General Pest Control
Cockroaches
Damage
Cockroaches spread human disease by depositing disease organisms on food and utensils. The American cockroach, which comes into contact with human excrement in sewers or with pet droppings, may transmit bacteria that cause Salmonella and Shigella. German cockroaches are believed to be capable of transmitting disease-causing organisms such as Staphylococcus, hepatitis, and coliform bacteria. They also have been implicated in the spread of typhoid and dysentery.
Recent studies have found a strong association between the presence of cockroaches and increases in the severity of asthma symptoms in individuals who are sensitive to cockroach allergens.
Detection and Treatment
Cockroaches may become pests in homes, restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, offices, and virtually any structure that has food preparation or storage areas. These pests are common even in the cleanest of crowded urban areas and older dwellings. It’s usually not difficult to discover an infestation, because they are often visible. Treatment usually involves sealing cracks and crevices to block entrance; keeping food and trash areas clean to avoid providing food; and the professional application of insecticide and bait on a regular basis.
Preparation for Treatment
- Clean out all kitchen cabinets (upper and lower): food, pantry items, dishes, etc. may be placed on the kitchen counter and covered with a sheet
- Clean all shelves with soap and water and dry
- Clean all counter tops with soap and water and dry
- Clean stoves and cooktops with soap and water to remove all food and grease
- Clean areas underneath and behind refrigerators with soap and water
- Clean out undersink cabinets in bathroom and clean shelves with soap and water
After Treatment
- DO NOT clean with soap and water!!! This will remove the chemical residue and increase the chance of continued infestation or reinfestation
Rodents
Damage
Rodents consume and contaminate food. They also gnaw on electrical wires, wooden structures, and tear insulation in walls and ceilings for nesting. Rodents can also transmit disease to humans, pets, and livestock. They have been found to transmit typhus, leptospirosis, trichinosis, and salmonellosis.
Detection and Treatment
We offer FREE estimates for a custom, permanent solution to your rodent problem.
Ants
Damage
Ants cause various types of damage, depending upon the variety. Carpenter ants tunnel through wood, destroying structures. Pharaoh ants may transmit serious diseases. A fire ant’s sting is potentially deadly to susceptible individuals, and all ants contaminate the food they infest.
Detection and Treatment
Ants build massive colonies, so their presence is generally detected when you see their nests, or the ants themselves. Treatments involve baiting, insecticide, and sealing off entry to buildings.
Spiders
Except for poisonous spiders, such as the black widow and the brown recluse, spiders are not harmful to humans. When it’s important to eliminate spiders, chemical control is used, along with destruction of webs and eggs. Since they feed on insects, measures that eliminate unwanted insects will also reduce spider populations.
Biting and Stinging Pests
Damage
Bees and wasps are dangerous because of their painful and potentially harmful stings. Fleas and ticks can carry potential disease.
Detection and Treatment
Our professionals with protective gear can remove wasp nests and beehives. Insecticides are also used. Click here to learn more about other insects »
Pest identification information copyright Regents of the University of California©
Visit UC IPM Online for more information about additional pests.