Monthly Archives: November 2013

News, Raccoons

What Type of Damage Can a Raccoon Do in Your Attic

There are few wildlife scenes more adorable than spotting a furry, bandit-masked raccoon crossing your path. However, the cuteness wears off fast if this scene happens in your attic. These animals are becoming more comfortable in urban settings and love setting up camp in places like your nice warm home.

Raccoons won’t wait to be invited inside. They’ll work their way in by prying shingles loose or working off a piece of siding. Once inside, they prove to be inconsiderate house guests. They have a fascination with ducts and take no time to tear one apart. Insulation is no match for their wicked claws and their sharp teeth can do serious damage to wiring.

Then there are the hazards they create without even trying. Raccoons can harbor a wide variety of germs and diseases, including rabies, roundworm and distemper. As they scatter their droppings throughout an attic, they increase the probability of infecting any items being stored inside. Their urine, while also a health hazard, can be as destructive as a water leak.

The licensed professionals here at Stern Environmental Group are well-qualified to provide humane raccoon removal on a 24-hour emergency basis. We can also offer a thorough clean-up and disinfection of the affected area for the safety and protection of your family and pets. Contact us today for more information.

Bed Bug Information, Bed Bug News, Cockroaches, Insect Control, News, Pest Control, Pest News, Uncategorized

A Study of the Evolutionary History of Bed Bugs And Cockroaches

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Bed bugs and cockroaches are two of the most successful insects in the world. They have been able to adapt to their surroundings in order to survive and live among humans for millions of years.

Scientists have found that these two ancient pests…bed bug and cockroaches, have more similarities than just being a household nuisance. According to reports from the Wall Street Journal on September 29, 2013, dozens of researchers from the American Museum of Natural History in New York and Fordham University will be spending a year mapping the genomes of bed bugs and cockroaches.

The study includes bed bugs that were collected during 1970’s from Fort Dix in New Jersey. The researchers are trying to determine where the bed bugs originated from. They hope that by comparing the collection of fossilized bed bugs from the Egyptian collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art with the 1970’s bed bugs that they will be able to determine that the bed bugs originated from Europe.

How the study will affect the current bed bug and cockroach infestations that continue to occur throughout the US remains to be seen. But if you are battling bed bugs or cockroaches in New York City or New Jersey, the trained technicians at Stern Environmental Group will be able to eradicate these nuisance pests with top-notch treatment plans.

News, Squirrels

Is That a Squirrel in My Attic?

It’s said that good things come in small packages. That certainly doesn’t hold true for finding squirrels in your attic, though. Watching them scamper across your yard hunting acorns is one thing. Having them settle in as unwanted roommates is another thing altogether.

If trees make good homes for squirrels, just imagine how much more appealing your attic is. Not only is it warm and dry, it offers more protection from predators that may threaten them outdoors. Thanks to their climbing ability, squirrels have access to every part of your home. Their size makes it easy for them to slip in through vents, loose shingles or any other gap they may find.

The first tell-tale sign is usually the skittering pitter-patter sound of the visitors running around overhead. Once a squirrel’s inside, the main threat they present comes from their razor-sharp teeth. They’re capable of chewing through wood, insulation and wiring, meaning nearly every surface of your home is in danger. You may also begin to notice a smell coming from their droppings and urine, which can cause damage to ceilings.

There’s no need for you to tackle this problem on your own. Our licensed technicians at Stern Environmental Group are experienced in humanely removing squirrels and performing a thorough clean-up and disinfecting. Contact us to find out how we can help.