress into your building then appropriate actions would be taken to eradicate the issue with the least amount of impact on the environment as possible.

At the end of your routine inspection, you will be given a report outlining everything that has been done including activity, recommendations and actions taken.

Why choose Kent Pest Management?

We are RSPH Level 2 trained and DBS checked for your safety, we also care about the environment and what we do.

We are 5* rated across Google, Check-A-Trade and Facebook, so you know you will be getting a 5* service for less than you might think.

We offer a free no obligation quote, so it costs you nothing to see how much you can save. We also offer your first visit free and you could get more visits for free if you recommend us to other businesses or use us in other businesses you might have.

If you would like to know more or would like to book a free no obligation quote, contact us .

Sanitation

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 09:51:31 GMT

Chemical Free Sanitation.

Sanitation.

In this current climate sanitation is an important part of your cleaning process.

Kent Pest Management can offer a chemical free sanitation for the elimination of viruses, bacteria and odours, in Homes; Utility Areas, Garages, Sheds, Supermarkets, Shops, Offices, Places of Business and Public Interest – All Spaces Occupied by Human Beings!

HOW IT WORKS:

• The air all around us is made up of approximately 20.9% Oxygen. The Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator use the presence of this Oxygen in the air to produce Ozone. The fan inhales the air and transports it to the plates (known as the corona system).

• This extracted Oxygen then goes on to receive continuous electric shocks (but without any sparking), dividing the Oxygen atoms into a single atom – this atom joins with two other free Oxygen atoms, forming Ozone. Ozone, being a very unstable molecule, is a strong oxidant (2000 times higher a disinfectant than chlorine), it completely cleanses the environment extinguishing bacteria, viruses, moulds and odours, resulting in cleansed air.

THIS PRODUCT HAS BEEN RECOGNISED BY THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH:

PROTOCOL No. 24482 OF JULY 31, 1996.

THE BENEFITS:

• Absence of residues

The generator does not release waste, instead of using a fogging and spay treatment that can leave a residue behind the Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator does the process naturally, after approximately twenty minutes of activity, this process stops and reverts to Oxygen once again – a completely natural process.

• Sanitisation, the eliminating of bacteria, viruses, fungi and moulds

The Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator is an unstable molecule that oxidises the molecules of these organic compounds by destabilising them.

• Deodorant

Ozone is a very unstable element; it oxidises the organic components eliminating them altogether. Thus, permitting the Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator to destroy any odours present in the chosen treated area.

• Easy to use

The Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator is compact and lightweight, thoughtfully and purposefully designed to make it easy to transport from one place to another.

• Functional

The Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator is complete with a switch, timer and function indicator.

The exposure to Ozone in the surroundings from which people are present at 0.1% PPP.

The onsite shock treatment, the Morrison Virus Bacteria Eliminator generator exceeds this limit during disinfection, therefore, it is not permitted for this device to be used in the presence of people.

Once the area has finished being disinfected, and at least twenty minutes have passed, the Ozone will convert back into Oxygen without any side effects.

It is required to be lit in an area with ozone, designed to be operated whilst wearing a safety mask, and once the generator is in operation leave the treated space as soon as possible.

Once treatment has completed, wait a further twenty minutes before re-entering the treated area, allowing the ozone load to reduce.

The area whereby the generator is used must be kept dry.

Do not use in environments whereby humidity exceeds 80%.

It’s strictly prohibited to manipulate the interior of the generator or insert metal objects for risk of high voltage.

Keep the device air intake clear before and after use.

The equipment does not require spare parts.

The Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator can be purchased for a one-off fee so you to use it whenever and wherever you like, or Kent Pest Management can do the treatment for you.

More information on the Morrison Virus and Bacteria Eliminator can be found at https://www.morrisonsustainableenergy.com/products/morrison-virus-bacteria-eliminator-kent/

Alternatively, you can contact us at Kent Pest Management for more information.

Why Call A Professional?

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 13:50:24 GMT

Why call a professional?

A lot of people myself included will always try a bit of DIY before realising that a professional is needed for the job, and pest control is no different.

Yes, there are products you can buy of the self and they might do the job but would you try and rewire your house or install a bathroom just because you can buy the products in the shops?

The reason you wouldn’t try to rewire your house or do the plumbing is because of your safety and once again pest control is no different.

There are many different factures that could determine what bait or trap you use for the job.

• There is a resistance to some types of rodenticide in parts of the UK, meaning the bait will have no effect on the rodent.

• Different baits are licensed for use against different rodents, like bait for mice is only meant to be used against house mice but the mouse in the loft could be a wood mouse and therefor not licensed to be used against it.

• Think of the environment with traces of rodenticide being found in birds of prey, barn owls and hedgehogs. This is due to the fact that rodents that have been poisoned finding there way outside before they die and being eaten by non-target species.

• If a rodent has been poisoned it needs to be disposed of properly as the rodent is now toxic and shouldn’t just be put in the bin.

• When a rodent is poisoned you have no control over where the rodent will die meaning it could end up on your lawn and get picked up by your dog, cat or children.

If you don’t intend to use bait and use traps instead you need to make sure your using the right trap for the job.

• If you try using a rat trap when you have mice it wont work because the mice aren’t heavy enough to set the trap off.

• If you put down mouse traps and have rats it won’t work because the trap isn’t big enough or powerful enough to kill the rat

• If you think you have rats but it’s a squirrel then a rat trap isn’t powerful enough to kill the squirrel.

All of the factors listed above are things a pest control professional has been trained to do, for example, identifying the rodent and provide the correct and most environmentally friendly treatment needed for the job. Which means that your rodent issue will be treated in a controlled safe manner.

Winter pests

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 10:45:31 GMT

Preventing pest this winter.

A guide to help you lower the risk of getting pest issues this winter.

In the coming winter months certain pests will try to enter your home to keep warm and look for food.

Rats and mice will enter your home looking for shelter and food for the winter months.

Spiders will start entering your home to keep warm.

So how can how can this be prevented?

Rats: 70 – 80% of rat’s issues in a domestic property are drain related and this can be easily prevented by fitting a one-way valve in the sewer pipe leading into your property.

Feeding birds in your back garden will attract rodents closer to your property and greatly increase the chance of the rodents entering your home. This can be helped by attaching a bird feeder tray under the feeders to help prevent food dropping to the floor and attracting the rodents to the area.

Rats can gain access into your hole through a hole the size of a 50p pens piece, so any holes around the outside of your hole of that size or bigger should be proofed with wire wool or mesh. Once the wool or mesh has been pushed into the hole seal it over with something to hold it in place.

If you can clear your garden of overgrown areas and remove any rubbish it will discourage rodents from the area as they will have less places to hide from predators.

Decking is a favourite place for rats to hide so blocking entry point going under the decking will also help prevent rodents making your garden there home.

Mice: Mice will be entering your home looking for food and shelter as it gets colder and the poor weather starts.

Mice can enter your home through a hole that is 5mm, about the size of a 5p pens piece.

These holes can be through air bricks, gaps under doors or holes around pipes leading into your property.

These entry points can easily be blocked, fitting bristle strips on doors and proofing holes with wire wool as you would with the rats. Air bricks around the house are common entry points and be easily proofed by fitting air brick covers on all low-down air bricks.

Spiders: Spiders will be entering your home this time of year to keep warm and get shelter from the rain. A simple and free way to help prevent spiders in your home is to place conkers around the rooms of your home.

I you would like help with any pest issues please feel free to contact Kent Pest Management.

Should i have pest control and do i need it for my business?

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 15:20:37 GMT

What is a pest control contract and what's the benefit to my business?

What is a Pest control contract and why should I have one in place?

A pest control contract is when you have regular visits to your business from a pest control company.

The idea of the inspections is to monitor the site and protect your business from unwanted pests that could damage your stock and your companies reputation.

At the end of each inspection you should get a report from the pest control company detailing what they have found, actions taken or needed plus any other recommendations that can help you stay pest free.

Why should I have a pest control contract program in place?

There are many reasons for having a pest control contract in place as the list below will show but the key question is “How much is your companies reputation worth?”.

The list below are some examples for why you should consider it, if you don’t have a pest management program in place already.

• It means that you are complying with the Public Health Act, Food safety Act and The Prevention of Damage by Pests Act which all state that premises must be pest free and safe for staff and the public.

• It can help with your EHO & HSE inspections as it shows you are being proactive in protecting staff and the public from public health pests.

• If you have or you are thinking of getting ISO 14001 accreditation then pest control can be used as part of that for environmental reasons.

• Prevention is better than cure as some pests can go unnoticed due to their size or areas and times of day they move and operate in.

• Pest management is like insurance for your business they are there to protect you just like other insurances you have.

• It shows that you care about the environment, staff, customers and your business.

• A pest management program is for all businesses as rodents, insects and birds don’t care if you are an office or a take away sometimes all they want is shelter.

At Kent Pest Management we don’t believe you shouldn’t pay the earth for protecting your business and the environment, so we work out how much you pay based on the size of the business and the protection you need (we don’t have a set price like other companies).

If you would like to know more or book a free no obligation quote then contact us and we could save you £100’s of pounds a year on your pest control.

Mice and how to prevent and treat them.

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Mon, 20 Jul 2020 12:26:38 GMT

Help in preventing or treating a mouse issue.

Mice and how to resolve or help prevent an issue.

There are Six different species of mice in the UK with the house mouse being the most common. The house mouse can get though a gap that is 5mm (roughly the size of the end of a pen). They can enter properties though air bricks or under doors around your house if they are not proofed properly.

Mouse Facts .

• Require 3-4 g of food a day

• Gets water from food

• Gestation period approximately 21 days

• Sexually mature in 5-8 weeks

• Weaning period approximately 21 days

• Average litter 5-8

• Cosmopolitan and widespread. Highly adaptive and able to survive in a wide range of habitats.

• Average size- weight 15 g (can reach 25 g)

• Body length 70-90 mm

• Tail length 50-70 mm

• Large ears and pointed muzzle giving a triangular shaped head.

• Droppings are a small spindle shape between 3-7 mm long in a scattered pattern. the house mouse can do up to 80 droppings per day as well as being incontinent.

Mice have very poor eye sight and find their way around by smelling where other mice have been or using heat from pipes around the house. They will also normally stay close to walls so that they know half their body is safe from predators.

It’s a legal obligation to control mice as they carry diseases.

How to help prevent mice entering your home.

If you have air bricks around the bottom of your house then cover them with mesh so the building can still breath but mice can’t get though it.

If there is a gap under an external door fit a draft excluder as this can help prevent mice gaining access into your home.

Any holes you can find that are 5mm or bigger proof them with wire wool and then seal over the top so they can’t push it out.

If you have had a mouse issue clean up after the issue has been resolved by removing droppings and cleaning with strong smelling cleaner (lavender or lemon scented products are great for this).

Don’t leave packets of food in low cupboards and if you can keep part used products in containers this also helps.

If you do all the above it will help prevent you getting an issue back in the future.

How we treat.

We treat all our rodent issues with traps as there are many laws around what bait can used on different kinds of mice and also some are protected. Another good reason for using traps is it has a much lower impact on the environment, with studies showing that traces of poison have been found in birds of prey, barn owls and other wildlife after they have eaten mice that have been poisoned in people’s houses.

If you would like to know more or book a treatment in Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and the surrounding areas of Kent then please get in contact with us at Kent Pest Management.

Website: www.kentpestmanagement.co.uk

Email: info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk

Phone: 07307691897

Facebook: @kentpestmanagement

LinkedIn: Kent Pest Management

Twitter: @PestKent

Pigeon proofing

info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk (Matt Homden) — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 13:09:43 GMT

Pigeon proofing

Do you have a pigeon issue?

Pigeons can roost in all sorts of places and even perch on the smallest ledges.

They can make your business look unsightly and unwelcoming to customer’s with there numbers and fouling around your site.

Issues coursed at commercial sites.

• Constant fouling around outside areas of your business can make it look unwelcoming to customers.

• Pigeons and their droppings can carry up to 60 diseases.

• If you have air-conditioning units some contractors will refuse to work on them if there is an issue due to the health risk they carry.

• Most important thing of all is they are a health risk to you, your staff and customers.

• If birds are allowed to infest a food business it is a violation of the Food safety (General Food Hygiene) Regulations 1995, and could result in prosecution.

How can we help?

• We can offer all aspects of pigeon proofing and deterring from nets, spikes, bird wire or bird gels.

• All areas that have been affected by the pigeons can be cleaned and disinfected after proofing has been done.

• We give a free no obligation quote on all our work and undertake all jobs big or small.

For more details or to arrange a free no obligation quote please contact me.

Kent Pest Management

Email: info@kentpestmananement.co.uk

Website: www.kentpestmanagement.co.uk

Phone: 07307691897

How you can prevent Rats from making a home in your Garden

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 15:16:04 GMT

Tips for preventing rats in your garden.

Rats in a garden is a very common call for Pest Management companies. There are a lot of different reasons why rats will come into your garden and even make a home there. There are a number of things you can do to stop this happening. Here are some steps that you can take to help to try and prevent luring them into your garden.

Keep your garden as clear as you can. If rats have no place to hide, they won’t stick around in the area for fear of predators. Where possible move piles of rubbish, wood and other items that would help a rat hide.
If you feed birds in your garden don’t overfill the bird feeders as the excess food on the floor will attracts rat and other vermin to your garden.
Ideally, put a feeding tray under the bird feeder (these can be found online search for “ bird seed catcher ”) to catch any excess bird food that might fall on the floor.
If you have chickens in your garden don’t leave food out all the time and only feed them what they need (don’t over feed them)

Quick Rat facts.

Rats are medium-sized rodents with a long tail. A group of rats is called a ‘mischief’
Rats are mainly nocturnal and live underground. Although they vastly outnumber humans, we rarely see them. They are experts at staying out of sight!
Rats’ super-strong teeth never stop growing! They have to keep nibbling to wear them down – or eating would become impossible
With eyes on either side of their head that can move in opposite directions, rats are even able to see what’s happening above them. Very handy for spotting any rat-eating birds!
Rats need 30-60 ml of water a day and 20-25g of food to survive.
They have a kinetic memory so they remember where they get their food and water from.
Have neophobia (a fear of new objects).
Breed every 21 days and are sexually mature in 12 weeks.
The average litter size is between 6-11.
A single rat can leave 25,000 droppings a year

How can we help?

As a member of the BPCA We can do a three-course treatment in your garden (sometimes more visits are needed depending on the size of the infestation) to help eradicate the issue.

If you own or manage a commercial site, we can make regular visits to the site to help monitor for rat activity. By doing this you can protect your staff, the public and your company’s reputation.

How we treat?

We treat rat issues with traps in tamper proof stations that only we have the key for. By using traps, it makes the treatment safer than if poison was used as there is no chance of cross contamination into the food chain and non-target species being poisoned by now toxic rats.

If you would like a free no-obligation quote or just advice for any of our services please feel free to contact us.

Kent Pest management.

www.kentpestmanagement.co.uk

Email: info@kentpestmanagement.co.uk

Phone: 01732 905576

Rate info

3 Tips on how to deal with wasps

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 12:28:16 GMT

Wasps good and bad!

There are seven different species of wasp in the UK but the most common is the common wasp. The common wasp will nest in all sorts of places from roofs to underground and in bushes.

The queen wasps awake from hibernation around mid-April going into May. At this time she will start building a nest that starts off the size of a golf ball. The nests are built by mixing wood that they strip off fences and other things to mix with saliva.

When the queen wasp is in the nest, believe it or not, they are good for your garden killing insects that would normally be damaging your plants.

If a wasp feels threatened, it will call for more wasps.

- Matthew Homden

At the end of the season around July/August, maybe even sometimes heading into September or October, is when we find wasps becoming a pest. The reason for this is that; when the queen is in the nest she secretes a sugary treat for the worker wasps.

Once the queen has left the nest to hibernate, the worker wasps no longer get this reward and also no longer have a nest to build. This makes them redundant from what they have been doing all summer, so they start to pester people and become a nuisance.

Some quick facts:

Wasps will not use the same nest twice but can nest next to a dormant nest.
The queen can lay 1000's of eggs in a nest all in hexagonal cells of exact size and shape.
Each grub (baby wasp) takes about four weeks to develop.

Tips on how to deal with wasps:

If you have a wasp’s nest, please don't try and treat it yourself especially latter on in the season. If it isn't done correctly it won’t work and you will just make them angry and they are more likely to sting you.
You can help protect yourself in the garden from wasps by hanging jars with few inches of water mixed with jam. Add a bit of vinegar to the mix to keep bees out the jar.
If you have wasps hanging around you don't panic, and I know this is easier said than done. If a wasp feels threatened it will call for more wasps to help.

What can we do for you?

All our wasp’s nests are 100% guaranteed with a treatment, so if the first treatment doesn't work, we treat the same nest again for free.
We like to reward our returning clients, so we offer the seventh wasps’ nest for free with six full price nests treated (two discounted nests equals one full price nest). If you have more than one wasps nest any nest treated at the same time is discounted.
If you own or run a commercial site, we can supply and maintain wasp pots that attract the wasp to the pot in outdoor areas such as Gardens and other outside spaces for employees and customers.
If you have any issues with wasps or just want advice, please feel free to contact us at Kent Pest Management.