Living Harmoniously with Wildlife
— by William McIntosh
Summer is finally upon us! After such a long and dreary winter, with a stubborn spring, we definitely are absorbing these sun rays with a vibrance! Winter drear followed by summer cheer! Summer does have its drawbacks though… and one of those is bugs.
From the creepy crawlers, to the whiny fliers, the pesky biters, and the speedy dashers, bugs are around us all the time outdoors. But when it comes to indoors, we draw the line. Bugs outside, but not inside. However, we all know, that is just not the case and sometimes even their presence outside is too much. Sooo, what can be done about this? Well, an Integrated Pest Management Program may be the answer to your problem! Here are some of our most asked questions about pest control!
Can you spray for bugs in Ontario?
Yes, you can! There are various treatment methods tailored for different problems and issues that can arise from bugs. Depending on the insect/bug issue and where they are located, there are various approaches and products that can be used.
Does the spray even work?
Yes, it does. The various efficacies of spraying is based upon several factors. The substrates condition when the spray is applied factors into this quite heavily. In other words, if you have a spider treatment on your soffit, if the soffit is dirty, the spray won’t bond to the soffit properly, causing the efficacy and the length of duration to diminish significantly. Weather also plays a part, depending on what area has been sprayed. Direct sun exposure and a very wet season can factor into the length of duration. As well as the product used.
Is the spray safe?
Yes, it is. The spray, when wet, needs to be avoided. However, once it is dry, it’s perfectly safe for people and pets alike. The pesticide itself has been developed with technology on the molecular level to have a bonding agent, which essentially glues the pesticide to the surface. An example: when you paint a wall, you don’t touch the surface, as it will get on yourself. However, once it’s dry, that paint won’t prove to be a problem to be touched henceforth. Same with the pesticide.
Is the pesticide safe for the environment?
Yes, if used properly according to label conditions, the pesticides of today are designed to break down, harmlessly, back into the environment.
What type of bugs does it control?
A variety of insects and arachnids are on the list for treatments. Spiders, ants, wasps, earwigs, crickets, flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and the list goes on. If you have a bug problem, just reach out to a pest control company, and ask! It’s very possible they will be able to help with whatever creepy crawly is bothering you!
When should we treat for our pest?
This depends on the species. Spiders? Throughout the spring and summer months. Cluster flies? In the fall. Earwigs? Mid to late summer. Ticks? All the warm months. Once again, if you’re not sure, just reach out to your local pest control company, and they’ll gladly answer your questions!
What is the benefit to spraying my house, cottage, garage, etc.?
Insect populations can build up in a locale, leading to an over populace, hence the bugs’ volume on your property causing you a headache. With proper spraying procedures the insect population can be brought down to more manageable levels, avoiding an overabundance or an outright infestation. Also, as an added bonus, keeping your house clean on the outside (spiders, etc.) and free from bugs inside (ants, etc.) will make your home more peaceful and enjoyable.
No matter the bug causing you an issue, if it’s a problem, addressing it early on can make a big difference in outcome and desired effect. Never wait till the issue arises to a massive proportion, it can be much easier addressed before an infestation! Enjoy this summer, don’t allow bugs to get you down!
William is the owner of Exit Wildlife and Pest Control Inc., and you can contact him at help@exitwildlife.ca or by calling 705-438-5445.