The Basics of Pest Control

A Pest Control Services Whittier may use chemicals that kill or repel certain organisms, such as rodents or insects. These products may be applied to your property by spraying, baiting, or drenching. Some of these products can have health risks, but providers take steps to minimize any risks.

Pesticides are one of the most common forms of pest control. They can be used to kill or repel a variety of organisms, including rodents, fleas, ticks, and many plant diseases. Pesticides are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive pest management strategy that includes other options, such as barriers, exclusion, or trapping.

The goal of pest control is to protect plants, crops, animals, and humans from damage caused by pests. Pests can be a nuisance or cause serious economic loss. The first step in pest control is to identify the pest and assess its impact. This is done by monitoring and observing the behavior of the pest and its environment. After a thorough investigation, decisions can be made about whether pest control is necessary and the best methods to use.

Natural Forces

Some natural forces affect all organisms and can help or hinder pest control efforts. Climate, natural enemies, and the availability of food and shelter can influence pest populations. Natural barriers such as mountains and large bodies of water can restrict the movement of some species. Overwintering sites, nests, and roosts are also important for some pests. The availability of water can limit the growth of some plants and reduce pest populations by limiting feeding and breeding. Natural controls on pests include the release of predators and parasites, barriers to migration or reproduction, and natural pheromones.

Barriers and Exclusion

To prevent pests, keep them from entering your home, remove the things they need to survive, such as food, water, and shelter. Store food in sealed containers and remove garbage regularly. Repair leaky pipes, and don't allow water to collect in trays under houseplants or on the soil surface around the house. Close off entry points into the home by caulking cracks, crevices, and holes.

Traps and Baits

Traps lure a pest by offering something it wants or needs. Some traps use a poison to kill the pest, while others simply capture it for later inspection or destruction. A good trap should be positioned along the path that a pest normally takes, so it is captured rather than just passing through.

Microbial Pest Control

Microbial pest control uses microorganisms - bacteria, viruses, fungi - to suppress insect populations. The microorganisms are engineered into a biological pesticide that's applied to the soil. Insects ingest the pesticide, introducing it into their system where it kills them from the inside. This type of pest control has advantages over chemical pesticides, which can sometimes leave residues on surfaces and require careful application to avoid damaging the environment. The downside is that the microbial pesticides don't have long shelf lives, so they need to be reapplied frequently.