Most people only become aware of a pest problem in their home when they actually see the pest for the first time. The first signs of bed bugs or fleas are usually when someone gets an itchy bite.
But paying attention to the first signs of pest activity can help you identify an infestation early, which can save you from more serious problems down the road.
Overlooking a pest infestation for too long can have detrimental effects on your health and property and can be more complicated and cost you more in the long run to take care of.
You need to be on the lookout for more than just droppings, shed skin or dead insects – there are many other unusual things that can be a good indicator that you have unwanted visitors.
Other signs that you may need a pest expert are dirt marks, unusual noises in walls or floors, unusual smells, your pet behaving strangely or chewing on food packaging and cables.
Here we look at the most common pests –
Mice
Small, rice-sized black droppings are a key sign of having mice. Check under sinks and behind appliances or in lofts. You may also find chewed food wrappers or bite marks.
Rodents tend to travel between homes through empty spaces, including eaves.
Grinds
Moth infestations often go unnoticed until the damage becomes apparent. Key indicators include irregular holes in clothing, carpets and upholstery.
You can also find silky tunnels or cases, caterpillar cocoons and adult moths around light or dark corners. Moth larvae prefer natural fibers such as wool, silk and fur. Attacks can spread quickly if left untreated.
Regularly checking sensitive items, maintaining cleanliness, and using moth repellents or traps can help control the problem.
Bed bugs
Signs of bed bugs are notoriously elusive, but they can often be found near sleeping areas. Inspect mattresses, bed frames, headboards and surrounding furniture for blood stains, eggs, excrement and shed skin.
Bites, which cause itchy red spots mainly on the arms, head and neck, are a significant indicator, as is a musty smell in the room.
Bed bugs can be transported via clothing from public places such as cinemas and hotels. Look out for signs of bed bugs wherever you go.
Cockroaches
Look for black spots on hinges and behind appliances, and be alarmed if you see a single one.
Ants
Infestations are indicated by trails leading to food and nests located around your property. Finding a nest around your property indicates an infestation.
Scrape around holes outside with a stick – if it’s the nest it will trigger an alarm response and hundreds of ants rush out.
Fleas
Fleas are the second most difficult pest to get rid of. Not only are they highly resistant to pesticides, but they also multiply very quickly.
Bites usually occur around the ankles, and fleas can occur even without pets, often from neighbors’ pets or wild animals such as foxes.
Wasps
Increased wasp activity around gutter levels or sheds and constant movement between areas indicates a nearby nest.
Seeking professional help
If you suspect any pest activity, it is best to consult with a professional pest control technician who can accurately diagnose the problem and suggest effective treatments.
Inoculand offers a range of services including fumigation and heat treatments to get rid of nuisance pests in both residential and commercial properties throughout London.
For more than 15 years, the experienced team at Inoculand have been offering high quality pest control services in London, specializing in mice control, moth control, bed bug control, rat control, heat treatment and sampling services that come with a one year warranty.
