The Basics of Pest Control
There are three main goals of Pest Control: prevention, suppression, and eradication. Prevention strategies aim to prevent pest problems, suppression targets pests that already exist, and eradication eliminates pests altogether. Prevention strategies can also prevent pests from causing damage, and suppression targets specific pest species. Prevention strategies can also be effective for small pest problems, while suppression focuses on eliminating the entire population. Among these three goals, suppression is the most cost-effective, as prevention techniques only address the immediate problem.
When dealing with pests, people tend to want the thrill of the kill. They want to see their cockroaches die in a mass swarm. They also envision a terminator with a backpack full of chemicals, spraying the insects from the ceiling. But pests are not only unsightly; they can cause health problems themselves. In addition to bites and infestations, pests can also leave their excrement on food, making it unsafe to eat. This can also make an existing medical condition worse.
To determine which pest control strategy is best for your situation, it is essential to understand what the pest does. Learn how it reproduces, where it lives, and how it harms other creatures and buildings. After learning as much as possible about the pest, you can decide whether to use traps, baits, or baits. You must be aware of the risks and benefits of each strategy. Regardless of the approach you choose, it’s important to follow regulations and be sure to learn all about the pest’s needs before making a decision.
Biological control is another method. These strategies rely on the natural mechanisms of the pests to prevent their populations from rising. Biological control can either include the introduction of natural predators or the release of bred natural enemies. These methods are effective, but they are not eradicative. Natural enemies, such as predatory insects, may have an increased population, so biological control methods are only effective in reducing the pest population. The organisms released should reproduce in a way that will provide long-term control.
Licensed pest control workers use chemicals, traps, and power spraying-equipped trucks to combat pests. They conduct inspections and devise treatment strategies for specific pest problems. Some also deal directly with customers. More advanced pests may require the services of a fumigator, who can fumigate houses to combat large infestations. Most of these workers work full-time, but many work nights, weekends, and overtime. A high school diploma is required, and formal instruction is usually received through the employers.
Insecticides are chemicals that kill or inhibit pests. Chemicals are classified by the species of pests that they target. Some pesticides are insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Herbicides and pesticides are applied to plants, while chemists use fungicides to kill insects and fungi. Chemical pesticides may cause harmful effects to fruits and vegetables and are not always environmentally friendly.