No one wants to think about pests entering their home, but it’s an unfortunate reality of life. Spotting a bug indoors occasionally may be manageable, but when you notice indications of a more significant pest problem, it’s time to call in the professionals. How do you know when to make the call? Look for the following pest warning signs:
Actual pests. It doesn’t get any more direct than this: if you see bugs in your home and aren’t able to control them yourself, it’s time to call a professional. Bugs and pests can quickly multiply, so controlling them immediately is in your best interest. Even if you find a dead bug, don’t discount it; there are likely more bugs in your home.
Droppings. While not all pests leave droppings, the ones that do are the ones you want out of your house the most. Rodent droppings are rice-shaped and brown or black in color, while cockroach droppings are small and black, resembling coffee grounds. Termite droppings look like a pile of sawdust or dirt, while ant droppings look like a mound of tiny black specks.
Nests. A nest in the house is another sure sign that you’ve got a bug or rodent problem. Mice create nests out of paper, pillow batting, and other readily available materials in the house. Bees and wasp nests are paper-like and are often found under eaves or overhangs. While not a nest per se, mud tubes are small tunnels that protect termites as they travel from the outdoors into your home.
Tracks. Rodents, in particular, leave tracks as they traverse around your house. Their front paws have four toes, and the back paws have five. You can find tracks in corners and around food sources. Since rodents have oily fur, you may also find greasy stains along the baseboards or bottom of your walls.
Wood or structural damage. Many bugs—including termites, carpenter ants, and carpenter beetles—love to eat wood, which can cause significant damage to your home. Signs of structural damage include exit holes in wood, sawdust on the floor, creaking floorboards, stained or warped walls, and mold or mildew around the wood. Mice also like to gnaw on wood, particularly baseboards or wood furniture.
Smells and sounds. If you notice a musty smell that can’t be attributed to anything else in your home, having a professional check it out is a good idea. Similarly, strange sounds, like scurrying, scratching, or squeaking, can also indicate a pest problem.
Home Pro’s pest control professionals have the expertise necessary to remove pests quickly and effectively and protect your home from future invasions. To learn more about Home Pro Pest Control’s services or to schedule a free inspection, contact us at (757) 499-1078 or contact us online.