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.

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! 

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.

How To Get Rid of Fleas (In 3 simple steps):

There are three key steps to getting rid of fleas. 

1. Treat animals 
2. Treat your house 
3. Prevention to stop them from coming back. 

1. Treat animals

If you have a pet and don’t treat them regularly for fleas, then it’s best you get started. There are many flea control methods on the market such as flea sprays, collars and oral medication. Talk with your vet about what is the best product for your pet. These products work by repelling or killing fleas and their eggs. Certain products are more effective on a specific type of flea. Check out this article about all the different types of fleas we have in New Zealand. 

Remember, your pet may not be the cause of the flea infestation. There may be other animals that come onto your property, such as stray cats. Check for cavities or voids around your house where animals may get inside or use them as shelter. If there are any gaps, make sure they are closed off so animals can’t access this area. 

2. Treat your home

Fleas aren’t always brought inside on animals, they can hitch a ride on unsuspecting people too. When you notice there are fleas in your home, you need to eradicate the infestation quickly. For this, you will need a pest control provider specialising in flea control. We recommend a carpet clean before the treatment, which can help provide fast relief. Then your property will need a flea treatment that is specifically designed to kill and break the flea lifecycle. 

3. How To Prevent Fleas

When the flea infestation is eradicated, you can do a few things to help prevent fleas from infesting your home or office again. 

1. Act quickly if you notice flea activity, so the infestation doesn’t get out of control.

2. Keep your property clean and tidy. Vacuum carpet, furniture, and pet bedding at least once a week. Mow grass regularly and make sure gardens are tidy. 

3. If you have pets, keep them well-groomed. Regularly check your pet for fleas; you can use a flea comb to remove any fleas or flea eggs that may be in their fur. Ask your vet to recommend a suitable flea control treatment. Hot wash and tumble-dry pet bedding regularly to help kill live fleas and remove eggs (always follow laundry instructions). If items can’t be hot washed or tumbled dried, you can put them in a freezer for several days. 

Does Carpet Cleaning Kill Fleas?

If you have a flea infestation a professional carpet cleaner can be an effective way to quickly kill fleas that may be hiding in your carpets, providing much-needed relief. However, carpet cleaning alone won’t be enough to fully eliminate a flea infestation as eggs won’t necessarily be killed. 

A-Jet specialises in flea control and can offer carpet cleaning and targeted flea treatments. Call them today for more information.

Do Fleas Survive In Winter:

During winter months fleas that have already infested your home will survive by finding warmer areas such as in your pet’s fur, bedding, around heaters or other warm areas. Fleas have a life cycle that typically lasts two-three months. Factors that affect the flea’s survival rate in winter include temperature, humidity, and the availability of a host (a mammal). 

So how can you get rid of fleas in your home or office? Prevention is best, by following our recommendations you hopefully will reduce the chance of fleas infesting your property. However, if you see any flea activity act immediately before it becomes a serious problem. If you have noticed any flea activity in your home/office or you have any questions please give us a free call at 0800 862 538 we’d love to help. 

Take Notice of Scout Ants

One of the first signs that ants may soon infest your home is seeing a ‘scout’ ant. The scout ant’s job is to be out in the field looking for food sources. You may see the odd scout ant coming in and out of your home, indicating a colony of ants nearby. Scout ants are usually the first ants you will notice, and this is because they’re trying to find the best food source for their colony. They will determine whether your home is a good source of food or if they need to keep looking. Scout ants are incredibly important, and if you see a scout ant in your home, get rid of them before it can relay information to its colony. 

Keep Surfaces in and Around Your Home Clean

Ants are one of the most persistent pests in many Auckland homes. They tend to congregate near food or water, meaning they are often found in kitchens or dining areas. The first thing to do is to eliminate any food/water sources. 

1. Keep surfaces clean and dry. 

Ants are attracted to food – this includes sticky substances from spills. Immediately wipe down benches/tables after spilling/preparing/eating food. Make sure to dry the surface after cleaning to ensure no water residue is left behind. Ensure you’re vacuuming and sweep your floors regularly to remove any food that may fall onto the floor.

2. Keep bins clean and sealed.

Compost and rubbish bins contain food for ants. Take your rubbish and compost out regularly so it doesn’t build up inside your home. Rubbish should be sealed in bags. Make sure your bins have secure lids and are cleaned regularly.  

3. Clean up dirty dishes. 

Leaving out dirty dishes or leftover food is an instant attractant and can become an ant buffet if not careful. I know that after eating, washing up is the last thing you want to do, but unfortunately, if you’re trying to avoid an ant invasion, it’s something you need to do. 

Seal cracks and potential entrances to your home

Ants will typically enter your home through tiny holes in walls, windows, and even between door frames. Search your kitchen and dining areas for places ants could enter. You will never be able to plug all the tiny holes; however, plugging as many as possible may be enough of a deterrent for the scout ants to search for food in other places. Keep in mind that sealants will decay over time, so remember to reapply when needed. 

Get an ant treatment 

If ants are still finding ways into your home, it’s time to call in the professionals. Licensed pest control companies will apply a commercial-grade ant treatment that is significantly more effective than what you can buy at your local DIY store or supermarket. Contact A-Jet Services if you have more questions or would like a free quote. 

While many people bury their heads in the sand after seeing a solo mouse in or near their home, left unresolved, a rat or mouse problem can soon escalate, causing unseen damage to the electrical systems and structure of your home. As rodent control experts, we’re sharing a few of the most common signs to look out for, so you can act quickly before the problem gets out of control.

When an intruder comes to your house, there are telltale signs that will let you know something is amiss. Here are the most common:

Signs Your Building May Have A Rodent Problem

If you suspect your home may have a rat or mouse problem, there are a few common hallmarks to look out for. If you identify any of these in or around your home, call our rodent control team for further investigation.

• Rodent Droppings

One of the most obvious signs that you have a rodent problem is the presence of droppings in your home. Rat droppings are shiny, black, and 12-18mm long, while mouse droppings are smaller with slightly tapered ends. Droppings will likely be found in areas of high rodent traffic, such as cupboards under the sink and around food. 

• Gnaw & Scratch Marks

Known for their gnawing habits, rodents will chew through almost anything. Gnawed food packaging is a sure sign that rodents have been in your home, but you may also find bite and scratch marks on walls, floors and pipes. 

• Nocturnal Noises

Rats and mice are nocturnal, meaning that they’re most active after dusk. So, while you may not have seen any rodents scurrying around your home, you’re likely to hear them as you try to drift off to sleep. From the rustling of nesting to the screeching of fights, rodent noises are unmistakable.

Why Rodent Removal Is Necessary

Although the phrase may be “breeding like rabbits”, “breeding like rodents” may be a more accurate way to describe the prolific nature of mice and rats. Both have a gestation period of less than a month, meaning that in as little as a year, two rats can become 1,250. 

While it’s unlikely you’d let the problem get this out of control, every month that you ignore the problem, it becomes exponentially bigger. Each of those rodents has the potential to destroy the cables, wires, piping and wood that lies within your walls and ceiling. Not to mention spreading a range of diseases. 

Rat Exterminator Auckland

With over 35 years in the rodent control industry, A-Jet Pest Control is your trusted rat and mouse exterminator. Our team has the equipment and experience to stop rodents in their tracks with minimal disruption to you. If you have a rodent infestation, addressing it quickly is the best course of action. Speak to a member of the team for an obligation-free quote.

1. There are many types of cockroaches.

In New Zealand, the four main varieties of cockroach are the German cockroach, American cockroach, Gisborne cockroach and Native Bush cockroach. The American and German breeds spread disease, while the Gisborne and Native Bush do not. A-Jet cockroach treatments deal with all types of cockroaches.

2. Cockroaches have been around forever.

Cockroaches are certainly not a modern problem. In fact, they’re believed to have been around for more than 280 million years. With our native tuataras dating back 200 million years, it’s safe to say that these two creatures are our country’s longest-standing rivals.

3. Cockroaches can live without food.

Depending on the breed of cockroach, most can survive perfectly happily without food for a month or more. However, like us, their bodies prioritise water, and they can die in a week if unable to drink.  

4. They’re great swimmers. 

In a great example of how cockroaches have managed to survive for centuries, it turns out they’re incredibly good at holding their breath. Even submerged totally under water, they can live for half an hour before dying.

5. NZ cockroaches are small fry.

The largest cockroach in New Zealand is the Gisborne cockroach, which is identifiable by its flat, dark body and white bands along the side. It measures up to 4.5cm in length. Compare this to the world’s largest cockroach, the South American Megaloblatta longipennis, which can clock in at 9.7cm and has a 20cm wingspan. As cockroach pest control experts, we know which one we’d rather tackle!

6. Cockroaches moult their exoskeleton.

Cockroach nymphs hatch from their eggs fully formed as tiny versions of their parents. As they grow in size, the nymph will shed its exoskeleton many times before reaching its adult size. For this reason, if you have a cockroach infestation, you may find broken cockroach legs and various body parts in areas that roaches frequent. 

7. Cockroaches breed quickly.

One aspect of why cockroaches are considered pests is that they are prolific breeders. A single female cockroach will lay hundreds of eggs over the course of her lifetime, averaging 30 a month during her peak. If a cockroach gets comfortable in your home, it can quickly become a much larger problem, which is why it’s essential to undergo a cockroach removal process sooner rather than later.

8. Cockroaches can cover a lot of ground.

American and German cockroaches can run 5km an hour. When you factor in that they also carry disease, you can begin to see how disruptive and damaging they can be, particularly to businesses in the food industry. 

9. Cockroaches are the Houdini of the insect world.

Yes, cockroaches can fit through the tiniest of cracks in your home. From gaps between floorboards to windows left ever-so-slightly-ajar, it’s no match for a cockroach that is looking for a dry home. Even New Zealand’s largest species, the Gisborne cockroach, can flatten its body to squeeze through a gap that is less than 2mm wide.

10. Even a guillotine won’t stop a cockroach.

Cockroaches have an open circulatory system and breathe through holes along their body, so are not as dependent on their heads as we humans are. So, if a cockroach loses its head, it can continue living for a week. In fact, it only dies because, without a mouth, it isn’t able to drink water. 

With these facts in mind, it’s no wonder that cockroaches are such a difficult pest to eradicate. If you’re ready to say goodbye to these unwelcome creatures, call A-Jet Pest Control today. 

1. Contact a professional pest control company

Firstly, spring and summer is the perfect time to have a professional preventative pest control treatment carried out. This will help prevent major infestations from happening, stopping pests in their tracks

2. Tend to your lawn and garden

With the weather getting warmer and your garden and lawns beginning to grow again, now is the perfect time to get your garden and lawn under control. Pests such as flies, cockroaches, fleas and rodents love to nestle in and call overgrown gardens home. So, removing overgrown grass, shrubbery and organic waste from your property helps to keep pests away.

Make sure that tree branches aren’t touching your roof or other areas of your home. If they are, it’s time to prune and/or trim. Pests such as rodents can easily move from the tree to your house or apartment.

3. Clean the gutters

Debris in your gutters may provide a food or water source for a range of pests. Give gutters a thorough cleaning yourself or hire a professional. This will also help to prevent overflows and possible floods during heavy rain.

4. Scan the outside of your home for points of entry

Pests need get in somehow; look around the outside of your home for possible ways they could enter. These potential entryways may include:

• air and chimney vents
• openings in the roof
• broken screens or windows
• cracks and crevices in walls or cladding.

To close air and chimney vents, you can install ventilation flaps. Be sure to repair any roof damage and fill cracks in walls or cladding. Repair broken screens or windows and fill in any gaps you find around the foundation of your home.

5. Pay attention to your rubbish

Just like people, insects and rodents are always on the lookout for a good free meal. That’s why it’s important to make sure you secure all rubbish and dispose of it appropriately. Make sure rubbish bin lids are tightly secured.

6. Give your home a thorough clean

There’s a reason why people talk about carrying out annual spring clean of their home! A deep clean of your home will not only make it hygienic, it also helps to make your home less attractive to pests. While giving walls, floors, benches and cupboards a deep clean, check for evidence of pest activity such as droppings, scratch marks, nests or dirt. Take the opportunity to make sure your dry goods are secured in sealed containers. If you compost, make sure food waste is kept in sealed containers as this is a perfect food source for unwanted pests.

There are many places in the home where pests create their own home. For example, unused or unmaintained rooms, cavities or even furniture provide warm dry homes for all types of pests. Check these areas regularly, and make sure they are secure with no evidence of pest activity. Remember to clean around drains to make sure they are free flowing with no build up. Again, this not only prevents the environment from inviting pests to breed, it also helps to prevent possible flooding.

If you’d like to work with us and secure your home against spring and summer pests, or if you have any questions, get in touch with one of our friendly team today.

Pests such as rats, cockroaches, and some spiders will nest within your walls. They tend to chew on electrical cables and drywall and are known to pass on diseases like salmonella and Hantavirus. You might even face an increase in termites, ants, and mosquitos in your region.

How to Control Pests in Autumn?

To get you through the potential surge in pest infestation this autumn, we have put together 6 valuable pest control tips that you can do yourself:

1. Know The Signs

Watch for droppings, signs of nests, or burrowing. If you find any signs of insects, try to find the source of the infestation. Letting a pest problem fester will later go on to become unmanageable.

2. Make Repairs

The simplest way to protect your home is to first get ahead of the problem. Any openings, cracks are an entry point for pests into your home. Begin by blocking access and preventing the spread of pest infestations. Clean and screen all windows and doors. Repair any damaged screens.

Repair weather-stripping and loose mortar around the foundation and windows and doorways. This not only keeps the insects and rodents out but also cold weather.

Check into the attic and inspect all roof spaces regularly. Repair any cracks and damaged roof tiles. Also, make sure to repair the outdoor drainage system. It is essential to draw away water and moisture from your home and prevent any leaks.

3. Seal

Seal all cracks and crevices in your home. Use caulk and steel wool to do so. Especially the areas around piping, seal the holes using caulk. Screen vents and any small openings including mail slots and animal doors. You can use galvanized mesh.

4. Keep Up With The Outdoors

Unmanaged grass and shrubbery act as good hiding spots for insects and rodents. Keep branches, shrubs and bushes trimmed and away from the house. Any compost should be kept in a sealed area away from the house. Garbage bags and bins attract the most rats and cockroaches and should be well sealed. It’s a good idea to store these and any other yard waste, like firewood, at least 5 metres from the house.

Monitor drainage systems, pipes, water storage tanks, and gutters.

5. Avoid Moisture

Keep the house dry and well ventilated. Moisture and dampness attract pests. Some pest thrive in wet and moist conditions, making basements, garages, attics, bathrooms, and laundry rooms hotbeds for pests and mosquitos. You can use dehumidifiers to control the moisture.

6. Keep Clean

Food left unattended and open attracts insects and rats. Keep everything sealed in airtight containers and store in a dry place. Avoid leaving food outside for longer than necessary. Keep garbage bins sealed and in clean surroundings.

Lastly, while it’s the time of high risks of pest infestation, Autumn is also the best time of year to reinforce your home and secure it from pest problems for the rest of the year. Already have pest infestations in your home and repellents aren’t working? It is probably time to call in the experts for pest control services.

At Ajet Pest Control, we offer effective services to help you prepare for the Autumnal pest infestations, as well as for a range of other solutions for you to overcome pests. No matter how grave or trivial the situation, we have the right solution and experience. So, if you are in Auckland, worried about pests, reach out today, and we will deliver you from your troubles.