When Should You Hire a Pest Professional

Bees play a crucial role in the environment, pollinating plants and supporting the health of ecosystems. However, when they decide to create a hive in or near your home, it can be problematic. Not only can a bee infestation cause potential damage to your property, but it can also pose safety concerns for you and your family. Fortunately, there are various measures you can take to prevent bees from establishing a hive in your home. We will explore the reasons why bees might be attracted to your home, signs of bee activity, and most importantly, practical steps to deter bees from building a hive in or around your property. Whether you live in a rural area, suburban neighborhood, or urban environment, these tips can help you maintain a bee-free home while also considering the welfare of the bees. Why do Bees Choose to Build Hives in Homes? Bees typically prefer to build their hives in quiet, secluded, and sheltered locations that offer easy access to food sources (such as flowers and plants). In urban or suburban areas, homes often provide ideal spaces for bees to establish their colonies. Some of the most common reasons why bees might decide to settle in or near your home include: Available Shelter Bees are looking for safe, protected areas to build their hives. This can include hollowed-out tree trunks, attics, walls, and even cracks or crevices in the structure of your house. If your home has areas with unsealed gaps or cracks in the foundation, bees may find these spaces ideal for nesting. Proximity to Food Sources Bees forage for nectar and pollen from nearby flowers, trees, and plants. If your home is surrounded by blooming plants, fruit trees, or flowering shrubs, bees may be attracted to these areas. Additionally, gardens and outdoor spaces that are kept well-maintained and rich with flowers are more likely to attract bees. Lack of Competition In urban areas, bees may struggle to find safe places to establish hives due to a lack of natural habitats. Homes with specific attributes, like attics or wall cavities, can be seen as prime real estate for bees, especially if nearby spaces are already occupied by other bee colonies. Suitable Nesting Conditions Bees prefer nesting sites that are dry, safe from predators, and protected from the elements. A crack in a wall or a gap under a roof can provide an ideal location for bees to establish their hive. The warm temperature inside walls or attics also makes these areas particularly appealing. Common Signs of Bee Activity in or Around Your Home Before taking preventive action, it's essential to recognize the signs of bee activity. If you see any of the following indications, it's a good idea to act quickly to prevent a colony from settling in your home. Increased Bee Traffic One of the most obvious signs of a potential hive is an increase in the number of bees around your home. If you notice large swarms of bees flying in and out of a specific area, such as near a crack in your wall, roof eaves, or vents, it's likely they are trying to establish a colony. Buzzing Sounds from Inside Walls or Attic If you hear a persistent buzzing sound coming from inside your walls or attic, it could be a sign that bees are already building a hive in those spaces. This sound is caused by the movement of thousands of bees working together within their hive. Visible Bee Nest or Hive In some cases, you may see the hive itself or the honeycomb structure. If bees are building their nest in an exposed area like a window sill, chimney, or around your front door, it's easy to spot the activity. Be cautious around visible hives, as disturbing them can provoke aggressive behavior from the bees. Dead Bees Around Your Property Another common sign that bees are nesting nearby is the presence of dead bees on your windowsills, porch, or other outdoor areas. This is often a sign that bees are either foraging for food or are trapped inside your home. What are ways to Stop Bees from Creating a Hive? Seal Cracks and Gaps in Your Home’s Exterior: Bees are experts at finding small cracks, gaps, and holes in the structure of your home. These entry points provide them with easy access to the secluded spaces where they like to build their hives. To prevent bees from entering your home: - Inspect your home regularly: Check for cracks, holes, and other potential entry points around doors, windows, walls, rooflines, and vents. Pay particular attention to areas that may have been damaged by weather, pests, or age. - Use sealants and caulk: After identifying entry points, use caulking or sealants to fill in the gaps. This is especially important around windows, doors, and attic vents. For larger gaps, consider using expanding foam insulation. - Repair roof shingles: Bees can find their way into your attic if there are gaps or loose shingles on your roof. Regular roof inspections and repairs will help eliminate potential entryways for bees. Install Bee-Proof Mesh or Screens For areas where you can’t completely seal a gap, such as around ventilation pipes or attic vents, consider installing a fine mesh or screen that prevents bees from entering. Be sure the mesh has very small holes that prevent even the smallest bees from getting through. Check and replace these screens regularly to ensure they remain intact. Keep Your Home and Yard Clean and Well-Maintained Bees are attracted to homes and yards with abundant food sources, such as flowers and fruit trees. While you don’t need to eliminate all the plants on your property, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the appeal of your home to bees: - Maintain your garden**: While bees are essential pollinators, keeping your garden tidy can reduce their attractiveness. Regularly prune flowers, remove dead blooms, and ensure that flowers and fruit trees are not overly abundant. - Remove fallen fruit**: Fallen fruit on the ground is a prime attraction for bees. Make sure to pick up any fallen fruit or flowers that might encourage bees to linger around your property. - Avoid excessive water sources**: Bees need water for their colonies, and sometimes standing water in birdbaths, fountains, or other water features can draw bees to your property. Make sure to drain or cover water features when not in use. Use Bee Repellent Certain scents can act as natural bee repellents. If you're having trouble with bee activity around your home, consider using natural methods to discourage bees from settling in or near your home. - Citrus oils: Bees dislike citrus scents. You can use essential oils such as lemon, citronella, or orange to deter bees. Simply dilute the oil in water and spray it around entry points or areas where you’ve noticed bee activity. - Vinegar: Bees also dislike the scent of vinegar. Mix vinegar with water and spray it around doorways, windowsills, or other areas where bees are entering. The strong odor will discourage them from entering. - Cinnamon: Sprinkling ground cinnamon around entry points can be an effective bee deterrent. Bees find the scent of cinnamon repulsive, so using it around your home can help prevent them from getting too close. - Mint: Bees dislike mint, so planting mint around your property or using peppermint oil as a spray can help keep them at bay. Avoid Attracting Bees with Sweets Sweet foods and drinks are powerful attractants for bees. If you are eating outside or hosting a barbecue, be sure to clean up spills and store food and drinks in sealed containers. This reduces the chances of attracting bees to your property. Hire a Professional Pest Control Service If you've taken all the preventive measures and are still dealing with a bee problem, it may be time to call in a professional pest control service. A qualified beekeeper or pest control expert can help safely remove a colony of bees without harming them. They will also provide advice on how to further secure your home and prevent future infestations. What to Do If Bees Have Already Built a Hive? If you discover a hive in or near your home, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Bees are vital pollinators, and many species are protected by law. Additionally, disturbing a hive can provoke aggressive behavior, which can result in painful stings or even allergic reactions. Contact a Pest Control Service Pest control specialists are trained to safely handle bee infestations. A professional can remedy the problem and prevent the bees from re-establishing a hive in that area. Preventing bees from creating a hive in your home requires vigilance, maintenance, and care. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can reduce the likelihood of a bee infestation while keeping both your home and the bees safe. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and natural deterrents can go a long way in ensuring that your home remains bee-free without causing harm to these vital pollinators.

Protecting Your Home from Cold-Weather Intruders As winter approaches and temperatures drop, most of us assume that pest problems are a thing of the past. However, for many pests, the colder months don’t signal the end of their activity—they simply look for new, cozier places to live. Your home, with its warmth and shelter, becomes an attractive refuge for various pests seeking to escape the harsh weather outside. So how do you ensure that you are creating memories with family and friends instead of with pests this winter? Seal Off Entry Points The first line of defense against winter pests is preventing them from entering your home in the first place. Mice, rats, spiders, and other insects are adept at finding tiny cracks and openings, so your first step should be to perform a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior. Key Areas to Check: - Doors and windows: Ensure weather stripping is intact, and seal any gaps or cracks in door frames or window sills. - Foundations and walls: Inspect the foundation for any cracks that could provide entry. Use caulk or expanding foam to seal these openings. - Vents and chimneys: Ensure all vents are properly screened, and check chimney caps for gaps. - Utility lines: Examine areas where utility lines (gas, water, electricity) enter the home, as these can be easy access points for rodents and insects. By ensuring that pests cannot get inside, you’ll greatly reduce the likelihood of an infestation during the winter months. Eliminate Attractants Many pests are attracted to your home by food and shelter. If you can remove these incentives, you'll reduce the risk of an infestation. Food Sources : - Store food properly: Keep food in sealed containers, particularly in pantries and cupboards. Rodents and insects like ants can easily be attracted to even the smallest crumbs. - Clean up thoroughly: Sweep up food crumbs, vacuum regularly, and take out the trash frequently. Food debris left in hidden corners is an open invitation to pests. - Pet food**: Don’t leave pet food out overnight, and store it in sealed containers. Shelter and Nesting Areas: - Declutter: Pests like rats and mice love to nest in piles of clutter, so keep your home organized. Clear out boxes, piles of clothing, or anything that could serve as a hiding spot. - Firewood storage: If you use firewood during winter, make sure to store it away from your home. Storing firewood too close to the house can attract pests like termites, ants, and rodents. Regularly Inspect and Maintain the Home Pests don’t just arrive out of nowhere—they often take advantage of vulnerabilities that have been ignored over time. By inspecting your home regularly, you can catch problems before they get out of hand. Key Areas to Inspect: - Attic: Attics are often overlooked but can be prime entry points for pests like rodents. Check for signs of gnawing, droppings, or nests in these areas. - Attic insulation: Insulation can sometimes hide signs of pests, so inspect carefully for damage or signs of rodent activity. - Gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can create damp conditions that attract pests like termites, ants, or mold. Keep gutters clear to avoid these problems. A seasonal home inspection, focusing on potential pest entry points and conditions conducive to pest activity, is a proactive way to keep winter invaders outside. Control Moisture and Humidity Cold winter air is dry, but homes can still become humid, especially in areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Excess moisture creates an ideal environment for pests like cockroaches, ants, and even mold, which can attract various other pests. Tips for Moisture Control: - Use dehumidifiers: A dehumidifier can be particularly effective in areas with high humidity, such as basements or crawl spaces. - Fix leaks: Repair any leaks in pipes or roofing to prevent water accumulation. Damp spots are ideal hiding places for pests. - Ventilate: Ensure that areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, are properly ventilated. This can prevent condensation and mold growth. Consider Professional Pest Control Sometimes, despite our best efforts, pests still find a way inside. If you’re dealing with a significant infestation or simply want to be extra cautious, hiring a professional pest control service can be a great option. Why Professional Services Might Be Needed: - Expertise: Pest control professionals have the training and experience to quickly identify and address a wide range of pest problems. - Long-term solutions: Professionals don’t just treat the symptoms—they can provide long-term solutions to prevent re-infestation. - Safe and effective treatments: Many commercial pesticides can be harmful to humans and pets. A professional service will use safe, targeted methods to eliminate pests without risking the health of your family or pets. Monitor for Signs of Infestation Even with the best preventative measures, winter pests may still find a way inside. It’s important to remain vigilant and monitor for any signs of infestation, so you can take quick action if needed. Signs of a Pest Problem: - Droppings: Mice and rats leave behind small droppings, often in places where they have been active. - Gnaw marks: Rodents, in particular, will chew on materials like wood, insulation, or electrical wires. Look for chewed-up areas. - Nests: If you find nests made of paper, fabric, or insulation, it’s a clear indication that pests have taken up residence. - Sounds: Scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night, are a telltale sign of rodent activity. Winter pests are more than just a nuisance—they can pose health risks, cause damage to your property, and make your home uncomfortable. By being proactive and taking the necessary steps to secure your home, eliminate attractants, and monitor for early signs of trouble, you can enjoy a pest-free winter. And remember, if the problem persists or worsens, don't hesitate to contact a pest control professional to tackle the issue before it becomes a major concern. With a little effort, you can keep your home cozy and pest-free all winter long.

When you think of raccoons, you might envision their adorable masked faces, nimble paws, and playful antics. Often dubbed "nature's bandits," these creatures have captivated many with their cute appearance and curious nature. However, beneath that charming exterior lies a reality that can be quite different from the adorable image we often have. There are five things that people so not consider when stuck in the gaze of their cuteness. The Mischievous Nature Raccoons are highly intelligent animals known for their problem-solving abilities. While this intelligence can be entertaining, it often translates into mischievous and sometimes destructive behavior. Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through garbage cans, stealing pet food, and raiding bird feeders. Their dexterous front paws allow them to open containers, flip latches, and manipulate objects with surprising skill. This behavior isn’t merely for fun; it’s a survival tactic. Raccoons are omnivores and opportunistic feeders, meaning they’ll take advantage of whatever food sources are available to them. Unfortunately, this often leads them into conflict with humans, as they scavenge in urban areas for easy meals. Health Risks Beyond their antics, raccoons can pose health risks. They are known carriers of various diseases, including rabies, which can be transmitted to pets and humans. Their feces can also harbor parasites such as raccoon roundworm, which can be harmful if ingested. This potential for disease transmission underscores the importance of keeping a safe distance from these seemingly cuddly creatures. Social Behavior Raccoons are social animals but can exhibit aggressive behavior, especially when protecting their territory or young. Their playful interactions among family members can quickly turn into territorial disputes. In the wild, they often live in groups, but they’re also known to be solitary, which can lead to conflict when food is scarce. This unpredictability can be a concern for those who might want to approach them, thinking they’re friendly creatures. Environmental Impact In urban settings, raccoons can contribute to ecological imbalances. Their foraging habits can disrupt local wildlife and lead to the overpopulation of certain species, which can have cascading effects on the ecosystem. By raiding bird nests or consuming the eggs of other small animals, raccoons can inadvertently harm native species and alter food chains. The Danger of Feeding One of the most common mistakes people make is feeding raccoons, often believing they are being kind. However, this can lead to a range of problems. Feeding raccoons encourages them to associate humans with food, which can increase the likelihood of aggressive encounters. Like one woman discovered in Washington State here . It can also lead to dependency on human food sources, disrupting their natural foraging behaviors. Raccoons may be cute and entertaining to watch from a distance, but it’s essential to recognize the reality of their behavior and the potential risks they pose. Understanding these complexities allows us to appreciate these creatures for what they truly are: intelligent, resourceful animals that play an important role in their ecosystems. So, the next time you see a raccoon, admire its cleverness from afar, but remember that there’s more to these masked bandits than meets the eye. By having simple boundaries, this will help keep them in the wild and not in your home! If you are being bothered by these critters, Call Colburn's to discuss your options on handling them.

Rodents are among the most adaptable and resilient creatures on the planet. Their rapid reproduction rates pose significant challenges to both urban and rural environments. Understanding their life cycle is crucial for effective pest management and minimizing the harm they can cause. The Rodent Life Cycle Rodents, particularly rats and mice, have a remarkably short gestation period. Female rats can become pregnant as early as five weeks old and typically give birth to litters of six to twelve pups every three weeks. This rapid reproduction is a key factor in their population growth. To illustrate their reproductive potential, let’s consider a few statistics over the span of a year: - 1 Week: 1 Rat - 13 Weeks: 12 Rats - 26 Weeks: 56 Rats - 39 Weeks: 2,069 Rats - 52 Weeks: 14,554 Rats The Harm Caused by Rodents The consequences of unchecked rodent populations can be severe: 1. Health Risks: Rodents are known carriers of diseases, such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella. Their droppings, urine, and nesting materials can contaminate food and surfaces. 2. Structural Damage: Rodents are notorious for gnawing through wires, insulation, and wood, leading to potential fire hazards and costly repairs. 3. Food Contamination: They can spoil food supplies, leading to significant economic losses for businesses, particularly in the food industry. 4. Ecological Impact: In certain environments, an influx of rodents can disrupt local ecosystems, outcompeting native species and altering habitats. The rapid life cycle of rodents underscores the importance of proactive measures in pest control. By understanding their reproductive habits and the potential harm they can cause, individuals and communities can take action to mitigate infestations before they escalate. Regular inspections, proper waste management, and timely interventions are essential strategies to keep rodent populations in check. If you suspect a rodent issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Colburn's. It’s always better to address the problem early on than to face a much larger infestation later!.

As the weather cools and leaves start to fall, unwanted critters may seek shelter in your home. Rodents, squirrels, and other small animals often invade homes during autumn, seeking warmth, food, and shelter. Protect your home and family with these simple yet effective tips. 1. Secure Outside Food and Seed Store pet food, birdseed, and other edible materials in sealed plastic containers. This will prevent attracting critters to your yard and reduce the likelihood of them entering your home. 2. Remove Attractive Mulch Discard open or half-used bags of mulch, as they provide an ideal shelter and food source for pests. Consider using mulch alternatives or sealing bags tightly. 3. Declutter Cardboard Boxes Remove cardboard boxes from your garage, attic, and other storage areas. These boxes provide hiding spots and nesting materials for unwanted critters. 4. Seal Entry Points Inspect your home's exterior and seal any holes or gaps around: ·     Vents ·     Chimneys ·     Pipes ·     Doors ·     Windows Use steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam to block potential entry points. Related article: How to Seal Common Entry Points 5. Maintain Cleanliness Keep trash and recycling bins: ·     Closed ·     Locked ·     Stored away from your home Regularly clean up pet waste, leaf piles, and debris to discourage critters from inhabiting your yard. Pro Tips: ·     Trim tree branches and shrubs to reduce access to your roof and attic. ·     Install door sweeps or weatherstripping to seal gaps under doors. ·     Consider installing a chimney cap to prevent animal entry. By following these simple steps, you'll protect your home from unwanted fall critters and ensure a cozy, pest-free season! What’s Next: Schedule a FREE inspection with Colburn’s Pest Control. Schedule your home inspection here to prevent or eliminate infestations. A Professional will walk you through all your options, and help you curate the best solution to your problem.

Sealing entry points is crucial to preventing critters from entering your home. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming looking for points of entry or even how to properly seal them for animals. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to seal common critter entry points: Materials needed: ·     Steel wool ·     Caulk (silicone or polyurethane-based) ·     Expanding foam ·     Hardware cloth (metal mesh) ·     Flashing (aluminum or steel) ·     Roofing cement ·     Weatherstripping ·     Door sweeps Sealing techniques: 1.      Gaps around doors and windows ·     Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows ·     Install door sweeps or threshold seals ·     Use caulk to fill gaps between frames and walls 2.      Vents (attic, dryer, bathroom, and kitchen) ·     Install hardware cloth (metal mesh) over vents ·     Secure with screws or wire ·     Seal gaps around vents with caulk or expanding foam 3.      Chimneys ·     Install a chimney cap or screen ·     Seal gaps around chimney flashing with caulk or roofing cement ·     Repair or replace damaged flashing 4.      Holes around pipes, electrical outlets, and utility lines ·     Seal holes with steel wool or expanding foam ·     Use caulk to fill gaps around pipes and outlets 5.      Cracks in foundation walls, floors, and ceilings ·     Seal cracks with caulk or polyurethane-based sealant ·     Repair or replace damaged sections 6.      Loose or missing roof shingles ·     Inspect and repair or replace damaged shingles ·     Ensure proper flashing installation 7 .     Unsealed gaps around electrical and gas meters ·     Seal gaps with caulk or expanding foam ·     Ensure proper meter installation 8.      Openings around outdoor faucets and hose bibs ·     Install frost-proof spigots or freeze-resistant faucets ·     Seal gaps around faucets with caulk 9.      Weak or damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights ·     Repair or replace damaged flashing ·     Ensure proper installation These are specific entry points for common critters: ·     Squirrels: tree branches, roof vents, chimney flashing ·     Raccoons: pet doors, garage doors, roof vents ·     Rodents (mice, rats): gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and electrical outlets ·     Bats: chimney flashing, roof vents, attic vents ·     Opossums: pet doors, garage doors, holes around pipes Sealing these entry points can help prevent unwanted critters from entering your home. Pro tips: ·     Conduct regular inspections to identify new entry points ·     Trim tree branches and shrubs to reduce access to your roof and attic ·     Consider installing a one-way door or valve to allow critters to exit but not re-enter ·     Consult a pest control professional if you suspect an infestation Whats Next: Click here to book a Colburn's Rodent Technician to inspect your home and help you curate the best solutions for your home. Like this Article? Share it with a friend!