Tag Archives: Residential Pest Control

Animal Control, News, Raccoons, Residential Services

Are Raccoons Sleeping Off The Winter In Your Attic? Here’s What You Should Know

Are Raccoons Sleeping Off The Winter In Your Attic? Here’s What You Should Know
Are Raccoons Sleeping Off The Winter In Your Attic? Here’s What You Should Know

Raccoons are one of the more easily recognizable members of the animal kingdom, but not a face you want to see in your home. Our NJ pest control experts share information you should know about raccoons as house “guests”.

Raccoon Habitats and Eating Preferences

While raccoons live primarily in woodlands and marshes, they can survive in any place that has a ready source of water. Food is seldom a problem as raccoons are omnivorous, eating whatever is available from birds, fish and small mammals to fruits and nuts.

Unfortunately, the tendency of raccoons to eat anything can result in serious damage to their surroundings. Raccoons pose a major threat to agricultural areas, where they feed on crops and kill poultry. Residential areas are susceptible to torn-up lawns as raccoons look for insects and earthworms.

When Raccoons Venture Indoors

Attics, chimneys, decks and crawlspaces are popular winter hideouts for raccoons. Thanks to their nocturnal nature and quiet demeanor, raccoons can easily hide indoors undetected for long periods. Even more dangerous than the threat of destruction is the health risk posed by raccoons, who are known to carry rabies and roundworm.

Need NJ Pest Control? Contact Stern Environmental

Our trained and experienced NJ pest control technicians will remove raccoons and other nuisance wildlife from your home safely and humanely. Contact us at Stern Environmental for more information.

Bees, News, Wasps

The University of Connecticut on Bee and Wasp Abatement – What to Know

The University of Connecticut on Bee and Wasp Abatement - What to Know
The University of Connecticut on Bee and Wasp Abatement – What to Know

Bees and wasps are valuable members of the food chain, but that doesn’t make them welcome house guests. The University of Connecticut shares helpful information about bee and wasp abatement.

Bee and Wasp Behavior

• Generally, bees and wasps won’t sting unless they detect a threat to themselves or their nests. Leave hives undisturbed unless they’re in close proximity to humans, such as near a building entrance.

• Yellow jackets, hornets and paper wasps don’t reuse nests from one year to the next. If it’s fall and the nest is in an isolated part of the property, leaving it there may be the safest course of action.

• Commercial sprays can be applied directly to the opening of a nest. Infestations inside the home may call for use of an insect bomb.

• Attic grates, vents and other small openings should be screened over or caulked to prevent bees and wasps from entering.

Treating Bee and Wasp Stings

• If the stinger is still embedded in the flesh, use a fingernail or piece of plastic to gently scrape it out.

• Apply a damp paste of table salt or baking soda to the wound and let it sit for 30 minutes.

• If the sting victim has a history of allergies, contact a doctor immediately.

Choose Stern Environmental Group for Effective Bee and Wasp Abatement

Our bee and wasp abatement services include round-the-clock emergency hive removal. Contact us for more information.

Commercial Services, News, Pest Control, Pest Eradication, Pest Management, Pest News, Residential Services

Does Integrated Pest Management Work to Lower Pest Populations?

Does Integrated Pest Management Work to Lower Pest Populations?
Does Integrated Pest Management Work to Lower Pest Populations?

As more home and business owners seek to minimize exposure to chemical pesticides, commercial pest control providers are increasingly turning to integrated pest management solutions. How well does this approach work for pest control?

The Inner Workings of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Environmentally friendly and safe for humans and pets, integrated pest management solutions reduce chemical exposure and subsequent health and environmental risks. IPM seeks to prevent and control pests through a three phase approach:  

1. Monitor and identify pests in the environment.

2. Preventing or excluding pests from entering the environment.

3. Control pests, balancing the risks and efficacy of treatment.

What Solutions Might Be Involved with IPM?

At the onset of infestation, lower-risk pest control measures are preferred such as natural chemicals and pheromones. If this approach is effective, treatment is concluded. If this more natural approach proves ineffective, chemical baits or pesticides are then integrated, beginning with the safest and most effective options.

Integrated Pest Management is Beneficial in Large & Small Scale Applications

Whether you are looking for a more natural pest control alternative for your home or commercial property, IPM is effective and endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Looking for an alternative to chemical and pesticide-laden commercial pest control options? Learn more about safe and effective integrated pest management services from Stern Environmental today.

Pest Control, Rats, Residential Services

Tell Tale Signs of a Rat Infestation

Tell Tale Signs of a Rat Infestation
Tell Tale Signs of a Rat Infestation

No one wants to think about the fact that their home or business could be infested with rats. And yet, in our area of the country, these pests are far too common. Before contacting NJ pest control, it’s helpful to know if what you’re dealing with is in fact a rat problem. There are several ways that you can tell.

How to Identify a Rat Infestation

You’re not likely to see a rat in your home or business, but that doesn’t mean they won’t leave signs behind that can alert you of their presence. Some of the most common signs of a rat infestation are:

– Finding rat droppings near food, including dog or cat food dishes or containers.

– Hearing sounds coming from the attic once it begins to get dark.

– Finding old rat nests near firewood stacks.

– Evidence that rats are eating fruit or nuts that have fallen from trees in the yard.

– Burrows beneath garbage cans or compost bins.

Contacting NJ Pest Control to Help With Your Rat Problem

Because rats are so good at hiding, it can be hard to notice an infestation until it’s gotten out of control. Traps may not be enough to deal with them. You may need the help of the NJ pest control specialists here at Stern Environmental.

No one wants to deal with a rat problem. If you think you might have an infestation, please contact us right away!

Bees, Insect Control, News, Residential Services

Some Bees Build Nests Underground – What to Know

Some Bees Build Nests Underground - What to Know
Some Bees Build Nests Underground – What to Know

For many people, the idea of nesting bees usually brings to mind a vision of a beehive with resident bees buzzing in, out, and around the opening. This is true of some, but other bee species prefer the ground to set up their nests.

Signs of Ground Nesting

One prolific species found in the midwestern and northeastern portions of North America is Colletes. This busy bee is a loner, meaning the female takes care of constructing her nest. While she is considered to be solitary, it is not uncommon for a multitude of females to build their nests’ side by side.

In this case, you may find small mounds of soil or sand with a hole in the middle where the female lays her eggs. Depending on the landscape, the nests may be visible.

The Handling of Bees

Not all bees can sting. For example, the male Colletes inaequalis does not have a stinger, and the female uses her stinger only if being attacked.

Bees serve an important ecological service in providing pollination for fruit, trees, and flowers. Therefore, using chemicals to eliminate them is not always the best option. NJ pest control specialists are aware of this and take precaution when removing bees from a property.

For information about bee removal, the type of services we provide, and an inspection, contact Stern Environmental. Our NJ pest control experts handle problems quickly, efficiently, and safely.