Knowing the difference is key to protecting pollinators and supporting biosecurity. Recently, Stuff noted that nearly 10,000 sightings of yellow-legged hornets were reported on Auckland’s North Shore, with the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) urgently collecting this information from the community as part of efforts to detect and eliminate invasive hornets. 

Being able to spot the difference between bees, wasps and hornets will help you to understand when a beekeeper should be called to relocate bees, get wasp specialists in to treat growing nests, and know when to report a potential invasive species sighting to MPI.

Bees – Nature’s Essential Pollinators

• Fuzzy round bodies designed to carry pollen.
• Short wings, with thick legs
• Feed on nectar and pollen.
• Some live in colonies, others are solitary native bees.
• Vital for pollinating plants and crops.

Because bees are essential pollinators, when bee swarms, colonies or nests are found, our recommended approach is safe relocation by beekeepers. This helps protect bees’ critical ecological role.

Wasps – Predators and Scavengers

• Smooth/shiny narrow bodies with distinct “waists”. 
• Bright and defined yellow/black patterns.
• Some are solitary, some social.
• Many are predatory, capturing other insects to feed their larvae. 

In urban settings, wasps can quickly become a nuisance. While they are part of the ecosystem and can even help control pest insects, they are not the pollination champions that bees are. They’re also a pest, with colonies that can grow to significantly sizes if not treated. 

Yellow-Legged Hornet

• Bigger than wasps and bees, with distinctive dark legs with bright yellow tips. 
• Predatory, including preying on bees.

In New Zealand, the yellow-legged hornet is an invasive species that poses a threat to local ecosystems and the health of honeybees and wild bees. Accurate reporting to MPI helps authorities detect and eliminate nests.

Why it matters

Understanding the difference between bees, wasps and hornets is more than just insect trivia – it’s a matter of environmental responsibility, conservation and community biosecurity. 

If you’re unsure what insect you’ve seen, take a clear photo and report it to MPI for identification. In areas like Auckland’s North Shore, where invasive hornets have been reported in large numbers, accurate identification and reporting to MPI can make a real difference in protecting New Zealand’s native ecosystems and agricultural pollinators. 

If you have a wasp nest to be taken care of, call our wasp specialists today before they take over! 

Read the full Stuff article here.

At A-Jet Pest Control, we have more than 35 years of pest control experience in Auckland. We know how frustrating summer pests can be! In this guide, we’ll go over ways to help prevent pests from invading your home so you can enjoy a pest-free summer.

Why Pests Are Attracted to Your Home in Summer

Auckland’s warm and humid summer climate is ideal for pests to thrive. The combination of heat and moisture attracts a variety of pests, from ants and cockroaches to flies and mosquitoes. They seek food, water, and cool spots to escape the sun, making Auckland homes a prime target. By understanding what attracts pests, you can take proactive steps to keep them out.

1. Seal Entry Points to Block Pest Access

Unfortunately, there is no magic barrier that can be applied to stop pests from coming inside. Pests can slip through even the tiniest cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and walls. Sealing off entry points is the best thing you can do to help stop pests from coming inside. 

Tips for Sealing Entry Points:

• Use weather stripping around doors and windows to block gaps.
• Seal cracks or holes in walls, especially around pipes, cables, and utility connections.
• Install fly screens on windows and doors, and repair screens if torn or broken.

2. Keep Your Kitchen Clean and Tidy

Summer pests are often drawn to food sources, so maintaining a clean kitchen is essential. Pests like ants, cockroaches, and flies are quick to detect food crumbs, spills, and rubbish.

Kitchen Cleaning Tips to Prevent Pests:

• Wipe down countertops and dining tables after meals.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Clean up any food spills or crumbs immediately.
• Don’t keep organic waste indoors. 
• Take out rubbish regularly and keep rubbish bins tightly closed.
• If you have pet food bowls, clean them after each use. 

Remember, even the smallest crumbs or spills can attract an army of ants or a swarm of flies.

3. Manage Outdoor Areas to Prevent Pests from Breeding 

The outdoor area around your home plays a big role in pest prevention. Pests like mosquitoes and flies often breed outside before finding their way inside.

Tips for Maintaining Your Outdoor Space:

• Remove standing water from around your property.
• Keep outdoor bins tightly closed and away from entrances. 
• Trim trees and plants away from walls, pests can use them as pathways inside.
• Avoid leaving pet food outside. Remember to bag, seal, and dispose of animal droppings!

4. Book a Professional Pest Control Service

Pests have become resistant to most DIY solutions that you buy over the counter. That’s why you need a professional pest control company with qualified technicians who can safely apply commercial-grade pest control products that are approved by New Zealand’s Environmental Protection Authority. A-Jet’s technicians are qualified in urban pest control and are registered with the Pest Management Association of New Zealand. This means you can trust they know what they’re doing to ensure pests are controlled on your property. 

Benefits of Professional Pest Control:

• Effective and safe treatments for all types of pests.
• Long-term prevention to ensure peace of mind.
• Customised solutions to suit Auckland’s unique pest control needs.

Summer pests can be a nuisance in Auckland, but with a few proactive steps, you can control pests at your property. By sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and managing your outdoor area, you can make your property less attractive to pests. 

For a safe and effective solution, consider booking a professional pest control service with A-Jet Pest Control, Auckland’s trusted pest control experts with more than 35 years of experience. Let us help you keep your home safe and pest-free this summer!

1. Fleas Are Amazing Jumpers

Fleas are renowned for their incredible jumping ability. They can leap up to 200 times their body length, which is equivalent to a human jumping over 400 meters! This ability allows them to move quickly from host to host, making flea pest control in Auckland a critical concern.

2. Fleas Have Been Around for Millions of Years

Fleas are ancient insects, with fossil evidence dating back around 200 million years. This means they were around during the time of the dinosaurs, showcasing their incredible adaptability and resilience over millennia.

3. Fleas Have a Short Life Cycle

The life cycle of a flea is relatively short but highly efficient. Under optimal conditions, a flea can develop from an egg to an adult in just 14 days. This rapid reproduction rate can lead to large infestations quickly!

4. Fleas Consume Blood for Survival

Fleas are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of their hosts. Both male and female fleas require blood meals to survive and reproduce. A flea can consume up to 15 times its body weight in blood each day, making them persistent pests.

5. Flea Bites Can Cause Allergic Reactions

Did you know flea bites can cause severe allergic reactions in both humans and animals. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is a common condition caused by flea saliva, leading to intense itching, redness, and swelling. Pets are particularly vulnerable to FAD, which can result in hair loss and skin infections.

6. Fleas Are Disease Vectors

Historically, fleas have been responsible for spreading several significant diseases. The most notorious is the bubonic plague, which killed millions during the Middle Ages. Fleas can also transmit other diseases, such as murine typhus.

7. Flea Larvae Avoid Light

Flea larvae are photophobic, meaning they avoid light. They prefer dark, humid environments such as carpets, cracks, and crevices where they can develop safely. This behaviour makes them difficult to detect and underscores the need for thorough cleaning.

8. Fleas Can Survive Long Periods Without Food

Adult fleas can survive for several weeks without a blood meal, lying in wait for a suitable host. This survival ability makes it challenging to eliminate fleas entirely, as they can remain dormant in the environment until they find a new host to feed on.

9. There Are Thousands of Flea Species

There are over 2,500 known species of fleas worldwide. While only a few species commonly infest homes and pets, such as the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) and the dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis), their widespread presence demonstrates their adaptability to different environments. 

10. Fleas are spread in many ways

While fleas are more often associated with pets, they can enter your house via other ways. For example, you may unknowingly have stray animals visiting your property, or they may have hitched a ride into your home from other properties such as a workplace, school, or even from the grass outside. 

11. Home Treatments Are Not Effective

A common mistake is for people to let off a “flea bomb” and hope it works. The pesticides contained in off-the-shelf remedies have a relatively short residual life and won’t penetrate carpet fibres or floor cracks and crevices where eggs are located. Sometimes you can even make the infestation worse, as the live fleas scatter and hide after a “flea bomb” is left off, making the flea infestation even more challenging to treat. 

12. Flea Control Requires a Multifaceted Approach

Effective flea pest control in Auckland involves more than just treating your pets and using off the shelf home remedies. It requires a comprehensive approach and the professional application of appropriate flea control products that are approved by NZ’s Environmental Protection Authority. 

Fleas are fascinating yet formidable pests that have adapted to survive in various environments over millions of years. Their ability to jump great distances, reproduce rapidly, and survive without food makes them challenging to control. Understanding these interesting facts about fleas can help you take the necessary steps to protect your home and pets from these persistent parasites.

For expert flea pest control in Auckland, contact A-Jet Pest Control. Our comprehensive services are designed to effectively eliminate fleas and prevent future infestations, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for you and your pets. Don’t let fleas take over your home— reach out to Auckland’s trusted pest control experts today!

1. Manage Moisture Levels to Prevent Pest Infestations

Many pests thrive in damp environments. Reduce moisture levels in your property with these tips:

• Fix Leaks: Repair any leaking pipes, faucets, or roof leaks promptly.
• Use Dehumidifiers: Consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements and crawl spaces.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure your home or business is well-ventilated. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce humidity. Open windows and doors if you can, let fresh air circulate!

2. Seal Entry Points to Keep Pests Out

Prevent pests from entering your property by sealing potential entry points. Inspect your home or business for any cracks, gaps, or holes and address them promptly:

• Windows and Doors: Ensure all windows and doors are properly sealed with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Vents and Pipes: Check for gaps around vents, pipes, and utility lines, and seal these areas with appropriate materials.
• Foundation and Walls: Repair cracks in the foundation and walls to prevent pests from finding their way inside.

3. Maintain Cleanliness to Deter Pests

A clean environment is less attractive to pests. Implement these cleaning practices to keep pests at bay:

• Regular Cleaning: Vacuum regularly, especially in areas where crumbs and food particles accumulate, such as the kitchen and dining areas. Wipe down build up of grease and grime. 
• Proper Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers to prevent pests from accessing it. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
• Rubbish Management: Dispose of rubbish regularly and keep trash bins sealed tightly. Clean the bins to remove any residue that could attract pests.

4. Maintain Your Outdoor Areas

Outdoor areas can be breeding grounds for pests. Keep your surroundings pest-free with these measures:

• Trim Vegetation: Trim trees, bushes, and shrubs away from your property to eliminate potential pest pathways.
• Remove Debris: Clear away leaf piles, woodpiles, and other debris that can harbour pests. Avoid stacking firewood against the building.
• Exterior Lighting: Try yellow lights for exterior lighting, as they can be less attractive to flying insects.

5. Contact Professional Pest Control Services

For comprehensive pest control, it’s best to rely on professional services. At A-Jet Pest Control, we offer expert pest control solutions tailored to your specific needs:

• Customised Treatment Plans: We assess your property and develop a customised integrated pest management plan to address your pest problems effectively.
• Safe and Effective Methods: Out team uses safe methods to eliminate pests.
• Regular Monitoring: We provide regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure your property remains pest-free throughout the winter.

6. Regular Inspections

Regular inspections can help identify potential pest problems before they become severe. Complete routine inspections of your property, focusing on:

• Ceiling Cavities, Attics, and Basements: These areas are often neglected and can be prime spots for pests.
• Kitchens and Pantries: Check for signs of pests such as droppings, gnaw marks, or damaged food packaging.
• Exterior Perimeter: Inspect the exterior of your property for signs of pest activity or damage.

Winter in Auckland brings unique pest control challenges, but with these proactive tips, you can protect your home or business from unwanted intruders. By following our tips you’ll create a less inviting environment for pests and enjoy a pest-free winter season.

For professional assistance, contact A-Jet Pest Control, Auckland’s trusted pest control experts. We provide tailored solutions to keep your property safe and comfortable throughout the winter months. Stay vigilant and keep pests at bay!

1. Rodents Are Highly Intelligent

Rats are incredibly intelligent and possess problem-solving skills that rival those of dogs. They can navigate mazes, recognise patterns, and even remember routes to food sources. This intelligence makes them adept at avoiding traps and finding new ways into homes and buildings. 

2. Prolific Breeders

Rats reproduce at an astonishing rate. Rats begin to breed from about 2-5 months old and have on average 4-6 litters of 6-8 babies each year. When you do the math, the numbers are frightening! This rapid reproduction is one reason why rodent control is so crucial – an infestation can quickly spiral out of control.

3. Strong Teeth and Constant Gnawing

A rat’s teeth never stop growing, which is why they are constantly gnawing on objects to keep them in check. They can chew through a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and even lead pipes, causing significant damage to properties.

4. Excellent Climbers and Swimmers

Rats are highly versatile in their movements. They can climb vertical walls, walk along thin wires, and swim long distances. This ability allows them to access areas that might seem secure and spread their presence far and wide.

5. Highly Social Animals

Rats are social creatures that live in colonies. They communicate with each other through high-frequency sounds and body language. When one rat finds food, it will often share the location with its colony, leading to large groups inhabiting a single area. They are however, neophobic, meaning they shy away from new objects and changes in their environment.

6. Disease Carriers

Rats are notorious for spreading diseases to humans and other animals. They carry and spread numerous diseases, including leptospirosis, hantavirus, and historically, even the plague. 

7. Nocturnal Habits

Rats are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. This behaviour helps them avoid predators and human interaction, making it challenging to detect an infestation until it becomes severe.

8. Impressive Memory

Rats have excellent memories. Once they learn a navigation route or recognise a danger, they seldom forget it. This trait helps them avoid traps and other control measures, requiring more strategic approaches to manage infestations.

9. Omnivorous Diet

Rats are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. They are not picky eaters and will consume almost anything, from grains and fruits to meat and garbage. This adaptability in diet allows them to thrive in various environments.

10. Survival Skills

Rats are highly adaptable and can survive in harsh conditions. They can live in sewers, urban environments, and rural areas. Their resilience and ability to find food and shelter in diverse locations make them a persistent pest problem.

In Auckland, the warm and humid climate provides an ideal environment for rats and other rodents. Homes and businesses are at risk of infestation, which can lead to property damage and health issues. If you suspect a rodent infestation or want to take preventative measures, don’t wait. Contact A-Jet Pest Control today for a thorough inspection and customised pest control plan. Protect your home and health with our expert services.

If you’ve spotted a wasp buzzing around your property, it’s important to get on top of it before it becomes a serious problem. 

This guide will walk you through how to get rid of wasps from your property.

Is It A Wasp or Bee?

Bees are an incredibly important part of nature, so we take a lot of care to make sure they are not mistaken for wasps. Generally, you can tell the difference between a wasp and a bee from its colour. Wasps have distinctive yellow and black bands of colour. Bees are more non-descript brown to brownish yellow colour, while our native bees tend to be black in colour. 

Our best recommendation, only if you can do it safely, is to take a photo and send it to us. If you have bees, we recommend that you contact a local beekeeper in Auckland. They will try to remove the bee swarm safely without harming the bees. 

Identifying The Type Of Wasp

The approach to wasp control will slightly differ depending on which wasps you are dealing with. In New Zealand we have four different species: The German, the Common, the Australian and the Asian paper wasp. 

German and Common wasp:

New Zealand has some of the highest rates of German and common wasps in the world per square kilometre. The reasons for this are that they have no natural predators, and the weather conditions are often mild enough for them to survive year-round. 

In fact, the largest wasp nest ever recorded was found in Waimauku (near Auckland) which was recorded at 3.75m tall and 1.7m wide. This size nest would have held over 100,000 thousand wasps.  

In appearance, they have very similar characteristics with bright black and yellow stripes. Both species are aggressive towards humans and are known to rapidly sting if they feel trapped or feel you are a threat towards their nest.

Both species typically build their nest underground but are also known to build nests in roof space, wall voids and eaves.

We recommend taking extra precautions when dealing with German and Common wasps as they are typically more aggressive than the Australian or Asian paper wasps. 

Australian and Asian paper wasp:

The Australian and Asian paper wasps tend to be more docile and less dangerous than the German and common wasps. They are both similar in behaviour, nest structure and size. 

Australian wasps are confined to the North Island and are easily identifiable with orange and brown stripes. Asian paper wasps on the other hand are found throughout New Zealand and are often mistaken for the German or common wasp because of their yellow and black colouration. 

By first identifying the type of wasp you’re dealing with, it will help you determine the best course of action for removal.

Signs Of A Wasp Infestation

Once you’ve identified the species of wasps you’re dealing with, it’s important to search for signs of where the nest may be. Common places to search are roof spaces, wall voids, eaves, trees, hedges or other shrubbery, and under compost heaps. German and common wasp nests can be hard to find as they are normally underground. One trick is to try and follow the wasp back to its nest. They will typically not fly further than 200m from its nest which can help you narrow the search area. When you find a wasp nest, keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing the nest as wasps can become aggress quickly. 

How To Get Rid Of A Wasps Nest

If you have a wasp infestation on your property, a professional pest control company can safely and effectively treat the nest using specialist equipment and products. Getting rid of a wasp nest can often seem like an easy job until the aggravated wasps start swarming you. That’s why we don’t recommend that you try to sort out the problem yourself. Give A-Jet Pest Control a call so we can do the hard (and dangerous) work for you. 

We need to see the nest and be able to access it safely to effectively treat it. Otherwise, we can’t guarantee the wasp nest has been saturated enough to destroy it. For safety reasons our technicians won’t climb onto your roof, go inside the ceiling cavity, or climb under the house. We use a range of specialist equipment such as extendable wands and space dusters/misters that can help us to reach hard-to-access areas where you suspect a nest may be located.  

How To Prevention Wasps Nests

Prevention is the best way to avoid a wasp infestation on your property. Here are some of our top tips to help prevent wasps from setting up shop on your property: 

• Seal up entry points: Wasps often enter your home through small cracks which lead inside. Seal all entry points with caulk to stop wasps from getting inside your home and having the opportunity to create a nest. 
• Keep food covered: Wasps are attracted to sugary foods, such as fruit, baked goods and fizzing drinks. Avoid leaving these types of foods and drinks out in the open. 
• Maintain a clean outdoor area: A messy outdoor area provides the perfect environment for wasps to set up a nest. Try to remove any clutter, debris or rubbish from your property. 
• Use wasp-repellent plants. Try planting mint, basil, and geranium as they have been known to repel wasps.
• Keep vigilant: It’s impossible to completely remove wasps from your property, so keep an eye out for nests. In spring check common areas such as roof spaces, wall voids, eaves and under compost heaps for signs of new nests. As soon as you see signs of wasps creating a new nest get rid of it before it has a chance to turn into a serious problem. 
• Essential oils: Certain oils such as peppermint are an effective repellent. Apply peppermint oil to places you’ve noticed wasp activity to help deter them. 

Getting rid of a wasp nest can be a daunting task. If you’re dealing with a wasp infestation, give us a free call at 0800 862 538 to book a wasp nest treatment today.

Remember, wasp stings can be dangerous, especially for those who are allergic. If you or someone you know experiences a severe allergic reaction to a wasp sting, seek medical attention immediately.

Below is a list of tips to ensure your pets are happy and safe during and after your next pest control treatment. 

Tell your provider 

If you have a pet, tell your provider when you book your pest control service, as they may need to tailor the treatment. Before the treatment begins, always discuss any concerns you may have with the office or with a pest control specialist. 

Before the treatment starts, make sure you remove any water/food bowls, toys or bedding if they are in the treatment area.

Secure your pets 

Pets are often curious and may try to investigate new sounds and smells in their home. Our technicians love meeting your pets; however, sometimes, that curiosity can bring them too close to our treatment and increase the chance of something going wrong.

You will need to keep your pests safely secured while our pest technician is carrying out work. We often recommend leaving your pets with a friend or at a kennel for the day of the treatment. If this isn’t an option for you, close them in a room that isn’t being treated and make sure you use a towel to block any gaps in doorways. For example, if you have a pest problem in your kitchen, you may want to put your them into your garage or bedroom. Make sure cats or dogs can’t sneak back inside if you placed them outside for the treatment. 

Feathery And Fishy Friends

We need to know if you have birds, fish or reptiles kept in tanks or cages inside. Please don’t be upset if we can’t treat a room where you have birds, fish, reptiles or other such pets that can’t be relocated. Our job is to make sure we keep you and your pets safe during pest treatments. 

Ideally, you will relocate them somewhere safe during the treatment. However, this is not always practicable so at the very minimum you need to cover tanks including filters with a nonpermeable fabric. Make sure there are no gaps where air can enter. Be careful when doing this, as if the power is on the heat from the covered motor may create a fire hazard. Make sure any food or equipment you use is put away or covered. 

If you are worried, we recommend calling your veterinarian to ask if the pesticide will react with your pet. Some birds have susceptible respiratory systems and may be prone to problems. 

Important note about rodent treatments

When carrying out rodent control, it’s important that you tell us if you have a dog or if dogs frequent your property. Rodenticide is toxic and harmful to humans and pets. It can be lethal to dogs. THE ANTIDOTE IS VITAMIN K1. If you have a dog, we recommend you check that your local vet has stock. We use lockable tamper-proof stations to hold bait (rodenticide), which are designed to help protect people and pets from accidental exposure to the bait inside. While we take the utmost care to ensure stations are secure and out of reach from pets, we can’t guarantee that your pet won’t access the bait inside. 

Are you still worried? Please speak with A-Jet Pest Control today. They are knowledgeable and always happy to answer any concerns you may have. 

Hire A Professional 

Most importantly, if you have pets avoid doing the treatment yourself. If you don’t know how to apply the pesticide correctly or if you use the wrong amount, you run the risk of unintentionally poisoning your pet. In saying that, no two pest control companies are created equal. If you’re looking for the safest and most effective service, ensure you hire a certified PMANZ (Pest Management Association NZ) technician. If you still have concerns about your pet’s safety, contact A-Jet Pest Control for free advice or a quote. Our founder was the past president of PMANZ, so we know what we’re talking about! 

Fact 1: Bed Bugs Can Survive for Months Without Feeding

Bed bugs have a remarkable ability to survive without a blood meal for months. They can enter a state of dormancy, known as diapause, which allows them to withstand periods of starvation. This resilience makes it challenging to eliminate them completely without professional intervention.

Fact 2: They Are Not a Sign of a Dirty Home

Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or filth. They are attracted to warmth, carbon dioxide, and human blood. Even the cleanest homes can fall prey to a bed bug infestation, as these pests can hitch a ride on luggage, clothing, or used furniture.

Fact 3: Bed Bugs Don’t Fly or Jump

Unlike other common household pests, such as fleas or mosquitoes, bed bugs cannot fly or jump. They rely on crawling to move from one location to another. This is why they are often found in close proximity to beds and other areas where humans spend a significant amount of time.

Fact 4: They Are Mostly Nocturnal Creatures

Bed bugs are primarily active during the night when their human hosts are asleep. They are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide emitted by sleeping individuals. This nocturnal behaviour makes it challenging to detect a bed bug infestation until it becomes severe.

Fact 5: Bed Bugs Can Live in More Places Than Just Your Bed

While beds and mattresses are common hiding spots for bed bugs, they can also be found in other areas of your home. They can infest furniture, cracks in walls, electrical outlets, and even clothing.

Fact 6: Bed Bugs are Very Resilient

Bed bugs are hardy insects and have built up resistance to many pesticides. That’s why most off the shelf DIY treatments almost never work. In fact, bed bugs are known to run and hide when they detect these low-grade treatments, spreading the infestation even further throughout the property. Save yourself money in the long run, get a professional pest control company to treat the infestation before it becomes out of control. 

Fact 7: Bed Bugs Don’t Transmit Disease

Although bed bug bites can cause itching, redness, and discomfort, they are not known to transmit any diseases to humans. The primary concern with bed bug infestations is the psychological distress, itching, and potential allergic reactions experienced by individuals who are sensitive to their bites.

Fact 8: You May Not Immediately Know You’ve Been Bitten 

It can take several weeks for some individuals to develop visible signs of bed bug bites. This delayed reaction can make it challenging to identify the source of the problem and may lead to further infestation if not addressed promptly.

Fact 9: Bed Bugs Aren’t Invisible, but They Can Be Easily Missed

Bed bugs are small and flat, ranging in size from 1mm to 7mm. While they are visible to the naked eye, their ability to hide in tiny cracks and crevices makes them difficult to spot.

Fact 10: There Is a Way to Eliminate a Bed Bug Problem

If you discover a bed bug infestation in your home, it’s essential to seek professional help. Bed bugs are notoriously challenging to eradicate without proper treatment. Pest control professionals have the knowledge, expertise, and tools to effectively eliminate bed bugs. If you’re ready to say goodbye to these unwelcome house guests, call A-Jet Pest Control today.

The holiday season is a time of fun and celebration, but it’s also a time when pests can find their way into our homes. To help create a pest-free summer season, it’s important to take preventive measures when decorating your home. As Auckland’s leading pest exterminators, we have put together 5 valuable tips on how to decorate your home for Christmas while keeping pests at bay. It’s crucial to remember that pests are always on the lookout for food, warmth, and shelter. By taking some proactive steps, you can protect your home and ensure a pest-free holiday season.

Choosing Pest-Resistant Decorations

When selecting decorations, opt for materials that are less attractive to pests. Avoid using natural untreated materials like straw, dried flowers, or untreated wood, as these can serve as a welcome invitation for pests. Instead, choose pest-resistant alternatives such as recycled plastic or metal. If you’d prefer more natural options, look for treated material and thoroughly check natural items for any hidden pest guests.  

Proper Storage of Decorations

Once the Christmas season is over, proper storage of decorations is essential to prevent pests from taking up residence in your boxes. Use sealable containers to store your decorations and avoid cardboard boxes, as pests can easily chew through them. Additionally, make sure your storage containers and area are clean and dry to avoid any moisture-related issues that can also attract pests.

Keeping Food Items Covered

While food is an integral part of the holiday season, it can also attract unwanted guests. Keep all food properly covered and stored in pest-proof containers. Avoid hanging food items around your house or on your Christmas tree. Make sure to seal any opened packages tightly to prevent pests from getting inside and spoiling items. It’s also important to clean up any food crumbs or spills promptly. 

Regular Cleaning Schedules

Maintaining a clean and clutter-free environment is crucial for pest prevention. Regularly remove clutter, especially in areas where pests are known to hide, such as attics, basements, and storage areas. Vacuum and dust your home each week, immediately clean up food and spills and seal and dispose of rubbish daily. Keep your garden maintained, with organic waste disposed off-site. Remember to use a hot soapy wash to clean food scrap bins each week to avoid smells and pests. Consider freezing food waste, and only putting waste into food scrap bins on collection days. 

Hiring Professional Pest Control Services

If you’re facing a persistent pest problem or want a preventative pest control spray during the holiday season, it’s wise to seek professional assistance. Pest control experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools to effectively identify and eliminate pests from your home.

At A-Jet Pest Control, we offer professional pest control services to help keep your home pest-free during the summer season. Our team of experts is trained to handle all types of pests and can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.

Remember, a little proactive effort can go a long way in keeping pests at bay and ensuring a happy and pest-free summer!

1. There are thousands of different types of spiders:

In New Zealand alone it’s estimated there are around 2000 different species of Spiders. Some of the most common types are the golden orb web spider, grey house spider, large brown vagrant spider, katipo spider, Avondale spider and White-tailed spider. Spiders range from tiny to gigantic, and the diversity of species can be overwhelming, particularly when trying to get rid of spiders. 

2. Spiders are older than dinosaurs: 

According to the Australian Museum spider fossils have been found dating back more than 380 million years. Meaning spiders have been roaming the earth for at least 150 million years longer than dinosaurs!

3. New Zealand’s spiders are small:

The Nelson cave spider is New Zealand’s largest native spider which can measure up to 13cm in length. For comparison, the world’s largest spider the Goliath Birdeater which is commonly found in northern South America can grow as large as 30cm in length. As spider pest control experts, it’s an easy decision for which one we’d rather take care of! 

4. Most spiders aren’t venomous:

The thought of spiders may send shivers down your spine, however, it’s important to note most spiders in New Zealand aren’t venomous. There are only 3 species you should avoid are, the katipō, the redback and the white-tailed spider. Interestingly, though they can pack a punch, white-tailed spider bites are not considered poisonous to humans. If you are wanting to identify a type of spider have a look at our blog on this.

5. Masters at hiding:

Spiders have developed remarkable adaptations to blend in with their environment. Some species will mimic other insects such as ants by utilising similar body shapes, colours or movements. By doing this the spider can avoid detections and surprise their prey. 

6. Spiders are everywhere:

This might freak you out, but it’s estimated by a famous arachnologist Norman Platnick that you are never more than 10 feet away from a spider! In good news, most of the time they are hiding away minding their own business.

7. Spiders can grow new body parts:

Spiders possess the remarkable ability to regrow lost body parts. For example, if a spider loses a leg, it can regrow the missing limb during its next moult. This extraordinary power enables spiders to quickly recover from serious injuries. 

8. Spiders have blue blood:

Unlike humans, spiders have blue blood! There is a scientific explanation for this. Humans, use blood to transport oxygen around the body. The oxygen is connected to a molecule that contains irons. This is what gives our blood a red colour. In spiders, the oxygen is bound to a molecule that contains copper which creates the blue colour.  

9. Spiders are astounding hunters:

To live for 380 million years spiders have created innovative ways to catch prey. Not all spiders use webs to catch prey. Some species rely on their speed, agility and senses to catch their food. 

10. Female spiders have a large appetite: 

This isn’t great news for male spiders. Some spider species will eat their male counterparts before, during or after sexual activity. The behaviour of sexual cannibalism is what inspired the name of the black widow spider. 

With these facts in mind, it’s no wonder that spiders are unwanted house guests. If you’re ready to say goodbye to the spiders at your home or office call A-Jet Pest Control today.