(07) 5574 0269The Gold Coast has many common pests that can thrive in homes, including rodents, cockroaches, spiders, ants and fleas. Sometimes simple measures can reduce the attractiveness of the places where we live to pests. In this article we detailed how some of these non-chemical measures can inhibit infestations.
RODENTS
Rats and mice frequently find protection in living around human beings. Roof spaces and even the internal areas of houses and units protect them from exposure to the weather and predators. Also, food and water can frequently he found in and around homes. Ensuring that pet food is not left out after pets are finished eating and ensuring that food is always stored in plastic containers and made was inaccessible as possible is probably the most important thing that can be done. Also, rats and mice are often seek the protection of houses when weather is stormy or very cold and wet and they can be quite clever in finding ways into the house. Frequently, they get access to roof voids where trees overhang guttering etc. all where there are openings in the external walls of the house. Regular pruning of trees close to the house and filling of any holes or openings limits their ability to get inside.
COCKROACHES
Cockroaches require regular food and water and therefore good cleaning practices makes the home was attractive to them. Keeping surfaces clean and dry can deny them what they need to survive.
ANTS
Ants are also attracted to the inside of homes by the presence of food. Black ants are generally shorter eaters and are generally attracted to the sweetened foods. Brown ants on the other hand favour fats and proteins and are frequently attracted to pet food that is left after animals are finished eating. Nevertheless, black ants can also be attracted to pet food. Ensuring that the pet food is not left out reduces the attraction. It is also beneficial to wipe up any spills or crumbs immediately and vacuum / mop floors more regularly.
FLEAS
Fleas are frequently introduced into the home on pets. If the pets pick up fleas outside they will quickly pest infest the internal areas of houses. It’s amazing how quickly fleas can get onto dogs and cats. It can happen away from the house while the pets are being walked but frequently they pick up fleas in their own yard. When neighbours allow their cats to roam at night they can easily go from yard to yard spreading fleas as they go. This also happens when feral cats are in the vicinity. Rodents are also carriers of fleas in this way. Clearly there is not much that can be done to stop neighbours who release their cats at night but by ensuring that your pets are regularly treated for fleas by the vet will significantly reduce the chance of fleas infesting the inside of homes.
