The Most Commonly Found Rodents in Massachusetts
Most people don’t know that Massachusetts is home to a wide array of wildlife. As a matter of fact, the state is home to more than 80 different species of mammals, and about 15 of those species are rodents! The rodent population is relatively large around Massachusetts; whether it’s small mice or large rats, there are several types of pesky critters that you should always keep your eyes peeled for. All rodents are capable of carrying various harmful diseases and health risks, which can create all sorts of damage to buildings, homes, and worst of all, your health! Keep reading below to gain further insight into the most commonly found rodents in Massachusetts.
Mice
Mice are the smallest rodents on our list and can be found almost anywhere throughout the state. There are said to be more than 70 different species of mice across the United States, but in Massachusetts, the most commonly found species are house mice, deer mice, and white footed mice. You can suspect that mice have invaded your property if you notice droppings and chewed packaging. Don’t take mice infestation as a joke, as these tiny critters pose enormous health risks!
Rats
Rats are very common throughout Massachusetts. You can find big brown rats, aka Norway rats, usually in, near, or around homes and apartments, or pretty much anywhere where people live. These rats lack vision but have a strong sense of smell, touch, and taste. They are mostly found during the fall when the weather becomes colder, and food becomes more scarce. Keep a lookout because these animals can squeeze through small gaps and openings in homes.
Squirrels
Most people are unaware of how destructive squirrels can be! These furry critters are prone to climbing into homes by grasping onto trees, branches, and power lines. Once they gain entry, they can cause severe damage by scratching at insulation, building nests, and creating hazards by chewing on wires. The gray squirrel and the red squirrel are frequently found across Massachusetts.
Groundhogs
Groundhogs are much larger than mice, rats, and squirrels, and can grow up to 27 inches long. These animals have furry tails, range from dark brown to gray, and sometimes have white tips. Groundhogs are prone to burrowing beneath structures and chewing through power cables, and they eat whatever they find in gardens.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Rodent Removal Services
Absolut Pest Control is located in Amesbury, MA, and has a reputation for successfully removing and exterminating all types of pests, especially rodents. If your home or property is facing a rodent problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts today. You can reach us by calling 978-388-4589 or by filling out our contact form.
The Most Common Pests to Look Out For This Fall
Summer has come and gone, now it’s time to enjoy the cool crisp air and watch the leaves change right before our very eyes. Aside from the glorious scenery and other fun fall activities, this season may also bring unwanted intruders. The mosquitoes may be gone, but there are still several other insects waiting to gain entry into your home, as well as various rodents who are seeking warmth and shelter before winter arrives. Absolut Pest Control has listed various pests for you to keep a close eye on throughout the fall season below.
Common Insects in the Fall
Despite the chilly weather, various insects can be found throughout the fall, and even worse, in your home! Gain further insight into these tiny pests and how you can keep them away all season long here:
- Silverfish: Silverfish gravitate towards moisture and are most commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens. You can keep silverfish away this fall by applying cedar shavings and essential oils within these areas.
- Fleas: If fleas make their way inside your home or property, you should contact a professional because they are challenging to handle alone. They are prone to latching onto pets, so it would be a good idea to apply flea-control collars on your pets.
- Ants: Ants have a reputation for burrowing underneath the ground while also seeking warmth, especially this time of year. They hardly ever arrive as just one or two; they form colonies and are known for reproducing very quickly!
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches gravitate towards heat, so be on the lookout for these tiny pests in your kitchen. Also, be sure to remove any accessible crumbs or dirty dishes sooner rather than later!
Common Rodents in the Fall
As temperatures drop, rodents are scrambling to find warmth this time of year. Rodents are prone to entering homes and properties in search of warmth, but this can lead to damage, disease, and more. Keep a close eye out for these rodents during the fall season:
- Mice: Mice are very common in New England, especially during the fall season. They arrive with various problems, like chewing insulation, finding food, and leaving droppings. They seek warm spots such as ones near the stove or even the fireplace.
- Squirrels: Squirrels are tricky pests that tend to break in through small areas of your home’s siding or roof. The best way to avoid a squirrel infestation is to block entry points and seal cracks and holes.
- Rats: Rats are much larger than mice, but they can spread very harmful diseases. These pests will eat almost anything they can find, so be sure to remove any accessible food immediately and check your trash cans if you suspect rats on your property.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Pest Removal Services This Fall
The experts at Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, are here to effectively remove and exterminate a wide variety of unwanted intruders from your home or property this fall through various methods and strategies. Get started by calling us today at 978-388-4589 or by filling out our contact form.
How to Get Rid of Silverfish?
Silverfish have shiny silver bodies with long antennae, making them one of the creepiest insects that can be found within your home. Since they are attracted to areas with high moisture and humidity, silverfish are mostly found within bathrooms and kitchens. Even though these tiny silver pests don’t bite or sting, they can still cause severe damage around your home, such as feeding on clothes, books, and accessible food. Luckily, silverfish can be easily removed by employing various tactics and strategies, which we have provided below.
Remove Accessible Food Sources
Silverfish are attracted to sweet and starchy food items. When it comes to proper silverfish removal, your first step is to place accessible food in sealed containers or in a secured pantry space. If you usually leave fruits and vegetables out in the open or on top of kitchen countertops, it would be in your best interest to move these items into your fridge!
Place Clothes in Airtight Containers
Aside from accessible food, silverfish are also attracted to other unusual items, such as clothing, because these items can sometimes include moisture. The best step to take during this situation is to organize your wardrobe by season. Try placing seasonal clothes or clothes not in rotation in airtight containers to reduce the risk of silverfish appearing.
Regularly Dust Your Home
If silverfish have been spotted in your home, try getting into the habit of regularly dusting! These pests live off starch, and regularly dusting your home can significantly reduce the chances of silverfish arriving. Removing dust means fewer materials for silverfish to eat, which means they will be less likely to want to be in your home!
Utilize Essential Oils
Essential oils can serve as a healthier alternative to harsher repellents. Essential oils like peppermint and tea tree can effectively deter silverfish from your home with ease. Aside from removing silverfish, they are also effective in keeping mice and rats away due to their strong scents.
Place Sticky Traps Around Your Home
Sticky traps are an excellent solution for successfully and safely removing silverfish around your home. These types of traps can be purchased online and are prone to catching silverfish safely in various areas. Try placing these traps in various locations, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other areas.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Silverfish Removal Services
Aside from removing accessible food, using essential oils, and placing sticky traps, contacting a professional like the ones at Absolut Pest Control is by far the most effective option for silverfish removal. Our team of experts is highly knowledgeable in successfully removing silverfish from homes in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Don’t let silverfish take over your home! Contact Absolut Pest Control today by calling 978-388-4589 or filling out our contact form.
How to Keep Earwigs Out of Your House
Earwigs are known as “pincher bugs” and are commonly found across North America. These bugs are small and are very rarely larger than an inch in length. They have long segmented abdomens and rear-mounted pincers, making them very easy to identify. Learn more about earwigs and how you can prevent them from entering your home below!
The History Behind the Earwig Name
There are several myths and misconceptions behind earwigs and their name. The most notable myth would have to be that earwigs crawl into the ears of humans once they are asleep. Although these stories are nowhere near the truth, the real truth is that earwigs actually do not like humans and very rarely approach them, especially when they are sleeping.
Why Do Earwigs Enter Homes?
Did you know that earwigs are nocturnal insects? These pests only come out at night and are attracted to light. So if you have a porch light, keep a close eye on earwigs making their way onto your property. A majority of the time, earwigs are in hiding and can be found almost anywhere. For example, they can accidentally be brought inside when residing on wood, boxes, and even newspaper. During the colder months of the year, like fall and winter, earwigs are prone to searching for warmth, which is another reason they may enter your home.
Can Earwigs Bite?
Believe it or not, earwigs actually do not bite. Due to their massive pincers and creepy appearance, they may seem like the type of insect to harm humans, but they do not. Don’t get it twisted; these insects are still harmful, carrying various forms of bacteria.
Effectively Removing Earwigs
Even though earwigs are not as dangerous as most think, they still have no place within your home. Learn more about how these insects can be removed effectively below.
- Use soap and water: Applying dish soap and water to areas within your home where earwigs have been seen is an excellent solution for proper prevention.
- Apply boric acid: If you are searching for an effective pesticide treatment, applying boric acid to areas where earwigs have been seen is a strong solution. Keep in mind that it should not be applied within areas where pets and small children will be present because it may cause skin irritation.
- Create a light trap: You can make a homemade light trap by simply filling a bucket with water and applying a light over it. Since we now know that earwigs are attracted to light, they will be prone to following it and falling into the water bucket.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Earwig Removal & Prevention
The best way to remove earwigs from your house is by contacting a professional. The professionals at Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, have been successfully removing earwigs as well as many other insects from homes across Massachusetts and New Hampshire for many years through various methods and strategies. Contact us today by calling 978-388-4589 or by filling out our contact form.
Early Signs of Termite Infestation
For those who don’t know, a termite infestation occurs when termite colonies enter a property or residence. The termite colonies comprise a queen, workers, soldiers, and reproductive termites. The lifecycle of a termite can last anywhere between 2 and 50 years, and colonies can last indefinitely! These tiny pests feast on wood, paper, and cardboard and are prone to damaging properties by chewing through wooden areas. Termites leave behind evidence and identifiable damage, which can lead to expensive repairs, so remember not to ignore the signs! We have provided a few signs of termite infestation for you to view below!
Blisters in Wooden Flooring
If you notice that your wooden flooring is buckling or blistering, there is a high chance that your home is facing a termite infestation. Termites are capable of causing severe damage to wooden flooring, which can result in discoloration and a wavy structure. Fun fact! They actually prefer softer wood!
Damaged Wood
If you suspect that your home is under a termite attack, knock on wooden structures and see if they are hollow. Termites can cause wood damage behind and below wooden surfaces, such as walls and floors. They are prone to hollowing out wooden structures, causing them to create a hollow sound when tapped on. Termites are capable of chewing through wood and leaving behind cellulose, which leaves behind long grooves that resemble a maze inside walls. These grooves can also weaken the wood and create structural damage.
Difficulty Opening Doors & Windows
Since termites eat wood in search of cellulose, they can cause damage to wood, which results in buckling or warping. Because of this, it can be challenging to open and close your doors and windows. Be on the lookout for termites if you suddenly realize your doors and windows do not fully close.
Termite Mud Tunnels
Some termites are known for nesting underground to store their food sources. Thinly-sized mud tunnels can be found where the ground and your house, shed, or any other structure meet. To survive, termites need specific temperature and humidity levels to live, and their tunnels help remove cool and dry air, which turns your home into a suitable environment for them.
Damaged Drywall
Termites are always on the hunt for cellulose, and wallpaper contains large amounts of it. As termites chew, they leave behind small trails on the surface and inside the drywall. Stay on the lookout for pin-sized holes in your drywall and wallpaper. Bubbling wallpaper is also a huge red flag that termites are present!
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Termite Extermination Services
If you are facing a termite infestation, leave it to the team of professionals at Absolut Pest Control! We have been dealing with termites for many years and know exactly how to eliminate colonies residing in your home or property effectively. Contact us today regarding our extermination and prevention services by calling 978-388-4589 or by filling out our contact form.
What are Carpenter Bees?
Carpenter bees tend to arrive and pollinate during the springtime! These types of bees aren’t just your ordinary bees; they are pests and can cause damage to homes and properties! Carpenter bees are prone to causing damage to wooden structures and leaving openings. Fun fact! Carpenter bee queens are known for working alone and creating tunnels in wood, which allows them to create even more bees inside! Learn more about carpenter bees below!
Why Carpenter Bees are a Nuisance
Carpenter bees are commonly found during the spring and summer months within the eastern part of the United States. The female carpenter bees are known for excavating holes in wood, whereas the male carpenter bees do not. Keep in mind that carpenter bees do not eat wood; they use it, similar to carpenter ants. Female carpenter bees dig and chew through wood, creating tunnels to lay their eggs, creating more bees! These types of bees are unique because they do not form colonies, but the females do nest within the same area. Due to this, carpenter bees are prone to causing numerous problems for homeowners. Stay on the lookout for carpenter bees! The adult ones are approximately 25mm long and feature yellow hairs on the thorax, with a shiny black abdomen. You can tell it’s a male if there is yellow on its face!
Carpenter Bee Removal Tips
The best way to remove carpenter bees is by contacting a professional, like the ones at Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA! Absolut Pest Control has significant experience dealing with all kinds of bees for many years. Our team of professionals understands the strategies and techniques to effectively remove carpenter bees, keeping both you and them safe! If you would like to take matters into your own hands, we have provided some tips below!
Paint Wooden Surfaces and Structures
By painting or re-painting your property’s wooden surfaces and structures, you can confuse the carpenter bees and make them look less appealing!
Barricade Wooden Holes
If you come across wooden holes within your home or property, your best solution is to fill those holes with wooden material. Female bees will most likely attempt to create a new hole nearby, which is why you should begin covering wooden surfaces with plastic or metal material.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Carpenter Bee Removal Services
Here at Absolut Pest Control, we recognize the significance of carpenter bees and their importance to our environment and ecosystem, which is why we provide a safe and effective removal process. If your home or property has been infested with carpenter bees, please do not hesitate to contact us today by calling (978) 388-4589 or by filling out our contact form! Also, don’t forget to ask for a free estimate!
How to Tell If You Have Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are a nuisance! They are little pesky insects that feed off the blood of animals and humans. You can tell the difference between adult ones and younger ones by the color. Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown, whereas the younger ones are translucent or yellowish, making them very difficult to locate. Bed bugs can be found almost anywhere, including homes, apartments, hotels, dorm rooms, cruise ships, buses, and other public places. Continue reading as we delve into further details about these tiny pests and how to recognize the early signs of an infestation. Learn more about Absolut Pest Control’s bed bug services here!
How are Bed Bugs Caused?
Bed bugs enter homes and properties through other infested areas. For instance, if you live in an apartment, bed bugs can travel from one unit to another throughout the entire building. They are prone to latching onto furniture and other objects. Keep in mind that these insects are tiny and can easily enter homes without your knowledge, as they are very adept at hiding.
Can Bed Bugs Harm My Health?
To clarify, bed bugs are not considered a danger. There is no clear evidence that they can spread diseases, but their bites are itchy and very uncomfortable. Try not to scratch a bed bug bite, despite how itchy it may be, because it can lead to a severe infection. If you are allergic to bites, it can escalate to hives, blisters, and increased itching.
What are the Signs of Bed Bugs?
The first signs of bed bugs are usually itchy bites found on your skin, most likely on your arms or shoulders. They usually leave several bites, rather than just one or two, but in other instances, they don’t leave any bites at all. Stay on the lookout for:
- Blood spots on bed sheets
- Tiny yellow eggs or eggshells
- Tiny black dots, also known as bed bug poop
- Shedded skins
- White eggs the size of an appleseed
- Musty odors within your bedroom
How You Can Check for Bed Bugs
If you suspect that your home is infested with bed bugs, investigate your bed and mattress carefully, and don’t forget to check the crevices as well. They are prone to hiding in these areas, which grants them easy access to bite. They can also be found within the seams, piping of box springs, and within the cracks of bed frames and headboards. Other locations include:
- Between couches and chairs
- In curtains
- Drawers
- Electrical outlets
- Clothing
- Under loose wallpaper
- Under carpeting
- And more.
Contact Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA for Bed Bug Control Services
Bed bugs are more common than you think! Our team of experts has been removing bed bugs for decades while ensuring that they do not return. If your home or property is infested with bed bugs, contact Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, today for an effective removal process. Don’t forget to ask for a free estimate! Contact us today at (978) 388-4589 or complete our contact form.
What Diseases Do Mice Carry?
Mice may appear friendly, but they are a complete nuisance to homeowners, property owners, and restaurant owners. It is speculated that mice tend to arrive more so within the fall and cooler months, but in reality, they are present all year round, especially in New England. Mice are primary household pests for two main reasons: they can cause significant damage to insulation, and by spreading various diseases, leading to harmful health concerns. Continue reading to learn more about the harmful diseases that mice can spread if not removed in a timely manner.
Diseases Carried By Mice
Mice are one of the filthiest pests found in New England. They are contaminated with bacteria and other diseased organisms, which can be spread through their feces and urine left around properties. Be aware of the following diseases that mice can spread:
Hantavirus
Hantavirus is caused by viral organisms that are inhaled with dust particles while in contact with mice feces and urine. The feces and urine usually reside within the mice’s nests, which can be either inside or outside of properties. You may have Hantavirus if you are experiencing symptoms of fever, headache, or muscle pain. If this disease goes untreated, it can lead to more serious symptoms such as severe coughing, fluid in the lungs, or even death.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis is known to cause severe upset stomachs for humans. This disease occurs when coming into contact with mouse feces within food or on top of food preparation surfaces and utensils.
Leptospirosis
Without the proper treatment, Leptospirosis can cause kidney and liver failure. This harmful disease is caused by water contamination with mouse urine.
Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM)
LCM can cause several severe issues to the human body, such as fever, headache, or even brain damage! It occurs through direct contact with feces or inhaling waste-tainted dust. If you plan to clean up mouse feces, be sure to wear the proper protection. Also, pregnant females are at a higher risk of LCM because possible birth defects can occur and possibly result in death.
Contact Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, for an Effective Mouse Removal!
Mice infestations are no joke, especially in New England! Luckily, Absolut Pest Control is here to effectively and adequately take down your home or property’s mouse infestation or invasion with ease. Our experts possess extensive knowledge and experience in removing mice and other rodents in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, having served the areas for many years. If your home, property, or restaurant is under attack, please contact us immediately to prevent the situation from worsening and potentially spreading harmful diseases. Call Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, today at (978) 388-4589 or fill out our contact form!
How To Keep Bats Out of Your Attic
Bats are flying mammals that can become a nuisance to homeowners and property owners. These pests tend to arrive in early spring, so be on the lookout! Bats are nocturnal, meaning they are mostly active after dark, making locating them more difficult. They constantly search for shelter and attempt to enter attics and garages through small cracks and openings. Trust us, you do not want to deal with bats in your home. They carry dangerous diseases and foul smells, creating a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Luckily, we have provided several tips to keep bats out of your attic!
Why You Need to Keep Bats Away
One primary reason to keep bats away is their droppings. Bat droppings are a serious health hazard, containing histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease that can be spread by being airborne. Bats also carry rabies and have been proven to be the number one cause of rabies-related deaths by the United States Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). As mentioned previously, bats carry very foul odors through their natural beings, feces, and urine. They can also cause thousands of dollars worth of damage by scratching insulation, chewing wires, and ruining walls.
Tips and Ideas to Keep Bats Out of Your Attic
When attempting to keep bats away, identify specific entry points like damaged areas and gaps in siding. Keep in mind that bats tend to build nests in dark areas, which allows them to come and go while being unnoticed. Follow these tips below to prevent bats from intruding into your attic:
- Close off your vents: Enclose your vent with screening to keep out bats while still allowing efficient ventilation.
- Close off your chimney: Chimneys are one of the easiest entry points for bats. Applying a screening or a chimney cap with wire mesh can efficiently keep bats away.
- Observe windows and doors: Locate possible gaps, holes, or unfitted screens that may allow bats to gain entry.
- Cover points of entry: Cover holes and gaps around the exterior of your home with weatherproofing strips or foam insulation.
Most Common Bat Species in New England
You can find several bat species within Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Some of the species include the following:
- Big brown bats: Live in caves and enjoy warm areas
- Little brown bats: Usually found in attics and underneath decks, are the size of an adult thumb
- Eastern-small footed bats: An endangered species that have black ears and wings
- Indiana bats: Common in the east and have gray or brown fur similar to brown bats
Contact Absolut Pest Control For an Efficient Bat Removal in New England
The experts at Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, have significant experience and knowledge about bats. We have been removing bats properly for many years! We are here to ensure that your home or property is safe. If your home or property faces a bat infestation, contact us today by calling (978)388-4589 or filling out our contact form!
How to Get Rid of Horse Flies
Horse flies are pests found almost anywhere and are always hunting for blood! They usually reside within forests, fields, and even backyards. If your home or property is facing a horse fly problem or infestation, don’t worry! We have highlighted valuable information about proper removal and prevention moving forward! Contact us today if your home is under a horse fly attack!
What Do They Look Like?
Horse flies are large insects capable of growing up to one and a quarter inches long. Their colors are usually black and yellow, featuring black wings and a yellow or sometimes orange body. Horse flies may even appear all black with orange legs. Their eyes are known to be significantly larger than most insects and are sensitive to motion, which helps them locate prey quickly. Overall, horse flies are unlike any other insect in appearance and can easily be recognized if you have never encountered them before!
Horse Fly Prevention
Horse flies gravitate towards very moist areas, so removing any type of standing water near your property can heavily reduce the risk of horse flies approaching. Believe it or not, horse flies repel the scent of oil, specifically citronella oil! Spraying citronella oil around your yard or property is an effective solution to keep horse flies away! Fun fact! Many insect repellents are made from citronella oil! Flowers are also an excellent solution for keeping horse flies out of sight. Most flowers attract bees, and horse flies hate bees and tend to keep a far distance from them.
How to Protect Yourself
Horseflies are a nuisance that attack in the middle of the day. Repellent sprays containing citronella are the most effective solution for keeping them away. If your home is still under attack, other key tactics include wearing clothing to cover up skin. If you are experiencing a horsefly attack during the heat, be sure to wear light clothing.
When Do Horse Flies Usually Arrive?
Horse flies usually appear during the hotter months of the year, but can appear as early as April. These pests have a reasonably short lifespan, arriving in the spring and disappearing by the fall. Oddly enough, horse flies are seen as seasonal pests and are only a nuisance for a short period.
Horse Fly Bites
Horse flies are known to be very aggressive and tend to bite humans, causing painful wounds. These pests are known to bite any part of the body, whether it’s the neck or as low as your ankles. Humans may attempt to fight back, but unfortunately, it’s too late, and the horse flies usually fly away immediately after the bite.
Contact the Experts at Absolut Pest Control
The most effective solution for horse fly removal is to leave it to the professionals! Absolut Pest Control is always here to help Massachusetts and New Hampshire residents with a proper and effective pest control process. Contact us today by calling (978)388-4589 or filling out our contact form for a free quote!
