Australia is known for its variety of pests. Some of them are more than troublesome; they are dangerous. Snakes and possums are the best examples. But Australian residents have learnt to live with these creepy crawlies.
Dealing with pests is a less-appreciated skill that only some homeowners possess. Even after hiring a professional, homeowners need to take some steps from their end to ensure the overall effectiveness of pest control.
Here’s a list of 7 common pest problems you will encounter in Australia and their solutions. The trick is understanding what attracts and repels a pest and designing a relevant maintenance plan for your property.
1. Spiders
Australian spiders are known for their size and poisonous nature. Not all spiders may be dangerous, but they sure are troublesome. That is why homeowners are always looking for effective solutions to control spiders.
Usually, spiders are found in corners of rooms, air vents, wall cracks, and other secluded areas. Some species are more drawn to garden areas than any other. If not controlled, they can infest your entire home in no time.
Here’s what to be done:
- Keep your home tidy, reducing potential hiding places for spiders.
- Seal gaps and cracks to prevent spider entry.
- Use different pest deterrents such as sprays or plants.
Most importantly, contact a professional pest control bentonville ar service in Rockbank for safe removal if you encounter dangerous spiders. Redbacks and funnel webs are some venomous spider species.
2. Termites
One of the most destructive pests in Australia is termites. They will most commonly affect mainland Australian cities such as Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, or Brisbane, as the climate is favourable and a large number of buildings exist.
According to a study, termites can cause up to $8,000 worth of damage to a house. So, it is crucial to contact a pest control company at the first sign of termite infestation.
Here’s what you can do:
- Remove any moisture sources near your home (termites are attracted to damp environments)
- Use termite treatments to create a chemical barrier around your home, or consider installing termite baiting systems.
- Inspect your home often for signs of termite activity, such as hollow-sounding wood and mud tubes.
It is also a good idea to occasionally consult a professional termite inspector for a thorough assessment and get a treatment plan if necessary.
3. Fleas
If you have pets at home, one most possible pest infestation is fleas. Fleas affect pets and humans that interact with those pets. So, you must take all necessary precautions to keep them at bay.
A typical sign of flea infestation is your pet getting itchy and uncomfortable. As soon as you notice this, you must isolate your pet and clean it with a natural flea wash. If it seems out of control, call for pest control in Rockbank.
4. Wasps or Bees
Usually, bees and wasps are an outdoor problem. But rarely, they can nest within the walls of a property. If so, it can be quite a problem. So, when you notice bees or wasps around your home, act quickly and call a specialist.
A specialist determines whether there are nests on your property; if so, they can deal with them accordingly. Never attempt to remove a wasp or bee nest by yourself, as it can be dangerous.
5. Ants
Ants are 24/7 in search of food. During this search, ants can enter your home and settle. Some ant species carry diseases, while others can give a painful bite. So, homeowners need to keep an eye out for signs of ant infestation.
One of the most common signs is ant nests. You usually see small piles of earth at the base of the exterior walls of your building. But luckily, getting rid of ants is easier than dealing with other pests.
Here’s what to do:
- Find the exact entry point of ants and block them.
- Make sure no sticky food residues are left around the house.
- Cover up all places where you keep the food and make them inaccessible for ants.
But if you suspect the ant infestation is getting out of hand, you need to use more aggressive methods, such as insecticides. You can use natural methods such as borax or vinegar spray. They are safer than insecticides that are made of different chemicals.
When organic methods no longer work, consult a professional as soon as possible.
6. Rats and Mice
Rats, mice, and rodents are severe health hazards, as they can spread deadly diseases. They also pose serious damage to the property by chewing floor joists and cables. That is why homeowners need to respond fast when they notice a sign of infestation.
You can follow these steps:
- Seal gaps or openings in walls, floors, and foundations to prevent their entry.
- Store food in tightly-sealed containers and clean up food spills promptly.
- Use snap traps, bait stations, or ultrasonic devices for rodent control.
However, you must know not to waste time trying organic methods when the infestation is severe. Consult an expert for effective pest eradication.
7. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are another common pest in Australia that can contaminate food and spread diseases. They generally infest dark spaces, such as wall cavities.
Do this:
- Keep your home clean and free of food debris, especially in the kitchen.
- Seal any cracks or openings in walls, floors, and windows to prevent their entry.
- Use cockroach baits or insecticide sprays designed explicitly for cockroach control.
But when the problem seems severe, consider professional pest control services in Altona for severe infestations.
Final Thoughts
Pest infestations are serious problems that demand immediate attention. More importantly, contacting a professional is crucial, as they have more tricks and techniques under their belt.
RF Pest Management is a popular service provider for solving all kinds of pest problems. Reach out to them when you need to make your home safe and healthy for your family. Their experts possess a deep knowledge of different pests, so they can guide you well in treating your home’s infestation.