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! 

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!

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. 

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.