The Pest Master Blog

Why Do Rats Come Into Homes?

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:53:12 GMT

Find out why rats come into homes, from food and shelter to easy entry points, and learn what attracts them so you can stop infestations early.

What are the Most Common Flies Found in Homes?

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:00:26 GMT

Information on Bees - Myths Surrounding Bees

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Thu, 16 May 2024 15:28:43 GMT

Separate fact from fiction with key information on bees, debunking common myths and explaining why these vital pollinators are so important.

Wasp Season: What Do You Need to Know?

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:56:43 GMT

As we are quickly approaching wasp season you will start to notice activity levels increasing.

Outdoor Spaces and Rats

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 10:43:02 GMT

Do rats come out during the day? Why do rats suddenly appear?

Rats in general are nocturnal and are mostly seen during sunset and sunrise.

However, depending on whether food is available during these times will largely depend on whether rats will be seen during daylight hours. It can also depend on the size of an infestation.

If the colony is fairly large the older and more dominant rats will venture out at night in search for a snack as its safer to do so and the sub dominant rats have to come out for a look in the day.

Regardless of the time of year rats may be seen during the day and this can indicate the presence of well-established and long running rat infestation.

The reason rats appear almost out of nowhere can depend on a number of factors

Smells and odour coming from food waste, pet waste and pet food, barbecues, birdfeeders, and certain plants can all encourage a rat to your garden and close to home. It is of utmost importance that you keep the area around your home clean, tidy and rubbish free.

You should make sure your bins are emptied on a regular basis and the area around bins is clean and sanitised and that the lid is always fully closed. If you have overflowing bins, an unkept garden, overgrown plants and bushes, you stand to give the rodents a nice place to live, thrive and reproduce.

Are rats hard to get rid of? How long does it take to get rid of a rat infestation?

How easy it is to get on top of a rat issue will mostly depend on the size of the infestation and how long it has been present. If the rat population has had the chance to grow and to multiply rapidly into large numbers it will take significantly longer than if you catch the problem early.

There is always the possibility that other contributing factors can make things more difficult, or even worse something that cannot be conquered and yet something that needs to be managed long term.

Depending on your surroundings, this too can have an influence, for example if neighbouring properties are untidy and kept in poor shape this can encourage the rodents to frequent in your spaces too, maybe popping in for a visit.

If surrounding areas are heavily wooded or if there are animals kept nearby this too can cause issues. Getting the correct support is always the best solution.

There are always DIY remedies but in general they take longer, cost more and in most circumstances don’t work at all and can make things worse. Using your own DIY methods can incur serious problems such as risk to human and animal wellbeing. Huge fines can be imposed if guidance is not followed.

It is always best to call in the professionals, Pest Control experts are trained and qualified in this field have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to dealing with these furry fiends.

How Do I Keep Rats & Mice Away from the Garden & Entering My Home?

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 13:54:22 GMT

Winter can be a challenging time for homeowners and their gardens, as rodents, such as mice and rats, seek shelter and food in the warmth of our homes and gardens. These pests can cause significant damage to our plants, vegetables and even structures if left unchecked.

However, there are several effective ways to keep rodents away from your garden during the winter months, including professional pest control services . These can provide valuable assistance in preventing and managing rodent infestations.

How do I prevent a rodent infestation in my garden?

There are many ways in which you can prevent rodents from gaining access to your home and to your garden. From Keeping food sources at bay and using physical barriers to moving your log store and bringing in the professional pest control specialists, here’s how you can prevent a rodent infestation in your home:

Keep food sources to a minimum

One of the first steps in rodent prevention is to eliminate any potential food sources in and around your garden. Rodents are attracted to bird feeders, compost piles, fallen fruits and unsealed rubbish bins. By removing or securing these food sources, you can significantly reduce the chances of attracting rodents.

Keep your garden tidy

Additionally, make sure to clean up fallen leaves, trim overgrown vegetation and keep your garden free of debris, as these can provide hiding places for rodents. If you happen to have wood storage for a log burner in your garden, make sure that the logs aren’t stored directly next to the home as this is a great hiding spot for the rodents.

As well as this, you’re also opening up a doorway into your home from the outside when you open the door to gather up some logs. You should take steps to move your log store further away from your home and keep it as tidy as possible.

Use rodent repellents

Another effective method to deter rodents is by using natural repellents. Plants like lavender, rosemary and marigolds have strong scents that rodents dislike. Planting these around your garden can act as a natural deterrent.

Give physical barriers a try

Physical barriers can also be helpful in keeping rodents away. Installing wire mesh or hardware cloth around the perimeter of your garden can prevent rodents from entering. Make sure to bury the mesh at least a few inches below the ground to prevent digging. You should also consider using mesh or netting to cover vulnerable plants or vegetables in order to effectively protect them from rodent damage.

Call The Pest Master

Pest control professionals, such as us here at The Pest Master, can play a crucial role in rodent prevention during the winter months. We have the knowledge and expertise to identify potential entry points and assess the severity of the infestation. Pest control can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific situation, such as:

Trapping
Bait stations
Sealing entry points

Regular inspections and maintenance by professionals can help ensure that your garden and home remains rodent-free throughout the winter season. The last thing you want or need is for the rodents to find a way into the home. If you start to notice activity within your garden, call in the experts at The Pest Master for help.

How can I deter rodents from coming near my property in the first place?

In addition to their preventive measures, pest control services can also help when it comes to expert advice and guidance about how you can make your home as unattractive as possible for rats and mice. You can’t have a rodent problem if there aren’t any rodents nearby to worry about.

If, however, you do suffer from an infestation at some point, then The Pest Master will carry out safe and humane removal of rodents that have already infested your garden. We can use traps or baits specifically designed for professional use against rodents and employ techniques that minimise harm to other wildlife and the environment.

Keeping rodents away from your garden in winter requires a combination of proactive measures and professional assistance. By eliminating food sources, using natural repellents, installing physical barriers and seeking the help of pest control services, you can effectively protect your garden from rodent damage. Remember to take action early to prevent infestations and maintain a healthy and thriving garden throughout the winter season.

If you would like further information about the rodent control , mice control and rat control services we have available here at The Pest Master, then get in touch with a member of our friendly, expert team today - we’re always pleased to hear from you.

How do you get rid of bed bugs? How can I prevent bed bugs?

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 13:01:19 GMT

If you're dealing with bed bugs, it's crucial to take immediate action. It’s highly-recommended that you reach out to a professional pest control company , like us here at The Pest Master.

We have extensive experience and knowledge in the field, together with the right tools to be able to effectively handle bed bug infestations. Don't worry, many people face this issue and pest technicians receive numerous calls about bed bugs.

During a bed bug survey, a pest professional will thoroughly search for evidence of bed bugs, including: your bed frame, around the bed (such as the floor), mattress, headboard and bedside tables or drawers. Once the bed bug infestation is confirmed, a treatment can be carried out.

The treatment for bed bugs may involve a pesticide spray, steam treatment, fumigation or the use of a powder. After the treatment has been completed, it's important not to wash or hoover your carpets or floors for at least two weeks. This is because eggs and nymphs may still be going through life cycle stages, and the residual insecticide will continue to kill them. Cleaning your carpets and floor too soon will remove the insecticide and result in a failed treatment.

What can kill bed bugs? What won’t kill bed bugs? Can you treat bed bugs at home?

It’s difficult to prevent a bed bug infestation, however, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of experiencing it: before staying in a new place or moving into new accommodation, thoroughly check for signs of bed bugs; pay close attention to the edges of the mattress and the headboard; avoid placing your luggage directly on the bed or furniture, as bed bugs can easily hitch a ride in your belongings; if you're considering second-hand furniture, make sure to inspect it thoroughly before bringing it home; regular housekeeping, such as vacuuming and washing your bedding, can also help minimise the risk.

There are many myths surrounding the question of what will kill bed bugs and what won’t. The most effective methods are heat treatments, steam and pesticides. Steam treatment is particularly safe as it is non-toxic. The high temperatures generated by the steam, up to 180°C, can eliminate all life stages of bed bugs in a matter of seconds. The specially heated hose, head and nozzle make it easy to reach even the most hidden parts and their hiding places.

It's important to note that simply hoovering your mattress or using UV light alone is not sufficient to get rid of bed bugs. UV light won't harm or kill bed bugs, although it can help you locate them. Bed bugs can easily spread, and simply using a vacuum cleaner won't solve the problem. In fact, if you hoover them up without changing the hoover bag or emptying a bagless vacuum out into the outside bin, you might inadvertently move them to other areas of your home.

Attempting to treat bed bugs at home with amateur DIY pesticides is most unlikely to be successful and comes with certain risks. Without knowledge of bed bugs, it's easy to fail to get rid of them. Moreover, using amateur DIY products can sometimes make matters worse, as bed bugs can migrate to other rooms or even neighbouring properties. It's best to rely on a trained professional who has the necessary expertise, access to professional products and specialised equipment, such as us here at The Pest Master.

If you happen to discover bed bugs and want to remove them from your luggage, clothing or bedding, there’s a few things you can do: wash everything at a hot temperature (at least 60°C) and follow this by tumble drying them on a hot setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. This can help eliminate the bed bugs and their eggs.

Remember, dealing with an infestation can be really difficult, but employing the help of professionals, together with a proactive approach, can successfully rid these pests from your home.

Bed Bugs - What Are They and What Do They Look Like?

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:38:00 GMT

Adult bed bugs have an oval and flattened shape, resembling small brownish-red discs. They are about the size of an apple seed, measuring between 4-6mm in length. Their shed skins are lighter brown and appear as flaky exoskeletons.

These pesky insects have mouths specially adapted for piercing the skin and sucking blood. While they do not possess wings, they have six sturdy legs that allow them to crawl on most vertical surfaces.

The Bed Bug Life Cycle

The life cycle of a bed bug progresses through several stages: egg, several immature nymph stages, and finally, adulthood. This process, called incomplete metamorphosis, can span from 6 to 10 months. In contrast, other insects like fleas undergo complete metamorphosis, which includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

Bed bugs reproduce through a rather unsettling process called "traumatic insemination." The male bed bug stabs the female's abdomen and injects sperm into the wound. A female bed bug can lay anywhere from 200 to 500 eggs over a period of two months, usually in clusters of 10 to 50. These sticky eggs attach to furniture or fittings.

Bed bug eggs are elongated and whitish cream in colour. As they near hatching, they darken. The early stages of bed bugs, known as nymphs, are extremely tiny and can be challenging to spot without magnification.

Under favourable conditions, bed bug eggs can hatch in approximately a week, and the newly hatched nymphs go through five moulting stages before reaching maturity. Each malt requires a blood meal, and with an adequate supply of blood and favourable conditions, they can mature in as little as a month, producing multiple generations per year. The typical lifespan of a bed bug is around ten months.

How Do Bed Bugs Act?

Similar to other blood-sucking arthropods, bed bugs inject saliva while feeding, which contains anticoagulant properties. This can make their bites initially go unnoticed. When not feeding, a bed bug's proboscis or "feeding tube" is tucked under its body. After a meal, they can increase in length by up to 50% and in weight by 200%.

Bed bugs are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide emitted by a host and can quickly locate a suitable feeding site. They can remain inactive for weeks or months and "awaken" when they detect biological signatures like CO2. Bed bugs are nocturnal and tend to feed when people are asleep, as it is the safest time for them to obtain a meal without being disturbed. However, in heavily infested areas, they may become opportunistic and feed during the day if conditions are favourable. When startled, they move swiftly and emit an odour.

How Do I Know If I Have Bedbugs? What Are the Early Signs of a Bedbug Infestation?

Bed bugs can be tricky to detect as their bites are often mistaken for mosquito bites or allergic reactions. However, there are many signs that may indicate an infestation.

Red and irritating bites, typically in rows on your neck, shoulders, back, legs, or arms
Small clusters of reddish-brown spots or dark faecal spots that resemble ink dots. These are usually found on the bed frame, upholstery, or the underside of the mattress
Small blood smears on the bed clothes or on your headboard
Bed bug malt skins, pale-white eggs, and empty eggshells. These may be small but are still visible to the human eye
The most obvious sign, although not always the first, is actually seeing the small brown insects themselves in and around your bed frame or sleeping area

It's important to note that bites alone do not necessarily mean you have a bed bug infestation. Look for these other signs and if you're unsure, it's best to call a pest professional like The Pest Master for assistance.

Rodents and the Problems They Cause

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 06:20:57 GMT

Rodents and the Problems They Cause

When we see an increase in rodent activity it may be alarming to homeowners and business owners alike, as these small creatures seek shelter and food in and around human habitats. While they may seem harmless at first glance, rodents can cause a myriad of problems that can be both frustrating and potentially dangerous. In this article, we will explore the various issues caused by rodents and discuss the importance of taking necessary measures to control their population.

One of the primary problems rodents bring is the damage they inflict on property. Rats and mice have a natural instinct to chew, and they do not discriminate when it comes to what they chew on. From electrical wiring to wooden structures, rodents can cause significant damage that can lead to costly repairs. They gnaw through walls, insulation, and even pipes, which can result in leaks and water damage. Additionally, their constant chewing can weaken the structural integrity of buildings, posing a risk to inhabitants.

Moreover, rodents are carriers of various diseases, making them a threat to human health. They can transmit diseases through their urine, faeces, and bites. Hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis are just a few examples of the diseases that can be contracted from rodents. These illnesses can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can be fatal. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid direct contact with rodents and maintain a clean environment to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

Rodents also have a voracious appetite, and during the summer, they take advantage of the abundance of food sources available. They can contaminate stored food in pantries, restaurants, and agricultural fields, leading to both economic losses and potential health hazards. The presence of rodent droppings and urine can render food unfit for human consumption, necessitating its disposal. This not only wastes valuable resources but also poses a risk to public health if contaminated food finds its way back into the market.

Furthermore, the reproduction rate of rodents is astonishingly high, especially during the summer months. A single female rat can produce up to 3-6 litters per year, with each litter consisting of 7-8 offspring. This rapid breeding cycle results in an exponential increase in rodent populations if left unchecked. Consequently, their population explosion can lead to overcrowding, competition for resources, and territorial disputes. As they seek shelter, rodents may invade homes, attics, and basements, causing distress and discomfort to both business and home owners.

Effective control against rodents

To combat the problems caused by rodents, it is necessary to implement effective control measures. Prevention is key in rodent management. Maintaining a clean environment, sealing any entry points, and storing food properly are essential steps in reducing their attraction to your property or business. Regular inspections and repairs of structural damage are also vital to prevent rodents from gaining access to your home or business. Its important to know what the best materials to use are, as a lot of DIY methods may not stand up to the might of the rodent. Some members of the public may use DIY rodent baits, it is imperative to know what the dangers are around using such baits and how they can impact the environment. One of the main concerns regarding rodenticide use in the UK is the potential for secondary poisoning of non-target species. When rodents consume bait containing rodenticides, they may become poisoned. Predatory birds, such as barn owls and kestrels, can then consume the poisoned rodents, leading to their own poisoning.

To address this issue, the UK has introduced new regulations and best practice guidelines for rodenticide use. These measures aim to reduce the risk of secondary poisoning and protect non-target wildlife, ensuring you know the legal requirements surrounding the use of rodenticide and the implications if used incorrectly. The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) UK has played a key role in promoting responsible rodent control and educating professionals in the industry about best practices. This is something a professional pest controller will know well.

Why its best to employ the professionals

In addition to prevention, professional pest control services can be employed to address an existing rodent problem. Trained technicians can conduct thorough inspections, identify entry points, and implement targeted control strategies. These may include trapping, baiting, and the use of rodenticides in a safe and responsible manner. It is crucial to consult professionals who prioritize the safety of both humans and the environment when dealing with rodent infestations.

In conclusion, rodents can cause a plethora of problems that range from property damage to health risks. Their propensity to chew, spread diseases, contaminate food sources, and breed rapidly poses significant challenges for homeowners, businesses, and public health. By implementing preventive measures and seeking professional pest control services.

All About Ants

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 12:26:36 GMT

Ants are social insects that live in colonies consisting of hundreds or thousands of individuals. They are known for their organized behaviour, work ethic, and ability to communicate with one another. Here are some interesting facts about ants, their behaviours, and their nests.

All around us

Ants are found all over the world, except for the polar regions and have been around for more than 100 million years! They are believed to have evolved from wasp-like ancestors. There are over 12,000 species of ants known to science, with more being discovered all the time.

Ants are incredibly strong and can carry objects up to 50 times their body weight. They are social insects and live in colonies that can range in size from a few dozen individuals to millions. Ant colonies are typically made up of a queen, male drones, and female worker ants. The queen ant is responsible for laying eggs, while the worker ants are responsible for gathering food and caring for the young. They communicate with one another through a complex system of pheromones, chemicals that they secrete to signal messages to other members of their colony.

Ants are very organized and have a division of labour within their colonies. Each ant has a specific job to do, based on their age and size. They are known for their ability to work together to solve problems, such as building bridges or rafts to cross water.

They are omnivorous and will eat almost anything, including insects, plants, and other animals, with some species of ants are known to farm fungus, which they use as a food source. Although largely classed as a pest when they invade our homes, ants are important for the ecosystem, as they help to aerate soil, distribute seeds, and control insect populations.

‘Ant’ the builder

Ants are capable of building some of the most complex structures in the animal kingdom, including underground tunnels and elaborate nests. The nests can range in size from a small hole in the ground to massive structures that can cover several acres. Nests are often built underground, but some species build their nests in trees or other above-ground structures. Ant nests are typically made up of chambers and tunnels, which are used for storing food, caring for young, and protecting the colony.

Some species of ants, such as leaf-cutter ants, are known for their ability to strip entire trees of their leaves to build their nests. Ants are very territorial and will defend their nests aggressively against intruders. Ants are capable of working together to solve complex problems, such as finding the shortest route to a food source or defending their nest against predators.

Ants are social insects that live in large colonies. While some species of ants are beneficial to the environment, others can become pests when they invade homes and gardens in search of food and shelter. Ants can contaminate food, damage structures, and cause allergies in some people.

Ant pest control

Dealing with an infestation of ants in your home can be extremely troubling. They usually build their nests under the ground, making the nest almost impossible to find. Controlling the ant issue may be difficult if you try to tackle this by yourself, but there are a few ways we can help you to control them. The most common treatment used by the general public before they result to employing the services of a pest controller is using ant powder, sprinkling it all over the premises causing a real mess. However, when you use home brought ant powders, you risk harming some of the other non-target species and, at the same time, there is the danger of harming animals or humans.

Chemical sprays are commonly used to kill ants, but they can also harm beneficial insects and the environment. Here at The Pest Master we use professional-grade gel for ant control because it is the ideal way of controlling the ant colony, especially if you inject it strategically or place it in bait stations. This gel is carried back to the source of the problem, the nest, where treatment occurs.

Once an ant infestation is dealt with there are a few things you could try to help prevent them returning in the future. These can include creating physical barriers such as sealing cracks and crevices, trimming vegetation, and removing food sources can also help prevent ants from entering homes and gardens.

In summary

As professionals, we don’t recommend trying ant pest control and treating your ant infestation yourself. You could potentially make matters worse or more so risk none target species and or the environment. Get in touch and let the professionals do it for you, for a longer lasting and more effective Ant treatment.

The Pests that are Rats and Mice!

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:08:33 GMT

Rats and Mice are common pests in the UK, and they can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. In this blog, we will explore why rats and mice are considered pests, the damage they can cause, and the importance of pest control in managing their populations.

Why are Rats and Mice Considered Pests?

These rodents have been considered a pest for a long time and have proven to be difficult to control if you don’t have the relevant knowledge, training and experience. They are small creatures and have great adaptability, they are fast moving and very persistent. Research shows their numbers are not declining so are very much here to stay.

Rats and mice are considered pests because they can carry diseases that are harmful to humans such as leptospirosis (weil’s disease), salmonella and hantavirus to name a few. They can also cause significant damage to your property and businesses. Both rats and mice are attracted to food sources, and they will often enter homes and businesses in search of food and shelter.

Rats and mice are prolific breeders, which means that their populations can quickly get out of control if left unchecked. Their gestational period is just 21 days for both rats and mice, meaning a population explosion can easily happen! This can lead to infestations, which can be difficult and expensive to manage.

The Damage Rats and Mice Can Cause

Rats and mice can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. They will often chew through electrical wiring, insulation, water pipes and other materials. This can lead to electrical fires, water leaks and other hazards. In addition, rats and mice can contaminate food and surfaces with their faeces and urine. This can lead to the spread of disease.

Rats and mice can also cause damage to crops and other agricultural products, leading to significant financial losses for farmers and other businesses that rely on these products.

Aside from the physical and material damage that rats and mice can cause, there is also the risk of damage to your reputation if your business gets infested. When rats and mice decide to infest commercial premises they can cause all kinds of problems.

Damage to stock can be costly and cause huge disruption with deliveries to your customers, creating a bad chain of events. This leaves you with the potential for a bad reputation. Your business could be perceived as being unclean and unhealthy, leading to a loss of trust and credibility. All of this resulting in a decrease in customer loyalty.

Employees may feel uncomfortable working in an environment with rodents, which could lead to a decrease in morale and productivity.

Most importantly when a business has an issue with rodents it can lead to legal and regulatory issues, which can result in fines and negative publicity or even imprisonment in worse cases.

The Importance of rodent Pest Control

Rodent control is essential in managing rat and mouse populations. There are several methods of pest control that can be used to manage these numbers. To achieve this, you will need a combination of measures. It is worth bearing in mind that although gaining control of an infestation is what’s needed, controls need to be put in place also to help manage numbers and continue control in the future.

When you employ pest control from someone such as The Pest Master they will first carry out a survey to figure out what the target is before they can start the necessary treatment. It’s also important for them to look at ways to reduce the likelihood of the rodents returning in the future, at times gaining full control is not always possible depending on the situation so management may be the only option.

Pest proofing your home or business is not as simple as filling in a few holes here and there with bits of foam and silicone, it is absolutely essential to make sure that the correct rodent proof materials are used. Its often only a skilled and well trained pest controller like The Pest Master that can spot the areas of concern and know which tools are best for the job.

Regular pest control services within both domestic and commercial settings can help to prevent infestations before they occur, saving homeowners and business owners time and money in the long run.

Overall rodent pest control is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy environment at home and in business. By taking proactive measures to prevent and control rodent infestations, both home and business owners can avoid potential health hazards and costly damages.

If you have concerns of a rodent issue within your home or business get in touch with The Pest Master today for help and advice on rodent pest control.

Facts About Wasps

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:02:55 GMT

During the summer months, wasp nests are highly active, with the queen producing hundreds of eggs per day while thousands of adults work to feed the grubs and continue building the nest. The eggs hatch in just 5-8 days and develop into larvae which grow for 12-25 days before transforming into pupae. Within 3-5 days, the pupae become adults, resulting in a rapid lifecycle. Adult wasps can survive for just a few weeks or up to a year for queens. The high level of activity within a wasp nest during the summer months highlights the importance of the queen in producing a large number of eggs, enabling the nest to thrive and grow quickly.

Wasps are members of the Hymenoptera order, which also includes bees and ants. Wasps are carnivorous and feed on other insects, spiders and small animals. Adult wasps also feed on sweet substances such as fruit and sugary drinks.

Lifecycle of a nest.

A single queen is all it takes to build a nest for her colony. She begins by creating internal cells and producing the first set of workers who will eventually take over the foraging tasks. This allows the queen to focus solely on laying eggs, producing hundreds each day. As the population grows, the rate of growth eventually slows down until the nest reaches a climax where growth stops altogether. At this point, the colony builds new queen cells in preparation for the next stage of their lifecycle.

Once the new queen cells are built, the queen begins to produce queen larvae while the worker foraging rate increases. However, the queen's health starts to decline and she may even die, leading to the breakdown of the colony within the nest. The wasps become erratic and start to consume each other, marking the end of the current cycle.

The young queens then leave the nest, mate, and hibernate until the next spring when the lifecycle of a new nest begins again. The process of building a new nest and establishing a colony is repeated, starting with a single queen and eventually reaching a climax before the cycle begins again.

This lifecycle of a wasp nest highlights the importance of the queen in building and maintaining the colony. Once the queen's role is fulfilled, the colony must prepare for the next stage by building new queen cells and allowing the young queens to mate and hibernate. The wasp nest lifecycle is an intricate process that ensures the survival of the colony and the continuation of the species.

Traits of wasps.

In the UK the two most likely types of wasps you will encounter are the common wasp (Vespula vulgaris) and German Wasps (Vespula germanica). Both species are striped black and yellow and can produce painful stings if threatened.

A queen wasp is usually bigger than normal wasps. She can be around 20mm long. Over the winter she will hibernate and then emerge in the spring to make her nest. Her grubs are fed on insects which helps them to grow into workers taking around 3-4 weeks.

Worker wasps which are sterile females will go in search for food. They can go as far as a mile away to do this. Towards the end of the year when it starts to get colder, food sources start to perish, wasps start to die quickly from starvation and even the cold.

Control of wasps

It is essential to employ pest control to carry out a wasp nest treatment when you detect a nest in your home or business, mainly due to the threat they pose to humans and pets. Individuals who suffer allergic reactions to wasp stings are at a high risk, and if left untreated, the nest can grow rapidly, making it more difficult and dangerous to treat.

The presence of wasps can significantly impact your business, outdoor spaces, activities, and events. It is highly recommended that you never attempt to tackle a wasp nest yourself as it can be dangerous. In most cases, a wasp nest treatment is all that is required, and the removal of the nest is not necessary. However, if the nest is accessible, it can be removed a week or so after the treatment, provided it is entirely dead. During the winter and spring months, if you discover a nest of any size, such as in your loft, it is highly likely that the nest is redundant and will not be inhabited by wasps. Wasps will never use the same nest twice, so it is safe to assume that the nest is inactive.

Always seek the advice from a professional such as The Pest Master . Someone who is skilled, has the knowledge and the specialist equipment should always be the one to carry out a wasp nest treatment, contact us today .

Nervous about Wasps?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 11:16:19 GMT

Nervous about Wasps?

Wasps are one of the scariest and potentially dangerous pests in the UK. Known for their aggressive behaviour and painful stings, they can cause significant harm to people, particularly those who are allergic. In this article, we will explore why we control wasps , how to treat wasp stings, and the importance of professional wasp control.

Why We Control Wasps

If the wasp feels threatened or you are too close to the food source that they are trying to get, there is a possibility that you may suffer an unprovoked attack. The issue is that a frightened wasp in panic mode lets off a pheromone that sends nearby wasps of the same family into a defensive, stinging frenzy. That’s correct - upset a wasp and it might call for the family in for backup.

A wasp sting can be very painful and sometimes fatal in worser cases. If you’re sensitive to wasp stings, they can send you into anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Younger people such as children and the elderly, or those that suffer with allergies can be particularly vulnerable to a sting. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and will require immediate attention. If you are with someone that has symptoms of anaphylaxis, you should call for an ambulance immediately.

Should you be worried about a large amount of wasps around your home, you should contact a professional pest controller such as The Pest Master. We have the technical knowledge and training, plus access to a range of professional use insecticides and instruments which are not available to the general public. We also have the appropriate PPE to avoid getting a nasty sting.

Treating Wasp Stings

If you’re stung by a wasp, it can be a painful experience. If you are unfortunate enough to be stung and you have difficulties breathing, feel dizzy, or start to get a swollen face, you must seek immediate medical treatment.

To treat a sting yourself, you can take some simple steps. Firstly, wash around the sting with soap and water. Secondly, apply a cold compress, like an ice pack, for at least 30 minutes. Thirdly, raise the affected area, if you can. Finally, avoid itching the stinger site and try not to use home remedies such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, as often they may make it worse. You could try a trip to your local pharmacist for advice.

Identifying Wasps' Nests

Wasps’ nests come in many different shapes and sizes. They’re amazing pieces of architecture that can contain from 15,000 wasps to 25,000 on average during peak activity in late summer. They build their nest using chewed wood and saliva to make a paper like material. The nest material is tough, light in weight, and amazingly waterproof. It can take hundreds of wasps to produce their nest.

Each wasp nest is unique in itself yet shares some characteristics with others. Pest controllers have reported finding nests in all kinds of places, such as lofts, garden sheds, compost heaps and extractor fans, even underneath cars. To work out where your wasps’ nest is, you can carefully follow worker wasps back to their nest once they start to grow in numbers. In early springtime, you might encounter a wasps’ nest the size of a ping pong ball. This would suggest it contains only the solitary queen wasp and possibly a few of her workers. Earlier in the morning or later in the evening is when the nest will contain the most wasps, there is roughly only half of the population in the nest at any one time. Contact us at The Pest Master to get treat your troublesome nest. You can get in touch through our website www.thepestmaster.co.uk by telephone 07583 124215 or email help@thepestmaster.co.uk

Wasp or Bee?

It is important to know the difference between bees and wasps to understand how to handle them. Though they can look similar, bees are a beneficial species and are rarely considered pests. They are important pollinators and are essential to our ecosystems, with an estimated third of all crops being pollination-dependent. Bees eat nectar for energy and pollen for protein, and their presence should be welcomed in gardens and outdoor spaces.

On the other hand, wasps can be dangerous and aggressive, their stings and bites can cause significant harm to people. If you are unsure whether you are dealing with bees or wasps, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional pest controller, like The Pest Master, identify whether it is a bee or a wasp, providing we can get access close to them and provide the appropriate treatment (if required) and or advice (if its bees).

In conclusion, bees and wasps may look alike, but they are vastly different in terms of their benefits and dangers to humans. Bees are essential to our ecosystems and should be protected, while wasps can be dangerous and require professional control to keep yourselves safe. Contacting The Pest Master is the best way to handle a wasp infestation and ensure your safety.

Signs That Mice Have Invaded Your Home

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 09:41:22 GMT

Signs That Mice Have Invaded Your Home

Whether you’re hearing suspicious scratching or scrambling noises in your walls, are finding black pellets in your kitchen or cellar or are finding chewed cardboard boxes in your pantry, then the likelihood is that mice have invaded your home. But there are some other questions you should ask yourself before panicking about a potential infestation, including:

What other signs should I look for if I think mice are in my home?
Where are mice likely to build their nests both in my home and in my garden?
What should I do if I suspect that there are mice in my home?

Signs that mice have invaded your home

Along with finding chewed cardboard boxes in places where you store food, whether it be for your family or your pets, there are several other signs you should be watching out for if you think that mice have come into your property, including the following:

Mice droppings

Mice droppings look like small black pellets
You’ll likely find a considerable number of droppings as mice can leave around 50-80 droppings each night
The most common places where mice droppings are found is along floorboards and outside or just inside small cracks, holes and other crevices

Grease marks

You’ll likely find grease marks against floors and walls as these make up part of the rodents’ regular scurrying route
Grease marks will appear as dark smears

Urine mounds

If you have a significant mice infestation, then their urine will combine with dirt and grease and collect as small mounds
These mounds, or pillars as they’re often referred to, usually build up to around 2 inches high and half an inch wide

Scratching or scurrying noises

Mice are most active at night, so keep an ear out for them then
These noises will likely be heard between partition walls, in false ceilings, cellars, lofts and even under the floorboards

Coming across a nest

Mice will use materials that are easy to shred to build their nests
You’ll likely come across a nest in the same locations as where the scurrying noises are coming from, if you’re hearing any
A nest can also appear under stoves and kitchen cabinets

Tracks & footprints

Dusty environments will make it obvious that you have a mice problem
Their footprints and tracks will show up far more easily in dusty or dirty areas
Check cellars, lofts and other unused areas throughout your home

Strong & unpleasant smells

Mice have a very distinct smell as they urinate rather frequently
The ammonia-like smell will linger for a considerable amount of time
The stronger the scent, the closer you will be to the mice and/or their nest

Finding a mouse, dead or alive

Finding a live mouse is concerning as they rarely inhabit a house alone
A dead mouse could indicate an old infestation
These are sure signs that there’s an existing infestation or that there was one
Regardless of whether you find one that has expired or not, you should look into mice extermination or mice removal from a professional firm, such as The Pest Master

Where are mice likely to nest in your home?

Mice are extremely inquisitive, agile and tiny creatures, so small in fact that they can weave their delicate skeletons through almost any crack, hole or crevice, regardless of how small it is. With this in mind, there are several places in your home where mice might see fit to build their nests and all because those locations are warm, quiet and have a food source nearby.

The most popular places where mice like to build their nests in your home include:

Lofts
Cellars
Eaves
Kitchens
Utility rooms
Cavity walls

Where are mice likely to nest outside your home?

It’s a common misconception that mice infestations only present themselves as a winter issue, but actually, mice can invade your home, either inside or out in the garden, at any time of the year. So where should you be looking outside your home?

Garages
Sheds
Compost bins
Vegetation

What should you do if you think there are mice in your home?

It’s imperative that you do not try to carry out mice removal or mice extermination yourself. Not only will it pose a danger to yourself, but it could also put your pets and others at risk. Professional pest control companies, such as The Pest Master, have highly-qualified, fully-trained experts at the helm of their operations and so you should look to them to rectify any infections you might have.

The Pest Master, located in the heart of the East Midlands, is able to serve Derby, Nottingham and the surrounding areas. If you suspect that you might have a mice infestation, then you’ll be able to count on The Pest Master to meticulously inspect your home, looking for all signs of mice life.

If a problem is found, then the nests will be located and humane mice removal techniques will be used to rid your home of the rodents. Once the issue has been resolved, the specialists at The Pest Master will give you clear and precise advice on how to keep these furry pests out of your home for good.

If you’d like more information about how The Pest Master can help you today, get in touch with them at a time to suit you - they can always be relied upon to perform sterling pest control services that are quickly and efficiently executed for maximum effectiveness.

How Long Do Wasps Occupy Their Nests for?

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 09:31:20 GMT

How Long Do Wasps Occupy Their Nests for?

The summer brings with it glorious sunshine, delicious barbecue lunches and long days, but you may have noticed a few pests flying around your fruity beverages and ice lollies whilst you relax on the lawn. Most likely, these are wasps and they’re out in force during the summer months.

As the queens come out of their winter hibernation, they’re in search of a new place to build their nest and it could be in your home, garden or outbuildings. If you’ve never had a problem with wasps before, you might not know what the nest looks like, where it could be or how long they’re going to stay for, so we’ll cover all of that for you in this article.

What do wasp’s nests look like?

A common characteristic of a wasp nest is that it looks like a papery ball that’s often misshapen. You’re likely to have seen one at least once in your life, but you might not have known exactly what it was. Usually, once the building of the nest has started, it can be difficult and extremely dangerous to attempt to get rid of the nest yourself, unless you call in a professional wasp’s nest remover, such as us here at The Pest Master. We have many years’ of experience in the field and have qualifications in integrated wasp management.

Where do wasps like to nest?

The location of the wasp’s nest might be obvious if it’s in your garden, because you’ll likely see a fair few of them approaching, and going inside, the nest. But if you’re finding it difficult to pinpoint exactly where the pests are hiding, then you should, with great care, look in the following places, but be sure not to touch anything if you do find something that looks to be a wasp’s nest:

In the loft or attic
In the eaves, fascias or guttering
In, or outside of, the garden shed
In, or outside of, the garage
In, or outside of, an outbuilding
In cavity walls
In holes in the ground
In tree stumps, tree bark, bushes or shrubs

If you do come across a wasp’s nest, then it’s imperative that you do not touch the wasp’s nest or attempt to remove it yourself. You will need the help of a professional pest control company, like us here at The Pest Master. We have a team of highly-trained, fully-qualified specialists who are dedicated to ridding homes and gardens of pests by way of wasp nest removal near you. We have wasp removal services in Derby, but are also able to serve the surrounding areas. Our expert team can access even the most hard-to-reach places in order to humanely and responsibly treat wasp’s nests.

How to tell if a wasp’s nest is active

One of the most simple ways to check whether or not a wasp’s nest is active is to see whether anything is flying to or away from it. There won’t be hoards of them, but you’ll likely see a steady flow of activity in and around the wasp’s nest itself. The nests are a lot less active at night, so be sure to make your observations during the day, from afar.

How long do wasps occupy their nests for?

Wasp’s nests will usually stick around for anywhere between three and five months. It could be less or more than that, it really does depend on the occupants, unfortunately. If you leave the nest alone for the duration of their stay, they’ll simply leave the nest and the queens will hibernate for the winter, worker wasps will generally die off. This will, essentially, leave a shell of a nest behind.

If you do not want the nest to stick around for that long, or if it’s in an inconvenient place, then it’s possible to have the wasp’s nest treated professionally. Don’t put up with these pests for longer than you need to, get it treated as soon as possible so as to avoid any danger to yourself or your family.

Although wasps aren’t dangerous if you leave them alone, if they are disturbed, or upset, things can get nasty very quickly. They’re a pest that most people dislike, so it’s important to rid your property of them once and for all, whether it be in a domestic or commercial setting - Look to The Pest Master for effective wasp nest treatment services in Derby and the nearby areas.

The Pest Master are experts in wasp nest removals in Derby . No matter how many there are, or the size of the nest itself, you can rest assured that we’ll be able to treat the nest in the most responsible, humane manner. Regardless of whether you have a domestic or commercial property, we’ll be able to help. For more information, get in touch with a member of our professional, knowledgeable team today - we’re always here, whenever you need us.

Wasps approaching the summer and what to expect.

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 09:21:52 GMT

Wasps approaching the summer and what to expect.

As we are approaching the summer months it is that time where we are most likely to start spotting wasps around our homes and gardens. Wasps hibernate in the winter months and only the queen will survive, she will then start to awaken and select the place she wants to start building her home and raising her family. These nests can be built in many different locations, such as underground, in bushes, sheds and outbuildings and actually inside your property – generally the cavity walls and inside your loft.

As the weeks go on and the weather gets hotter you will start to see more activity and may start to notice a constant stream of wasps coming in and out of a particular area. This would generally indicate that there is a nest very close by.

Be sure to be careful.

As we know wasps can be very aggressive if they feel threatened, we would always recommend giving them a wide birth and calling in a professional pest control company like ourselves to treat the nest safely and in a controlled manner.

It is very dangerous to try to tackle a wasp nest yourself and can lead to you being hurt. Wasps can sting multiple times without dying, unlike bees. Wasp venom contains a mixture of chemicals, including histamine, acetylcholine, and serotonin, which can cause pain, swelling, and itching. Some people may have an allergic reaction to wasp stings, which can cause more severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, and anaphylaxis. Wasp stings can be prevented by avoiding wearing brightly coloured clothing, avoiding sweet or sugary foods and drinks, and keeping food covered when eating outdoors.

Wasp nests under construction.

At the start of the summer the nest will be around the size of an egg but will rapidly change in size as the weeks go on, leading to a typical size nest which will be the size of a football. An average size nest will typically hold around 20-25,000 wasps so when tackling any nest you are heavily outnumbered.

The nests are constructed of wood that has been stripped by the wasp using saliva and regurgitated into a pulp. It looks and feels like a paper substance which is actually very strong. The way in which they construct the nice is fascinating. After building the foundation of the nest the wasp will then create a series of hexagonal cells on the foundation. Each cell is constructed using the same mixture of saliva and wood fibres. The cells are arranged in a pattern, with each row slightly offset from the previous one.

Once the cells are constructed, the female wasp will lay an egg in each one. The eggs will hatch into larvae, which will feed on insects or other prey that the female wasp brings back to the nest. As the colony grows, the female wasp will add additional layers to the nest, with each layer containing more cells. The female wasp will secrete a protective layer over the outside of the nest, which helps to protect the colony from predators and the elements. The construction of a wasp nest can take several weeks or even months, depending on the size of the colony and the availability of resources.

Protecting the nest.

Wasp’s nest will have guards around the entry point and sometimes on the outside of the nest. Their job is to solely protect the nest from predators. The guards can identify every member of their colony. Generally speaking, when you see wasps hovering on the outside of a nest they are awaiting permission from the guards to enter.

Not only are the guards making sure that the wasp is a member of their family and that they belong to that nest, they are also checking for signs of illness, prior to allowing that wasp access inside. It is very clever how the whole process works. If the guard wasps decide that you are a threat, they will generally attack whilst leaving a pheromone on you so that all the other wasps within the nest can also attack you!

Wasps are attracted to the light. If you suspect you have a nest in the loft or the shed the last thing you want to do is to go close to the nest whilst shining a light around it. This is a sure way of getting yourself attacked, if you are in a loft there is usually only one way out!

For more information about wasp nest treatments or wasp nest removals , whether you need to have a wasp nest removed from domestic or commercial property, get in touch with a member of our knowledgeable, specialist team today - we’re always on hand to help, whenever you need us.

How to Keep Rats & Mice Out of Your Garden

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 16:05:47 GMT

How to Keep Rats & Mice Out of Your Garden

Your garden is a relaxing haven, not just for you, but for your guests. As we enter the spring season, it’s only natural for homeowners alike to venture out into their outdoor spaces to enjoy the warm sunshine and fresh breezes that spring brings with it. However, there are some people who might go out into their gardens for the first time since winter only to come across rats or mice who have chosen to make your garden their new home. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to spot signs of a rodent infestation and how to remove rodents from your outdoor spaces, together with some tips for deterring these furry pests.

4 signs of rodents in your garden

It’s an unfortunate experience to find that rodents have chosen your garden as their home for the foreseeable future, but the signs aren’t always obvious. Where you might think that your garden is safe from nesting mice and rats, it could be quite the opposite situation, if you know how, and where, to look. Here are a few signs that you have rodents living in your garden:

You see them - this might seem like an obvious one, but it can be typical for a homeowner to see a rat or mouse on their land and assume it’s a one-off case. Unfortunately, it’s likely that there are many others and they won’t be far away. Just one rodent can be a sign of a larger infestation, so don’t ignore it.

Plants seem to be disappearing - people often find, when infested with rodents, that new plants, seedlings and even sprouts seemingly disappear from their gardens. This is usually because rats will burrow underneath the earth, meaning they’re ripped from their roots. Although, other animals, such as rabbits, hares and deer, are partial to a few fresh plants, so it could be down to those creatures as opposed to rats and mice.

You find tunnels underground - whether you’re digging out for a new extension or want to plant a tree in your back garden that needs to be deep-rooted, if you come across what you believe to be tunnels then, chances are, you could have a rat infestation. Keep in mind, however, that the tunnels will be particularly small, but if you suspect that it could be a passageway for unwanted visitors, then call the professionals.

Bad smells & droppings - the last thing that you might see if you have a rodent infestation is droppings. If the infestation is large, then you’ll likely see a lot of droppings scattered in different places. They often present themselves in small piles and you’ll also find that it comes with a very distinctive, unpleasant smell.

The places you should pay particular attention to if you want to locate a rodent infestation are as follows, but it’s important you do not touch the nest or any animals that reside in there - call The Pest Master:

Compost piles
Wood piles
Bird feeders
Under decking
Recycling bins
General bins
In the garden shed
Underneath the garden shed
Overgrown and unkempt gardens
Down the side of outbuildings
Anywhere that’s confined and away from sunlight

How to remove a rodent infestation from your garden

It is imperative that rodent infestations, once identified, are dealt with humanely, responsibly and professionally. Where you might think that you can tackle the problem yourself with shop-bought remedies and solutions, such as poisons and traps, the process is far more complicated and needs to be handled with the utmost care.

This is to protect other wildlife, pets and even humans from secondary poisoning, which is a criminal offence if caught poisoning a non-target species. It’s important to note that secondary poisoning can easily, unfortunately, affect birds, foxes, badgers, hedgehogs and more.

This is where The Pest Master comes in. We pride ourselves on ridding people of rat infestations and mice infestations whilst helping to protect against it in the future. Not only that, but we can also help you to identify and confirm your suspicions before we go ahead with rodent extermination services . This is the only way in which a rat infestation or a mouse infestation can be removed.

How to keep rodents out of your garden

There are many ways in which you can deter rodents from your garden. If you choose The Pest Master to help you, we’ll put those measures in place for you as well as provide you with expert, specialist and bespoke advice so you’re aware of what you can do to try and keep your garden rodent-free. Some of the things you can do include:

Keeping your bins in a bin store
Keeping food and compost heaps off the floor
Keep your lawn neat, tidy and cut to a decent length
Remove bird feeders if this is attracting the animals to your garden
Remove their habitats altogether, including log stores
Improve the sanitation of your garden in general, such as keeping bins clean
Try replacing hedges with fences if you’re having a real problem with rodents

Although, it should be noted that The Pest Master cannot guarantee that rats and mice won’t choose your garden to nest in again. But by putting the right measures in place, you’ll be able to deter any rodents who are looking for a new home.

The Pest Master has a team of dedicated, highly-trained pest control professionals at the helm of everything we do. Whether you have a rodent infestation, a bug problem or anything in between, you’ll have absolute peace of mind that our qualified team of technicians will be on hand to help. If you would like further information about how we can help you today, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team - we’re always pleased to hear from you.

Where Do Rats & Mice Nest?

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 10:49:57 GMT

Where Do Rats & Mice Nest?

As the winter weather rolls in, rats and mice seek out warm and secure areas, with easy access to food and water, to build their nests and that could involve the use of your property, whether it be in your garden, garage or even your home.

So what do these rodents look for when building a nest, how can you get rid of them and what can you do to prevent it happening again? The Pest Master is on hand to answer all of your questions surrounding mice and rat nest removal in Derby.

What do rodents look for when building a nest?

Despite being relatively similar, rats and mice look for different things when it comes to building their own nests. With one animal looking for warm and secure places to raise their young where the other would rather have a reliable food and water source nearby.

Depending on where you find a particular nest, it can be determined which pest you’re dealing with. However, if you call a professional in, such as the experts here at The Pest Master, to undertake rodent control services in Derby , then we can carry out the following:

A meticulous survey
Rodent proofing
Habitat manipulation
Thorough sanitation

This will give you absolute peace of mind that your rodent infestation is under control and preventative measures put in place to help ensure the problem doesn’t reoccur. Although, regular visits by our specialist team will help to keep these pests at bay.

What do rats look for?

Rats look for somewhere warm and secure in a bid to raise their young. The location they opt for is also likely to be sheltered, although if groundwater levels rise, it can force them to relocate. Although they’re more likely to build their nests under sheds or in garages, there is a chance that they could inhabit your home if the right measurements aren’t put in place.

Quick and easy access to food and water is also something rats will seek out when choosing a place to build their nest. On average, rats eat around 30g of food and drink approximately 60ml of water every day and so nearby food and water sources are paramount for their survival.

However, the areas they search in order to find water and food will be within a very short radius of their nest as they’re notoriously cautious animals. Once a rat relocates, they’ll be very careful about when and how far they travel for food and water until they become more established.

Rats will also seek out ideal nesting materials unless a property has already provided that for them. They’ll look for warm and dry areas with soft surroundings as this is the ideal environment for birthing and raising their young. Rats will use the following materials to fill their nests:

Shredded newspaper
Grass
Leaves
Cardboard
Loft insulation
Wool
Cloth or fabric scraps
Old pieces of clothing

In summary, rats look for:

Sheltered, warm and dry locations
Quick and easy access to food and water
Safe and secure areas
Soft nesting materials

What do mice look for?

It doesn’t take much for a male and female mouse to establish themselves somewhere on your property. Once they’re settled, they’ll waste no time in building their nest as, like most animals, their sole aim is survival. There are plenty of reasons why mice will look to build a nest so quickly, including:

To breed
To keep themselves warm and dry
To store their food
To protect their young against predators
To raise their young

Unlike rats, mice build nests solely to breed and protect their offspring and so they’ll want to make their nests as warm, secure and comfortable as possible. Mice will scavenge materials from around your home, looking for a number of different materials, such as the following:

Food wrappers
String
Fabric scraps and rags
Mattress and pillow stuffing
Loft insulation
Torn pieces of clothing
Newspaper
Shredded pieces of cardboard
Fibreglass

If you notice any chewed or gnawed materials throughout your home, then the likelihood is that you have mice nesting somewhere on or in your property. A mouse’s nest isn’t neatly built, in fact, it’s rather messy. They’ll gather as many ideal materials as possible and bundle them all into a ball, with no particular order or process in mind. As long as it’s soft, warm and safe, they’ll be happy.

In summary, mice look for:

Safe and secure locations
Dry and warm areas
Soft nesting materials

Where do rodents nest?

Where rats and mice look for different things when building their nests, the locations in which they decide to establish themselves are also somewhat different. Where one animal will be happy in your loft, the other will be content under your garden shed or even beneath your decking. But where is each rodent most likely to build their nest?

Where do rats like to build their nests?

Rats aren’t particularly fussy about the location of their nest, just as long as food and water is nearby and the area is sheltered and warm. But if you’re worried about having rats on your property, then you’re most likely to find a nest in the following places:

Sheds
Outbuildings
Garages
In the garden
Basements or cellars
Attics or lofts
In the walls

You’re less likely to see a rat during the day as they’re nocturnal animals. They like to leave their nests and forage through dusk and dawn when you’re in bed. But by checking the aforementioned areas, you’ll be able to easily determine whether you’re dealing with a rat infestation or not. However, if you want to be 100% sure, you should call upon a specialist to help you, such as The Pest Master.

Here at The Pest Master, we have a reliable rat control service in Derby that can be utilised by both domestic and commercial clients. When dealing with rat infestations, our team of highly-qualified professionals will:

Inspect your property, identifying possible nesting sites
Treat the problem as quickly, effectively and humanely as possible
Protect your property against subsequent infestations
Maintain that protection with periodic visits at a time and day to suit you

Where do mice like to build their nests?

Mice like to construct their nests outside rather than inside, most of the time. However, if they think your home best mimics their perfect outdoor nest, then they’ll waste no time in moving into your house. Mice are likely to build their nests in the following places:

Underground, outdoor areas
Beneath the floorboards
Ceiling insulation
Loft insulation
Garages
Under kitchen cupboards
Under white goods
In between the walls
Undergrowth in the garden

The Pest Master has a highly-effective mice control service in Derby that’ll help to banish these particular rodents from your property for good. Much like with our rat control service, we’ll seek out mice nests, efficiently and humanely treat the problem, protect your home and maintain that protection with regular home visits all for your absolute peace of mind.

How can you get rid of rodents’ nests?

If you find a mice or rats’ nest, you shouldn’t touch it or disturb it in any way. Instead, you should call a pest control professional to deal with the problem in a safe and effective manner. With that in mind, you can always rely on The Pest Master to provide you with a professional, expert service that can always be counted upon.

Where there are several self-treatments available, they should be carefully considered. The misuse of such treatments can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment as home remedies need to be carried out in accordance with the law. If you choose The Pest Master for rodent control services in Derby, then you can rest assured that we’ll always act within the bounds of the law every single time.

It’s also important that rodent removal is done as safely as possible in order to protect those residing in your home. The Pest Master will ensure both yourself and your family will be safe at all times when ridding your property of such pests.

Why should you choose The Pest Master for rodent control in Derby?

Fast, effective and humane treatments will be carried out
Visits will be arranged at a time and day to suit your lifestyle
All pest control removals are carried out with everyone’s safety in mind
Inspections, treatments and preventative measures are conducted meticulously

If you’d like further information about our rodent control services in Derby, get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team today - we endeavour to provide expert rat control and mice control services throughout the East Midlands, keeping our clients and their safety at the forefront of everything we do.

How to Rodent-Proof Your Property for Winter

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 13:18:27 GMT

At this time of year our rodent control services begin to get extremely busy, as the autumn and winter seasons start to set in, there’ll be a considerable drop in temperature. As a result, all the rodents hiding around your property, that were comfortable staying outside in the warm summer weather, will now look for warmth and shelter elsewhere and that often means gaining access to nearby buildings, including your home, office, warehouse or another property you own.

In a bid to prevent these creatures from entering your indoor space, you should take the necessary steps required to protect yourself, your belongings and any occupants your property has from these furry pests. As such, The Pest Master is on hand to provide you with a quick and easy guide to preventing rats, mice and other rodents from accessing your property.

Store food adequately

Make sure you store food properly in air-tight containers and tie up food that’s stored in bags. You should also look to lift any food up off the floor, even if they’re sealed and unopened. This is common in supermarket warehouses, so look to put them on trolleys, pallets or cages instead.

You should also be mindful of dropping food on the floor as even the smallest crumb can seem like a tasty snack to a pesky rodent. If crumbs continually land on the floor, then it might cause a rat or a mouse to hang around your property, waiting for the next delicious morsel to come along.

Areas you should keep swept and crumb-free, whether it be in your home or in a commercial premises, include:

Kitchens
Dining rooms
Communal areas
Canteens

In addition to that, when sweeping a kitchen for crumbs, you should look underneath or down the side of white goods and appliances, such as fridges, freezers, washing machines, countertops and even vegetable racks. Whether it’s a commercial or domestic setting, meticulous inspection and regular clean up operations will help to keep rodents at bay.

Close all holes and gaps throughout your property

If you don’t want rodents to gain access to your property, then you should look to seal any gaps that might be present throughout your home or commercial building. Mice and rats can squeeze their way through exceptionally small holes, so don’t underestimate their ability to wriggle in between even the tightest of gaps.

As such, you should look to close off any entry points that measure wider than a quarter of an inch. Some of the things you can do include:

Checking window screens for rips, tears or holes and then fixing or replacing it
Sealing cracks in walls or ceilings
Installing wire mesh in any holes in or around the building’s foundations
Identifying damaged pipes or ones that enter your property and then filling them with caulk or mesh
Capping your chimney if you do not have a use for it - rodents are brilliant climbers

Store your firewood off the ground

If you have a log burner in your home, then it’s likely you store your firewood outside and on the ground. Unfortunately, stacked wooden logs provide the perfect habitat for rodents looking for warmth and cover in the winter weather and this is far more likely if you keep your lumber on the ground.

You should remove the temptation by lifting your wooden logs up off the floor. It’s also important that you store it as far away from your property as possible as the rodents who once lived in your collection of wood will find your home to be far more comfortable. Therefore, by keeping your logs close to your house, you’ll be making the transition far too easy for them.

Have a brush strip installed

Installing a brush strip to the bottom of all exterior doors will help to keep rodents out of your property, this will ensure that even the smallest of gaps are blocked off effectively. You’ll often find this problem with older or poorly-fitted doors. As an added bonus, this step will also help to keep your building warm in cold weather, thus saving you money on your energy bills.

Declutter your property and any outdoor spaces

Look around your building and any outdoor areas, keeping an eye out for clutter. Gardens are particularly subject to debris, including piles of rubble and soil. Any clutter throughout the property should also be removed and you’ll need to take the necessary steps to avoid it building up in the future. Keeping boxes and other items off the floor will rid the rodents of ideal hiding spaces.

Ask The Pest Master to help

The Pest Master is proud to be able to provide our customers throughout Derby, Nottingham and the surrounding areas with effective pest control services. Here at The Pest Master, we have a team of highly-skilled, fully-trained pest control experts, ensuring our clients receive exceptional service every single time.

We’re able to travel to your property and carry out a full assessment of the situation at hand. As such, we’ll provide you with an ideal solution that’ll help to eradicate the problem, whether it be with rats, mice, squirrels or other rodents. Our pest removal services can include the humane extermination of the creatures that made your property their home.

We’re also able to make return visits to your commercial building, ensuring the right measures are put in place to keep the problem at bay. Some rodent issues require multiple rounds of pest control treatment and that’ll also include advising you on how best to keep pests out of your property.

If you would like further information about how The Pest Master can help you to rectify your rat infestation, mice infestation or another rodent infestation, then get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team today - we’re always happy to help restore your property to its former glory, ensuring it’ clean, tidy and safe to occupy once again.

How to Spot an Active Wasp Nest & What to do About it

help@thepestmaster.co.uk (Sarah Beck) — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 10:05:58 GMT

How to Spot an Active Wasp Nest & What to do About it

The warm, sunny weather provides the ideal environmental conditions for wasps to build their nests. There’s generally a sharp increase in the number of active wasps found throughout the summer season, usually in June or July, weather permitting. Depending on when the queen wasp has completed her hibernation, wasps can build their nests earlier, in the spring, or later, mid-summer.

Either way, finding a wasp nest on your property, no matter where it is, is highly-inconvenient and often dangerous - wasps can become aggressive towards the end of the summer as they fight to protect their nest. That’s why it’s important that you understand what a wasp nest looks like, the signs of an active one and what you can do to rectify the wasp nest problem - that’s where The Pest Master comes in.

What do wasp nests look like?

Wasp nests are usually light brown and have a somewhat papery, delicate appearance. They’ll often look like they’ve been made from tiny pieces of timber and other woody materials as the nest builds up over time.

During late spring and early summer, the nests will be relatively small, around the size of a tennis ball in most cases. Although you won’t get the opportunity, in most cases, to look inside a wasp nest, the interior is made of small chambers where the queen will lay her eggs. These eggs will develop into larvae, which will eventually grow into adults, thus creating a pest problem.

As the number of wasps inside grows, the nest will become far more established and it’ll often increase in size, dramatically. It’s at this stage where requests to come and remove wasps nests come in, although it can be much more effective to provide wasp nest treatment as opposed to complete wasp nest removal.

The signs of an active wasp nest

There aren’t too many signs to look out for when it comes to identifying an active wasp nest, but the major observation is seeing a large number of wasps flying to and/or from the nest. Noise is something else you should listen out for, such as excessive buzzing or rustling. This would then be the time to call The Pest Master as we can arrange an effective, fast wasp nest removal solution.

In most cases, this will involve treating the wasp nest as opposed to removing it completely and it’ll be done professionally and efficiently by our highly-skilled, fully-trained team of specialists. It might involve a number of treatment courses, but it’s extremely effective at rectifying the problem promptly.

It’s important to note, however, that if you find a large wasp nest during the spring or early in the summer, it’s unlikely to be active. Wasps won’t return to old nests from previous seasons, so those shells can simply be removed by our friendly team of experts.

What should I do if I find a wasp nest?

It’s important that you call a professional to inspect the issue, identify that the nest is active and then deal with it accordingly, such as carrying out wasp nest treatments or, in some cases, wasp nest removals. The Pest Master will be able to provide you with a thorough, meticulous service that’s guaranteed to resolve the issue, whether the nest has been built on domestic or commercial property.

Although, you must never attempt to remove or carry out wasp extermination yourself as this can be extremely dangerous, especially if they’re already acting aggressively. They’ll only become more volatile if you start to interfere or enter their space. Our team will have all of the appropriate equipment and protective clothing needed to resolve the problem, so leave it to us to sort it all for you.

For more information about wasp nest treatments or wasp nest removals in Derby , whether you need to have a wasp nest removed from domestic or commercial property, get in touch with a member of our knowledgeable, specialist team today - we’re always on hand to help, whenever you need us.