The wasps, ants and other insects are waking up.

I thought I would write this blog as we are starting to receive insect calls again. However, where have the insects been throughout the winter?

Well the first thing to note science fans is that most insects don’t actually hibernate in the strict sense of the word. Instead they enter a dormant state, similarly as my gym membership card does when the dark nights set in.

It’s not strictly the same hibernation that other British mammals do (hedgehogs and wood mice etc.) but it is a survival strategy associated with winter inactivity. Many insects look for places to lie dormant; this may be in our homes, businesses or gardens.

Some insects can be active all year around. Fleas for example, (usually the cat flea) can remain active as long as they have a host to feed from.

Contact us if you have started seeing:

Ants

These social insects live in colonies, with colonies being the operative word. Most DIY or non-professional treatment plans don’t work as they only kill a small number of ants above the surface.

Wasps

Wasps build their nests in spring using a mix of saliva and chewed wood. Controlling wasps can be dangerous as they will defend their young and nest; although to treat wasps the nest itself does not have to be removed.

Hornets

A large insect, twice the size of the common wasp. Hornets usually build their nests in hollow tree trunks, lofts, bushes or similar sites, individuals Hornets seldom enter houses as they are not attracted to human food. Controlling Hornets can be dangerous as the whole colony can defend their nest if threatened.

Flies

Some flies are attracted to human food and can contaminate and infest all types of premises. Cluster flies enter our properties in large numbers for shelter and warmth.

Beetles

To include the Biscuit, Furniture and Carpet beetle all of which can be misidentified. They can be attracted by a range of foods and other substances. Certain beetles and their larvae can cause significant damage to your home or business.

Cockroaches

Usually residing indoors, they can be seen clustering around heating pipes, stoves and sinks close to sources of water and food, they can contaminate food and carry bacteria which can be harmful to humans.

Bed bugs

No longer associated with unhygienic environments, Bed Bugs are fairly common due to increases in human migration. Commonly associated in multi-occupancy buildings, hostels and hotels. They can easily be introduced into the home attached to bags, clothing, furniture and possessions.

Bed bugs feed on blood of a human host, causing red irritating marks or lumps. Bed bug bites can however survive for up to a year without feeding. Bed bugs do not spread disease but can cause sleep disturbance, skin irritation and distress.

Get in touch.