rku72txdyycix7vc

Termite Inspections Canberra

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 06:15:32 GMT

Why Annual Checks Protect Your Biggest Investment

Termite Inspections Canberra

Termites are active across Canberra year-round, and with our mix of older timber homes, new new construction, and moisture-prone soils, the ACT consistently ranks as a high-risk termite zone. A professional termite inspection every 12 months is the simplest and most effective way to protect your property from structural damage that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

As Canberra’s trusted, locally owned pest-control company, A1 Professional Pest Control has been delivering thorough, accredited inspections since 2007.

Why Termite Inspections Are Essential in Canberra

Termite activity increases with moisture, warm weather, and subfloor ventilation issues — all common across the ACT. Regular inspections ensure:

Early detection of termite activity

Identification of conducive conditions, such as leaks, poor drainage, landscaping against the house, and timber-to-ground contact

Protection of your warranty if you have an active management system (chemical barrier or reticulation)

Peace of mind knowing your home is professionally assessed

What We Look For During a Termite Inspection

Unlike a quick visual check, a licensed inspection includes the use of moisture meters, sounding of accessible timbers, and full access to roof voids, subfloors, and external structures. This allows us to identify concealed activity, moisture issues, and conditions conducive to termite entry.

Our accredited technicians assess the entire property top-to-bottom, including:

Roof voids & wall cavities

Subfloors, piers & bearer systems

Fences, decks & pergolas

Garages, sheds & outbuildings

Landscaping, garden beds & retaining walls

Moisture sources around the structure

Leaks, drainage issues & concealed entry points

Common Issues We Find in Canberra Homes

Over nearly two decades, we consistently find:

Landscaping concealing weep holes and vent faces

Downpipes draining against foundations

AC overflow pipes discharging against walls

Timber stored against the house

Poorly ventilated subfloors

Cracked or deteriorated termite barriers

Correcting these simple issues can significantly reduce your termite risk.

How Often Should You Book a Termite Inspection?

Under Australian Standards (AS 3660.2), inspections should be carried out every 6–12 months depending on risk factors.
In Canberra, we recommend:

Every 12 months for standard homes

Every 6 months for high-risk properties

Every 3 months following treatment for active termites, to confirm colony control

Book a Local, Trusted Termite Inspection

A1 Professional Pest Control has been protecting Canberra homes since 2007. We’re fully licensed, accredited, insured, and use only proven methods backed by long-term experience.

If you’re due for your annual inspection — or suspect activity — we can help today.

�� Call: (02) 6278 5858
�� www.a1professionalpestcontrol.com.au
�� Servicing all Canberra suburbs and surrounds

Canberras Most Trusted Pest Control Experts

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:17:58 GMT

Why Termite Inspections in Canberra Are Essential for Every Homeowner

Termites cause millions of dollars’ worth of damage to Canberra homes every year. These insects work silently behind walls, flooring and roof timbers, often going unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. This is why regular termite inspections in Canberra are one of the most effective ways to safeguard your home.

Why Canberra Homes Are at Higher Risk

Canberra’s climate—cold winters, warm summers and moisture-holding soil—creates ideal conditions for termite activity. Areas across Belconnen, Gungahlin, Weston Creek, Tuggeranong and Queanbeyan are especially vulnerable due to bush corridors, older timber construction and landscaped gardens that provide concealed entry points.

Termites only require a 1mm gap to enter a property, and once they do, they feed continuously.

What Happens During a Termite Inspection?

A professional termite inspection follows Australian Standards and includes a comprehensive assessment of:

- Internal rooms, skirtings and architraves

- Roof voids and subfloors (where accessible)

- External walls, garden beds and drainage points

- Garages, fences, sheds and other timber structures

- Moisture levels using specialised meters

- Thermal variations that may indicate hidden activity

- Conducive conditions that may attract termites

- A full report with findings and recommendations

This gives you an accurate picture of your property’s current risk.

How Often Should You Have a Termite Inspection?

Australian Standards recommend annual inspections.
Higher-risk homes may require checks every 6–12 months, especially if they have:

- Previous termite activity

- Soil or garden beds against the house

- Moisture issues

- Timber landscaping or retaining walls

- Proximity to bushland

In Canberra, termites remain active year-round — even through winter.

What If Termites Are Found?

If activity is detected, prompt treatment is essential. Options include:

- Termidor SC soil treatments

- Full or partial perimeter barriers

- Active baiting systems

- Colony elimination programs

- Long-term monitoring and follow-up inspections

Early treatment prevents extensive structural damage.

Why Choose a Local Canberra Specialist?

Local experience matters. Canberra’s soil types, construction methods and termite species can vary significantly between suburbs. With nearly two decades of experience in the ACT, A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra provides accurate inspections, compliant treatments and tailored advice based on local conditions.

Protecting your home is about early detection — not waiting until damage appears.

Click here to Book Your Termite Inspection in Canberra

Why Annual Termite Inspections Are Essential for Canberra Homes

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 20:03:33 GMT

Protect your home from termite damage. Learn why yearly termite inspections in Canberra are vital, how they work, and why A1 Professional Pest Control is the trusted local choice.

Canberra’s High Termite Risk Zone

Canberra’s unique combination of clay-based soils, warm summers, and cool winters makes it a hotspot for subterranean termites. These pests thrive in moist soil and love older suburbs with timber structures and mature gardens. Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t notice termites until extensive damage is already done.

Annual termite inspections are your best defence. Regular monitoring helps identify early signs of termite activity before serious structural repairs become necessary — saving you thousands of dollars in potential damage.

What’s Involved in a Professional Termite Inspection

When you book a termite inspection with A1 Professional Pest Control, you’re getting a detailed, compliant, and fully documented assessment.

Our inspection includes:

Comprehensive visual checks – Internal, external, roof void, subfloor, and garden areas.

Advanced detection equipment – Moisture meters, Termatrac radar, and thermal imaging help locate hidden activity.

Detailed reporting – You’ll receive a written report highlighting any signs of termite activity, risk areas, and prevention recommendations.

Australian Standards compliance – All inspections are carried out in accordance with AS 3660.2 (2022) for termite management in existing buildings.

Early Warning Signs of Termite Activity

Be alert for these common indicators around your home:

Timber that sounds hollow when tapped

Mud tubes or trails running up walls or foundations

Tight-fitting doors or windows that suddenly jam

Discarded wings near windowsills or skirting boards

Peeling or bubbling paint that looks like water damage

If you spot any of these, don’t disturb the area — contact A1 Professional Pest Control for an immediate inspection.

Prevention Tips for Homeowners

Simple maintenance habits can greatly reduce your termite risk:

Keep firewood, timber sleepers, and mulch away from building foundations

Ensure good drainage and ventilation under subfloors and around the home

Repair leaking taps, gutters, and downpipes

Avoid storing cardboard or untreated timber in damp areas

Request a professional annual inspection for early detection and peace of mind

These measures, combined with annual inspections, create a strong barrier against infestation.

Why Choose A1 Professional Pest Control ?

Since 2007, A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra has protected homes across the ACT with proven, family-safe termite management systems. We’re a locally owned, independent business, not a franchise — meaning you get personal service, genuine local expertise, and honest recommendations.

Our team uses industry-leading, non-repellent termiticides and advanced inspection technology to detect and eliminate termite colonies. Every report includes practical steps to keep your property safe year-round.

Book Your Annual Termite Inspection Today

Don’t wait until you see damage — by then, termites have often been active for months. Protect your biggest investment now.

Call A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra or book online to schedule your termite inspection today.

Spring in Canberra: Why Spiders, Ants & Wasps Are Moving In

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 06:29:00 GMT

Warmer days mean more pests. Here’s why spiders, ants, and wasps invade Canberra homes each spring — and how professional pest control keeps them out.

Spring in Canberra: Why Spiders, Ants & Wasps Are Moving In

As Canberra warms up, spiders, ants, and wasps are coming out in force. Here’s why they’re invading your home — and how to keep them out for good.

The Spring Pest Surge

Canberra’s mild spring temperatures and longer daylight hours trigger a burst of pest activity. After months of cooler weather, insects become more active, searching for food, warmth, and nesting sites.

While most homeowners notice a few more bugs around this time of year, the real trouble starts when they find shelter inside your home. Roof voids, window frames, and garden beds become perfect breeding and nesting spots for spiders, ants, and wasps.

Common Spring Pests in Canberra

��️ Spiders
Canberra’s webbing and black house spiders thrive in sheltered outdoor spaces such as eaves, fences, and window corners. Inside, they often move into garages and ceiling voids.

Tip: Regular exterior treatments help keep webbing spiders under control before they migrate indoors.

�� Ants
Warmer days mean more activity. Ants build new colonies in lawns and garden beds, then move inside searching for food and moisture. Kitchens, bathrooms, and even electrical outlets are common nesting spots.

Tip: Sealing cracks and treating ant trails early in the season prevents long-term infestations.

�� Wasps
European wasps and paper wasps are most active between October and March. Nests start small in early spring, often under eaves, roof tiles, or garden furniture. By summer, they can become aggressive and dangerous.

Tip: Never spray or disturb a wasp nest yourself — professional removal ensures safety and complete elimination.

Why DIY Doesn’t Work for Long

Most store-bought sprays only kill visible pests. They don’t target the nesting areas or breeding cycles. Without professional treatment, pests return quickly — sometimes within weeks.

At A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra, our licensed technicians use targeted products and methods that reach deep into cracks, roof voids, and wall cavities. All treatments are family- and pet-safe, and designed for Canberra’s specific climate conditions.

Preventative Pest Management

A general pest service every 6–12 months helps maintain a pest-free environment year-round. Treatments in spring are especially effective because they target pests before populations explode in summer.

Regular servicing also helps detect early signs of termite activity, particularly around damp garden beds, fences, and retaining walls — common in Canberra’s suburban homes.

Book Your Spring Treatment Today

Don’t wait for pests to take over your home this season.
Book your spring pest treatment with A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra for comprehensive protection against spiders, ants, wasps, and more.

Knock-Down Rebuilds in Canberra: Protect Your New Home from Termites and Pests

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 21:54:09 GMT

Before you pour the slab or move into your new build, make sure it’s protected from Canberra’s most destructive invaders — termites , ants , and spiders .

Knock-Down Rebuilds in Canberra: Protect Your New Home from Termites and Pests

Before you pour the slab or move into your new build, make sure it’s protected from Canberra’s most destructive invaders — termites, ants, and spiders.

Canberra’s building boom has brought a surge of knock-down rebuilds across suburbs like Kaleen, Belconnen, and Gungahlin. Modern homes are going up fast, but one critical detail is often overlooked — termite protection. Whether you’re building from scratch or replacing an old home, termite management should be part of your foundation, not an afterthought.

Why Termite Protection Matters in Canberra

Canberra’s climate and soil types make it a hotspot for termite activity. Termites are active year-round, and because they travel through the soil and hidden gaps, most homeowners don’t notice them until serious damage is done.

Even a brand-new home can be at risk. Termites can gain entry through tiny cracks, plumbing penetrations, and expansion joints, causing thousands of dollars in hidden structural damage. Installing a compliant termite management system during construction is the only way to safeguard your investment from the start.

Pre-Construction Termite Systems (AS 3660.1 Compliant)

Under Australian Standard AS 3660.1, all new buildings must have a compliant termite management system installed during construction. The main types include:

Chemical soil systems such as Termidor® or Altis® reticulation — applied beneath and around the structure to form a treated zone that termites cannot cross. The Altis® system uses a network of reticulation pipes, allowing the chemical to be replenished later without excavation, providing long-term, serviceable protection.

Physical barriers such as Greenzone® or Novithor® — permanent, non-replenishable barriers designed to physically block termite entry. Greenzone® combines physical and repellent properties and is commonly installed around plumbing penetrations, between slabs, and between footpaths and building edges to prevent concealed termite access.

Note: Monitoring and baiting systems such as Sentricon Always Active® are not compliant with AS 3660.1 or AS 3660.2 as primary termite management systems. They can, however, be used as supplementary tools for detection and ongoing risk monitoring in existing structures.

At A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra, we’re accredited installers for all major termite protection systems and ensure full compliance with both AS 3660.1 (new construction) and AS 3660.2 (existing buildings).

Post-Build Pest Treatments

Once the build is complete, protect your investment with a general interior and exterior pest treatment. Canberra’s warmer months bring an increase in spiders, ants, cockroaches, and wasps, particularly around new landscaping and garden areas. We use family- and pet-safe products designed for long-term effectiveness and minimal disruption.

Book Your Pre-Build Consultation

Before the slab goes down, contact A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra for a pre-construction pest and termite consultation. We’ll review your plans, soil type, and site conditions to recommend a compliant, cost-effective solution tailored to your build.

Protect your new home from the ground up.
Call (02) 6278 5858 or visit www.a1professionalpestcontrol.com.au

How Heavy Rain in Canberra Wakes Up Hidden Termite Activity

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:27:33 GMT

Why wet weather in the ACT brings termites closer to your home — and how to stop them before they cause damage

After a stretch of rain in Canberra, homeowners often notice something unexpected — swarms of flying termites around outdoor lights, window frames, or garden beds. These “alates,” or reproductive termites, are the first visible sign of what could already be a major problem under the surface.

�� Why Rain Triggers Termite Movement

Canberra’s cool winters and warm, wet springs create ideal conditions for subterranean termites. When the soil becomes moist after heavy rain, it softens enough for termites to move easily through it, tunnelling up toward buildings in search of food sources. This is when they’re most likely to find timber decks, fences, or house framing — and start causing damage you won’t see until it’s too late.

�� Where They Hide

Termites thrive in dark, humid areas such as:

Subfloor spaces with poor ventilation or damp soil.

Timber garden edging and sleepers in contact with the ground.

Old tree stumps and firewood piles stacked near walls.

Mulch beds that sit higher than the internal floor level.

Once they’re inside, termites can stay hidden for months, quietly eating through floor joists and skirting boards while the surface looks fine.

�� What You Can Do After Rain

Inspect foundations and gardens — look for mud tubes, bubbling paint, or soft timber.

Reduce moisture — clear gutters, redirect air-con and hot-water overflow pipes away from walls.

Book a professional inspection — ACT pest technicians use moisture meters, Termatrac radar, and thermal imaging to detect concealed activity before structural damage occurs.

Avoid DIY chemicals — they often cause termites to relocate deeper into the structure rather than eliminating the colony.

�� Canberra Homeowners’ Tip

Because of the region’s clay soils and temperature swings, termites in Canberra are active for most of the year — not just summer. Rain doesn’t make termites visible, but it creates the damp, humid conditions they prefer, encouraging colonies to expand and forage closer to buildings. The most effective defence is a professional inspection every 12 months, ideally during the warmer months when termites are at their most active.

�� Ready to Act ?

If you’ve had heavy rain around your property and haven’t had a termite check in the past year, now’s the time.

A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra provides licensed termite inspections and tailored treatments across Belconnen, Gungahlin, Tuggeranong and the wider ACT.
Book your post-rain termite inspection today — protect your home before hidden damage takes hold.

Black Ants Canberra – How to Identify and Control Black House Ants in Your Home

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 23:59:42 GMT

Learn how to identify, prevent, and remove black house ants in Canberra with proven ant control methods from A1 Professional Pest Control.

Black Ants Canberra – Expert Black House Ant Control and Prevention Tips

Learn how to identify, prevent, and remove black house ants in Canberra with proven ant control methods from A1 Professional Pest Control.

If you’re noticing tiny black ants marching across your kitchen bench or around your garden, you’re not alone. Black ants in Canberra are one of the most common household pests, invading homes in search of food and moisture — particularly during the warmer months. While they may seem harmless, large colonies can quickly become an ongoing nuisance that’s hard to control without the right approach.

Identifying Black House Ants in Canberra
The black house ant (Ochetellus glaber) is the species most often found in ACT homes. They’re small, about 2–2.5 mm long, with a shiny black appearance and fast, erratic movement. Black house ants typically nest in wall cavities, roof voids, under pavers, or in gardens. They are drawn to sugary substances such as fruit, honey, or soft drinks and are commonly seen foraging on kitchen surfaces or outdoor furniture.
Unlike termites, black ants don’t eat timber, and their bite is not painful. However, their constant movement across benches, bins, and pet food bowls can spread bacteria and contaminate food, making them a hygiene issue as well as a frustration.

Why Black Ants Are So Common in Canberra
Canberra’s hot summers and cool winters create ideal conditions for black ant infestations. Between October and March, ants become highly active, forming trails inside and outside buildings. They use chemical scent trails to locate food and communicate with the rest of the colony, which can include thousands of workers. Once established, colonies can persist for years if left untreated.
Common nesting sites include gardens, retaining walls, cracks in concrete, and even electrical fittings or roof insulation. They are resourceful and can enter through the tiniest gaps or under door seals.

How to Prevent a Black Ant Infestation

The best way to avoid black ants invading your home is by removing what attracts them.

Eliminate food and water sources : Keep all food sealed, clean up crumbs, and repair leaking taps or pipes.

Seal entry points: Block cracks around windows, doors, and skirting boards.

Maintain your garden: Trim vegetation away from walls and avoid mulch buildup against the house.

Break their scent trails: Wipe surfaces with vinegar or soapy water to remove pheromones and discourage new trails.

Professional Ant Control Canberra
DIY sprays may offer short-term relief but often fail to eliminate the colony. For lasting results, professional treatment is recommended. A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra uses targeted baiting systems and residual treatments designed specifically for black house ants. Our licensed technicians locate the source of the infestation and apply safe, effective solutions to protect your home long-term.

Final Thoughts
Black ants are persistent pests, but with good hygiene, regular maintenance, and professional pest control, they can be effectively managed. If you’re dealing with ongoing black ant problems in Canberra, contact A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra today for expert advice and reliable ant control solutions that keep your home clean, safe, and pest-free.

Termites Don’t Take Holidays — Book a Termite Inspection in Canberra Before Christmas | A1 Professional Pest Control

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 07:22:03 GMT

�� Termites Don’t Take Holidays — Protect Your Home This Christmas

As the Christmas season arrives, most of us are busy enjoying barbecues, family gatherings, and some well-earned time off. But while you’re winding down for the holidays, termites are ramping up their activity — summer is the peak time for feeding and expansion across Canberra.

Termites Thrive in Canberra’s Summer Heat

Termites don’t stop for Christmas. Warm, humid conditions provide the perfect environment for colonies to spread through soil and timber, often unnoticed. By the time visible damage appears, they may have already caused thousands of dollars’ worth of hidden structural damage.

A professional termite inspection ensures early detection and gives you peace of mind before you head off for the holidays.

Why Book a Termite Inspection Before Christmas ?

Peak termite activity – Summer conditions mean termites are most active and destructive.

Early detection saves money – Finding activity early prevents costly repairs later.

Peace of mind for the holidays – Be confident your home is protected while you travel or host guests.

Holiday special offer – Book before Christmas and get discounts on rodent baiting and general pest services.

Summer Pests Are on the Move

It’s not just termites that come alive in summer. Canberra homes see a big spike in rats, mice, cockroaches, ants, and spiders — all looking for food, water, and shelter. A combined pest service is the most effective way to keep your property safe and hygienic through the warmer months.

That’s why A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra is offering bundled savings on rodent baiting and general pest treatments when booked with your termite inspection this December.

Local, Reliable Protection You Can Trust

With years of experience protecting Canberra homes and businesses, we understand local conditions and the pests that thrive here. Our treatments are safe for families and pets, and we always provide honest advice and practical recommendations for long-term pest management.

Book Your Christmas Pest Protection Today

Don’t wait until the damage is done — schedule your termite inspection in Canberra before Christmas and enjoy a pest-free summer.

Pet Enclosure Installation Canberra

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:39:18 GMT

Need to enclose a yard or outdoor area for your pets? A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra installs secure pet enclosures.

Pet Enclosure Installation in Canberra: Secure Outdoor Spaces for Pets

Keeping pets safe while allowing them to enjoy the outdoors is a growing priority for homeowners across Canberra. Whether it’s stopping small dogs from squeezing through fences, preventing pets from accessing unwanted areas, or simply enclosing a section of the yard or veranda, a professionally installed enclosure can make all the difference.

At A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra, we install custom pet enclosures using high-quality nylon netting and stainless steel cable — the same robust, low-visibility materials we use for our commercial bird netting systems. These installations are ideal for enclosing spaces where pets need safe, defined boundaries without compromising airflow or visibility.
Custom Enclosures, Not Cat Runs

Our pet enclosures are not prefabricated cages or typical “catios.” Instead, we provide built-on-site containment systems tailored specifically to the space you need secured. Whether it’s a narrow side passage, the area beneath a deck, an open courtyard, or a utility or plant room, we design and install netting barriers that are clean, discreet, and effective.
Built Tough – Designed to Last

Each pet enclosure is constructed using UV-stabilised nylon netting and high-grade stainless steel cable with tensioned fittings. This makes the structure strong, weather-resistant, and visually unobtrusive. The materials hold firm under pressure, and the custom installation ensures there’s no sagging, flapping, or obvious access points. We build each system to follow the lines of your space precisely, creating a neat, functional boundary that lasts.
Integrated Pest Control Knowledge

Because we’re not just installers — we’re pest professionals — we bring an added layer of insight to every job. Many poorly designed pet zones unintentionally attract pests such as rodents or ants. Moisture, leftover food, and shaded areas can create conditions ideal for infestations, particularly if timber or soil contact is involved. When we assess a space, we’re also checking for pest risks. If needed, we offer pet-safe treatments as part of our service, including rodent prevention, ant control, and guidance on minimising flea and tick activity near bedding or feeding areas.
A Clean Alternative to Solid Fencing

Not every property needs a permanent fence or solid barrier. For spaces that are hard to secure with traditional materials, our netting enclosures offer a cost-effective and visually clean alternative. They allow airflow and light while keeping your pets safely where they belong — and keeping pests or wildlife out of areas you want to protect.
Contact A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra

If you're ready to enclose part of your property for pets, A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra provides expert design and installation using the best materials and techniques in the industry. With years of experience in both pest control and enclosure work, we deliver tailored, secure solutions that protect your pets and your home. Contact us today for a free quote and see how we can help you create a safe, enclosed space that’s built to last — and pest-smart from the start.

Bird-Proofing Solar Panels

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:22:24 GMT

Protect your solar panels from birds. A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra offers expert bird-proofing solutions to prevent damage and keep your system efficient.

Bird-Proofing Solar Panels: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Solar panels are a great investment for Canberra homes — helping reduce energy bills and lower environmental impact. But with growing numbers of solar installations across the region, we’re also seeing a sharp rise in an unexpected issue: pest birds nesting under solar panels.

At A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra, bird-proofing solar panels is now one of the most common bird control services we provide. Why? Because pigeons and other birds love the sheltered space beneath solar arrays, and once they move in, the problems begin.

Why Birds Nesting Under Solar Panels Is a Problem

You might think a few birds won’t cause much harm — but the reality is quite different. Birds nesting beneath your solar panels can block airflow, which reduces the system’s ability to cool and function efficiently. Their droppings are highly acidic and can corrode wiring and the panels themselves. In addition, nesting birds create constant noise, foul odours, and can attract parasites such as mites and lice. Over time, their activity can stain roofs, damage surfaces, and lead to costly repairs. In some cases, damage caused by pest birds may even void your solar panel warranty.

Pigeon activity, in particular, tends to escalate quickly. Once they find a secure nesting site, they return season after season, building up significant amounts of droppings and debris in a short time.

What Bird-Proofing Involves

Bird-proofing solar panels is a simple but highly effective process. At A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra, we install solar mesh exclusion systems specifically designed to prevent birds from accessing the underside of your panels, without interfering with airflow or damaging the system. These systems use UV-resistant mesh and specially designed clips and fasteners that don’t require drilling or permanent modification to your solar setup. Where necessary, we also remove existing nesting material and bird waste before installation, and can apply disinfectant treatments to eliminate mites and bacteria.

Once installed, the system is practically invisible from street level and is built to last for the full lifespan of your solar panels.

Why Choose A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra

We are specialists in bird control and pest control across Canberra, with years of experience working on both residential and commercial rooftops. Our team understands the unique risks that birds pose to solar systems and provides safe, reliable solutions to protect your property. For severe infestations, we also offer tailored baiting or trapping programs before exclusion work is carried out.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve noticed birds nesting under your panels or found droppings building up around your roofline, don’t wait for damage to occur. Bird-proofing is most effective when carried out early — before nests become established and costs escalate. Contact A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra today for expert advice and a free quote. We’ll help you protect your home, your panels, and your peace of mind.

Termite Prevention Tips - Mulch and Timber Risks

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:12:24 GMT

Why Mulch and Timber Against Your Home Increases the Risk of Termite Attack

Many homeowners in Canberra love the look of fresh mulch around garden beds, fence lines, and decking. It’s tidy, low-maintenance, and great for plant health. But what most people don’t realise is that mulch and untreated timber placed too close to your home’s structure can dramatically increase the risk of a termite attack.

At A1 Professional Pest Control, we regularly inspect homes across the region and see one recurring issue: earth-to-wood contact. Whether it’s garden sleepers, timber edging, stacked firewood, or mulch mounded up against cladding, these seemingly harmless landscaping choices can create a highway for termites straight into your home.

Why Mulch and Timber Pose a Termite Risk

Termites thrive in moist, warm environments — and mulch provides just that. Organic mulch, especially wood chip or bark-based types, retains moisture in the soil. This creates the ideal conditions for subterranean termites, which rely on damp environments to survive and move undetected.

Once termites establish themselves in mulch or nearby timber, it’s a short journey into the structure itself, especially when:

- Mulch or timber is in direct contact with the building

- Timber fencing or edging touches the wall or footing

- Soil levels are built up above slab edges or weep holes

- Decking, posts, or steps are embedded into the ground

- Many termite infestations begin from these simple oversights.

Concealed Entry: The Real Danger

One of the most concerning issues is that mulch and timber close to your home conceal termite entry points. When we can’t see the slab edge, weep holes, or subfloor timbers clearly during an inspection, it limits our ability to detect early warning signs of termite activity. And when infestations go undetected, the damage can become extensive — and expensive — before it’s discovered.

What You Can Do

The good news is, reducing your termite risk is straightforward. Here are some key steps:

Keep mulch at least 30 cm away from your home’s foundations or cladding

Use non-organic alternatives like gravel or rubber mulch near structures

Maintain a minimum 75mm visual inspection zone between ground and timber

Remove any timber in direct soil contact, such as garden sleepers or edging

Store firewood off the ground and away from the house

Need Advice? Call A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra

If you're unsure whether your landscaping is putting your home at risk, it's best to get a professional opinion. At A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra, we offer detailed termite inspections and risk assessments throughout the region. Our experienced team knows exactly what to look for — and how to help you reduce your exposure to termites.

Don’t wait for termites to cause damage. If you need reliable, expert pest control in Canberra, contact A1 Professional Pest Control today for peace of mind and long-term protection.

Pre Construction Termite Barriers' in Canberra

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 21:12:56 GMT

Pre-construction termite barriers in Canberra are a vital defense against the threat of termite infestations, given the region's susceptibility to these destructive pests. When considering termite protection for your new construction project, A1 Professional Pest Control stands out as the top choice, primarily due to our expertise in utilizing Altis reticulation and physical termite barriers.

Altis reticulation is an advanced termite management system designed to protect structures from subterranean termites. A1 Professional Pest Control's proficiency in installing and maintaining this system ensures long-lasting protection for your property. It involves the precise placement of reticulation pipes beside the building's foundation, enabling the even distribution of termiticide to deter termite intrusion effectively.

In addition to Altis reticulation, A1 Professional Pest Control employs physical termite barriers, such as chemical-impregnated sheets, to create an impenetrable shield against termites. Their knowledge of the local termite species and behaviors ensures the selection of the most suitable barrier for your specific needs.

What sets A1 Pro Pest Control apart is their commitment to quality workmanship and attention to detail during the pre-construction phase. We work closely with builders to integrate termite barriers seamlessly into your project's design, providing a robust defense against termite threats from day one.

In summary, when it comes to pre-construction termite barriers in Canberra, A1 Professional Pest Control's utilization of Altis reticulation and physical barriers, combined with their expertise and dedication to your project's success, make them the ideal choice for safeguarding your investment against termite damage. Choose A1 Pro Pest Control for unparalleled termite protection and peace of mind.

Is Pest Control Essential in Canberra?

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 21:06:27 GMT

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Ravens & Pest Control

admin@a1professionalpestcontrol.com.au (Gordon Yeoman) — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 21:33:55 GMT

Ravens in Canberra

Ravens in Canberra add a unique touch to the city's wildlife diversity. These intelligent black birds, often associated with mystery, are frequently spotted throughout the region. A1 Professional Pest Control plays a crucial role in maintaining a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife in Canberra.

With their distinctive caw, ravens are a common sight in parks, gardens, and urban areas. These birds are highly adaptable and have managed to thrive in various environments, showcasing their resourcefulness. A1 Professional Pest Control contributes to the preservation of Canberra's natural balance by offering effective solutions that ensure both human comfort and the protection of local wildlife.

Ravens, while fascinating, can sometimes pose challenges, particularly when it comes to pest control. A1 Professional Pest Control's expertise extends to managing potential conflicts between humans and ravens. By implementing responsible pest management strategies, A1 Professional Pest Control minimizes any negative impact on the environment and maintains the ecological equilibrium of Canberra.

In conclusion, ravens contribute to the charm of Canberra's natural landscape, and A1 Professional Pest Control stands as a reliable partner in maintaining a peaceful coexistence. Their commitment to responsible pest management underlines their dedication to both the community and the preservation of Canberra's diverse wildlife.

Pest birds in Canberra ACT

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 22:00:30 GMT

A1 Professional Pest Control: Your Partner in Deterring, Removing, and Preventing Pest Birds at Your Commercial Property

Pest birds can wreak havoc on your commercial property, causing damage, health risks, and an unsightly environment for customers and employees alike. A1 Professional Pest Control offers comprehensive solutions to deter, remove, and prevent pest birds from entering and roosting on your premises.

Deterring pest birds is the first line of defense. Our team employs innovative techniques such as bird spikes, netting, and visual deterrents to discourage birds from nesting and perching. These measures not only ensure a cleaner and more inviting appearance but also protect your property from structural damage caused by corrosive droppings and nesting materials.

Effective removal of existing pest birds is crucial to maintaining a pest-free environment. A1's experienced pest technicians utilize humane trapping and relocation methods to safely remove pest birds without causing harm. Our approach considers both the welfare of the birds and the preservation of your property.

Prevention is key to long-term bird control. A1 Professional Pest Control assesses your property's vulnerabilities and customizes a comprehensive prevention plan. Our experts will seal off entry points, install deterrents, and implement routine maintenance to ensure a bird-free space. By addressing the root causes of bird infestations, we minimize the need for reactive measures.

Partnering with A1 Professional Pest Control provides numerous benefits for your commercial property. Beyond safeguarding your premises from damage and health hazards, our services enhance the overall customer experience. A bird-free environment creates a positive impression and demonstrates your commitment to cleanliness and professionalism.

In conclusion, A1 Professional Pest Control offers tailored solutions to tackle pest bird issues head-on. Our proactive approach involves deterring, removing, and preventing these pests, ensuring a clean, safe, and welcoming atmosphere for your commercial property. Trust A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra to effectively manage your bird control needs and maintain your reputation as a clean and reputable business establishment.

Termites and Sentricon Always Active bait stations

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 09:35:57 GMT

Sentricon Always Active protecting your home 24/7

At A1 Professional Pest Control, we take pride in offering effective and discreet solutions to protect your property from termites. One of our most trusted methods is utilizing Sentricon Always Active Stations, a cutting-edge termite control system that helps protect your home without even realizing it's at work.

The Sentricon Always Active Stations are strategically placed around your property, providing a front line defense against termites. These stations work silently and efficiently, attracting termites while simultaneously disrupting their communication and feeding habits. As the termites unknowingly spread the bait to their colonies, the entire termite population is effectively targeted and eradicated.

Our experienced technicians carefully assess your property's termite activity and environmental factors to determine the optimal placement of the Sentricon Always Active Stations. This personalized approach guarantees comprehensive termite protection without any intrusion or disturbance to your daily life.

Safe for the environment and your family

One of the most significant advantages of the Sentricon Always Active Stations is their environmentally friendly design. The system uses a minimal amount of active ingredient, making it safe for your family, pets, and the surrounding ecosystem. Moreover, the stations are designed to be tamper-resistant, ensuring that only termites have access to the bait.

Peace of mind

Our commitment to providing discreet solutions means that you won't even notice these stations working diligently to protect your property. There are no unsightly barriers or visible installations that may disrupt your property's aesthetics or draw unwanted attention.

With Sentricon Always Active Stations in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is continuously safeguarded against termites. Say goodbye to the worry of termite infestations, as our innovative approach ensures long-term termite control without disrupting your daily routine.

In conclusion, A1 Professional Pest Control proudly employs the advanced Sentricon Always Active Stations to safeguard your property from termites discreetly and effectively. Experience worry-free termite protection and let our dedicated team handle your pest control needs with the utmost care and expertise. Contact A1 Professional Pest Control today to learn more about our reliable services and how we can assist you in keeping your property termite free.

Warm winter, hot summer?

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 06:30:51 GMT

Canberra has recently witnessed a warmer than average winter, leading to concerns about the impending summer. The rising temperatures may indeed indicate the likelihood of a hot summer, which could bring about a surge in pest activity, particularly termites. As the weather warms up, termites tend to become more active and can pose a significant threat to homes and structures.To safeguard against potential termite infestations during the hot season, residents in Canberra should consider seeking professional pest control services from A1 Professional Pest Control. A1 Professional Pest Control is a trusted company renowned for its expertise in managing and eradicating pests, especially termites. Their skilled technicians can promptly address termite issues and implement preventive measures to protect properties from termite damage. By engaging the services of A1 Professional Pest Control, Canberra residents can ensure a safer and pest-free summer, safeguarding their homes from the destructive impact of termites .

Essential tips to eliminate indoor allergy triggers

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:13:52 GMT

Allergy sufferers experience a hard time in the great outdoors, sometimes no matter the time of year. What they don’t want is the same experience while at home, sneezing and coughing due to indoor allergens. Unwanted pests, such as dust mites and cockroaches, can worsen allergy symptoms or be the route source of the allergy. As Canberra pest controllers, we address allergy sufferers' concerns every day, and below, we share with you how to eliminate indoor allergy triggers effectively.

Manage moisture levels

Pests and insects, especially cockroaches, are attracted to moisture, as they require water for survival. You will notice cockroaches specifically around water entry points, such as sinks, toilets and showers. Keeping these areas dry will help to minimise their attraction; especially in bathrooms, utilise the fan to remove condensation on the mirrors and walls after showering or bathing. Dehumidifiers are also viable options, especially around tight spaces with little ventilation.

Manage dust in the home

Dust is one of the common allergens found in the home that requires constant attention, mainly as the build-up attracts dust mites. Dust is naturally occurring, and the only way to prevent build up and settling is through constant cleaning. Vacuuming and dusting is the most reliable way to ensure dust is adequately removed from the home, along with detailed cleaning of fabric furniture and regularly changing linen. Enlisting the help of professional cleaners will also ensure a deep clean of the house, such as steam cleaning the carpets and detailed scrubbing of mould-affected fixtures. This type of cleaning will also help prevent pest infestations, such as ants and flies, which can lead to more significant pest control issues.

Filter dust build-up

Another area of the home likely to be clogged with dust, and thereby attracting mites, are the air filters in your appliances. Split system air-conditioning units are the most popular, as these are used for both heat and cooling, resulting in all-year-round use. Most filters can be vacuumed and wiped free of dust, and some have options to replace the filters regularly. However, maintenance from a professional technician is best for deep cleaning and proper servicing.

Consult a pest control specialist

For severe allergy sufferers, the most effective way to eliminate bugs, pests and allergens is through a professional pest control consultation. Although some at-home preventions help manage symptoms, allergy sufferers need expert help to eliminate flare-ups and allergy aggravation permanently. If your Canberra home is becoming unmanageable for your allergies, contact us now to discuss how A1 Professional Pest Control can help eliminate pests in your home.

How to prevent pantry pests

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:13:21 GMT

Once you’ve experienced the nightmare of an infestation of pantry loving bugs and insects, you will appreciate never wanting them in your home ever again. From ants to weevils, our pantries are a beacon for scavenging insects, hoping to feed their colonies from the comfort of your fully stocked kitchen.

Reducing the likelihood of a pantry infestation is easy; we share with you our expert pest control tips for controlling likely threats, and detail the mistakes you’re making that lures them inside.

Understand what they are looking for

Not all of the food in your pantry is desirable to insects and bugs, such as most grains; however, the majority of food stored outside the fridge eventually becomes a lure. Pantry insects are generally looking for sugary and fatty foods; you will notice them particularly in baking essentials, dried fruit and nuts, sweets and sweet based spreads, and cereals usually high in sugar.

Store your sweets safely

Airtight containers are perfect for pest control. Though we commonly assume these containers are just for trendy storage, their primary purpose is to preserve the longevity of the product by keeping it safe from insects, bugs and air, which can dry out the produce. Once opening a packet, decant the product into a tightly sealed container, ensuring the seal is closed tight, and is free of gaps or holes. Once a container no longer seals as intended, discard and replace it immediately, as this broken storage won’t prevent any unwanted attacks or keep the food fresh.

Mop up spillage

Sticky pantry shelves and containers aren’t uncommon, especially around jars of preserved food and spreads used regularly. Though everything in your pantry may be sealed tight in their jars, these simple spillages stuck to the pot itself or on the storage shelf will attract the bugs instantly. Any spills from your jars or containers require cleaning quickly, ensuring all of the residues are completely removed with a cloth or warm water, assuring all of the build-up is completely gone. Additionally, wipe down any jars that have residue on the side or lid, and always throw away leaking pots immediately.

Adhere to use-by dates

Baking ingredients are a pantry item often kept longer than recommended. Once transferred into a container, it becomes impossible to monitor the use-by date accurately. Insects and bugs will flock to these out of date items, somewhat more so, which can cause other problems like mould along with pest control issues. Ensure you’re checking the use-by dates of all of your pantry items regularly, and avoid keeping any foods longer than their intended dates.

Pests in the pantry or around your kitchen aren’t ideal; contact us at A1 Professional Pest Control to understand more about the changes you can make in your Canberra home today!

Apartment living: how to keep pests out

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:12:46 GMT

Most people assume living in Canberra apartment blocks, especially newly built ones, removes the risk of pest infestations. However, the scale of the building doesn’t deter all insects and pests, and management of vermin can prove tricky for pest controllers and residents. Through our experience with apartment buildings, we share with you how to avoid pest infestations in your small space, and the strange ways insects and bugs are making their way inside.

Take your shoes off

Most pests infiltrating apartments usually come from external sources, and one of the most common carriers is on the bottom of your shoes. Especially after travel and time spent in rural areas, bugs can make a home on the soles of shoes and the hiding spots in bags. Many apartment dwellers opt for a no-shoe policy, where their shoes are removed and cleaned before entering the apartment. Larger complexes usually offer common areas to wipe down your shoes before entering the building, however, this doesn’t prevent bugs already inside the building.

Analyse what you bring into the home

Shoes are just one carrier for insects and bugs, but unwanted pests can travel on some of the most unexpected items you bring into your apartment. Due to the storage restrictions, apartment dwellers often have exterior or exposed storage cages, where spiders and dust mites make a home. When moving boxes inside the house or even furniture kept in storage, these pests make their way in quickly.

Consider your pets

While we endeavour to keep our furry friends clean and healthy, they can bring pests and ticks inside the apartment on their fur, collar and paws. Keeping your pets inside, especially dogs, is often unreasonable; instead, institute a thorough cleaning routine between outside visits. Pet suppliers offer disposable wipes, which you can keep by the entry doors for quick and effective clean downs of your pet’s fur and accessories.

Keep your home clean

Bugs, insects and unwanted pests are usually attracted to dirty, grimy surfaces, as they’re on the hunt for food and water supplies. Removing this attraction is the simplest form of pest control management for any Canberra apartment, as you are removing the sustenance they crave. Vacuum regularly, mop tiled surfaces, and keep your counters and floors free of food and dirty dishes.

Is your apartment susceptable to pests and infestations? Contact us at A1 Professional Pest Control to manage your Canberra apartment today!

Preventing flea infestations in your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:12:03 GMT

With eggs that remain dormant for long periods before hatching, fleas can present a persistent problem for the Canberra householder. Hundreds of eggs are deposited by just one female flea, hidden away in your carpet, in wall cracks, in your pet’s rest areas. And while they don’t carry diseases that affect humans in Australia, flea bites will cause skin irritation and they can become infected, leading to other health problems. Symptoms can include extreme itchiness, red swollen patches of skin, blisters, and in rare cases secondary infections that can lead to disease.

For your pets, it’s a different story. The fleas carry diseases that can be directly carried from one animal to another, and they also cause skin and fur irritations, infections and allergies.

Do houses without pets have fleas?

It’s a common misconception that if you don’t have pets then your home won’t attract fleas. Keep in mind that other animals such as stray cats and dogs that have been on the grounds, and other pests that may have been inside the house or in the roof, such as mice, rats, and squirrels, will carry fleas.

The best preventative measure is to make certain there is never any rubbish or debris left lying around the house or property, and to keep the residence thoroughly swept and vacuumed. This includes hardwood floors as well as carpets, as fleas exist on both. If a problem persists, or if it is an infestation you’re dealing with, call in a professional Canberra pest control expert.

Preventing fleas when you have pets

Although the cat flea is the most common flea in Australia, it is not restricted to cats. It will attack other animals such as dogs and rodents, and it will also jump to humans. There are a number of ways to combat the spread of fleas, beginning with washing your pet’s bedding regularly and at the highest water temperature. Also, make certain that feeding dishes are not left unattended and are washed soon after mealtime, thereby minimising the places these tiny parasites can invade.

Flea treatments for your pets, and household sprays, used regularly, will help restrict the spread of fleas. However, these tiny, wingless insects are insistent, and a pest control treatment will help eradicate the eggs and larvae that are lying in wait and are invisible to the eye.

A1 Professional Pest Control is experienced in applying the most modern, effective and humane methods of eliminating fleas and other pest infestations in Canberra. Contact us today if your property is having a problem.

Identifying and avoiding dangerous spiders in your home.

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:11:24 GMT

Spiders are most people's least favourite pet, and unfortunately in this part of the world, they could seriously hurt you if left in your home. Though most venomous spiders aren't exactly aggressive, they don't make ideal house guests.

However, many spiders are just friendly visitors who have no plans to bite you and can actually be beneficial to have around the house, as long as it's just one and not an infestation. It is important to be able to identify venomous spiders so that you can arrange to have them removed by a Canberra pest control service and very much leave them alone.

The most common venomous spiders in Australia are the infamous funnel web, the redback, and the black house spider. Each of these nasty customers has a distinctive appearance that should help you identify them before trying to get rid of them yourself and possibly putting yourself in danger.

Funnel Web - This brute enjoys the title of the world's most dangerous spider and can often be found in back gardens. The funnel web is one of the few genuinely angry spiders and must be avoided until it can be dealt with by a professional. It can be difficult to identify a funnel-web as there are quite a few varieties, but if you spot a large possibly pitch-black spider in your shrubbery it's best to be safe and have it removed. In the meantime keep all children and pets far away from it.

Redback - These guys are easy to identify because of the distinctive red stripe on their back. Usually, they are relatively docile and will simply need to be left alone until they can be removed. Redbacks enjoy solitude and so may make their homes in unexpected places such as under a toilet seat or in a mailbox.

Black House Spider - Usually indoor spiders who can be found in darker or unused corners of the home. They are large, black spiders with a grey furry back and a black and grey patterned carapace. Though not extremely dangerous, their bite is known to be extraordinarily painful.

You can find descriptions of other common spiders in our pest information https://www.a1professionalpestcontrol.com.au/spiders/ . Make sure you shake out your shoes, don't leave towels on the floor and always wear shoes outdoors.

Removing a beehive without harming the bees

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:10:25 GMT

Most of the time pests are something to simply be exterminated, but bees do not fit into the category. Over the last few years, society has been made aware not only of the important role that bees play but how quickly they are dying out. Of course, you also don't want a beehive in your home, especially if you have family members who are allergic to bee stings. However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure no harm comes to the bees, and instead that they are relocated to somewhere more appropriate.

Avoid aggravating the bees

First of all, you must give the bees space and leave the hive alone. If you go near it the bees could attack which would be painful for you and would have extremely negative effects on the swarm. It is always dangerous to confront a hive as insects are vehement when it comes to defending their home.

Do some surveillance but keep the family away

Of course, keep any family members with allergies away but also ensure that your pets do not go near the hive. Though you should leave it alone, try to figure out where the hive is. Locating the hive will make it easier to avoid and will also help when you call in your specialist.

Get help from the professionals

The next stage is to contact a pest control professional to relocate the bees; do not try and do this yourself. It's also vital that you do not try to use any of your own sprays of insecticides as you will definitely harm the bees. A1 Professional Pest Control is capable of removing the bees without causing damage, but it is a delicate procedure.

Finally, after the bees have been relocated you must remove any remnants of the hive. Hives and honey will be extremely attractive to other insects and wildlife. Clear out the walls where the bees made their home with extreme care and try to ensure that all weak spots in your home are repaired. The bees will have found an initial way to begin their hive.

Though having bees in your home isn't a pleasant experience they usually aren't aggressive and will leave you alone if they are unprovoked. Stay calm and call a professional.

Planning DIY rodent removal? 4 reasons why you shouldn't

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:09:50 GMT

So, you've heard the patter of tiny feet in the dead of night and seen droppings where droppings have no right to be: you're clearly playing unwilling host to unwanted furry visitors and now is the time to deal with them. Rather than hiring a Canberra pest control expert to get the job done, you may be thinking of trying to save yourself a few bucks and attempt a DIY removal. Please read this before you go ahead.

1. DIY removal is rarely effective

Rodents survive because they are highly adapted to their pest lifestyle. Cunning enough to evade standard traps, many also have a tolerance to commonly used poisons. Even if you catch one or two, there could still be dozens in your property - all of which have the capacity to breed. DIY methods often enable numbers to have time to grow, rather than the reverse.

2. DIY removal is dangerous

Particularly when it comes to nest removal, the stakes are high. Rodents act instinctively to defend their young, and a rat bite can easily pierce a pair of protective gloves or other clothing. And it's not just you that could be bitten - a panicking rat will bite anything in its way, including your family. In addition, nests are often located in inaccessible areas of the house. Perching on a ladder or precariously balanced whilst trying to exterminate a nest is a recipe for disaster.

3. It's not just rodents that can ingest poison

Inexpertly laid poison not only fails to attract rodents, but it's also easily consumed by pets, wildlife and, sadly, occasionally young children. Without prompt access to an antidote, rat poison can be fatal. Do you really want to take that chance?

4. Without preventative measures such as inspection, the rodents will return

Even if, by some miracle, you manage to eradicate an infestation without injuring yourself or others, without regular, expert inspection, fresh rodents can easily return. This means you could be putting yourself and your family through the perilous DIY eradication process every few months.

Is it worth it? We don't think so. For an economical, highly effective, expertly administered Canberra pest control solution, please get in touch.

How to keep the pests out during rain

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:09:07 GMT

There is nothing quite like rainy weather and storms to bring out hordes of invading pests such as mice, spiders, mosquitoes, and ants. Many bugs thrive in moist conditions and it creates a boost to their numbers. And many creatures seek out the nearest and easiest access to dry, warm shelters. Here are the problem areas and the best ways to keep pests away in wet weather conditions.

Exterior walls and entry points

Take a walk around the exterior of your home and check out those places where fixtures such as plumbing and air-con piping enter the house via exterior or foundation walls. Gaps in these entry points provide easy access for rodents and other vermin and they will seek them out in wet weather. These gaps need to be sealed and checked regularly.

Use vent covers for large holes or open vents.

Foliage and debris

Pests will seek out garden debris and build-ups of leaves for shelter during rain and storms. Make certain to keep these cleared and ensure there are none close to the house, particularly on verandas, decks, and patios, as it’s an easy next move from there to the interior of your home. If there are any areas of the garden where drainage is poor and rainwater clogs or pools, attend to this as it is a beacon for mosquito infestations.

Where there are trees and bushes close to the house, keep them trimmed so that the foliage does not touch the walls or overhang the roof or gutters. This provides another easy path to the house for insects that thrive in soil and on branches and leaves.

Roofs, windows, and gutters

Have your roof inspected for any broken tiles or shingles where rain and bugs can get in. Gutters should be kept clear of rotting leaves. These provide warmth and food for pests in bad weather and can also cause a build-up of moisture, mould, and bugs in attics and exterior walls.

Rotting wood, caused by water damage, should be repaired as soon as possible as it attracts termites.

Insects will enter through the tiniest of openings, and these will often be found around windowsills. Airtight sealant in these holes will minimise your home’s exposure to these micro invaders.

Moist interiors

Some homes may have a humidity problem if the weather is both hot as well as wet, and that humid interior attracts the bugs just as it does in a tropical environment. If this appears to be a problem, use of air conditioning or a dehumidifier can help.

It’s the nature of kitchens and bathrooms that they have moisture on countertops and floors so they need special attention. Keep them dry as they are the first areas of a home that the pests will target once they’ve entered to escape the rain.

In Canberra, pest control can be helped by these actions during and after wet weather. If you’re experiencing these problems as a result of rain, A1 Professional Pest Control can help. Contact a member of our team on 02 6278 5858 .

Everything you need to know about wasps

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:08:09 GMT

There are around 12,000 species of wasp in Australia, including the English Wasp and the fast-spreading European Wasp which are the most common in NSW. These wasps can be identified by their yellow and black body markings and will vary in size from around 12 to 17mm.

Wasps can cause ongoing problems when they establish nests around your property, and the places they invade can include hollow walls, vents, and attics as well as under outdoor tables and awnings, windowsills and tree stumps. They are aggressive when their nests are disturbed, and they can pose a stinging threat to you and your family. Here are the key points to keep in mind regarding wasps.

Stay clear of active nests

A wasp sting is painful and can cause allergies so it is best to keep your distance from a live nest and contact a Canberra pest control professional. If you sight several wasps in the vicinity, it’s possible that one or more nests have been established on your property.

Watch for the signs

If you suspect there is a nest nearby, watch closely when you spot a wasp and observe its flight path. This will lead you to the area where the nest is likely located. Wasps will establish a nest where they have easy access to the outside, so regular places are in sheds and carports, under eaves and in roof spaces. The nests have a distinctive papery wall appearance, the result of the insects creating it from their saliva and from chewed wood pulp. The size of the nest can vary greatly. They start off around the size of a finger or a golf ball and can grow throughout the summer months to the size of a clenched fist or even a football or larger.

Keeping wasps away

Keep an eye out for wasp activity as it’s best to have nests removed while they are still in the early stage. This prevents the build-up of a wasp community. To ensure wasps are not attracted to your area, don’t leave food and drink outside and keep your bins secure so that the insects are not drawn in by the aromas and contents. A qualified pest control expert can remove a nest quickly and effectively, especially when the nests are in difficult-to-reach positions such as wall cavities and roofs. In some cases, the nest does not need to be removed but can be treated instead to eliminate the infestation.

If you sight a nest or you notice an increase in wasp activity around your property, call in A1 Professional Pest Control for expert advice and the fastest, easiest solution.

How to get rid of flies in your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:07:15 GMT

Flies seem like the impossible insect to rid your home of; flies seem to come from nowhere and linger throughout the house and outdoor living space persistently. Some people view flies as annoying; however, the spread of disease and germs is a far greater threat to your health and safety. There are many simple yet effective actions you can take to avoid unwanted flies in your home. In this article, we share with you our professional pest control advice for getting rid of flies in and around your home, and the activities that encourage them to linger longer than you would like.

Cover your food

You will notice flies buzzing around your food, especially around meal times or during cooking preparation. Once the smell of the food reaches the air, and the flies have an entry point into your home, there is no saying how many flies will enter the house. When preparing or eating food, cover as much as possible with cling film, tea towels or netting, and avoid open doors and windows until after you have finished eating.

Cover your rubbish

Much like the attraction to food, flies are a magnet to rubbish and food scraps. You may notice an abundance of flies around your outdoor bins, and this is entirely common. However, what you don't want is flies around your indoor bins, usually situated close to your kitchen or pantry. Therefore, it's best to keep all of your rubbish tightly sealed inside the bins, preventing fly access. Keep your indoor bins clean too, especially from the grime build up around the lids and base where spillage is most common.

Clean up after your pets

Unfortunately, it isn't just human food that flies are attracted to; flies are known to hover around pet bowls, both food and water. Their attraction includes the scraps or treats animals spread around the house, those hidden in corners of the room, under furniture or trapped in bedding. Flies also love animal waste and can be found lurking near litter trays and animal enclosures. Sound hygiene of these areas is critical; ensure you keep these areas free of dirt and food build-up and sprayed down with animal-friendly cleaning products.

Invest in a flyscreen

It's nearly impossible to go year-round without opening a single door or window. As flies enter the home through these vacant access ways, and through holes and gaps in the house structure, it's essential to keep them closed as much as possible. A flyscreen provides you with the perfect balance; it allows you to open your doors and windows freely without attracting unwanted flies. A flyscreen can tear over time but is exceptionally cost-effective to replace.

Your Canberra home may be at risk of flies, or other more serious, persistent insects, rodents and bugs. To ensure you are safe from any outbreaks, contact us at A1 Professional Pest Control to discuss your home, and discover how simple planning can help you avoid an infestation easily.

Why you should schedule an inspection this summer

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:06:01 GMT

We all love summer. Unfortunately, so do termites.

Though they can be nuisances all year round, termites thrive in warm weather and are particularly active during this time. Canberra is an especially high-risk area for termite infestation, according to CSIRO, with 1 in 3 homes and businesses being vulnerable. We’ve previously compiled a list of signs to watch out for, but the best way to protect your property — and everyone who lives and works there — is to make sure you schedule regular inspections every six months.

Why do I need an inspection?

Termites are known for their taste for wood but are actually attracted to the cellulose inside, which can be found in many other household and garden materials. Moisture is another termite magnet — they can often be found in clogged gutters or damp soil.

This means that, to termites, your home is quite the buffet and unfortunately they are not the most gracious guests. Besides their ravenous appetite that can do huge amounts of damage in very little time, a termite queen can lay up to 10 million eggs per year. We’re all guilty of procrastination from time to time — and with the holidays coming up, the last thing on your mind is probably those unwanted pests — but the longer you put off that inspection, the more mouths you will have eating away at your property.

When do I need an inspection?

Besides twice-yearly inspections, it is also important to schedule inspections before and after selling your home and at the first sign of possible infestation.

Can’t I do it myself?

While it is important for you to keep an eye out for signs of infestation, DIY treatments don’t work. Only pest control specialists like A1 know exactly how to kill the nest and ensure the termites don’t come back.

Keep your property pest-free and prevent costly repairs. With the end of the year approaching, now is the perfect time to book with us. A1 Professional Pest Control specialises in termite inspections and barriers. To find out more about our Canberra pest control services, feel free to reach out to one of the members of our team on 02 6278 5858.

How to prevent spiders in your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:05:03 GMT

As summer approaches it's quickly becoming that time of the year when the heat encourages spiders to thrive. While a common occurrence in Australia, many people still do not know how to deal with or prevent these creepy crawlers from entering their homes. Preventing spiders is important, particularly if you have pets or young kids. After all, many are deadly and can quickly land you in the emergency room if you're not careful.

At A1 Professional Pest Control, we come across many creative solutions to preventing bug infestations, ranging from the obvious to the obscene. In order to make sure you're prepared and well-educated, today we present you with 3 easy tips for spider prevention.

1. Keep your home tidy

If you keep your home clean, spiders will have fewer places to hide. Keeping your clutter to a minimum is a great way to improve the quality of the environment and thus reduce the chances of finding critters in your home. Make sure to have a regular cleaning routine and clean any spills straight away. Food might attract other pests, which subsequently attract spiders. Spiders also like to hide under rocks and woodpiles, but they may try to move inside. For this reason, you may want to try moving plants from the side of your house.

2. Seal your home

The best way to prevent spiders from entering your home is to keep them from coming in in the first place. Patch up any holes and gaps, replace broken fly-screens and cover your vents. Remember, spiders like moist damp spaces like kitchens and bathrooms so take care of those too.

3. Call the professionals

If you're still worried about spiders in your home or if you want a better solution, make sure to call the professionals. DIY and natural market solutions found on Google will not solve your problems. To get results, you need to call the professionals at A1 Professional Pest Control. We can install in ground-bait stations as early preventative devices as well as other pest solutions.

For a Canberra pest control company, a Gungahlin pest control company or a Belconnen pest control company, please get in touch with A1 Professional Pest Control today.

Why Preventative Mice Control Is Beneficial For Your Home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:04:13 GMT

If you've ever experienced an outbreak of mice in your home, you will know first-hand how destructive the experience can be. If you have been lucky enough to avoid the invasion, a mice infestation isn't worth gambling on. Every home needs to take steps towards preventing this from happening, simply by executing permanent changes to the home's set up. In this article, we share with you our expert pest control advice on why you should prepare your home against a mice outbreak and the benefits of protecting yourself against these unwanted vermin.

Your health is key

One of the most significant reasons to protect your home against a mice outbreak is for your health and safety. Mice carry many diseases and germs with them and, due to their size, can spread these very easily across the home. While you may not be able to hear or see mice, they can leave droppings and excretions, which means diseases can be left behind long after they are gone.

Your home's safety and maintenance

Mice and rodents are notorious for chewing through electrical cords and destroying parts of the house, such as the walls and flooring. Some parts of the home may become so damaged that the destruction is beyond repair, and entire sections of the home may need replacing. Though you may think this is an extreme possibility, it only takes one mouse or rodent to begin the process for the damage to occur.

Cost control

Once an outbreak begins in your home, and your house is infested with mice and rodents, you'll likely have visible and unseen damage, as well as the demand for a professional Canberra pest control service. Depending on how severe your infestation is will depend on how much the cost of repairs will be; however, it's a reality that you'll be out of pocket to fix the situation. Fixing the issue could involve intensive pest control removal, replacement of paint and wall structures, as well as furniture, electronics and wiring. Once these areas need repairing, you may find yourself significantly out of pocket.

How to prevent mice: the basics

Preventative rodent control isn't hard to implement into your home. There are two courses of action you can take right now to fight a potential outbreak. The first includes repairing possible access points throughout the house, including gaps in the doors, windows and floors of your home. Keeping your home clean will also help to detract mice; this involves regularly vacuuming, mopping and clearing the house of any trash build up. The second approach is seeking the advice and valuation from a professional pest control service, who can assess your home and advise you on the areas mice can potentially infiltrate.

Take action against rodents in your home now; contact us at A1 Professional Pest Control to discuss preventative care for your home today!

How to become a moth detective

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:03:38 GMT

We know that moths can cause serious damage to both clothing and foodstuffs - so it's important to carry out detective work to spot the problem as soon as possible. Now, there is one clue so obvious that even the famously inept Inspector Clouseau would spot it - you see them flying around!

Spotting the less obvious clues of a possible pantry moth infestation

It pays to regularly inspect your store of dried foodstuffs such as flour or bread, cereals, pasta or rice. Pantry moths can also attack spices and nuts, cocoa beans and, like virtually the whole world, they've even been known to enjoy chocolate! Infested food can often look as if it has been covered by a web-like substance. Incidentally, pantry moth larvae can even penetrate sealed bags. A simple preventative measure is to store such foods in sealed containers.

Tell-tale signs of clothes moths

Damage to your clothing is caused by the moth larvae and their feeding habits. To allow this to happen, the female moths lay their sticky eggs onto the surface of your fabrics. It takes less than a week of laying and hatching activities to start more than two years of possible damage feeding. While becoming fully grown, moth larvae can moult well over three dozen times! They have a fairly varied taste in clothing and fabrics: silk, cotton, wool and cashmere, plus feathers and carpets. They don't usually attack synthetic fibres.

Other signs to be clued-up about

As you check both your wardrobes and cupboards, you might spot bare spots on a surface, or cocoons and their tell-tale creamy-white larvae. Tiny sand-like particles might be their droppings.

With the evidence gathered, how to act

If you are a victim of such an infestation, then the simplest solution is to call in professional help. This is because elimination can be a process where great care needs to be taken, with the choice from specific insecticides and other products. Our A1 Professional Pest Control team appreciates this, understands any potential side-effects of treatment, and knows exactly how to use it to best effect.

For an obligation-free chat about moth or other Canberra pest control requirements, simply call us on (02) 6278 5858

Tips for preparing for a pest control service

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:02:44 GMT

From time to time, every home becomes infested with unwanted rodents and insects, and the inevitable visit from a Canberra pest control agency, such as us at A1 Professional Pest Control, arrives. Preparing your home for this visit is essential; not only do you make the process quicker and easier for the expert completing the job, but you ensure your home, belongings and family members remain safe. In this article, we share with you the top five things to do to prepare your home for your pest control appointment, detailing the areas that need particular attention, and where your family will need to be during the extermination.

Clean your floors

No matter what type of infestation you are experiencing, cleaning the floors is a necessity before the pest control service arrives. This specific clean targets insect eggs and sources of food, removing them from the floor. If left unremoved, the vermin will only continue to breed. To best achieve this clean, thoroughly vacuum, followed by mopping hard surfaces and scrubbing your carpets and stubborn areas. Once your floors are clean, sufficiently scour your wash buckets and empty your vacuum bag into your outdoor bin, ensuring the bag seal is tight. Vacuuming will also flush vermin out of their hiding places, making the process faster for the exterminator to complete.

Remove your pets

Before the appointment, it's essential to find another spot for your animals during the time of your appointment. While larger animals can get in the way of the technician's work, exposure to the treatment chemicals for animals of all sizes can be hazardous. Covering the animal's enclosure and bedding is also essential, but ideally you should store them away.

Remove your food from exposure

It's vital to cover any exposed food, outside of your fridge and cupboards, for your appointment. It's easy to neglect the food sitting on benches, such as fruit bowls, or food close to the ground, such as a pet's bowl. The products used for the extermination aren't for consumption, so any food left out is at high risk of contamination.

Create ultimate access

Your pest exterminator requires ample access throughout your home, underneath your house and into your garden, so it's essential to provide them with adequate access around the affected areas. Parts of your home that are usually locked, or large obstructions to doorways and entry points, need to be removed temporarily for the duration of your appointment.

Make plans for you and the family

It isn’t ideal to be present in the short term after the extermination, as you need time for the chemicals to settle before re-entering your home. The severity of the extermination will determine how long you should stay away; however, as most time frames are at least four hours, it’s best to make extended plans for your family and pets.

If preparing your Canberra home for a visit from us, A1 Professional Pest Control, is concerning you, contact us today to discuss your next extermination!

Five Tips To A Pest Free Home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:01:56 GMT

If you have ever suffered from a pest infestation, a persistent home invasion of your home or office by insects and rodents, you will know first-hand how frustrating it can be. However, the idea of the pests returning is terrifying, and you will do anything to avoid it happening again.

There are some basics to effective Canberra pest control; through simple yet effective daily tasks, you can avoid an infestation easily, and create a pest-free home all year round!

Clear The Garbage

Rodents and insects are highly attracted to the areas of the home where you keep rubbish and food. The build-up of rotting food, scraps, and consumables packaging should be cleared regularly, and shouldn’t be kept in the home longer than a day or two. Smaller bins will help you to clear the rubbish more often, and ideally keep the bin’s location away from fresh food and your pantry to avoid contamination. Open food packets, like flour and cereals, attract bugs quickly, so keep these sealed in airtight containers away from the bin.

Keep Bins Away From The House

Your council clears your large, outdoor rubbish bins once a week, and during the days between the collection, your bins attract insects and bugs quickly. This is the nature of the large bins, and an unavoidable process, therefore it’s essential you keep your large bins away from the house. Find a spot away from the home and foot traffic, where they can be kept away from entry points to the house.

Avoid Pooling Water

Areas of the home that are moist and constantly wet are a breeding ground for water-loving bugs. While places like the sink and toilet are constantly being cleaned, bugs will still appear because of simple human error. To avoid these water-loving bugs, we advise against leaving puddles of water unattended, or full buckets, dishes and glasses with water for an extended period.

Block Entry Points

The bugs in your home have to come from somewhere, and while you unavoidably traipse bugs into the home on the bottoms of shoes or bags, it’s important to remove clear entry points for unwanted pests. Flyscreens on doors and windows are paramount for winged bugs, and properly sealed vents and gaps in the home will discourage all other pests from entering.

Seek Help From Pest Controllers

As professional Canberra pest control experts, we can easily identify the potential areas where bugs and rodents are likely to be breading, or access the home unwelcomely. Through consultation and preventive treatments, we can prime your home to pre-emptively eliminate an infestation, and help you create a pest-free home. If your Canberra home is in desperate need of pest control, or you're concerned of potential infestations, contact us , at A1 Professional Pest Control, to discuss your needs today!

How To Identify A Pest Infestation

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:00:48 GMT

Sometimes your Canberra home or business may be infested with unwanted pests and you simply don’t know what to do about it. While large, persistent infestations are obvious to the naked eye, there are many early warning signs of when an infestation begins, so you can treat the problem before it gets out of hand.

At A1 Professional Pest Control, we know first-hand how quickly an infestation can escalate, and the importance of early intervention from professional pest control. In this article, we identify the little-known signs that you have a pest infestation, from the smallest of indicators that you may have missed!

You Can Hear Them

One of the initial signs of a pest infestation is a change in the normal sounds around your property. These sounds aren’t the usual building creaking, or the sounds from the weather, but distinct creature noises produced from the pests moving around and scratching. Some pests will make louder sounds than others, like rats or mice, compared to that of small insects. However, some pests won’t make any sounds, so don’t rely on this to be your only indicator.

You Can Smell Them

When a small space is full of rodents and pests, the odour in the air is certainly unusual and highly pungent. If these smells are uncommon for your home, investigate them properly, but ensure to eliminate any other possibilities, like mouldy food or dirty clothes. The smell may also come out of nowhere, and you may not notice it until you have spent some time away from your home or office. Professional pest control services, like us at A1 Professional Pest Control, can quickly identify these smells.

Your Home Has Unexplainable Damage

Rodents especially love to chew up the home, and if you find damage to any parts of your home, not caused by yourself or your pets, you may be experiencing a pest situation. You will commonly find damage to the furniture, especially low down on chair legs and couch bases, and to cables and wires. Plants are equally affected and can appear chewed or they suddenly begin to deteriorate quickly.

You Can See One Or Some Of Them

One of the most obvious signs of an infestation is physically seeing the pests and rodents around your property. Though a singular insect or rodent isn’t an indication of an infestation, it demonstrates your property is vulnerable to pests getting in, or the beginning of something worse.

A pest infestation can easily become worse if you ignore the early warning signs. Contact A1 Professional Pest Control today if you notice any unusual smells and sound changes, and the appearance of pests, in your property.

Why DIY Pest Control Isn’t A Good Idea

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 08:00:07 GMT

The moment your home becomes infested with unwanted pests, there is no doubt you want them gone as quickly as possible. The temptation to take care of the issue yourself is great, and while you have seen all of the pest control products in your local hardware store, there is an assumption you can handle the matter yourself.

Through years of helping homeowners in Canberra with their pest control concerns, we know intimately how unsuccessful DIY pest control really is, and we take you through why you should save your money and efforts for the professionals.

Ineffective Treatments

The options for DIY pest control simply aren’t as good as the professional-grade exterminator chemicals. The products you see over the counter at the supermarket, the hardware shop, or online, look like they should work, however, they simply don’t have the power to rid large, persistent infestations. They are generally designed for spot extermination, like a solitary insect or small bugs.

Wrong Application

If you do happen to get your hands on the professional exterminator’s chemicals, there are many hazards you face in the application of the chemical. These types of treatments will often require several steps, professional techniques to ensure proper, accurate application, and ways of applying so it’s once-off, and doesn’t need reapplying. Without the knowledge of how these products should be applied, you can end up making your situation worse.

Dangerous Application

Following on from the above point, incorrect application of the pest control chemicals can cause harm to you, your family members, and the people around you. Exposure to these chemicals can be dangerous to your health, poisoning you and making you very ill. Too much exposure to certain chemicals can spark fires or degrade parts of the property. While these may seem like extreme effects, pest control chemicals are completely safe when applied professionally, and will cause no harm to you if they are applied correctly.

Cost You More

Most commonly, DIY pest control ends up costing you more money in the long run. Whether it be from the wrong application, the hazardous consequences, or simply not using the right product for your infestation, most people find they need to hire an experienced exterminator to fix the DIY job or complete it again.

Get your pest problem under control properly by using Canberra’s leading pest control, A1 Professional Pest Control. Contact us today for a quote, and get your pest control problem under control now!

Get rid of pests before you put your property up for sale

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:59:19 GMT

When you put your home up for sale, you want to present the property in the best possible light. Many homeowners spend considerable amounts of time cleaning the interior of the home and sprucing up the gardens and grounds.

This effort can often lead to a lot of interest from buyers – but a common clause in a purchase contract is for a building and pest report to be done before the bottom line is signed.

This step can be left to the buyer to initiate, but proactive sellers often get a building and pest report done before they put the home on the market so they can fix any issues, and increase their chances of a clear sale.

This is especially important for pests, which can seriously put off any interested buyers. They may be prepared to overlook a crack in the wall plaster, but rats in the pantry and termites in the roof tend to be a deal-breaker.

You need more than DIY treatments

If you get a pest inspection done and it turns up a few infestations, it can be tempting to simply get some DIY treatments.

There are plenty of products readily available at the supermarket that promise to kill the pests or drive them out. But at A1 Professional Pest Control, we find DIY treatments are ineffective in the long term.

Whilst a DIY treatment may kill visible pests, it seldom gets to the heart of the infestation, and in no time at all the pests are back in force, which is a problem if you’re seeking to sell the property and pass a pest inspection.

Get professional pest control help

The best way to eliminate pests from your property to pass a pest inspection is by enlisting the help of a professional pest controller.

For example, experts like us at A1 Professional Pest Control get rid of termites by injecting termite-infested timber with specially formulated foam to drive them out. We don’t just spray surfaces and hope for the best.

Our Canberra-based team had worked with scores of local homeowners to prepare their properties for sale and to pass pest inspections with flying colours.

If you need Canberra pest control that works, get in touch and we’ll help you tackle any infestations with professional know how and results that last.

Rat infestations: Separating myth from fact

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:58:33 GMT

Rats are one of the most common pest species on the planet. Many homeowners, however, view rat infestations as something that simply will not happen to them. Indeed, there is a prevailing myth that rats are only attracted to dirty or dilapidated homes. This is simply not the case, however, as rats will settle themselves anywhere as long as there is food, water, and shelter available.

Being able to separate this kind of myth from fact is vital if you want to be prepared for potential pest problems. To ensure that you’re well-informed on the topic of rat infestations, we’ve busted a few common myths below:

Myth #1: Rats don’t carry diseases any more

It is a well-known fact that rats were once a scourge on Medieval cities, spreading plague and disease in a way that devastated civilisations. In the twenty-first century, however, you'd be forgiven for believing that rat-related diseases are consigned to history. Whilst modern medicine and hygiene standards have hugely reduced the chances of picking up diseases from rats, they can still carry harmful pathogens including salmonella and trichinosis that could harm you and your family.

Myth #2: Handling rats is safe

Many people are happy to corner and handle wild rats that have entered their home, believing it to be safe. It is important to understand that there are major differences between wild and domesticated rats, however. Whilst domesticated rats are usually friendly, wild rats can be vicious and will not think twice about biting you.

Myth #3: Rats love cheese

This is a common myth perpetuated by children’s cartoons. Only certain types of rat have a taste for cheese, meaning you are unlikely to trap them using a block of your favourite cheddar.

Myth #4: Cat s are effective rat controllers

Most domesticated cats are actually very ineffectual hunters. Rats are notoriously cunning prey and the chances of your cat dealing with an infestation are slim at best.

Call A1 Professional Pest Control today

By debunking these common myths, we’ve hopefully demonstrated the vital importance of dealing with a rat infestation as quickly as possible. In most cases, this means calling in a team of experts. At A1 Professional Pest Control, we are dedicated to dealing with pest problems as a matter of urgency. Find out more on our service pages.

Signs of termites

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:57:55 GMT

We've all heard of termites, those nasty little wood-eating critters that can damage or even destroy your home. It can be difficult to spot termites themselves, they are small - similar in size to ants, and they tend to be secretive. So you are more likely to notice signs of their presence or the damage they are doing to your home than see the little critters themselves. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Hollow sounding timber

Tapping your hand or knuckles against the timbers in your house should produce a solid sound. If your wood sounds hollow or papery, it's possible you have a termite problem.

2. Tunnels

Termites create tunnels from mud to keep themselves protected as they devour wood. It may be difficult to see signs of this in your house, but if you notice mud tunnels in the area around your house, it's a good indication of termite activity in the area and it's best to have it checked professionally.

3. Flying termites or discarded wings

Flying termites means that both males and females are leaving their parent colony to create a new nest. If you see termites flying around your home, it's possible they are planning to move in. Both males and females discard their wings when they have found a mate, so if you find a pile of discarded wings on your property, it's likely you have uninvited guests.

4. Hard to open doors or windows

Although damp conditions can make timber swell, making it difficult to open doors and windows, this can also be caused by termite activity. As termites work, eating timber, they produce mud-like excreta which draws and holds moisture causing swelling. This can cause stiff doors and windows in your home.

5. Clicking sounds in the walls

Termites communicate with their colony by bumping their heads against timber and shaking their bodies. If your walls are talking to you with soft clicking sounds, it's possible you have termites.

Termites are a serious pest problem as they can cause severe damage to your home. If you notice any signs of termite activity in or around your home, it's time to call in the experts at A1 Professional Pest Control.

Are ants inevitable?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:57:18 GMT

Thanks to the great Australian outdoors, ants are an accepted part of our lifestyle. A day at the beach, a picnic in the sun, you can expect to be joined by a few ants. Therefore, even when you see ants in your home, you’re not too worried. Annoyed yes, but your first thought probably isn’t to call pest control. However, an ant infestation in your home can be more serious than you think and is best dealt with using A1 Professional Pest Control.

Why you don’t want ants in your home

Ants can breed very quickly. Just one Queen ant can lay up to 300,000 eggs every few days. So, it’s best not to let ants become too comfortable in your home. You don’t want ants in your home because they can lead to a lot of food wastage. Packages in your pantry you thought were sealed can let in ants easily, and the whole lot will need to be thrown away.

Ant nests can also cause structural damage to your home. Unlike termites, common carpenter ants don’t eat timber, they simply burrow through. This means an ant infestation in your home can do a lot of unseen damage before it is identified.

Professional pest control solutions for ants

Since an ant infestation can be hard to identify, it is best to have a professional inspection. An A1 Professional Pest Control Canberra expert will be able to identify the signs of ants and guide you on the best way to professionally control the infestation.

Treatment of the ant infestation may include liquids, powder or granule products to kill the ants. Baits and a chemical barrier should also be used to stop ants coming back into your home. If you’ve ever tried to get rid of ants from your home, you know that if you miss just one ant or one part of their trail, they can be back as soon as you turn around. That’s why it is important to use professional pest control solutions as soon as you see ants in your home. This will ensure the Queen ant and the entire nest are destroyed. You can then be sure your home and your family will remain pest free.

Multi-level pest control that works

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:56:37 GMT

When it comes to protecting your Canberra home from pests, don’t rely on a single line of defence. You wouldn’t lock only your doors and leave your windows open when you leave the house. So why would you only take one of the multiple steps available when protecting your home from destructive pests threatening your house and the health of your family?

Early warning systems

Pest control professionals will help you with the first level of defence for your home by setting up bait stations. Bait stations work to attract ants, termites and rodents and poison them once they have visited the station. This is encouraging the pests to eat the bait rather than dine-in on your home. It is also eliminating the pests. However, bait stations are not a solid defence for your home. While you can strategically place bait stations around your home, you cannot guarantee the pests will visit the bait rather than your home. For the pests that are not taken care of by baiting, you need multiple layers of defence.

Regular inspections

Have a professional pest controller inspect your home every six months. This will identify any weak areas of your home which could allow entry to pests. An inspection will also identify any areas which are particularly attractive to pests. This could include areas with poor drainage, construction faults or areas which are prone to weakness from weather damage. It is important to have a professional pest controller complete the inspection as they will be able to identify any early signs of infestation.

Multi-layered treatments

A chemical soil treatment can be used to control and prevent pests such as termites. The treatment is applied to the perimeter of your home and to the subfloor. This removes the termites’ ability to access your home. As a result, you’re protected from future infestations.

If a pest infestation is found in your home, A1 Professional Pest Control will continue a multi-layered attack. For example, infested timber will be injected with foam to remove termites and kill the nest. The next wave of attack is a liquid termiticide treatment of your entire home to prevent the pests returning.

To find out more about our pest control services, get in touch with a member of our team today on 0415 915 259 .

Keeping rodents out of your property

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:55:18 GMT

Rodents can cause havoc in your residential or commercial property. Besides being very destructive, they also can spread diseases. There are various ways in which you can use to reduce the chances of having rodents in your property significantly. Such methods include...

Keep your outdoor area neat

Most types of rodents usually hide in areas which are untidy and disorganised. If you have tall grass and bushes near your home, you are giving rodents an ideal place to hide. Therefore, it is advisable to ensure that your home and land are clean and well organised, cutting back the grass on your property is certainly easier than dealing with a rodent problem.

Throw leftovers away properly

Rodents usually come into your home looking for food and shelter. They mainly eat leftovers you throw away in places where they can easily access. If you store your leftovers carelessly, such as on a countertop, rodents will be attracted to the scent and will come into your home or business premises. You should ensure that you keep any leftovers in a suitable container and in an enclosed place which cannot be accessed by any rodent.

Have regular inspections

It is also beneficial to regularly inspect your home or office for rodents. Inspection is necessary because when rodents get into your home, they can hide in places which are hard for you to access. If you suspect there are rodents in your home or workplace you should contact a specialist immediately to stop the problem from escalating. A1 Professional Pest Control offers top quality pest control services and can inspect your home to make sure there are no rodents. We can even provide you with professional advice on how to prevent rodents from entering your home, should we find no rodents present during an inspection.

By following the above tips you should reduce your chances of rodents entering your home! If you need any rodent related services, contact our expert team and we shall ensure your home or business is rodent free.

How to get rid of pantry moths

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:54:37 GMT

Pantry moths are one of the most annoying infestations to have in the home. Known as Indian Meal Moths, these tiny flying insects feast upon dry goods and cause problems for food storage all over the world. They love to get stuck into flour, cereals, nuts and dried herbs, flying around your pantry feasting on whatever they can.

Though they are considered harmless, pantry moths can force you to throw out food and become a costly and frustrating pest to have, especially as they can be difficult to get rid of. However, by following a few simple steps, you can fight back against pantry moths.

Get rid of the infestation’s source

The first step to ridding your kitchen and pantry of moths is to identify the source of the infestation. Pantry moths grow from eggs that quickly cycle through from larvae to pupa to full-grown adults that attack your foodstuff.

If you can find the eggs or the larvae then you can disrupt this life cycle. Look out for clumps inside any packets of flour, grains or starches, and also search for webbing on any food packages.

Clean everything thoroughly

Regardless of where the eggs or larvae of the moths are, it’s important that you clean out the pantry and kitchen thoroughly. Moths love to eat whatever they can find, so the cleaner your pantry and kitchen are, the less they will have to thrive on.

This can be a very time-consuming process, but it will help eliminate the infestation and at the end, you’ll have a spotless space to enjoy.

Restock with care

Once your kitchen and pantry are cleaned, put your foodstuff back in place in glass jars or tightly sealed plastic containers. Make sure any loose food items are sealed or well covered.

Finally, check new food items that you may bring in for signs of infestation. You can clean out your pantry only to bring a new source of infestation in, so check packets thoroughly.

Call the professionals

Despite making these important changes to your kitchen and pantry, you may still experience a moth infestation – they are very difficult to eliminate completely.

A1 Professional Pest Control can advise you on the best ways to create moth-averse conditions for your home. As a leading group for Canberra pest control, we can help by applying specific insecticides and products to your kitchen and pantry, tailoring a safe and effective solution to your needs. Give us a call today.

Understanding cockroaches

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:53:45 GMT

Cockroaches are one of the most common pests in Australia. They are hardy, sneaky and difficult to deal with. Most people will use traps or ultrasonic devices, but what is the best way to deal with cockroaches? First, there are a few things you need to know about these pests.

Preventing cockroaches from feeding

In order to thrive, cockroaches need food and water, just like any other pest. Of course, kitchens and pantries are prime roach areas. Make sure you keep your floors free of food because if there is a crumb around, a cockroach will find it. If they can't find a source of food they will either die or find another place to forage. Cockroaches are built to last and can live off just water, so be careful of puddles and leaky faucets.

Keeping roaches outside and monitoring their activity

Roaches love boxes and piles of papers - anywhere they can hide. They also primarily live outside, but will find a way in if it's there. Make sure you fill in any holes around your doors or windows and use mech coverings for open areas and gaps.

Keep an eye out for roach activity. Even if you had a previous infestation dealt with, a female can lay around 50 eggs. Keep an eye out for babies snuffling around when summer comes. If you notice a baby, there is a good chance that there are a lot more of them hidden away somewhere. Start to roach proof your house, be careful with food and water, then call a professional.

A1 Professional Pest Control are leading the way in dealing with cockroach infestations. They know everything there is to know about German and Oriental roaches, the primary species found in Australia. Cockroaches are some of the most common pests and can be found in almost every household, whether it's a rural home or a city centre apartment. Go to the professionals for help with infestations, as most DIY solutions will kill one or two, but won't deal with the full issue.

Ant control myths to avoid

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:52:59 GMT

An ant invasion in or around your house can be disturbing. You've probably come across different ways to overcome this problem. While the internet is an excellent source of information, beware that conventional solutions to ant control are practically useless since they're based on myths. Learning some of these myths will help you know what approach won't work.

The boiling water myth

While the hot water will kill some of the exposed ants, it won't do much damage to the queen and the rest of the colony. Its temperature is likely to drop after a while and will no longer harm the ants. Hot water also poses an additional risk around your home that you should avoid.

The cinnamon myth

This myth is based on the fact that ants don't like cinnamon. However, not liking something doesn't mean it will kill you. The least cinnamon can do is to keep the ants at bay once you create a perimeter with it but won't help you get rid of ants that have already invaded your home.

The vinegar myth

You might have used vinegar to kill ants before, and you might have enjoyed some small levels of success. But the bitter truth is that vinegar won't kill the ants. They might have left, but be sure they'll be back.

When ants discover a source of food, they usually create a scent trail back to the colony to help other ants locate the food. Vinegar merely disrupts this trail. You will need a better solution that will not let you down after a few days.

The grits and oatmeal myth

This theory alleges that if you put some grits and oatmeal near an anthill, the ants will eat it and explode. While grits and oatmeal are not on the ants' menu, the only thing you'll achieve is that they'll take longer walking back to their colony as they haul your grains. Instead, look for a Canberra pest control who will eliminate the annoying ants.

These myths have led property owners astray. And since these myths surround DIY techniques, you'll be better off reporting an ant problem to an established exterminator like A1 Professional Pest Control. Call us today and regain your peace of mind.

All you need to know about bed bug infestations in your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:52:24 GMT

If you’ve no idea what a bed bug looks like, it is a small insect with an oval and brown body, which feeds on human or animal blood. The size of an adult bed bug is nearly the size of an apple seed, but its body swells after feeding. These insects do not fly but move quickly over surfaces in the house.

The lifecycle of a bed bug

Bed bug infestations spread quickly because females lay hundreds of eggs. During the nymph stage a bed bug sheds its skin five times, and a blood meal is required between each moult. Under suitable conditions for their growth, bed bugs can mature in a month and produce about three generations in a year. Although these insects feed on blood, they do not transmit diseases.

Where do bed bugs hide?

Bed bugs may be ferried into your home undetected through clothing, used beds and couches, luggage and other items. Their small bodies enable them to fit into small spaces. Their preferred hiding spots are bed mattresses, bed frames, box springs and headboards where they can reach people to bite at night. In their hiding places, they are found in groups but may spread through crevices and move to other rooms or houses.

How do they attack?

Bed bugs are mostly active at night as they bite people when they are sleeping. They have elongated mouths that they use to pierce through skin and suck blood. They feed for 3-10 minutes before leaving unnoticed. At first, bed bug bites are painless but can turn into itchy bumps. The bites are found on areas that are exposed while sleeping, such as the feet and arms.

What’s the difference between bed bug bites and mosquito bites?

Most people confuse bed bug bites with mosquito bites because both insects normally attack when people are sleeping. However, there are signs that can help you identify bed bug bites. Some of these signs include a musty odour from the bugs’ scent glands, bed bug faecal spots and egg shells in their hiding areas, and dark spots on mattresses and walls caused by bed bug excrement as well as blood stains on bed sheets.

How can a bed bug infestation be controlled?

A1 Professional Pest Control advises homeowners to check around their beds and other hiding spots such as closets and books if they suspect the presence of bed bugs. If you are unsure about the signs, call a qualified pest control company to eliminate the bugs from all their hideouts. DIY treatments will not work because they are not effective in preventing eggs from hatching.

Three straightforward ways to rid your property of pest birds

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:51:32 GMT

Birds can be a lovely part of your home with morning and evening song and the bright feathers of native parrots. But birds can also be one of the most damaging and annoying pests to have, spreading diseases and littering your home with droppings.

Unlike other kinds of pests like termites, ants or spiders, killing birds is not the recommended way to get rid of them. Many native bird species are protected and you could face heavy fines.

But there are some tried and tested ways you can make your home as unattractive to birds as possible to keep them away.

1. Remove food sources

The most common species of pest birds are seagulls and pigeons, which bring plenty of noise and droppings.

But birds go where the food is, so if you have a bird feeder full of seed outside, it could be time to retire it until the infestation moves on.

You should also make sure to clean away any leftover food from a backyard barbecue and make sure all of your bins are sealed tightly.

Another great tactic is to place netting over any fruit trees or garden beds growing edible plants.

2. Block off any roosting spaces

Pest species like pigeons and seagulls breed quickly and are always looking for places to make their nests or take refuge for the night.

This can include your roof, the eaves of your home, the boughs of trees you may have or even the garden shed.

To discourage them from taking up residence at your place, it’s crucial that you identify and then block off any spaces the birds are using.

This can be done with nets and spikes placed strategically so they’ll fly somewhere else instead of bedding down.

3. Scarecrows and sound devices

If you have a larger property, a scarecrow device could help deter pest birds. For example, you can set up a fake owl on the lawn and see if that has any impact.

There are also options for sound emitting devices, which scare the birds away. However, you’ll need to check your local regulations to see if you can use them.

A1 Professional Pest Control can control birds

Getting rid of bird infestations is something A1 Professional Pest Control excels in.

Specialising in Canberra pest control, our team of fully qualified pest controllers know local conditions inside and out and can tailor a solution to your property that will bring lasting results and peace of mind. Just call us and we'll help you get rid of those pesky birds in no time.

To DIY or not to DIY, this is the pest question

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:50:31 GMT

Let's face it, professional pest control can be expensive. Whether you are getting rid of bees, termites, ants, spiders or cockroaches; costs can add up and you may be tempted to use one of those well-advertised DIY kits. They can seem far more economical than getting a professional pest controller to complete the job. But the majority of experts agree on one very strong and consistent recommendation. DON'T DIY IT!

Why you shouldn't DIY pest control

These are harsh chemicals

Keep in mind, these are dangerous and harmful chemicals that you are working with here. They are formulated to kill the most stubborn pests quickly and to last for months. If they are not handled properly they can be harmful to you, your family and your home. In short, they can cause serious damage.

Environmental considerations

These same chemicals can also cause serious environmental damage if they are washed into drains, spilled or clean-up is not carried out correctly. The best advice is to leave it to the professionals, they know what they are doing. They will ensure you receive the best results, in the safest way for both your household and the environment.

They don't always work

As a novice, you may not know the best products to use for your specific problem. Get these wrong and your treatment may not be effective all.

In addition, without specialized knowledge, you may only be partially treating your problem. In this case, both your time and money may be completely wasted.

So bring in the professionals

Bring in the professionals who know all about pest control. We are your local Canberra pest control providers and we guarantee we will treat your pest problems wholly and completely.

Additional bonus

An additional bonus for using an expert is that they guarantee their work. So, in the unlikely event your pests return, your trusty pest controller will also return to re-treat and resolve your problem.

Who do you call?

We are A1 Professional Pest Control and we are your local pest control experts. Trust us with your most tricky pest problems. Contact us today to get a quote.

Getting rid of a spider infestation

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:49:50 GMT

If you have noticed numerous spiders in your home lately, you might be suffering from a spider infestation. Spiders can have multiple babies at any one time, meaning it only takes a few pregnant spiders around your home for it to become overrun with the critters.

Poisonous spiders in Australia

If you live in Australia, spiders can be a real fear, as species like red backs and funnel webs can cause a painful bite and even death.

If you have a toddler or other children in your home, a fear about them being bitten isn’t unjustified, as kids often aren’t aware of the dangers and can sometimes handle spiders when they shouldn’t.

Spider control can keep your house safe

Although spider control may not get rid of spiders for life, it will certainly break the spider life-cycle within your home, meaning it will take quite a while for spiders to make your home their home once again.

Controlling spiders depends on their types

Most of the spiders you will find within your home are webbing spiders. Although an important part of our eco-system, if a dangerous webbing spider continues to form webs in your home, it is important to get them professionally removed.

The other type of species is a crawling or hunting spider. These types of spiders aren’t normally found in a home because they often use hollows or burrows to make their nest, which often requires leaf foliage or bark. It is very difficult to get rid of this type of spider if they are within your home, as they need to be directly sprayed with a chemical solution for them to die.

Control options for webbing spiders

The good news is that it’s possible to get rid of the webbing spiders around your home. A pest control business will be able to remove all the webs, thereby destroying the habitat of the spiders.

They can also set up fly traps to get rid of the food source of the webbing spider.

Finally, chemical sprays can be used to treat the area so the spider population does not move back into the area.

Calling in the spider control experts

Professional spider controllers know where to look for spiders and are well-versed in the best methods for getting rid of them.

Do you have a spider problem in your home? Contact A1 Professional Pest Control t oday to see how we can help.

Can an ant infestation cause health risks?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:49:08 GMT

When pest control is considered, the usual suspects tend to be mice, cockroaches, fleas and spiders. But did you know that ants are just as dangerous as these pests, can cause health risks, damage your home and attract other pests into your house? Often overlooked in the home, ants can cause devastating damage if left untreated. Here is an insider look at what havoc these tiny pests can do to your household:

Transmit disease pathogens

While not nearly as significantly known for transmitting diseases compared to mosquitos, ants can carry and transmit fungal and bacterial organisms which are serious disease pathogens. Within food facilities and medical treatment centres, ants are known to transmit salmonella and streptococcus, as well as numerous other organisms. Ants tend to be attracted to moisture and food and can pick up organisms from the rubbish bin and transfer them to other areas of your home. It’s important to be aware of ants in your home in order to avoid serious health risks.

Stings and bites

Stings and bites from ants can result in very serious health concerns and illness associated with allergic reactions. Hypersensitivity to ant venom can even cause life-threatening conditions and potential anaphylaxis, especially to young children. Intense pain, stinging, swelling and shock can accompany an ant bite at any age and nausea, dizziness and chest pain can occur as well. Preventing ants from entering your home and garden is imperative to protecting your family from this risk.

Home damage

Ants can cause just as much damage to homes as termites. Carpenter ants are known for causing significant structural damage and tunnel through wood structures over time. The majority of the damage is often hidden in door and window frames and other wood surfaces – making an ant infestation difficult to detect until you notice the deterioration of your property.

Attract other pests

Ants can also be the cause of attracting other pests to enter your home. Ants are a viable food source for other pests and can attract dangerous spiders, rats and even bats.

What can I do?

To protect your family and your home from potentially severe health risks, you need a professional to determine if you have ant infestations hiding within your home. Left untreated and ignored can have serious consequences.

At A1 Professional Pest Control, our team understands your family’s safety comes first. Contact the team today for further evaluation and advice.

Moths - the sometimes forgotten about pests

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:48:19 GMT

Yes, you hate cockroaches - the dirty, filthy things that they are. Yes, you are quite rightly concerned, even paranoid, about termites. And yes, you are downright scared of rats, with good cause. Let's face it, those guys get all the attention. But have you forgotten about another pest which can cause plenty of damage and cost you a small fortune? We are talking about ordinary old moths....

Pantry moths - they just love your flour

These little creatures, almost certainly Indian meal moths, come into your house as virtually invisible eggs in food packages such as flour, rice, some breads, spices, dry pet food, and lollies - foodstuffs you would normally assume are packaged safely. The eggs hatch into larvae, which of course turn into moths. But larvae can even eat into plastic bags or cardboard, infesting the contents. They ruin those items, and whilst eating moth-infested foods is unlikely to actually make you sick, it is more the inconvenience and cost of losing the food that is so annoying.

Clothes damage - how expensive can that be?

Whilst it might well be frustrating to lose good food, what about the cost of replacing clothing damaged by moths? It's happened to all of us. You go into the wardrobe at the end of Autumn to get out that favourite jumper or coat in readiness for a cold Canberra winter, only to look down and see holes in the material, smack in the middle of the garment, so it is unwearable.

Again, the damage is caused by larvae, and you could be dealing with two types of moths. Firstly, the old garden variety that you see flying around and wave away. Or secondly, another form identified by its outer silk case. They love to lay their eggs in dark corners, so wardrobes are great homes for these guys. The females lay their eggs on a fabric, and bang, you are in for many months of ongoing damage.

Keep moths at bay

The good news is, A1 Professional Pest Control can offer you a treatment to get rid of these pests, no matter if you live in Belconnen, Gungahlin or wherever else in Canberra.

How bees and wasps can damage your home and garden

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:47:46 GMT

Australia is home to more than 10,000 species of wasp and 2,000 species of bee. While bees and wasps play a vital role in our ecosystems, they can become pests in suburban areas. Bees and wasps are known for the threat they cause to humans and animals from their painful stings, but less is known about the structural damage they can cause to our homes.

How wasps pose a threat to your home

Wasps can pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of your home. Wasps will typically enter your home through an open window, and build nests in hidden nooks and crannies. They are also known to build nests on the ground itself, under windowsills or awnings, and in tree stumps. Once a wasp nest is fully established, it can house up to 100,000 individual wasps. While the idea of having wasps inside your home may be frightening enough, there is also the potential for the nests to cause structural damage to your walls. Secretions from a fully established wasp nest can leak into your drywall and cause damage to the point where the nest may come through your wall.

The effects of a bee infestation

One bee species known for causing significant damage to Australian homes is the carpenter bee. Carpenter bees are named for the small holes they drill in wood to build their nests. Outdoor decks, fence posts and furniture are also popular places for bees to drill their holes. Carpenter bees can cause both structural and water damage to your home, as the holes can weaken the wood and moisture can leak into them, causing the wood to rot.

How to prevent and solve wasp and bee infestations

Because wasps and bees nest in enormous numbers and are known to sting when disturbed, it's best to hire an experienced pest control professional to treat the problem carefully and thoroughly. A1 Professional Pest Control provide an expert Canberra pest control service to remove bees and wasps from your home or garden. To avoid painful stings and to ensure your bee and wasp problem is dealt with properly, avoid tackling the problem on your own, and hire an experienced professional to get the job done well.

Tips for preventing termites

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:46:53 GMT

They’re the smallest of bugs and yet they can have a huge impact on the value and state of your property. Why should we be aware of termites and, more importantly, preventing them? The destruction caused by termites can lead to a hefty repair bill and can potentially be very dangerous if left to eat away at the foundation of your home.

Here are some tips on how you can prevent termites from making your home, their home.

Limit the water around your home

Ensure that any water leaks you do have are repaired as soon as possible as even the smallest of leaks could be the reason the termites come to your home. Install drain pipes around your home to make sure that any water does not pool around the foundations. Termites need water to survive; if you limit the amount of water you limit the survival chances of termites.

Clear away any dead vegetation around your home

Those branches that have fallen off the tree or roots from a dead plant should be cleared and taken away. Leaving them to rot in the soil could attract termites into your home.

Store wood away from the house

Your house may be made of wood but that doesn’t mean you should have firewood and spare pieces of building lumber laying around near it. Make sure you store any wood away from the house so that if that gets invaded by termites there’s less chance of them invading the house too.

Treated lumber

If you have any structures that come into direct contact with the ground, they should be made from treated lumber. The chemicals used to treat the wood may not give you a 100% guarantee of termites staying away but they may deter them.

Look after the foundation of your home

This means sealing up any cracks that may appear and having a yearly inspection done by a professional for any termite damage that may have occurred. If caught early the damage caused by termites can be limited.

If you do find a termite infestation in your home, the best thing you can do is call a professional as soon as possible. Don’t waste your money on at-home treatments, contact A1 Professional Pest Control.

The dangers of a cockroach infestation

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:45:58 GMT

An infestation of cockroaches in the home is as unpleasant as it is disgusting. These creepy crawlies might seem harmless, but they can actually pose a serious health risk to you and your family. Here are just a few reasons you should deal with a cockroach infestation as soon as possible.

Food contamination

Like a great number of other pests, cockroaches are attracted to human food. Not only do they eat any leftovers that you leave lying around, but they also regurgitate on human food and defecate on top of it. Not only is this a disgusting image but it can also be extremely hazardous to your health, spreading any parasites and bacteria that they might be carrying, such as Salmonella. This can result in minor diseases in humans such as food poisoning, but can also result in cases of typhoid.

Allergies

One of the most common dangers of a cockroach infestation is the possibility of developing an allergic reaction. Cockroach allergies are extremely common, and approximately a third of people who have existing allergies are also allergic to cockroaches. Most people who suffer from these allergies react to the saliva or faeces of cockroaches, which can cause stuffiness, an itchy nose and eyes, and difficulty breathing. Some sufferers can also develop a rash and sinus infections.

Asthma

As cockroach allergies can cause difficulty breathing, the presence of cockroaches in the home can be extremely dangerous for people who suffer from asthma. A cockroach infestation increases the risk of causing an asthma attack, and even people who do not suffer from asthma initially may develop the condition if exposed to cockroach allergens.

Crawling into body parts

This is probably one of the most disturbing facts about cockroaches- they love to crawl into any open orifice, particularly when you're asleep. Cockroaches are known to wriggle into just about any small space, and that includes your nose, ears and open mouth. They can also bite humans, particularly if there is an extreme infestation in your home.

If you suspect your home has a cockroach infestation, contact A1 Professional Pest Control today and protect your family's health.

Signs you have a flea infestation at home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:45:15 GMT

Flea infestations can be some of the most annoying to pin down, but are surprisingly common, especially in households that have pets. It won't be easy to spot fleas if there aren't many of them, but infestations, which are more common during the warmer months, will start to make themselves known. If you're not sure what you should be looking out for when it comes to identifying a flea problem, these top signs should help:

Pets

If you do have pets, keep a close eye on their behaviour, as this could indicate that they have fleas. They may be scratching themselves more often than normal, or their hair could be falling out. Red areas on their skin also indicate fleas and you might even be able to see the pests on them. When it comes to dogs, it's more likely that their back legs will be targeted by fleas, whereas the head and neck of a cat will suffer more.

Fleas on furniture

Although fleas are very small, if your home is infested it's only a matter of time before you see them jumping in the room. They'll appear to be small brown or black dots that may leap off the sofa, curtains, or carpet.

Flea bites

Fleas don't live on people, but they can bite them if they are sharing the same space. You're most likely to notice these bites on the bottom of your legs and feet. They'll probably turn your skin red, but you could also experience a rash, swelling, or hives. If you are experiencing these symptoms but aren't sure whether the bites are from fleas, consulting your doctor can help. Flea bites don't usually result in any complications unless you're allergic, but they will itch and feel unpleasant.

The solution

It's not enough to simply get your pet treated at the vets for fleas once you have an infestation. As soon as you take your pet back into your home the fleas will be able to live in their hair once again. Therefore it's essential that you seek out professional Canberra pest control. Our team here at A1 Professional Pest Control can help, so get in touch today.

4 things you need to know about pantry moths

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:44:34 GMT

Also known as Mediterranean flour moth; miller moth; seed moth; grain moth; or Indian meal moth, pantry moths can significantly damage stored food in your home. The infestation can be characterised by rice that appears to be moving, webbing at the edge or corners of food packaging, or clumps in flour. Here’s are four things you need to know about pantry moths.

1. How do pantry moths enter the house?

Pantry moths can come through;

• Open windows and doors

• The opening where cables pass through walls, plumbing lines, and dryer vents

• Packaged contaminated food from a warehouse

2. Why do they infest homes?

Pantry moths are usually in search of a safe place where they will lay their eggs and increase their offspring's chances of survival. Unfortunately, places with an abundant supply of food seem to offer the ideal reproductive environment for pantry moths.

3. Pantry moth’s life cycle

Egg

• Whitish grey in colour

• A female moth can lay up to 400 eggs in one go

• The eggs can hatch in 7 days

Larva

• They usually cause damage at this stage

• Their colour depends on the food they eat

• They also leave behind casings and waste, which contaminates food rendering it unusable

• This stage lasts between 2-3 months

Pupa

• They are usually in cocoons and hide in crevices, corners, or cracks

• They can also be buried beneath the food, causing clumps and matted webs

• In 15-20 days, the pupa may develop into an adult moth

Adult

• They cannot eat because they lack working mouthparts, and all they can do is reproduce

• At this stage, they fly around a light source in search of a mate to breed with

• Flying moths are a major sign of infestation, which lasts 1-2 weeks

4. Are they harmful?

While pantry moths are not known to cause any diseases, they can seriously contaminate food. This can be an unsettling sight to see and can cost you some money to replace to foodstuff. Additionally, the webbing created can damage equipment in the household.

A1 PROFESSIONAL Pest Control can handle all your A1 pest control needs in Canberra, Gungahlin, and Belconnen. Call us today, and we will secure your home from pests.

3 common pests to look out for in autumn

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:43:50 GMT

You may think that now autumn’s here you’re over the worst of pest infestations in and around your home. Well you’d be wrong.

Like humans, many pests look for a warm, dry home in the cooler months. Here’s a list of three common pests to look out for around your home in autumn.

Rodents

Rats and mice like to make a warm, dry nest in your home during colder months, and a perfect hiding place for them is often in ceiling or wall cavities. Detecting rodents can be as easy as finding droppings in your home or garage, or you may hear or see them when they become active at night.

A major concern to you and your family is if a rat or mouse chews through an electrical cable; yes, it will kill the rodent, but the wire can still be live, and that could potentially start a fire.

Termites

Unlike many other pests, termites don’t hibernate in cooler weather, and are active all year round. Their love of timber means that termites can cause serious damage to your home; potentially destroying foundations and internal walls.

Termite nests can be easy to see, as they make nests which look like mud and are often near skirting boards. If a termite infestation goes undetected, treatment and subsequent repairs can be incredibly expensive.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches will usually live in your kitchen, where food and water are easily accessible. Because they breed in winter, what could have started as a small problem can quickly turn into a major one.

If you think you may have a problem with cockroaches, look for them near your sink, near your waste bin, and at the back of cupboards.

If you see signs of any of these pests in your home, the best solution is to have them removed by a professional.

A1 Professional Pest Control is the complete pest control solution for your Canberra property. Not only will we remove any pests, but we are also committed to implementing control measures wherever possible to prevent the problem from re-occurring.

But best of all, at A1 Professional Pest Control we only use products that are not harmful to you or your pets. What more could you ask for?

Why bees need professional removal

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:43:17 GMT

There are over 2000 species of native Australian bees, coming in a range of different colours and sizes. Most native bees are solitary, however, with each female making her own nest. The main risk of infestation comes from an introduced species of the humble honey bee (apis mellifera). They often break away from commercial hives and set themselves up in hollows trees - or, in the cracks and crevices of your home. And, unlike most native bees, they have a sting that can pack a punch.

Safe removal of honey bee nests is time consuming, arduous, and absolutely must be conducted by a professional. Apart from specialist equipment, there are only a few chemicals that are legally registered for the control of bees. Most importantly, bees can become aggressive when they realise their hive is under threat. Many people suffer from an adverse reaction to bee stings, including anaphylactic shock. Even if nobody in your home is allergic, a run-in with an aggravated colony can be very dangerous.

The most effective way of quickly eliminating bees from the home is to spray with approved insecticide, and then remove all traces of the bees and their nest. Any remaining dead bees can decay and cause strong odours. Any honey left behind can cause trouble, too. It can absorb moisture, ferment, or even leak into your ceiling or walls, weakening gyprock and leaving nasty stains. It is sometimes necessary to open up the infested area, such as a cavity wall or roof space, in order to remove the bees. It’s important, too, to remove any trace of the comb and/or honey. Any leftover wax can attract more bees through their odour, so it’s important to be thorough.

The best thing to do if you notice bees around your home, is to call A1 Professional Pest Control and have us come around to inspect the property. We’ll be able to locate the nest and decide on the best way to approach removal. Most importantly, we’ll be able to conduct the removal quickly and safely, making sure you and your family are safe from unwanted pests.

4 major problems caused by birds

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:42:48 GMT

Birds are majestic, beautiful, and careful creatures, but they can be dangerous too. Most people don’t see them as pests, but here are four major problems caused by birds you need to be aware of.

1. Health and sanitation risks

Birds can carry and transmit illnesses like Newcastle disease, encephalitis, or pigeon ornithosis. They can spread insects and parasites like mites, pleas, and ticks that latch onto their skin. Also, bird waste dropped into water and onto other surfaces in your home can leave behind pathogens that can cause disease. Your pets can also transmit disease when they eat, play, or roll on bird poo.

2. Property damage

Birds can build a nest on your property and put a strain your vents, downspouts, and gutters. Some can even take building materials to create their shelter. Bird waste can compromise the structure of your deck or roof, strip away paint, and damage your wooden varnish. Sticky bird poo can leave behind stains that can lower the value of your property, or push you to make costly replacements or repairs.

3. Interfere with home operations

When birds infest your home, they look for an elevated and sheltered spot to build their nests. It can be in the ledges, the rafters, the gutters or the vents. The nest can also clog the air supply or contaminate it with toxic droppings. Birds can leave behind debris in the gutter, which can hinder the flow of water during a storm. If they build their shelter near electrical installations, they can cause electrical fires, short circuits or damage the wiring.

4. Psychological distress

Birds can be annoying and their infestation can take a toll on your emotional well-being. The constant crowing and clucking can be a nuisance and can cause serious distraction. It is not worth living in fear of being attacked by birds with aggressive behaviours like gulls. Canberra pest control can help you regain your peace of mind.

Bird control is important to keep birds away, limit the spread of diseases, and safeguard the integrity of your structure. A1 Professional Pest Control uses environmentally-friendly methods to make your property less enticing to birds. Call us today for all your pest control needs.

The dangers of a wasp infestation

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:41:33 GMT

When you think of a wasp, you may think of an insect that is a nuisance, but not a real threat. While a wasp infestation is indeed a nuisance, it is also a serious problem that could have many severe consequences. Below we outline the dangers of a wasp infestation.

1. Physical attacks

Wasps by nature are aggressive and territorial. This means that even when they decide to build a nest on your property, you will be treated as an intruder. Wasps can use their stinger multiple times, unlike bees, and will do so if they are agitated or suspect someone of trying to intrude in their home. One wasp sting can hurt, but wasps often attack in packs which is extremely painful and has potentially fatal consequences as multiple stings can cause anaphylactic shock.

2. Food contamination

Particularly during the hotter months, wasps will seek out sweet food. Wasps may invade your kitchen in search of food or target your family as you are eating outside. While this is annoying, it also has harmful consequences. As wasps frequently visit waste disposal bins and animal carcases, they carry harmful substances with them. This means that if they land on your food or kitchen appliances, they have contaminated the area with dangerous substances for humans.

3. Estate and property damage

Wasps seek shelter and will build their nest anywhere they can. This could be in your wall cavities, vents or windowsills, to name but a few locations. Wasp nests are usually extensive and can cause damage if they are attached to a wooden surface. The longer you leave a wasp nest, the more damage it may cause; over time, wasps have even been known to burrow through building walls to extend their nests.

To avoid these dangers, it is important to have a wasp nest removed as soon as you notice it. Trying to remove the nest yourself will only create more problems due to the aggressive and determined nature of wasps. If you suspect your property has a wasp infestation, contact A1 Professional Pest Control today for Canberra pest control you can rely on.

The real health risks posed by rodents

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:40:53 GMT

Most people make pest control calls in the spring and summer. However, fall and winter pest control is still in demand because the cooler climate forces some of the worst pests to move indoors where it is warm. And some people may find these pests to be lovable and cuddly, for instance, mice and rats. However, these unwelcome guests raise serious health concerns for humans.

Rodents are responsible for spreading more than 35 diseases worldwide, either directly or indirectly. ( http://www.cdc.gov/rodents/index.html ). These diseases are harmful to people especially young children and older persons with vulnerable immune systems. Once faeces from both rats and mice accumulate, they can spread bacteria, trigger allergic reactions in humans and also contaminate food sources. Moreover, this faecal matter can dry up and is quite hazardous to those who breathe it in.

Rodent droppings can spread diseases and viruses like the ones listed below.

Bubonic plague

This plague is highly contagious and is notoriously known for killing one-third of the European population during the middle ages. Also known as the “Black Death,” it spreads through an infected rodent's flea. The disease is characterised by headaches, fevers and painfully swollen lymph nodes.

Rat-bite fever

An individual can get RBF by consuming food contaminated by rodents or from a rodent bite. Some of the symptoms include fever, headaches, a rash, vomiting and muscle pain and begin showing 3-10 days after exposure.

Salmonellosis

Consuming contaminated food with rodent faeces can quickly infect you with salmonellosis; a type of food poisoning. Some of its symptoms include abdominal pain, fever and diarrhoea. Each year, there are nearly 13,000 reported cases of Salmonellosis in Australia. ( https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/03/australian-salmonella-cases-nearly-double-in-past-10-years/ )

Hantavirus

This virus is potentially life-threatening and is primarily transmitted by a mouse. You can get infected if you inhale infected rodent urine, saliva or droppings. Some of its early symptoms include fever, muscle aches and fatigue. Later on, infected people may experience dizziness, chills and abdominal problems.

Finding a Canberra pest control service can help your family avoid the health risks posed by rodents. A professional like A1 Pest Control can offer you the expertise and knowledge if an infestation is suspected. We can also schedule inspections to keep rodents away from your home. Call us now on (02) 6278 5858 to get started.

5 common spider species to look out for this summer

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:39:34 GMT

As the weather warms up spiders become more active and you may start to see more of them in and around your home. In Canberra, we have a huge number of local spider species (some of which are very dangerous) and it can be tricky to tell them apart. To help you stay safe, here are five of the most common spider species that you might see this summer.

Huntsman

These guys are reasonably easy to recognise. They have long spindly legs and large brown/grey furry bodies. The Australian huntsman can grow quite large (around 2.5 centimetres) with a whopping 12-centimetre leg span. Huntsman spiders are actually slightly venomous and bites can cause local swelling and nausea.

Redback spider

Aptly named for their distinctive red stripe, redback spiders differ according to gender. Females are black, with large abdomens and very clear red stripe, whereas males are brownish, with brown and black striped legs and are generally thinner looking. Redback spiders are poisonous and cause swelling, nausea, and vomiting.

Wolf spider

A common sight in gardens, wolf spiders are hunters and live in silk-lined burrows. They are a greyish-brown colour with long, slim back legs and sturdier front legs. While the wolf spider is not poisonous, its still stings if they bite.

White-tailed spider

White-tailed spiders hang out in dark crevices and are drawn to floral aromas and bright colours (so be careful when you bring in the washing). Their bodies are a dark or reddish-grey, with a whitish tip at the end of their abdomen. They are technically poisonous and their bites can cause redness and itching.

Black house spider

Black house spiders are web dwellers and are usually spotted across windows, doorways and dark corners in the house. They are black in colour, very furry and have dark brown or black legs. These guys are venomous and although they don't usually bite, if they do it's incredibly painful and causes nausea and swelling.

Want a spider free home?

If you spot any of these spiders in your home, then call the team at A1 Pest control. We specialise in the identification and extermination of common Canberra spider species, so you can enjoy your summer in peace.

5 tips to ant proof your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:38:40 GMT

While they are small and seemingly harmless, ants can be a real nuisance. It only takes one scouting ant to find a food source and they will send word to the rest of the colony and come back in huge numbers. That's why the best way to stop ants is prevention rather than active extermination. So, to help you prevent an ant infestation, here are five tips to ant-proof your home.

Locate and seal all entry points

Ants are masters of breaking and entering and will take advantage of any crack or gap to enter your home. To prevent an ant invasion, make sure you seal up any obvious cracks using caulk or expanding foam. Common entry points include gaps around sinks, taps and basins, as well as gaps beneath skirting boards.

Don't leave food out

While it can be tempting to leave those freshly baked cookies on the counter for everyone to enjoy, if you leave them out for too long, ants will see this as an invitation. Put all food away as soon as you're finished eating and make sure you tidy up any crumbs or spillages after every meal.

Seal all food in containers

Ants love pantries as they contain lots of food (most of which isn't sealed properly). To prevent this, invest in airtight containers to store cereal, pet food, dried fruits and any other open or loose goods.

Empty your bins regularly

The more perishable foods you have in your bin, the more likely you are to see ants. Try to empty your bins a few times a week to discourage ants from entering your home.

Drain your sink

Ants not only seek food scraps, but also water. If you leave water standing in the sink you may wake up to a whole bunch of ants having a drink (particularly in the summer months).

If, despite all your best efforts, you find yourself with an ant infestation, then you need to call in the professionals. Leaders in Canberra pest control, our team of pest removal experts offer a range of solutions to eliminate ants in and around your home.

Ant flavoured kibble – dealing with pests and pet food

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:37:52 GMT

Ants! They may be the least unpleasant of the pest world, but they can certainly be the most irritating, especially if you have pets. That little line of ants seen marching toward a sticky honey bottle are easy enough to deal with using the wipe of a cloth and a wash of the bottle, but when you leave food out for your pets it’s like a 24 hour all-you-can-eat buffet for the whole colony. So, how do you minimise the side of ants with your pet’s dinner? Here are a few pointers.

The moat

Ants are not the most adept swimmers, so using a “moat” system can help keep them out of your pet’s bowl. Simply fill a larger container with water and place the pet food bowl inside the larger one to create a defensive moat.

Spick and span

If you don’t leave biscuits out for your pets each day, washing the bowls between each feed will help remove the smell of food and though it won’t totally prevent ants, keeping the space around the bowls clean and scrap-free will help deter them.

Slip and slide

Ants are impressive burglars - they can make their way up walls, into food containers and even between jar lids - but even they can’t power through Vaseline or a similar viscous gel. Slap some of that around the edges of the bowl to create a barrier, but just make sure it is not harmful to your pets at all!

All out war

Though the above options may work temporarily, they do not fix the core problem, which is that you are dealing with an ant infestation. Regular and thorough pest control will help ensure the ants are marching one by one to some other pet’s food bowl, leaving your pet zone clear of moats, Vaseline and ants. Keep cleaning the bowls though, that’s important!

If your pets are sick of ant flavoured kibble and you’re ready for a win, contact the friendly and experienced team at A1 Professional Pest Control – we’re Canberra based and offer free quotes and expert advice, so give us a call today.

How to get ready for summer pests

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:37:16 GMT

There’s nothing more annoying than creepy crawlies invading our homes and parks to ruin our summer fun. In Australia, summer pests are not just bothersome, they can be downright dangerous. Pests can ruin your summer fun both inside and outside your home.

Here are some things to remember about pest control during the summer months:

Just because you can’t see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there

You walk into a room and everything seems clean and organised. No pests here, right? Cockroaches, silverfish, spiders and other pests are constantly looking for places to set up camp in your home. You can try using baits and sprays, but that is almost like kicking water. If you want to ensure that you are keeping your home pest free, get a professional out every six months to inspect and treat your property.

Summer weather means hot spells and downpours

The Australian summer is the perfect time for pests to proliferate in your home or business. Summer storms create the ideal environment for mosquito, flea, tick and spider populations. It doesn’t help that dry spells tend to coincide with the growth cycle of insects. Wet leaves, tall grass and damp wood all foster a breeding ground for insects.

Your yard is a breeding ground

Plants, gutters, outdoor furniture and bins. All are locations for insects and pests to set up their home. A pest control expert can examine these areas and identify the pests that have taken up residence in these locations. Providing expert advice and using pet and environmentally-friendly methods, a pest control professional can ensure it’s safe for kids to play in the yard and your next BBQ isn’t invaded by any unwanted guests.

Speak to a professional

No matter the insect, vermin or pest, A1 Professional Pest Control can eliminate your pest problems for a stress-free summer. Whether you are looking for Canberra pest control, Gungahlin pest control, or Belconnen pest control, A1 Professional Pest Control offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Using safe but effective products, our technicians will tailor the best pest control treatment to ensure we eradicate the pests in your home. Call us today for a free quote to have your home pest-free over the summer months.

6 creepy facts about cockroaches

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:36:24 GMT

Cockroaches have been on this planet for about 300 million years and they show no sign of leaving. They are extremely hardy insects - they may even be capable of surviving a nuclear war.

In Canberra, cockroaches thrive during the summer months when conditions are warm and humid. They infest homes and places of business, creating all kinds of hygienic havoc. Here are some creepy facts about cockroaches that will convince you to get rid of them ASAP.

1. Not fussy eaters

Cockroaches have few dietary restrictions. They like starchy, sweet, greasy or meaty foods but they will readily feast on beer, pet food, soap, hair, flakes of dead skin, faeces and even glue.

2. Unwanted guests

The small German cockroach is one of the main types of cockroaches found in Canberra. At 10mm to 15mm, it can easily squeeze into small cracks or holes and create a large colony behind your walls. It also likes to live under fridges, ovens, hot water heaters and behind cupboards.

3. Creatures of the night

By day, cockroaches stay in their dark hiding places. At night, they come out to feast on whatever food and water they can find. An infestation can occur all too rapidly, without anyone ever seeing a cockroach.

4. Dirty little things

While cockroaches may be hard to spot during the day, they leave behind foul-smelling bodily secretions - faeces and vomit - which are often visible to the naked eye. They also shed their skin.

5. Health risk

Cockroaches carry disease pathogens, notably E.coli, Staphylococcus and salmonella. As a consequence, cockroaches contaminate whatever they come into contact with. Anyone who eats food that comes out of a cockroach-infested kitchen risks contracting food poisoning, diarrhoea and dysentery.

6. Allergy triggers

Many people - children, in particular - have an allergic reaction to shed cockroach skin and cockroach droppings. Eczema, rashes, sinus problems, cough, asthma - these are some of the unpleasant side-effects of living with cockroaches.

Getting rid of cockroaches is not an easy or fun job. Nor is it something you should do yourself.

At A1 Professional Pest control, we are experts at eliminating cockroaches from homes and workplaces. We use modern, effective, humane pest control solutions to ensure our customers receive the best possible Canberra pest control service. Contact us today and let us get rid of your disgusting cockroaches for you.

Four things it's useful to know about termites

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:35:13 GMT

As with any problem, there are many 'facts' about termites that you might hear from well-meaning friends or family. Some are simply not true, others have a level of fact hidden somewhere within them. Here are four things it's worth being clear about...

# It's probably just white ants!

This can be a well-meaning thought, suggesting the lesser of two evils! However, the simple truth is that there is no such thing as white ants. The description is usually applied to termites because of their milky, translucent colour. Here are two useful differences between termites and ants to look out for...

1. Termites have straight antennae compared to a more bent, elbow-like configuration in ants

2. Flying ants do not shed their wings but termites do. So, it's worthwhile checking areas such as window sills for any discarded wings

# Termites can be carried into your home on either clothes or luggage

While never saying never, this is a highly unlikely method of infesting a property. However, if you are investing in any pre-owned wooden furniture, it's best to carry out a careful check. Be equally careful if bringing any firewood or lumber indoors, especially if it is taken from a moist environment, such as when picking up fallen branches or using old tree stumps. Termites prefer decayed to sound wood; just like you'd prefer a fresh sandwich compared to a stale one!

# Termites communicate through head banging each other

Not exactly, unless they happen to be heavy metal fans! What they do is either bang their heads against a wooden surface or shake their bodies. This is to warn others in the colony of possible danger. You'd pick this up as a quiet clicking sound coming from your walls. Mind you, a survey did find that termites ate twice as fast when they were introduced to rock music!

# You can spot termite droppings

This is true - dry-wood termites push their excreta out of small holes near their nest. You might notice a darkish and powdery substance around the area of an infestation

The above are just examples of many 'facts' about termites. One obvious truth is that they can cause serious and prolonged damage to any property they infest. Our highly experienced A1 Professional Pest Control team offers valuable advice and unmatched services for Canberra, Gungahlin and Belconnen pest control situations. Whatever you wish to ask, we're ready to answer...

Three reasons why DIY pest control can cause more problems than it solves

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:34:34 GMT

If you've discovered that you're sharing your home with unwanted rodents, insects or birds, a common reaction is to take a trip to the local hardware store for some poison, dust down the step ladder and prepare to give those critters a blasting: after all, what could possibly go wrong? The reality is that DIY pest control can be not only dangerous, it can also be potentially fatal, as well as costing far more than simply hiring a professional Canberra pest control company. Take a look at three of the main pitfalls a DIY pest control job may have:

1. Pests can be vicious

Even normally docile animals can become aggressive should they discover that their nest (and therefore their young) are under attack. Rats, birds and insects will attack a perceived threat, with potentially dangerous consequences. Even with the right protective clothing, a rat bite or bee sting can be an issue; wearing standard clothing when facing angry pests is a recipe for disaster. Enraged pests may not just stop at attacking you: angry bee swarms for example, will attack anyone in the vicinity - bad news for your family and bystanders.

2. Inaccessible nests create problems

From ladder falls through to tree falls, slips, trips and slides, trying to tackle an infestation that's in an awkward location is always a challenge. Professionals have the skills, experience and equipment to minimise the risk; an amateur on a step ladder, not so much. Why risk a visit to the hospital when a professional can solve the problem quickly and safely?

3. Pests are a health hazard

Not only do pests harbour some pretty unpleasant diseases, their nest, faeces and urine can also contain bacteria and viruses that can make people seriously ill, or worse. Even if the pests are removed successfully, unless the right protective clothing (potentially including breathing apparatus) is worn, you could end up very sick, as could your family - some of the diseases pests carry are air-borne.

For all these reasons and more, it really does make more sense to call in the professionals. Affordable, highly trained and with the right equipment and skills to get the job done properly and safely, they are the go-to choice for any responsible homeowner.

Get rid of clothes moths before damage strikes

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:33:38 GMT

Clothes moths do not appear like a threat when they are first spotted in the house. Give them a few weeks to roam around, and you will have yourself a severe moth problem. These flying villains do not come cheap: they prefer feeding on wool, silk, luscious cashmere, cotton and shearling feathers which are relatively expensive. If you consider the financial implications, you cannot afford to ignore a clothes moth. Here are a few pest control tips to use before damage strikes.

How moths get into your home

• Through contaminated clothes

• Larger pests such as birds and rodents

• Flying in through windows and open doors

• Damp, warm conditions

How to prevent and get rid of a moth infestation

Examine clothes

Check all new clothing items, especially second-hand clothes. Some carry larvae. It is easier to catch them before they hatch.

Control birds and rodents

Larger pests such as birds and rodents have a habit of carrying moths on their fur. Controlling them will reduce the chance of infestation.

Open doors and windows

Clothes moths can easily fly in through windows and open doors in search of food. Use a sheer curtain on your doors and windows to block their entry.

Lower house temperatures

Temperatures of 70% or higher encourage the breeding and feeding of moths. Lower your house temperature to 50% or less to reduce the chance of infestation.

Seal off hideouts

To avoid being killed, moths will hide in cracks. Seal all cracks in your house, especially wardrobes, with foam, putty or silicone caulk. The vacuum you create with kill the lava and any moths hiding in these areas.

Call a pest control professional service

If you have tried everything and nothing seems to work, it's best to call a pest control professional to sort things out. It may cost you slightly more, but your moth problem will be a thing of the past.

For the best Canberra pest control services, contact A1 Professional Pest Control for thorough inspection and fumigation. Early fumigation reduces the loss of favourite clothes, saves you money and keeps the little flying villains away.

Are you living with rodents?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:32:53 GMT

The predominant form of a rodent infestation in an Aussie house is the common rat or mouse. Often they will live in your roof, walls or under the floor. As such, it is important to know whether you have an infestation as these unwanted housemates can cause damage to wiring and walls/ceiling panels. However, they also pose a health hazard as they are carriers of serious diseases, including salmonella and listeria.

Below are some signs to look out for if you suspect you might have an infestation.

Rodent droppings

If you find new droppings (which are dark and moist) you can be sure there is a mouse or rat in the vicinity. Droppings will be found close to food sources, perhaps in draws or cupboards and in other hidden areas. Focus on where you suspect they are feeding or nesting as an initial point of investigation.

Chew marks

Often rodents will chew on food packaging, walls or similar. Identifying fresh gnaw or chew marks is a strong indicator that you have a local rat or mouse population.

Runways or paths

Mice and rats move around the house to find food and nest during the evening when you're asleep. These rodents leave distinctive paths or tracks along walls or commuting routes. If you suspect rodents might be travelling through your house, consider leaving flour or baby power on the floor so you can clearly see paw prints the following day.

Nests

As with any animal, rodents are driven to nest. They will collect paper, fabric or dead plants to make their nests, often in a dark and secluded place to keep their offspring safe. If you find a nest you can be confident that you have a rodent infestation.

Rodents in your yard

Rodents are attracted to food, so they can be found around trash and food waste too. To reduce the likelihood of rats or mice living near, around or in your house, keep trash confined and away from the home.

Each of these signs will help you determine if you have a rodent problem in your home, and whether you need to contact A1 Professional Pest Control to remove them.

What to do if feral bees have made your home their home too

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:32:10 GMT

What are feral bees?

That’s right, there are feral bees as well as feral cats! Australia is home to several types of feral bee, the most common being the European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera). Feral bees tend to build their nests in an open space, such as under a house eave or on a high tree branch; they don’t stray from areas close to water and you don’t tend to see them in alpine areas, either.

You may also be unfortunate enough to be playing host to a swarm of commercial honey bees, which likely started from an escapee from one of those big white bee boxes you see on farms. These bees usually play house in a wall cavity, inside your chimney or perhaps in the hollow of a tree trunk. Members of these kinds of swarms will often be buzzing just outside the entrance to their abode as if warning off potential intruders, including you! The introduced feral bees, however, can cause significant damage.

Just how much of a problem are they?

Believed to have been here for nearly 200 years, these introduced feral invaders can be the carriers of diseases that threaten Australia’s managed honey bee industry, which provides honey products and keeps hives for crop pollination. Introduced honey bees are a very competitive species, battling Australia’s own native bees and birds for food resources and sites to construct nests.

What should you do if you have feral bees?

Firstly, remember they sting, and it doesn’t tickle, so don’t play around with the bees or the nest, and definitely don’t try and remove them yourself. Some people may be allergic to them and this can be a serious concern. If you or someone you are with is stung, and there appears to be an allergic reaction, call an ambulance.

Secondly, call a professional to help. In the Canberra region, call A1 Pest Control on (02) 6278 5858 or 0415 915 259, the professionals in the industry for over a decade, both residentially and commercially. Our friendly staff will provide a free quote to help you with your buzzing freeloaders.

The galloping hoard: how to prevent possum invasions

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:31:25 GMT

Possums may look cute and cuddly when they are climbing through the trees or playing on your porch, but once the little buggers set up house in the roof or wall cavities of your home or business, they sound and act like an avenging hoard setting out to conquer the halls of hell.

Possums can cause so many problems!

Nothing is quite like waking at two in the morning to the ear piercing growling and shrieking that indicates they are protecting their particular corner of the ceiling above bedroom three, or to see customers cringe in horror as the lunchtime rush is quietened by the sounds of hob nailed claws galumphing across the ceiling. Don’t even think about what they are do … do … doing in your ceiling, because the mess does not bear contemplating.

Whilst possums can be difficult to get rid of once they are established, it’s not hard to prevent the invasion.

Clear clutter and remove tree branches

Start by making sure you have no tree branches within reach of your gutters, this makes good sense for a multitude of reasons including bushfire hazard reduction and keeping all sorts of pests away.

Clear away the clutter from around the property, bits of building materials and things you 'might use one day' become an adventure playground for possums when stacked or propped against your house or shed.

Secure your bins and fix loose gutters

Make sure bins are kept firmly closed and away from the side of the building. You don’t want to be inviting unwanted guests for dinner in the middle of the night, and you certainly don’t want to give them a launching ramp.

Check and fix loose gutters and roofing to ensure entry holes don’t open up, and use steel wool or other pest blockers to fill holes in fascia or under eaves.

And don’t forget the most common entry point. Get your electrician or local pest control professional to install a barrier on the wires which run from the pole to the house. It’s worth it!

Get expert help

Finally, if the hoard have already descended and you’ve tried and given up on the removal methods recommended by the local council, your neighbours and the ever helpful Google, get the experts from A1 Pest Control in Canberra, Belconnen and Gungahlin to get it done right and give you back a quiet night’s sleep.

3 essential tips to prevent termites in your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:30:33 GMT

You have spent a lot of money on your home and your security is invested in it. The last thing you want is for it to fall down around you. By following our tips on protecting your home from termite infestation you can give your home back its sense of security.

Start with your yards and gardens

Do’s

• Keep your yard clear of stray wood, dead trees, and old stumps

• Lift any necessary wood piles off the ground - watch for infestation signs

• Fix water leaks – termites like moisture

• Be vigilant

Don'ts

• Prevent tools and other things from leaning against your home’s walls

• Get rid of your grass cuttings - avoid using them around your garden

• Make sure you keep space between your home’s walls and gardens

• Prevent the air holes in bricks from getting blocked – airflow helps prevent the build-up of moisture

Check for signs of termites

Vigilance is just as important as keeping your space clear. Recognising the following signs can help end any termite activity before it gets too large and damaging.

• Termites use mud to create their colonies inside your home, so look for any mud trails.

• Be aware of any sagging, easily damaged wood, cracks, or wood that sounds hollow

• Power failures can sometimes be attributed to termites – they crave the warmth the wiring emits

Call the professionals

The most important tip is to ring the professionals. There are many DIY options on the markets to exterminate infestations, but they just don’t do the job right. For the best protection, your home needs a multifaceted solution.

1. Above-ground traps – bait stations are good as early-warning devices

2. Foam – injected into the infestation to destroy the home and eradicate the termites

3. Liquid termite treatment – applied to the whole structure as protection

4. Six-monthly checks are essential

By giving your home the A1 Pest Control three-step professional treatment you put your home in the hands of the best Canberra pest control company.

Whether you need a Gungahlin pest control company or a Belconnen pest control company, the best team in Canberra are the professionals here at A1 Pest Control.

How we can spot those elusive termites in your home space or workplace

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:29:43 GMT

With over 350 different active termite species in our country, sometimes an infestation of these dratted creatures in a house, office, factory, other business or retail premises can be frighteningly obvious from just a visual inspection. Often, though, our Canberra, Gungahlin and Belconnen pest control teams have to undertake a much more detailed search. We are often asked exactly how we do locate the problem; almost like people are eager to know how the detective solved the murder in one of those TV mysteries.

Searching out those vital clues

Like the best of those investigators, we simply seek out the evidence. There are three usual ways to achieve this. Firstly, using a remote thermal indicator and laser beam, we can check any differences in temperature readings; where we locate these we can also often find termite entry points.

Of course, we really need to know where they are, not where they have been. This is achieved by using a moisture meter to gain readings of areas of surplus dampness. These can be places where the critters have set to work eagerly building and rapidly expanding their colonies. Thirdly, to find out how they are on the move, termite detection radar comes into play, verifying the current location of the infestation.

Adding an extra string to our detection bow

Here at A1 Pest Control, we have now added thermal imaging camera technology, accurate to an astonishing one-thousandth of an inch. This provides a screen display showing any infrared emissions from the top of the target surface area. This highlights any anomalies from what would be expected. For a home, our team can often need to undertake several hours of detailed investigation.

How we're not like those TV detective shows!

Unlike those shows where heinous crimes are always committed, we often find no guilty party as there is no infestation. This offers real peace of mind to so many property owners. However, where an infestation is present, our experts can then move on to discuss your key options for both problem solution and future avoidance.

Our professional team won't have spyglasses, deerstalkers hats, or suck lollipops, as other famous sleuths have been known to. But we will cheerfully set to work as expert termite detectives!

Does your house or business have a bird problem?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:28:55 GMT

There are many species of birds in Australia and we want to keep it that way. But uncontrolled groups of birds can cause damage and disruption to your home or business. To control how your property interacts with Australian birds of all kinds, you will need humane pest control services to ensure your Canberra home or business are effectively maintained and controlled from pest birds.

Species of birds in Australia

Homes and businesses around Canberra will usually experience problems with starlings, pigeons, sparrows, blackbirds and Mynah birds. There are many more species of birds in Australia, and different species can cause different problems. That’s why it’s best to hire trained and knowledgeable professionals to help tackle whichever bird species is disrupting your property for the best in Canberra pest control.

The damages pest birds can cause

We all know what birds get like during mating season. They swoop, make nests, make lots of noise, and require more food and resources to start their new families. This can cause dangerous or antisocial behaviour amongst many species of birds, disrupting your daily routine by swooping, pecking at surfaces, and calling to each other for long periods during the day.

Flocks of birds release droppings which can be harmful to your car, house and decking, leaving your house or business looking unattractive, and can often spread harmful diseases. Constant pecking can also damage surfaces around your Canberra home or business and, while one bird may not be a problem, families can stay in one area for long periods of time and will often return to the same place each year if they get what they need from it.

What you can do about pest birds on your property

Pest control technicians are available through A1 Professional Pest Control. They offer residential and commercial options for bird pest control and their technicians provide individually customised solutions to your pest bird issues.

Pet and environmentally-friendly methods of making flocks of pest birds move on to another location quickly and effectively for all species of birds make A1 Professional Pest Control a trusted provider of pest control services in Canberra. They provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee and are happy to provide a free quote throughout Canberra and the surrounding areas.

What to do if you find a spider in your home

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:28:53 GMT

As a country known for its dangerous spiders, Australia’s households are often hypersensitive to the eight-legged critters. Despite this reputation, however, a vast majority of Australia’s 10,000 species of spider are harmless. So what should you do if you encounter one?

1. Don’t panic

This may be easier said than done for arachnophobes but, as long as you haven’t been bitten, you should be able to remain in control of the situation.

Once you’ve situated the spider, try and identify its species. Fortunately, Australia’s two most dangerous spiders - the funnel-web spider and the redback spider - are easily recognisable thanks to their unique appearances. The funnel-web spider tends to measure between 1cm and 5cm and boasts a shiny blue-black carapace and spinnerets at the end of its abdomen. The redback spider, meanwhile, is much smaller, measuring between 3mm and 10mm, and possesses a striking red stripe on its abdomen. While the redback is known for its deadliness, it may reassure you to know that no humans deaths have been reported as a result of the species since the introduction of an effective antivenom in 1956.

2. Seek help if necessary

Of course, if you are unlucky enough to be bitten by a funnel-web or redback spider, or indeed are reacting badly to a bite from a different species, it is imperative that you seek medical attention immediately. Spider venom affects different people in different ways, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are at particular risk of complications from bites.

3. Take action to remove the spider

If you are confident that the spider is harmless and you are comfortable with getting close to it, simply cover it with a cup, slide some paper underneath it, and release it into the outdoors where it belongs. Try not to kill the spider, as they can get riled up if you happen to miss.

If the spider is dangerous or you are unsure of its species, it is a very good idea to call the professionals in. At A1 Pest Control, we have the power to deal with domestic spider issues. If you are worried about a venomous spider or are experiencing a spider infestation, call us today on (02) 6278 5858 .

Top signs that you have an invisible pest problem

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:26:53 GMT

We all dread coming across pests in our homes. From scuttling rodents to creepy insects, there’s nothing pleasant about sharing your space with creatures that could potentially ruin your furniture or carry disease. However, pest invasions are not always immediately obvious, as many of the common culprits are either very small or tend to shy away from open spaces. In this way, it is important to know what signs to look for in case you are unfortunate enough to develop a pest problem. If any of the following red flags start to appear in your home, there is a high chance you will need to call in the experts:

1. Chewed up furniture or wires

Rodents such as mice and rats are prolific chewers and will jump at the chance to get their teeth into your possessions. If you start to notice any damage to furniture, wires, walls or insulation that has no apparent cause, you could well have a rodent problem.

2. Droppings

Noticing droppings or other waste products from rodents or cockroaches is a particularly unpleasant symptom of a pest problem. What’s more, it is also a sign that the pest problem has passed the initial stages and turned into something quite serious. In this way, to stop the problem progressing further, it is vital that you get the experts in immediately as soon as you notice any animal waste products in your home.

3. Unexplained noises

It can be easy to dismiss rustles and pattering as a figment of your imagination, but noises are a common symptom of a pest problem. If you start to hear tell-tale signs in your home, trust your instincts and get the experts in to evaluate the issue.

4. Chipped paint

Peeling paint is a common sign of inner damage caused by insects such as termites, ants or other wood-eating pests. While this kind of damage may seem superficial, it can compromise the integrity of your home, and is something that is undoubtedly worth dealing with as soon as possible!

At A1 Pest Control, we can deal with pest problems thoroughly and efficiently. If you notice any of the above signs, please do get in touch with us as soon as possible. A member of our friendly staff will be happy to take your call.

Can birds be considered a pest?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:26:12 GMT

When you think of birds, you may think of beautiful creatures flying high in the sky. What might not come to your mind straight away is swarms of disease-ridden creatures that attack your property. While birds can be harmless, they can also be dangerous. Here are some of the ways birds can negatively affect your home…

Damage to your property

Bird droppings not only make your home unappealing and unclean, but over time bird waste will begin to rot and damage any paintwork on your house. This will not only be costly to repair, but unless you remove the bird problem, the issue will just keep recurring.

Anti-social behaviour

Common bird pests include pigeons, blackbirds and starlings and in mating season, all three of these birds display anti-social behaviour. While for an adult a bird swooping in their face may be startling or annoying, for a child this could be a very fearful experience and create a fear for life of birds.

Spread diseases

Previously we discussed how bird droppings can be unsightly, but the potential health risks if you come into contact with them are much, much worse. Bird faeces can spread harmful diseases, this is potentially dangerous to humans but even more dangerous to household pets who may accidentally ingest the droppings.

Spread lice

The birds themselves can be rife with lice or other pests. Lice can transfer from the bird to your pet or into your house, living in your furniture. Lice can bite and leave red itchy marks over humans and have even more serious health risks for pets.

Pest control

Don't live your life like a scene from Alfred Hitchcock's 'The Birds'. Take control of your pest problem and contact A1 Professional Pest Control, for Canberra pest control you can rely on. We can provide pest control on a residential or commercial scale and, thanks to our years of experience in the industry, will devise the best possible solution to your bird pest problem. You can trust our service, as we are both environmentally and pet-friendly.

Living with cockroaches? These are the dangers you are exposing your family to

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:25:31 GMT

Cockroaches are not just creepy and disgusting, they are also harmful to live with. These pests are a sore sight especially when crawling on kitchen cabinets. It is rather embarrassing to have them pop up especially when you are entertaining guest. Unfortunately, these bugs cause pose dangers that surpass a flushed face.

Food Contamination

These innocent looking bugs are one reason Canberra families are struggling with various health conditions. Symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting could easily be as a result of eating contaminated food. Though, they do not by themselves cause diseases, they effectively spread bacteria which eventually make us sick. It would be unfortunate if your loved ones end up with diseases such as typhoid.

Spreading of Infections

Canberra pest control service providers believe cockroaches spread streptococcus, salmonella, and staphylococcus thus causing diarrhea and other illnesses. It’s believed that cockroaches also harbor viruses for example the polio virus. While it is tempting to reach for a pesticide in your local store, the best approach is professional pest control services. Have your home inspected regularly to ensure that the pests haven't found their way back. One of the advantages of utilizing professional pest control is that they choose pesticides that are least harmful to humans and effective in eliminating bugs.

To protect your family from these dangers, here are a few tips to exercise regularly

1. Conduct general cleaning at least once a week

2. Keep your leftovers covered at all times

3. Move your bin outside the house and keep it covered as well.

4. Attend to spills promptly instead of waiting until routine cleaning time

5. Keep your kitchen free of leaks, it should stay dry as long as you’re not cleaning

6. Ensure there are no holes or unattended cracks where the insects can crawl through

7. Avoid leaving pet food leftovers in bowls for long

8. Fumigate rental houses before moving in just in case the previous owners had a cockroach infestation problem.

Apart from taking precaution and keeping your house in order, ensure you invest in professional pest control services. Make this an annual or bi-annual plan. It will not only kill any existing cockroaches but will prevent them coming back. Canberra has favourable weather for cockroaches breeding but with routine pest control and hygienic routines. You will have nothing to worry about.

Watch out for European wasps this summer!

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:24:53 GMT

As the weather warms up and you head outside, keep an eye out for European wasp nests. While these insects will generally not sting unless they are disturbed, there is no limit to the number of times they will sting, and their stings can lead to an allergic reaction. The summer of 2017/18 saw an increased number of European wasp nest reports in the Canberra region. After another dry winter, with a dry, warm spring predicted locals should be on the lookout for increased European wasp activity.

What does a nest look like?

European wasp nests are formed from saliva and wood pulp, resulting in a paper-like appearance. If the nest is made from mud, it is not a European wasp nest.

Where will I find a nest?

You should inspect your home and front and back yards, as European Wasps like to nest in concealed spaces. They nest in wall cavities and roof spaces. They gain access through small gaps in window surrounds and around doors, so fill in or cover any small entry spaces. Outside of homes, the most likely places include conifer trees, retaining walls, piles of rubbish and holes in the ground. Add rubbish removal to your list of spring-cleaning jobs, and, where possible, fill in any holes in the ground.

Look out for any European wasps entering or leaving your property. Pay careful attention to the places they return to, as this is likely where the nest is located. As the nest size increases, you may hear a buzzing sound.

What should I do if I find a nest?

The first and most important step when you find a nest is to leave it alone. European wasps are particularly aggressive wasps when disturbed; their stings are very painful and are known to cause allergic reactions.

Immediately contact A1 Professional Pest Control [https://www.a1professionalpestcontrol.com.au/contact-us/] to arrange for safe removal of the nest.

Educate your children to avoid the area in which the nest is located until it can safely be removed by our team. Pets may also experience an allergic reaction to stings, so keep them away from the nest, and, where possible, secure pet food and water in a place where the wasps cannot access it.

How often should you get a pest inspection?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:23:38 GMT

The best way to deal with pest control is prevention. And the best way to ensure prevention is through regular pest inspections. This allows you to find a pest infestation before it takes hold and, most importantly, before it does costly damage.

How often should you get a pest inspection?

Most households who are keen to guard against Canberra pest control should book an inspection at least once every six months. That said, frequency does vary from house to house, depending on age, construction, location and pest control history.

What about older houses?

As a general rule, older houses should have pest inspections more often than newer ones. This is especially the case for houses that have demonstrated susceptibility to pest infestations in the past. Sometimes the problem is related to construction. For example, while many new homes feature termite barrier systems, many older homes were built without them. In addition, termites generally prefer wood that is soft or weathered (although they certainly eat hardwood, too).

Does the location of your house matter?

Like age, the location of a house can put it at higher risk of pest control and, therefore, in need of more frequent inspections. If you live in an area that's heavily forested, you might need inspections more often. This is because forests provide habitats for many pests, including termites, mice, rats, birds and spiders. Unfortunately, if your home is nearby, such creatures might find it a warm, cosy, attractive option to the woods. It's a good idea to find out if there's a known pest population nearby.

What is the relevance of your pest control history?

If you've had a termite infestation recently, then another inspection within three months is recommended. This ensures that all termites were thoroughly removed. After that, an inspection every six months should suffice.

How long does a Canberra pest control inspection take?

Scheduling a regular pest inspection shouldn't get in the way of your routine. The process takes around an hour, depending on the property. As a rule of thumb, the clearer and less cluttered your home, the faster the inspection.

Little known facts about termites

Termites would in no way make good dinner guests. They would rather eat the wooden furniture on which the food is placed rather than eat the food. Yes, termites do love eating wood. It is one of the reasons why they are a huge nuisance when in and around your home. When at their best munching away wood, they are very destructive creatures. They are ubiquitous creatures; however, there are still lots of things most people don't know about ants.

Blindness

Most termites especially workers and soldiers are blind. However, they don't need to see since they can work comfortably in the dark. That said, though, reproductive termites have sight which is essential in helping them get mates.

They are important to nature

Away from your home, termites play an essential role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. They eat fallen trees matter aiding in decomposition. They also play a crucial role in aerating the soil and enriching the soil with nitrogen – an essential component in plant life.

They observe cleanliness

Termites value cleanliness. Cleaning each other is key to their survival. Dirt leaves them susceptible to bacteria and parasite infestation which is a threat to their existence.

They make mounds

Termites especially the species found in Australia make nests which they live in and often outlive the colony. Some of the nests have a diameter of about 30 metres and can be tall. The tallest found yet was 14 metres tall. Termites use digested wood, mud, faeces and soil to make these mounds.

They live in colonies

Termites live in large colonies with millions of individual members. They have a social caste system. At the bottom are the workers. They are the smallest, completely blind, sexually immature and wingless. They feed and groom other castes. Then there are the soldiers whose role is to defend the colony from enemies. At the top are the reproductives who include the king and queen. They are larger than the other classes.

For pest control especially for controlling termites, as Canberra Pest Control specialists, we don't advocate (DIY) Do It Yourself treatments since they hardly work. For professional termite control, contact A1 Professional Pest Control and we'll make your termite problem our own.

4 common pest control myths debunked

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:22:32 GMT

While we have been in the front line of creating awareness on ways to get rid of pests from homes and offices, we still get crazy ideas from some of our clients. Some of this misinformation evolved from our cultures, and others are ‘old wives' tales. Here are some myths we have gathered about pests and the truth behind them.

Both rats and mice don't cause any harm

For many of us, we believe that rodents such as rats and mice don't pose any serious risk to our lives. This idea is wrong! These unwanted guests are dangerous and can cause a multitude of problems for you and your family. They carry parasites, bacteria and viruses that can cause diseases for you and your loved ones. They also have sharp teeth which enable them to chew your home's electric cables thus subjecting your property to the risks of fire.

Bed bugs don't live in clean houses

Bed bugs can live anywhere, whether it's dirty or clean. From expensive hotel rooms to stylish homes, and classy cars. These pests are not attracted to dirt or garbage, but they are drawn to human blood. This means that they can follow you anywhere you go. However, it's essential to keep your home clean in order to limit the hideout spaces for bed bugs when treatment is being applied.

Pest control services aren't needed unless there's a terrible problem

We tend to think that pests will disappear on their own. This is one of the largest mistakes you can make. Sometimes we may see a cockroach or other pest in our home or office, and not take the incident seriously! However, even one or two pests can be a sign of invasion. Therefore, if you see any pests in your home, contact pest control ASAP.

My cat will chase away the rodents

If you believe that having a cat at home will keep mice and rats away, then you are wrong. These rodents know how to live with their predators, and they can survive in your home without being attacked by your furry friend. The only way to protect your home from mice and rats is to employ the right rodent management programme.

The way forward

Do you have questions about keeping your home or office free from pests? A1 professional pest control is here to help you keep pests firmly away from your residence. Call us now or visit our website for more information!"

How to spot if you have a bee or wasp nest

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:21:21 GMT

Unfortunately, it can be less ‘the bees’ knees’ and more ‘the bees’ eaves’ when bees and wasps decide to make your home theirs. Are you seeing an unusual number of insects indoors or clustering around a particular gutter or overhang? You may well have a nest and this can pose a hazard to your family and pets if you accidentally stumble across one whilst having a clear out. It is not uncommon to find a nest in roof spaces, wall voids, eaves, bird boxes, sheds and garages during the summer. The European wasp is also an increasing problem due to a lack of predators and warmer conditions. Attracted to food and drink, having an untreated wasp nest in your home or garden can become a serious issue.

Signs of a nest

A mature European wasp nest can include thousands of wasps, so if you do have a nest, you will probably see them swarming around the area it’s located. You can also leave some sugary food out and watch where wasps and bees return to. A wasp nest is a papery sphere, whilst bees make a wax ball that can reach the size of a football. You may hear buzzing inside the house if they have swarmed in a loft or cavity. As European wasps are aggressive and can sting repeatedly, you are advised to not approach the nest and instead call a professional pest control service to remove it.

Nest removal

Once a nest has been located, the treatment route will depend on the species of wasp or bee. We will be able to assess the situation and determine the best solution from a range of pesticide options. If it is a bee nest it may be removed and relocated, depending on the area it is located in. You should not attempt to move or spray a nest yourself.

The best thing to do if you suspect that you have a bee or wasp problem is to call in the professionals. A1 Professional Pest Control can meet your Canberra pest control needs, treating a wide range of problem creatures.

Busy as ants, even in winter. The secret threat of termite invasions

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:20:24 GMT

Most pesky household pests go into sleep mode in the cold months. Termites don’t. Hidden deep inside your home, its business as usual for these destructive creatures.

Termites like to eat (the timber in your home). They also like to drink. If there is a water source near them and the atmosphere is suitably warm, they will eat more. In the winter months when the rain comes, the home is wet and damp. You turn on the heater or light a fire to keep it warm. A warm home in wet winter conditions is an open invitation for termites to move in.

Imminent signs of termite attack

If you can spot them, you can kill them. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Discarded wings

• Bubbling paint or cracked walls

• Dents in the skirting

• Unusual mounds of dirt

What to do if you suspect termites have infiltrated the home?

Don’t try and get rid of them on your own. It will not work and can only make things worse. Call a Canberra pest control and get them to come out to your home immediately.

How pest control kill termites

The pest control professional will need to identify the pest colony first before prescribing the right treatment to deal with the problem. Termites can be forced out and killed by injecting the timber with foam. Sometimes ground baits are used to kill the nest instead of foam injection. The entire surface is then sprayed with a liquid Termiticide treatment to prevent re-infestation.

In termite nightmare, prevention is always better

Prevention is the best way to deal with termites. There are things you can do around the home to minimise risks including keeping your home dry, ventilating, clearing gutters, fixing leaks and keeping gardens away from walls. The most important measure is to have your home regularly inspected by a pest control professional at least once every six months. Bait stations and chemical soil treatments can also be used as preventive measures to protect your property.

Canberra Pest Control can help you with your termite problems. Contact a1 Professional Pest Control for immediate action.

Key factors to consider when hiring a pest control professional

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:19:09 GMT

There are times when it is better to hire a pest control professional than trying to eradicate the pests alone. This is necessary especially if the pest problem is ongoing and the infestation has spread to a large area, or if the pesticides needed can only be used by a certified professional. Here are the most vital factors that you need to consider when hiring a pest remover professional:

Check their reputation

Before you hire any professional pest exterminator, it is essential that you carry out a thorough background check on their credentials. You need to keep in mind that all contractors are licensed to ensure you get professional service from them.

Experience

It is essential that you inquire how long the exterminator you are about to hire has been in the business. A pest remover with years of experience in the industry will be able to handle all your issues related to pest infestation using tried and tested methods and advanced techniques.

Customer reviews

Take your time to go through previous customer reviews to get a feeling of the standard of the services offered by that particular pest control professional. It will help provide you with an idea of the quality of their work and customers' levels of satisfaction.

License

Ensure that the pest exterminator you are about to hire has a valid permit for offering pest removal services. Check if the professional belongs to any association, affiliations or has a customer rating from the Better Business Bureau. These will prevent you from ending up with amateurs who don't understand the fine details of pest control.

Methods of pest extermination

You need to inquire about the pest extermination methods being used by the pest exterminator. There are several ways pests can be removed, especially in industrial or commercial businesses. Always go for professionals who use methods that have already been tested and proven to work.

Today, many pest exterminators are using environmentally friendly practices that have been endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency. However, one should always do thorough research before deciding to work with a specific professional.

Your true or false quiz about roaches

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:18:02 GMT

If it's always best to know your enemy, and this is certainly true in pest control situations, here are five statements about cockroaches. See whether you think each is true or false - then we'll supply answers and explanations below...

1. Cockroaches are older than humans

2. They can survive even nuclear explosions

3. Cockroaches can trigger asthma attacks

4. They are almost as fast movers as big cats

5. They will help you reduce a cockroach infestation

Okay, let's see how well you did...

1. Cockroaches certainly are older than the human race. The group of over 4,000 different species (of which only four are well-known pests) can be traced way back to the Carboniferous era, and that's around 320 million years ago.

2. This is an urban myth - but with a tiny touch of truth. Cockroaches could certain withstand a greater dose of radiation than we could, but at nuclear explosion level, they'd instantly be as non-existent as humanity.

3. Cockroaches can trigger asthma attacks, and other allergies too, when their saliva, faeces, and small discarded body parts become airborne, say after a human kicks them up when walking. The source of the trigger is a protein in their bodies to which many people are allergic.

4. This is false. In a race, set to equal scale, the roaches would have disappeared into the distance at something approaching two hundred miles an hour (the scaled-up equivalent of their actual speed of 1.5m per second).

5. Seriously? Well cockroaches will, inadvertently, offer you some help in dealing with an infestation of the critters. As cannibals! When they reach a certain size, excessive numbers will make food scarce. They have then been known to eat each other, both to reduce numbers and for food itself.

How did you score? It's certainly worth pointing out that we'd never want to leave a cockroach infestation to self-regulate (per number 5 above). A female adult can have up to 50 eggs growing inside her at any time, and in just over three months, these can be fully functioning adults. No wonder numbers seem to grow exponentially.

If you have such a problem, please talk to our experts here at Canberra-based A1 Professional Pest Control. We'll always offer free advice and provide an obligation-free quote for dealing with the situation. You can reach us by dialling either (02) 6278 5858 or 0415 915 259 now...

Termite control methods that work

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:16:41 GMT

Termites, if not controlled, can cause irreparable damage to your property and can affect its quality and structure. As soon as you discover the presence of termites around your home, you need to take pest control measures immediately. A professional can help in termite control to help you get rid of the infestation once and for all. Three most commonly used methods of treatment for termites are:

1. Wood treatment

This includes injected spray and foams. The wood treatment technique serves to kill all existing termite colonies and also prevent new ones from sprouting. A professional will inject termite-infested timber with foam to kill the nest and get rid of the termites. After injecting the foam, a liquid termiticide treatment follows, which is applied to the whole structure to prevent the termites from coming back.

2. Bait system

This option is more appropriate in situations where you do not want to inject chemicals into the soil. Above-the-ground bait is placed on the ground outside the structure or around the perimeter of the home. The termites find their way to the bait, feed on it and die. The technology behind the baits is continually improving to make them better and more effective. The system eliminates existing termites and keeps your home protected from future infestations. However, their results might not be as rapid enough to deal with heavily infested areas that are severely damaged. Bait treatments are best used together with liquid termiticide treatment.

3. Liquid treatments

A termite solution applied within the foundations of the building can create a defensive barrier for your home. The solution is safe for both indoor and outdoor applications and also guards your house against future termite attack. A professional at work can employ a flow meter after each treatment to record the amount of liquid used and the cumulative suggested total.

These are some of the termite control methods commonly employed. However, you should engage the services of a professional Canberra pest control company to protect your home from termites attacks adequately. We will not only give you the right information about pest control but also ensure that the problem is eliminated once and for all. Contact us today at A1 Professional Pest Control and schedule a home inspection which should be done every six months.

Keeping your pets safe during pest control services

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:15:57 GMT

While it's possible for mice, insects and spiders to find their way into your home, pest control services can effectively keep them away. However, don't forget you have some pets that need protection as you get rid of these unwanted guests.

Here are a few tips to keep your furry friends safe during pest control services.

Tell your exterminator you have pets

Let your pest technicians know which pets you have in your home. This information will help them to plan for the treatment they'll use before they visit. Also, it will help them take the necessary precautions before and after the pest control service.

Contain your pets in one area

Just like young children, pets are curious. They might follow the exterminator around. If you have a dog, let it remain in the kennel. If you have a cat, make use of a cat carrier to keep it safe. For homeowners who have a significant number of pets, it's a good idea to keep them in areas not scheduled for treatments.

Cover up fishy and feathery friends

If you have a fish pond or some domestic birds, cover the cage and the pool with a blanket or a converse garment to protect them from spray vapour. Exposing your birds and reptile species to airborne mist can be fatal to them. This is because most birds have a sensitive respiratory system that can quickly become damaged when they inhale spray droplets.

Keep food and bedding covered

Many homeowners ignore this tip, but it's a very crucial aspect of keeping your pets safe. Once your furry friends eat food contaminated with pesticide, they could become very ill. Ensure that toys, bedding as well as other items frequently used by your pets are free from mist or spray; cover them with a piece of cloth or move them away from the treatment area.

The bottom line

While it's the goal of every homeowner to combat dreaded pests, it is essential to ensure that your pets remain safe. No matter the type of the bugs in your home, hiring pest control services is the right way to fight them off.

Spider infestations: can you recognise the early signs?

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:14:53 GMT

Have you developed a severe disdain for the hairy, creepy, beady-eyed, crawly pests known as spiders? Though some spiders aren’t harmful, others are deadly, and all can become pests in or around your office or home. To prevent a spider infestation at all costs, you need to be able to recognise the signs. Some of these signs include:

Where do they hide?

First, it’s essential to know where to start looking to see whether you have pest control problems. Common places to search for webs and spiders include ceilings, corners, sprinklers, outdoor furniture, window sills, the ground, attics, boxes, closets, basements, crevices, and gaps as well as storage areas. These eight-legged pests often make a home for themselves and then hide mostly in damp and dark places to easily access their food supply (flies, ants, and other insects).

Spider eggs

Usually, spiders mate by autumn, at a time when temperatures are a bit cooler. They mate and lay the eggs into a carefully designed silk sac. Every sac may have over 100 eggs. These sacs are commonly attached to webs, to surfaces, or even carried by the mother. When you find egg sacs, the chances are that a spider infestation is underway.

Spider webs

Have you started seeing more spider webs around your property, in the garden, backyard or around eaves? If so, you probably have a huge problem and require pest control services ASAP. Spider webs come in numerous sizes and shapes — this depends on the kind of spider so check for large, expansive webs, fragile webs, and funnel-shaped webs.

More spiders

If you see more spiders around your building, it’s likely these pests are hiding and multiplying on the premises. More spiders also mean there is food (other pests) in your property. This is a clear indicator there is another pest problem.

Get the best solution from us

Spider infestation problems have to be handled by professionals to avoid risks of spider bites. Ensure you contact a professional pest control firm to not only protect your home but also to eradicate the existing spider problems. The A1 Professional Pest Control team is here for you, so call us today!

Pest control is no laughing matter, but...

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:13:50 GMT

...it always pays to have a fairly wry sense of humour. Our team here at A1 Professional Pest Control know it helps when in tight situations or awkward spots. Someone mentioned to one of our people that a single letter changed in describing a whole series of pest control situations could lead to a very different outcome!

That got us thinking; here are some we came up with - let us know if you think of any others...

'Hi - is there any way you could help me get rid of an infestation of annoying aunts?'

'Some of our members here at the golf club are being buzzed by angry tees. Any suggestions?'

'I don't know what to do; I opened my wardrobe and discovered a colony of clothes goths. They're very unpleasant and I'd like them gone'

'Help! I found rice scuttling across my kitchen floor last night!'

'I'm pretty sure it's a Herman cockroach. Don't know where it comes from though'

We'd better stop there! However, although not humorous, there are also myths that have grown about pests; falsehoods that seem almost to be accepted as truths simply through repetition.

Three myths to be aware of...

Concrete foundations protect a home from termites' - NOPE! These horrors can easily crawl through tiny cracks or build tubes of mud over foundations to get where they want to be.

Bed bugs are only found in beds' - NOT TRUE! The name is a bit misleading; they seek warmth and nearby food, so sofas, clothes, even suitcases and bags have been known to provide a home.

Pests stay away from clean homes' - NO THEY DON'T. There is no evidence that critters carry out on-site inspections and ask for surveyor reports before deciding to move in. Many are simply seeking any quick shelter from the harsh outside world.

To return to a touch of humour to finish; a couple of jokes...

One bug sitting on a branch talking to its mate as they observe a stick insect feeding - 'I hate her! Eats what she wants and is still as thin as a twig'

Termite chat-up line - 'Hey, how about you and me go out later for a quick coffee... table'

If you have any pest problems

We hope this blog has provided a lighter moment, but we know how annoying and anxiety-creating any pest problem can be. Whatever it is, we're here to help - so please call our Canberra-based A1 Professional Pest Control team on either (02) 6278 5858 or 0415 915 259 ."

Health threats posed by pests

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:11:55 GMT

Pests not only invade your space and cause a nuisance but also pose health problems to you and your family. Aside from their invasion of your private space, most pests can carry diseases that they can transmit to humans. Pest control measures come in handy to get rid of pests that might be harbouring potential health hazards.

Allergies and skin infections

Allergies caused by pests range from a mild sniffle to severe skin and respiratory reactions that call for hospitalisation. Bees, wasps, stinging insects and ants are among the pests that cause severe allergies. After a sting, be sure to check for complications such as difficulty breathing, uncontrollable swelling of the skin, and hives. Pests, like bugs, cause itchiness after biting.

Diseases from rodents

Mites and rice not only deprive people of their peace but also carry a range of dangerous illnesses. A bite by a rodent can transmit rabies to humans, and their droppings can be the source of Hantavirus. The disease causes lethal respiratory and digestive symptoms. The infection can be acquired by simply inhaling particles from infected rodent urine or solid waste. To be on the safe side, leave rodent control to the Canberra pest control professionals who have the machinery to do a thorough job.

Germs spread by cockroaches

Roaches do not bite or sting but they do transmit disease through contact. For example, when they pick up bacteria from a dirty surface, they can spread it to your food if they crawl on it. They carry more than 30 types of bacteria. Some of the diseases they are known to transmit include listeria, salmonella, food poisoning, pneumonia, diarrhoea, gangrene and typhoid. Home strategies for eliminating roaches should be combined with professional treatments for the best results.

Health threats brought about by pests can best be eliminated through professional treatments that reduce pest populations around the home. If your home strategies for pest control have failed, there is no reason to keep exposing your family to health threats posed by pests. Contact us at A1 Professional Pest Control and we will handle the pest situation in your home to ensure your safety from pest diseases.

5 signs you have a carpet beetle infestation

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:11:08 GMT

Have you ever put on your favourite sweater only to find it covered in tiny holes? When faced with this unpleasant dilemma most people will point the finger at moths. But there is another pest that can take up residence in your home, that is capable of doing much more damage than moths. The culprit is just as likely to be the humble carpet beetle or to be more accurate, its larvae.

Carpet beetles are found across Australia from Darwin to Adelaide and Sydney to Perth. They can be found both inland and on the coast, so no matter where you live on our majestic island, you are susceptible to this carnivorous carpet munching pest. But with adult beetles measuring just 0.5cm they can be difficult to spot and much more difficult to get rid of.

So how can you tell if the holes in your clothes are made by moths or carpet beetles? In this blog, we are going to look at five signs that point to carpet beetle infestation.

1. Look for adult beetles near windows

The damage is done by the larvae, not the beetle itself. Adult beetles feed on pollen and are usually found in spring and early summer near windows trying to get outside. So if you spot a tiny 0.5cm beetle with a hard shell and patterned body near your windows during spring or early summer, it’s a sure sign you have a carpet beetle infestation somewhere in your home.

2. Carpet beetles feed in concentrated areas

Since the damage is done by the larvae, not the beetle, they can be difficult to spot. The larvae like to munch away in dark corners or under heavy furniture where they are unlikely to be seen. Unlike moths, however, carpet beetles like to feed in concentrated areas. So if your favourite sweater has a number of small holes rather than one big one, the culprit is likely to be carpet beetle larvae, not moths.

3. Check for discarded skin under furniture or in dark corners

Carpet beetle larvae moult several times during their nine-month lifecycle. So if you spot small collections of discarded furry skins on your carpet or in the bottom of your wardrobe this is another telltale sign you have a carpet beetle infestation.

4. Carpet beetle larvae are shy, so coax them out during the day

Carpet beetle larvae usually feed at night or in the early hours. This makes them difficult to spot, but if you close the curtains during the day you will often find they come out to play. Keep a lookout for them climbing up the walls, in dark corners or behind heavy furniture.

5. Look for faecal pellets in dark corners or under furniture

Rather disgustingly, but not unsurprisingly, carpet beetle larvae leave droppings. So if you spot brown or black dry faecal pellets about the size of a grain of sand, in the bottom of your wardrobe, on your clothes or on hard flooring, you should investigate further. You will notice these along with the other signs mentioned above.

If you suspect you have a carpet beetle infestation, give A1 Professional Pest Control a call. We are the most experienced Canberra pest control company and will be able to rid you of these troublesome pests quickly and without fuss. The treatment can be completed within a few hours and you will be able to return to your home immediately.

Give A1 Professional Pest Control a call on (02) 6278 5858 for free pest control advice or a no obligation quotation.

5 top tips to prevent ants

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:09:42 GMT

Ants are pesky insects that find their way through the smallest openings into your home. Ants may be wandering into your house searching for food, water, or even shelter from bad weather. Whether you've already dealt with an ant problem or are trying to avoid one, the best way to deal with ants is to prevent them from becoming an issue in the first place. Here are some top tips to avoid ants:

1. Seal cracks

Check your walls and floors for any cracks and openings to the outside, and close them up. As ants are very small, it is difficult to cover all possible entry points, but doing this will minimise the risk of them entering your home.

2. Use natural deterrents

Try using natural deterrents around the house to keep ants at bay. Ingredients such as peppermint oil, black pepper, bay leaves, cinnamon, and vinegar are all substances that ants will tend to avoid. Use these along entry points to your home. Just be wary of pets or small children who may swallow these.

3. Keep your home clean

Ant infestations often occur when there is easy access to food. Ants have a fantastic sense of smell and will make their way into your home if it's unclean. Make sure you wipe down your kitchen, floor, and any other surfaces that may have crumbs, and wash your dishes in a timely manner.

4. Store your food in airtight containers

Ants are capable of making their way through a myriad of food storage materials, including cardboard boxes and thin plastic packaging. Storing your food in airtight containers is an effective way of keeping ants out of your food.

5. Regular pest control

If you've had ant infestations in the past, it's a good idea to undertake regular pest control. This ensures that the entire colony is exterminated, preventing repeats of the issue.

If your ant situation seems to be getting out of control, get in contact with our experienced team at A1 Professional Pest Control. We are a dedicated Canberra based pest control service that will work to effectively eradicate your ant problem.

Protecting bees - our silent saviours

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:08:39 GMT

Melissophobia, also known as apiphobia, is the surprisingly common fear of bees. Although people fear the sting of this tiny creature, it is important to understand the critical part bees play in the future of our society.

Bees keep our flora thriving

Bees have played an essential role in society for millions of years. As well as making the widely loved spread, honey, they are also responsible for keeping a significant amount of flora thriving. These misunderstood insects pollinate over 80% of the world's flowering plants, including 70 of the top 100 food crops required by humans. This includes a variety of fruit, vegetables and nuts.

The first instinct of many people when they see a bee is usually to kill it with the nearest object to avoid being stung, but what people don’t realise is that a bee will only sting a person if they feel threatened. Stinging someone is a bee's last form of defence, this is because once a bee uses its stinger it causes them to die.

Protecting bees from extinction

Already endangered, if bees were to become extinct, our society would not only lose our beautiful flowers, we would lose all plants pollinated by bees, affecting all forms of agriculture. Not only would we lose honey, which has many health benefits and has even been proven to have the potential to prevent cancer, but we would also lose most of our food sources, disrupting the entire food chain and all of civilisation. Not only are natural foods such as fruit, vegetables and nuts critical to a human’s diet, but they are also critical to the diet of many species of animals. As wild as it may sound, if bees become extinct, it would only be a matter of time before all of civilisation as we know it comes to an end.

We need bees as they play one of the most important roles in our society and work harder than any other species alive today.

Do not kill bees

If you have a problem with bees, please do not kill them, call the Beekeepers Association of ACT before contacting pest control to have bees safely removed by an apiarist ( http://actbeekeepers.asn.au ).

We love bees and will not treat them until all other options have been exhausted!

How you can help preserve the dying bees in Canberra

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:07:42 GMT

Bees are dying slowly, and you should be concerned because if the trend persists, you might have to forget about enjoying honey in your Aussie meals. We will also be deprived of food reserves since bees play a critical role in plant fertilisation. The good news is that you can do something about the problem. Here is what you can do to safeguard the bees.

Plant Medicinal Herbs

We love bees, and it won’t cost you much to spare a little space in your garden to grow herbs. You don’t need any expertise to plant them, and you will have helped bees coming to your backyard obtain medicinal value. Some of the herbs have a great aroma that can make your compound smell heavenly.

Avoid neonicotinoids seeds

Exercise caution when buying seeds and ensure that they have not been dipped in neonics. You ought to grow natural seeds and help bees collecting pollen from your farm survive. Don’t be selfish because the bees need you as much as you need them.

Plant a variety of flowers

Supply bees with pollen all year long by planting a minimum of four species of flowers. This will keep the supply running through all the climatic seasons. Visit your local nursery and pick the widest variety of flowers. Maximize on the ones that flower around late winter and early spring since bees consume a lot of food at this time.

Provide a water source

Place some wet sand or put pebbles in your birdbath. Do not leave only open water in your garden because bees may drown and die. Learn how to make a bee bath specially designed for bees to access drinking water. Teach your peers this skill because it only takes cumulative efforts to protect bees and eventually enjoy the abundance of its honey and crops from fertilised plants.

If bees inadvertently nest in your home, call an expert like A1 Professional Pest Control to get the job done. The company will only help if all other options have been exhausted or you have contacted the Canberra Beekeepers Association. We will safely remove them and guarantee you and your household freedom from unwanted beehives. Avoid pesticides or other aggressive means that have fatal effects on them. Help safeguard the honey supply and call us today in Canberra if you need pest control services that will not harm the bees.

Top tips for avoiding pantry and clothes moths

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:07:02 GMT

Pantry and clothes moths are damaging to food, goods and garments, leaving you frustrated when you've discovered an infestation in the cupboard or a hole in your favourite jumper. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take at home to avoid this issue. Pest control starts with prevention, and as such we've brought together these effective methods to prevent an infestation.

Clean and maintain a tidy pantry

Thoroughly clean out your pantry, removing any crumbs in the corners, spilled flour, grain or any other food products. Vacuum and wash the pantry with warm, soapy water. Repackage any open packets of food into something moths won't be able to get into, like jars or durable, sealed plastic containers. Doing this will deter moths from wanting to live in your pantry, as there won't be a food supply for them.

Getting rid of existing infestations

If there are any signs of an existing infestation in any products, discard them in a bin far from your property so they can't find their way back. Wiping shelves, food storage containers and other surfaces with white vinegar can help to kill any remaining eggs.

Mothballs, which release pesticides into the air, can be placed in the wardrobe to kill any larvae living in clothes. If you find an article of clothing with moth holes in it, put it in the freezer in a plastic bag for one week to kill any eggs that have been laid in it. You can also try this freezer trick with any dry food goods you've just brought home as a preventative measure.

Use deterrence

In the kitchen, try using bay leaves to deter moths in the pantry. You can also spray essential oils like eucalyptus, tee tree and citronella onto kitchen surfaces.

Even with preventative measures in place, infestations can still happen. A1 Professional Pest Control are leaders in Canberra pest control, providing you with an effective and professional service. If you find a moth infestation in your pantry or clothes, don't hesitate to contact us on (02) 6278 5858 to discuss how we can help to make your home pest-free.

Top 6 bird control tips in Canberra

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:06:17 GMT

Commercial properties and apartment complexes are often desperate for effective bird control methods. Birds pose a potential health risk in such environments apart from constant loud chirping and unsightly droppings. A pest control service can help you eliminate these unwanted birds permanently. However, you need to make specific actions to prevent any future nesting or roosting. Here are our top six tips for bird control in Canberra.

1. Eliminate available food and water sources

If possible, deal with any food and water that is accessible to the birds. If your business or apartment is accidentally offering food and water, the first step would be to close down such sources. Any standing water should be covered with netting or lids. Once the birds realise no food or water is available to them, they’ll get discouraged and move to a different location.

2. Netting

This is one of the most cost-effective ways of eliminating unwanted birds. It involves sealing off notable areas to deny access to the birds. Netting may include the protection of eaves, cover entire roofs, and protect specific building features or frontage elevations.

3. Conduct a thorough clean up and sanitise the place

You need to protect everyone’s health around the premise by cleaning all bird nest areas, droppings and debris before you can implement any deterrence strategy. Your family, employees, or clients need to be protected against disease spread by the bird droppings.

4. Install wire meshes

If your home or office has small cosy spaces (vents), cover them with wire meshes. Use nails to secure the wire mesh.

5. Bird spiking

Spiking is a way of deterring birds from landing and consequently loafing. They might look dangerous, but they are actually safe as they don’t hurt the birds in any way. Target areas include beams, signage, ledges, roof edges and gutters. However, make sure not to put them in areas accessible to children due to the danger they pose.

6. Call a professional

A Canberra pest control professional such as A1 Professional Pest Control can help you deal with stubborn birds. We are experienced in deterring and removing birds from all premises and knowledgeable about the legislation which is in place. That means we know which birds are protected and what measures are safe and legal to use.

Bird control shouldn’t be treated as a one-time event but as an ongoing process. Birds are smarter than rodents or roaches and can always come back. Call us today for Canberra bird control and any other pest control related service.

Preparing your property for winter pests

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:05:27 GMT

A common misconception is that rodents and other pests hibernate during the Australian winter. But while reptiles and some pests may become MIA for the colder months, many look to find a safe, warm place to survive the winter. So here's a guide for how to not let your home become their next hiding place.

1. Declutter

Insects and rodents instinctively find hiding places to keep themselves and their families safe. And while the natural world has provided this for them for a long time, busy, cluttered houses have become their preference. They are most commonly found in storage spaces like cupboards and garages. So be sure to organise your belongings and clean the area so they can't easily make your storage space their new home.

2. Deny access to entry points

Insects can get through extremely small gaps and it's impossible to fill in every gap in your home. Instead, try laying a surface spray or call a pest control company to create an invisible barrier to your property. But rodents, on the other hand, can still enter through tight spaces, but this can be managed by filling them in with steel wool before covering them with plaster or silicone. They will quickly learn they can't chew through steel wool and will then be deterred. Also look for window damage and make sure it's repaired.

3. Keep food in sealed containers

This protects your food from all unwanted guests in your house. From ants and cockroaches to rodents, sealed containers which are neatly stacked in storage places makes it impossible for pests to find easy food. Most pests will also nest where there they will have access to food and water, so it's best that your house doesn't provide them with any chances.

4. Doors

Doors provide an easy entry point for rodents and insects to enter your home. And as they're looking for their winter home, these intruders don't care if you left the door unlocked or not. The best way to keep them out is to install brush strips to the bottom of your doors.

So to keep your home pest-free this winter, add brush strips to your doors, keep your storage areas clean and organised and keep all food in sealed containers. Preparation is the key to a pest-free winter.

6 tips for how to control spiders in Canberra

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:02:14 GMT

Spiders are a much-feared pest around the home. Getting bitten by a poisonous spider results in an adverse reaction which could land you in hospital. In rare cases, a spider bite could even be fatal. So, you have a good reason to want to keep spiders out of your home. Here are a few tips on how to control spiders in Canberra.

1. Control spiders' food source

You can control hunting and jumping spiders around the home by controlling their food sources. Spiders feed on other insects around the house, so by reducing the infestation of insects around your home you will reduce the food sources of spiders, meaning they have nothing to hang around for.

2. Spraying chemicals are not effective

Chemicals such as pesticides are not effective as a control against spiders and will not work as a great defence. Spiders have long legs and walk with their bellies raised from the ground. A sprayed pesticide that is on the ground will not affect them since they do not have a circulatory system which will transmit the poison to the rest of their body. Pesticides must be sprayed onto the spider directly by whatever means possible.

3. Spray on cracks or openings

If you must use a pesticide, spray on the surface of a crack and other openings such as crevices that the spider probably goes into. The insecticide will most likely be useful since the spider's body is likely to come into contact with the chemical.

4. Use glue boards and sticky traps

Fold them into a box shape so that items not intended to get stuck won’t get stuck. Having a bug stuck to the glue is attractive to a spider, and that is why this type of pest control measure works.

5. Use glue traps

Glue traps always point you towards the infestation, making it possible for you to know how spiders are getting into the house. Check for an opening or entry from which spiders may be getting into the house.

6. Whack a spider with a shoe

Spiders are essentially loners. They like to eat alone and not share their food. Thus, it will be as effective to whack a spider with a shoe or newspaper, as to spray it.

If you have a spider infestation problem or any other pest in Canberra, talk to us at A1 Professional Pest Control and let us restore calm to your home.

Rats on wheels: how to stop rodents from moving into your engine bay

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:01:04 GMT

Daylight savings has ended and the cooler months are approaching. This means we’re shaking out electric blankets, rugging up, stocking up on firewood and cleaning the filters on our heaters – preparing everything to make our homes like a comforting warm retreat from the winter chill. The bad news is that rodents share a similar objective.

Everybody is prepared to hear the occasional scratching sound in the roof during the colder parts of the year – but we usually have time to call professional pest control before one or two scuttling noises turn into a constant hive of activity amongst the rafters. What about your car though?

Rodents love warmth and darkness, and unfortunately, your vehicle’s engine bay provides both. You’re especially at risk of attracting rats and mice if you park outside near a food source (such as a compost heap, orchard or bushland). In less than 24 hours, a parked car with a warm engine block can be transformed into a rodent condominium – they’ll move in a pantry, bedding, and they’ll chew through any wiring or piping they fancy. Some new vehicles also have environmentally friendly soy-based wire coatings which make for a tasty, expensive rodent snack.

Some suburbs of the A.C.T have the perfect natural conditions for rats and mice, and should you drive infrequently and park outside you may just tempt them into your engine bay. Once they’re inside, they can cause thousands of dollars of damage in a very short period of time, which means you’ll be calling your insurer – and in turn means a great deal of hassle.

You can try to solve the problem yourself by using baits, traps and sonic devices, but it can often be tricky getting results. Normally, after a short period rodents will return and if you’re not vigilant you might find those unwanted guest scrambling up your vehicle’s wheel arches sooner than you expect.

If you drive your car every day, you’re probably at a lower risk compared to somebody who only drives occasionally. However, if you live in the A.C.T and have noticed rodent activity in or around your garage, carport or parking space, make sure you contact a trusted Canberra pest control company to assess the situation.

A pest control expert can offer a solution to keeping rodents away from your beloved ride.

5 ways rodents impact your home or office

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 06:59:24 GMT

Every person who owns or has rented a property could have a story about a rat and/or mice infestation. Rats and mice are known as rodents and they come in all shapes and sizes. The word rodent is drawn from the Latin word rodere, which means “to gnaw”, and that’s exactly what rats and mice do.

This week we will go through five ways rodents are pests and how they impact your home and office.

1. Diseases

Rodents carry diseases. One of the most famous diseases ever recorded from rats and mice was the black death. The spread of the disease claimed the lives of 25 million people! Now, we aren’t saying this will happen again today, as it was back in the 14th century. However, it is a great example of why you need pest control in your life when you notice any signs of rodents.

2. Food contamination

Rodents love food and they are very adaptable to their environment. Rats and mice are certainly not picky eaters. Having rodents in your home brings with it the chance of food poisoning from their droppings, urine and hair. Rodents can contaminate food, causing salmonella.

3. They smell

Rodent droppings and urine left around the house or office can smell. Having one die in a cupboard or roof can also be offensive to your environment.

4. Fleas and ticks

Rodents are like any other animal, they can collect fleas and ticks which can be transferred to your own family pet or small children. Fleas to humans are more annoying than they are fatal, however, ticks can cause a greater health problem for you and your family.

5. They chew and destroy your home

Wood, insulation, electrical cables and wiring, nothing is stopping the rodents from getting through these fibrous structures. Chewed electrical cables can cause a fire hazard or in less severe cases an electrical short circuit.

Understanding why rodents are pests and how they impact your home or office is as important as getting pest control to rid your environment of rodent infestation. Got a rodent problem, contact A1 Professional Pest Control today!"

Australia’s most common unwanted guest – the cockroach!

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 06:57:53 GMT

We’ve all had them – guests who appear without invitation, bringing their breed with them… eating, creeping, soiling, scurrying about your home and generally not knowing when it is time to leave!

Its true that cockroaches never get the hint. Once in your home, they intend to stay. The American (large and reddish brown), German (small and light brown) and Oriental (large and dark) cockroaches are staples in Australian homes – and, despite many repeated attempts to show them the door, they set up house and multiply.

Here’s why:

1. Their lifecycle is full speed ahead

Hatching from an egg as a nymph, cockroaches become full-blown adults within 103 days. A female adult German cockroach can grow up to 50 eggs at a time, which should give you an idea how devastating an infestation could be if unchecked.

2. They are always looking for a free meal

Being nocturnal, cockroaches hide during the day and come out at night to feed. These six-legged pests will devour anything, including food crumbs, toothpaste, glue, leather, fabric, fingernails, faeces, coffee grounds, soap and paint! This explains why they are so good at surviving: their diet is both unrestricted and insatiable.

3. Moist or dry, there is a cockroach for every environment

While the German Cockroach can often be found in kitchens, the American variety favours moist areas like bathrooms. Meanwhile, their Oriental cousins like damp corners and can often be spotted hiding in basements and under sinks. They are also incredibly flexible, squeezing between cracks, under doors and in cupboards. These insects have no limits, the world – or rather your home or business – is their oyster.

The bottom line is that cockroach infestation and the spread of viruses and disease accompanying it can be both rapid and unstoppable without the right form of protection and control measures. By investing in A1 Professional pest control services on a regular basis, you can ensure that your home or business remains a hygienic environment, for the health and wellbeing of you and your family or staff. Contact us today for an obligation free quote!

From wasps to bees

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 06:56:19 GMT

They’re black and yellow, they buzz and fly and they sting. But are they bees or are they wasps? With thousands of species to identify, it can get confusing. And some of these beautiful and important creatures are endangered. So how can you tell if you have bees or wasps? Both are very necessary to the ecosystem.

Size, appearance and aggressiveness

The main differences between the two include size, appearance and aggressiveness. Wasps are naturally more aggressive whereas a honeybee will only attack if provoked. Leave a honeybee alone and it will leave you alone. Both can provide a nasty sting though, so if you can’t decide whether you are dealing with a bee or a wasp, it is best to leave it be.

When looking at a honeybee, you will notice they are hairy and are either black with yellow stripes, orange stripes or are all black. Wasps on the other hand, are smooth, hairless and are generally black and yellow. Wasps are also generally longer in length than bees.

They are vital for our ecosystems

Wasps and bees are integral to pollinating our plants. Although annoying, we do need them for our ecosystems. If you are interested in helping our bees, try planting lavender or flowering gum trees in your garden (away from your house) to encourage them to your garden. Contact the Bee Keepers Association for more details on how to attract native bees into your garden or check out www.actbeekeepers.asn.au

No matter whether you have found a swarm of honeybees or a nest of wasps, they usually are not a danger to the structural integrity of your home. Their main annoyance is if they sting you, especially if you are allergic or have small children. If you find a swarm of bees in your home, please call the Canberra bee keeping association before contacting a pest controller and have the bees removed by an Apiarist. If you contact us, please note that we will only remove the bee hives if an apiarist cannot remove the bees themselves. We love bees and don’t want to have to destroy their homes unless completely necessary.

Five ways to prevent bees from nesting in your home or backyard

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 06:54:55 GMT

Termites, spiders, cockroaches... we've all had one pest or another taking up residence in our home at some point. But what if your unwanted visitors are bees? Attempting to remove a beehive yourself, without the help of a professional, can result in severe injury or worse, so we've put together a list of top tips which should help to discourage bees from selecting your home as their next hive.

1. Repair any holes

Did you know that bees can enter any structure that contains a hole as small as a quarter of an inch? So it is important to seal any potential entry points with durable materials such as caulk. Blocking any holes is a good way to ensure that a swarm cannot gain entry to your property.

2. Tidy away garden equipment and tools

Leaving loose garden tools lying around could potentially attract a swarm on the lookout for a new hive location. Outdoor clutter, such as furniture, can provide sufficient shelter for a hive to thrive.

3. Remove any traces of honeycomb

If you've had a problem with bees before then be sure to remove any traces of honeycomb from your property as the pheromone scent can attract other bees.

4. Report swarms immediately

If you notice bees swarming then report the activity to professionals before they begin to nest. Swarming occurs when a queen bee leaves an overpopulated nest with a group of worker bees to set up a new colony.

5. Use a deterrent

Using mothballs around an area that could attract bees, such as a garden shed, can help to deter them from settling there. However, be careful not to use too much as it can be fatal and we need bees as they're an essential part of our eco-system.

Hopefully, these tips will help you to avoid the need to call in pest control, but if you do find yourself with a hive of unwanted visitors then always contact an apiarist first. You can get help and advice from the Beekeepers Association of ACT and you can find out more at https://actbeekeepers.asn.au .

Top plants for pest control

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 06:52:53 GMT

Insects are an annoying pest in homes and gardens, and most people don't know that there are certain plants that will help keep them away without chemicals or pesticides. The essential oils in certain plants are a natural repellent and while these plants might not keep all the insects at bay, they will certainly help! Not to mention, they will have your garden looking and smelling great. We have compiled a list of the best herbs and ornamental flowers to plant in your garden or place around your home to assist with controlling pests.

Basil

Basil is extremely useful for repelling house flies and mosquitoes. You can try planting basil in containers and placing it on your window ledges or in your garden.

Lavender

Lavender is great for keeping moths, flies, fleas and mosquitoes at bay. You can plant lavender in your garden beds, or you can tie dried bouquets to your doors and awnings. You can also use lavender oil as a spray on repellent.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass smells amazing and is the main ingredient in the citronella candles that you can buy from the store. For that reason, it is the best plant for keeping mosquitos away. Save yourself some cash and plant some lemongrass instead of having to continually stock up on candles and oils.

Rosemary

Rosemary repels mosquitoes and the pesky insects that feed on your vegetables. Plant rosemary in your vegetable patch to help keep pests off your food plants.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are a wonder pest control plant! They repel roaches, beetles, ants, ticks, lice, silverfish, fleas, spider mites, bedbugs, harlequin bugs and root-knot nematodes. They contain pyrethum which is a common ingredient used in pest control. Place some potted chrysanthemums around your home to help keep pests away.

Pitcher Plants

If you want something a little more exotic, consider adding some pitcher plants to your garden. These carnivorous plants actually catch and consume pests, not to mention, they look great.

While chemical pesticides will certainly get rid of a greater number of pests, plants are a good preventative option to consider alongside professional solutions. Add some natural colour to your home and garden today.

3 tips for controlling ants

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:13:24 GMT

Ants can be found in every state, territory and habitat in Australia, including your home. Ants are active year round, so sometimes it might feel like there is no reprieve from their infestations. No matter what you try, ants seem to find a way in and are soon crawling up your walls, over your bench tops and into your cupboards.

Of the 1,300 species of ant in Australia, the six most common in the Canberra area are the black house ant, the bull ant, the white-footed house ant, the banded sugar ant, the meat ant and the Argentine ant. Because ants are plentiful across the territory, we have compiled our top three tips to help you control ants in your home.

1. Eliminate food sources
Keeping your kitchen clean and tidy will discourage ants. Wipe down your counters, sweep regularly, remove any leftover food, keep a lid on your bin and store all open food in sealed containers. If you have ripe fruit, keep it in the refrigerator. Remove anything that's likely to invite ants into your home.

2. Block access points
Inspect the inside and outside of your home for access points. Plants should be trimmed so they don't come into contact with the exterior, as branches are express highways into your house. Seal cracks with silicone, and ensure seals around your windows and doors are intact.

3. Consider your pets
Cats and dogs are a common method ants use to get into your home. They can either hitch a ride on your furry friends, or they can be attracted by their smells, their food, and their mess. Be sure to clean your pets regularly, especially when they are going from outside to inside. Also keep their food bowls, litter trays and toys clean and free from food, saliva and other nasties that will attract ants.

While all these tips will help to control ant infestations in your home, the most effective form of pest control is professional prevention. If you'd like to discuss your options or set up an initial consultation, contact A1 Professional Pest Control today!

Make honey, not war - Why you need to call an apiarist to remove bees, not an exterminator

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:11:23 GMT

The safety of your family, neighbours and pets is the first thing you have to consider when invasive pests move into your home or backyard. Once they pick a nice spot to colonise (like an old treehouse, garden shed or balcony awning), unwanted guests like wasps, spiders and ants can become an extreme worry. Unfortunately, so can the humble honey bee.

We actually LOVE bees!! And so should you!!

Here's why - without bees, we would almost certainly face starvation, and that's not an exaggeration!

Bees pollinate almost all of our flowering and fruiting crops, and the crops we need to feed livestock. The juicy peach you love eating as a morning snack? Or the sesame snacks in your top drawer for emergency sugar hits? Even the delicious free range 100-day aged rib-eye steak you are dreaming of for dinner - bees played a huge part in you being able to bring them home, not to mention any of your favourite foods containing soy, quinoa, oats, chia or sweet golden honey!

We need bees as much as we need rain and clean air. So what can you do if you discover a hive of wayward honey bees around your home?

Call an apiarist, we recommend Dermot from the ACT Beekeepers Association.

Apiarists (beekeepers) specialise in the management of hives and handling bees, and can remove a rogue hive and safely relocate it, often without losing a single bee. This is a much better solution compared to destroying their colony and will save you a great deal of time trying to find a suitable exterminator. After all, most pest control experts will refuse to eradicate bees unless no other option exists.

If you have a problem with bees around your home, you can contact the Beekeepers Association of ACT for some help. You can find them here - https://actbeekeepers.asn.au. Outside of Canberra, just search locally for an apiarist. Remember never attempt to remove a beehive yourself, even if it's a small hive. You risk severe injury, or even death if you suffer an undiscovered allergy. Instead, do the right thing and contact an apiarist. Its the best thing for you, the bees and the environment.

How to protect your home from termites

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:09:56 GMT

Termites are a single-minded menace and they will cause untold damage to your home and the inside of your walls if you get an infestation. If you find termites in your home there is no choice but to call Canberra pest control, but here we explore some steps you can take to discourage termites from infesting your home.

Clear the soil
Termites are subterranean and live under the soil. When they infest your house they usually live underground and create burrows up into your home where they will eat the wood. To best protect your home it is important to take away anything that may draw the termites to your home in the first place. This includes wood, decaying vegetation and mulch from your garden and around your home. Termites eat these items and will be attracted towards your home if there is a plentiful supply of food for them to enjoy. Any wood, mulch and branches should be kept well away from your foundations and walls and should ideally be removed from your property.

Use treated wood
If you do need to use wood around your home and especially if you need to place wood into the ground then you will need to ensure that you are using treated wood for any structures. Putting wooden fence lines, decking or sheds up that have not been treated will act like catnip to the termites and will draw them to your home with this untapped food source. Treated wood can help to limit ingress of termites and will serve as a deterrent to prevent them from attacking your house.

Deny water sources
Like all other animals termites cannot live without water so you want to keep the area around your home dry and protected from water leaks. By stopping any leaking water you can make it more difficult for colonies of 35,000+ termites to live around your home and this can make the difference in getting them to move on elsewhere. Proper home maintenance will also help to deter termites as blocked gutters and waterlogged drains will serve as a food source too.

Protecting your home against termites requires that you are sensible in your approach to home maintenance, wood storage and water control. If you see a termite or think you have an infestation, however, then you should not hesitate to call A1 Professional Pest Control before they cause lasting damage to your home.

Why you need to deal with pest birds

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:04:42 GMT

We don't usually think of birds as pests, but they can cause real problems to commercial and residential property owners. Nesting, mating and flocking can cause a great deal of damage, make your property unsightly and can put you or others at risk too. Here we explore why you need to call pest control to deal with your pest bird problem.

What birds are pests?

Not all birds are considered as pests, but there are certain breeds that afflict Canberra that are most definitely pests. Commonly, pest control is called to clear magpies, starlings, Indian Mynah birds, pigeons and cockatoos, the nosiest birds of them all. These birds are known for plaguing businesses and disturbing residential areas.

What damage can these birds do?
These birds can cause a wide range of problems at a property including the following:

During mating season birds can nest in your roof causing damage and making them aggressive. Birds may swoop at you or others and can cause serious injury.

Flocks of birds can be very noisy and will disturb meetings and interrupt your rest when you are home.
Bird droppings will be unsightly but more importantly they will damage the paint on your building and remove this protective layer over time. Bird droppings can effectively burn through the waterproofing and let water into your walls.
Bird droppings can spread infection and diseases and will regularly need to be cleaned away.
Birds pecking on your surfaces can cause damage that again allows water to get in. This is a particular problem for woodwork on buildings.

How do you get rid of pest birds?

For Canberra pest control, A1 Professional Pest Control is the best solution for dealing with pest birds at your commercial or residential property. You can get a free quote for pest control and will receive a quick and effective removal of the birds from your property, making it a safer place once again. A1 Professional Pest Control uses humane processes to control birds and keep them away from your property. Find out more and contact us here (http://www.a1professionalpestcontrol.com.au/contact-us/).

Everything you need to know about funnel web spiders

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:00:39 GMT

Here at A1 Professional Pest Control we respect nature, which is why we know there are certain types of pest that require careful handling. In Australia, there are a few different types of spiders which can cause serious harm, or even produce fatal venom. One of these spiders is the species known as the funnel web spider. In this blog post we're going to give you a little more information about this insect, as well as some information on how we deal with these spiders here at A1 Pest Control.

What are funnel web spiders?
Funnel web spiders are generally grey or brown in colour, and are quite small with the largest species measuring in at just 3/4 of an inch. There are a wide variety of places that funnel spiders will choose to create the large, funnel-shaped web that they are known for. This includes in bushes and trees, the corners of buildings, and inside your home.

Not all funnel web spiders are dangerous, but the male Sydney funnel-web spider is responsible for thirteen deaths, and causes medically serious bites every year. Even if the spider is not dangerous, they are very persistent visitors to the home and will continue to create large webs that prove difficult to get rid of.

How to get rid of spiders
At A1 pest control we have tried and tested methods for getting rid of spiders, that we are able to tailor for efficient pest control. These include exclusion (ensuring all holes and possible entrances within your home are covered so spiders cannot enter) and residual aerosol sprays. We've got years of experience in dealing with funnel spider infestations, so you can be sure when you come to us that we'll find a solution which works for you and your home.

If you've got an issue with a funnel web spider in your home, call A1 Professional Pest Control on (02) 6278 5858. We have been operating in Canberra since 2007, providing professional and reliable pest control services for the local community.

3 tips for keeping termites at bay

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:00:38 GMT

Any homeowner will tell you that insects of any kind are a real pain, be it cockroaches, bees, wasps, or ants. However, one of the most annoying and often costly insects is the termite. These little critters feed on the cellulose in wood and paper products and can lead to large amounts of damage in the home if left unchecked. This is why proper Canberra pest control is so essential. We have to be diligent to protect our homes from these voracious little bugs. Still, you cannot expect pest control to magically fix all your termite woes unless you help the process along. Today, we'll look at three tips that will help you do your part to keep the termites away.

1. Cut off the cellulose
As mentioned above, termites feed on cellulose that is found in not only wood but also in plant material and even in paper. The crux of it is when these materials come into contact with dirt or soil, creating a pathway for termites to follow right into your home. You want to keep a few inches of distance between your home siding and the mulch in your landscaping. You also want to keep an eye out for any stumps or roots near the foundation and remove them if possible. Also, if you're a fan of a roaring fire in winter, don't store the firewood close to your home and also keep a cover on it just to be safe.

2. Minimise the moisture
Termites also like things nice and moist, so be sure to keep any crawl spaces on your home dry and ensure they are ventilated well. Do the same for your attic and your basement if you have one. In addition, keep any trees, bushes, or shrubs trimmed back and away from your home's foundation.

3. Wipe out the water

Now, of course you cannot truly wipe out all the water in and around the home, but you need to be aware of your use of it as termites, like us, need water in order to live. Try to avoid having standing water near your home. You might try keeping your rain gutters unclogged so that they can funnel the water safely away from the base of your house. You can also check for any leaks you might have and be careful to position your sprinklers so that they won't get your foundation wet during use.

All of these tips will help your home be more secure against termites and will aid your pest control service in being successful. To learn more or to set up an initial inspection and consultation for your pest control needs, contact A1 Professional Pest Control today!The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Naturally discouraging bees from your home

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:00:37 GMT

We need bees in order to have the foods that we love, but most householders don't want bees circling around their home and stinging their guests. Luckily there are some simple steps that you can take to discourage bees from making a home in your yard, while not exterminating them.

Get rid of the food source
Bees love sweet syrups, such as flower pollen or fruit (especially overripe fruit that drop from trees). If you have an issue with bees, it's a good idea to check over the garden and see if you can swap out any of the plants that are attracting the bees with some less attractive plants, such as succulents. Additionally, bees will come for any artificial sources of sweetness around the home, so make sure people don't leave open cups of soft drink or juice in your yard.

Get rid of potential bee homes
Bees tend to love hollow spaces, such as the inside of dead trees ,bird houses or possum boxes. Where possible, it's a good idea to look around the yard and limit the number of spaces in your yard that would appear attractive to a swarm of bees.

Use smoke to repel bees
If you find that the bees are coming out only when you are outside entertaining, it can be worth lighting a candle or coil to keep the bees at bay. Bees tend to avoid smoke, so this might help keep them away from your food and drink, as well as your guests.

If you find that you have bees in your yard in spite of these measures, call your local bee keeping association who can remove the hive without the need of pest control. That way, you can continue to have a bee free yard and the bees can keep doing their important job pollinating plants and trees.

Dermot from the Beekeepers Association of ACT is who we recommend.

Health hazards posed by cockroaches

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:59:52 GMT

Health hazards posed by cockroaches

We’ve all heard the jokes about cockroaches being the only survivors of a nuclear explosion. They are certainly resilient creatures. They move quickly, they multiply at a rapid rate, and a cockroach infestation is something that should be given serious attention.

As they are drawn to human food, cockroaches are a very real source of food contamination, spreading bacteria and parasites. One of these is Salmonella, which can result in a range of diseases that includes food poisoning and even typhoid in extreme cases. Dysentery, gastroenteritis, and fever are other illnesses caused by these creatures as they crawl unseen over food, utensils, and crockery.

Cockroaches also spread allergens which are another health hazard to humans, resulting in allergy symptoms such as itching, redness and asthma attacks.

How to detect a cockroach infestation.

Watch out for random spots and lines of black dust. These are cockroach droppings and while they vary in length, their width is around 1mm or less.
Cockroaches are most active at the junction between floor and wall, and on horizontal surfaces, so keep an eye out on those areas.
As they mature to adults, cockroaches shed skin so you may come across fragments of skin that alert you to their presence.
Musty odours and damage to food packaging and to books and papers are also tell-tale signs.

How to guard against contamination by cockroaches.

Cockroaches flourish in dark, warm, moist places, particularly those close to food preparation areas. Do not leave food unchecked, and clear away food scraps and spills as soon as possible.
All food should be stored in airtight containers.
Ensure garbage bins have lids that close tight and empty garbage bags regularly, as cockroaches are hyper-sensitive to the odours.
If you have a pet, don’t leave their food and water and plates out after they’ve finished with them.
Seal up any holes, cracks or crevices around the walls and pipes of your home.
Double-check any product bags and boxes for hitchhiking cockroaches before taking them into your home.

If you’re a Canberra resident and you need help in assessing and treating a cockroach problem, you can call on A1 Professional Pest Control’s experience and expertise. Phone us on (02) 6278 5858 for an inspection.

Help preventing spiders in your home

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:57:41 GMT

Help preventing spiders in your home

As summer approaches it’s quickly becoming that time of the year when the heat encourages spiders to thrive. While a common occurrence in Australia, many people still do not know how to deal with or prevent these creepy crawlers from entering their homes. Preventing spiders is important, particularly if you have pets or young kids. After all, some are deadly and can quickly land you in the emergency room if you’re not careful.

At A1 Professional Pest Control, we come across many creative solutions to preventing bug infestations, ranging from the obvious to the silly. In order to make sure you’re prepared and well-educated, today we present you with 3 easy tips for spider prevention.

1. Keep your home tidy

2. Seal your home

3. Call the professionals

If you’re still worried about spiders in your home or if you want a better solution, make sure to call the professionals. DIY and natural market solutions found on Google will not always solve your problems. To get lasting results, you need to call the professionals at A1 Professional Pest Control.

For a trusted Canberra pest control company, get in touch with A1 Professional Pest Control today.

Ant problem: The ways you are attracting ants into your home

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:56:02 GMT

Ant problem: The ways you are attracting ants into your home

Ants are persistent pest problem for a lot of Canberra households, and sometimes it seems no matter what you do to get rid of them, they seem to keep coming back. While professional Canberra pest control can treat outbreaks and infestations, it’s essential to know how you attracted ants in your home in the first place. In this article, we share with you the common ways you draw ants inside, and the simple fixes to avoid large infestations ever being a problem again!

Leaving food out

One of the biggest attractors for ants is food; you may have noticed your ant problem is persistent in your kitchen, around your entertaining outdoor spaces, or spaces near your dining areas. Food left on benches or in sinks create a magnet for these insects. Thankfully the fix is simple; ensure you keep all of your food in sealed containers and cupboards and avoid leaving open food packets or food in cookware for prolonged periods.

Exposed pet food

Following on our discussion of the way ants loving food, there is one not so prominent location in your home that ants flock to, the pet food bowl. As most people set down the bowl and leave it, ants can quickly become attracted to the food and the scraps around it. If this issue concerns you, concentrate your feeding areas to the outdoors, or avoid the set and forget method of feeding by allocating a feeding time window, or by using slow drip feeding toys.

Wet surfaces

Just like any food source, ants need water to survive and will seek water sources at any costs. Most people assume kitchen water sources, just as the sink or around the dishwasher, are the most obvious places; however, ants will often appear in the bathroom or laundry first. These areas are alluring due to pooling water that occurs naturally from bathing or mopping. The solution is to ensure you leave your wet areas as dry as possible, wiping up water spills and by hanging up wet towels away from the flooring.

Unsealed access points

Ants need a way of accessing the home, and the more opportunities you give them to enter the house, the more likely you are to see them. Some access points are easy to spot, such as open doors and windows, and simply closing them will deter them from entering. However, most ant infestations occur from gaps in the wood, seals or flyscreens, resulting in the need for repair of these entry points.

Ants are a common problem for most Canberra homes; if you are need of professional pest control today, contact A1 Professional Pest Control.

Top 4 Benefits of Scheduling a Pest Inspection Before Selling

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:52:46 GMT

Top 4 Benefits of Scheduling a Pest Inspection Before Selling

If you’re planning to sell your home, your to-do list is probably already a mile long. However, there’s one job that’s too important to ignore: having a thorough pest inspection by a Canberra pest control expert. To ensure potential new owners aren’t left with any nasty surprises, here are four key reasons to arrange a pest inspection before selling your home.

#1 Provides peace of mind

Selling your home involves many expenses, from repainting to renovation. However, a pest inspection is the most important expense you will incur. It’s worthwhile because if your inspection comes back clear, you have the assurance of eliminating risk for potential buyers. And, if there is a problem, you will know exactly what needs to be fixed and the time and materials required.

#2 Attracts more potential buyers

Making the buying process as worry-free as possible will encourage more serious buyers. A fantastic way to do this is by producing a report certifying that your home is free of pests. An official report from a qualified pest control expert shows buyers you have nothing to hide, therefore encouraging buyers to place a reasonable offer. A clear pest inspection will save your buyer money and ensure the purchasing process runs smoothly.

#3 Save time and money

Repairing damage caused by pests is an extra expense that home buyers often don’t anticipate. Unfortunately, some buyers will even use the cost of repairs to their advantage when negotiating a price. In other words, buyers may use defects as a reason to get a better deal. However, a thorough pest inspection will identify these flaws in advance. This way, you can have affected areas treated before putting your house up for sale.

#4 Closes the sale faster

Has a potential buyer fallen in love with your property? If so, they’ll likely want to finalise the sale as soon as possible. This is where a detailed pest inspection can help. If they know there are no issues, a buyer will feel confident to place an offer immediately. This will result in a quick, hassle-free sale.

Are you ready to sell your home? Call or email the experts at A1 Professional Pest Control today.

4 Things To Ask Your Pest Control Expert

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:51:10 GMT

4 Things To Ask Your Pest Control Expert

When you receive a visit from your Canberra Pest Control expert, you are in an advantageous position to be educated about everything you need to know about a pest-free home, and the best practices to prevent repeat issues. In this article, we take you through four of the most popular and resourceful questions to ask your pest control expert during your appointment, and things you’ll want to know to prevent all pest outbreaks in the future!

How did this pest infestation happen?

It’s beneficial to understand why your home has become inundated with unwanted pests, insects or rodents. By asking your pest control expert, they will be able to show you first hand the areas of your home where they have infiltrated, or the activities that will have likely brought them into your home. This advice will allow you to understand the issue and make changes to your home or lifestyle choices.

How can I prevent a pest return?

Once you’ve experienced a pest control issue in your home, there’s no doubt you want to avoid a repeated outbreak again. Your pest control expert will be able to explain how to make the most of the pest control treatment, what areas need your immediate attention in the following days after the treatment, and the areas of your home you’re best to avoid, to allow the treatment to work effectively. Other advice worth perusing is the warning signs of pest infestations; your pest controller will be able to demonstrate the early signs most people ignore or aren’t aware are linked to pest issues.

Am I at risk of other pest problems?

With a short yet effective assessment of your home, your pest controller will be able to identify if you’re at immediate risk of any other types of pest issues or infestations you may have missed. While it may not be a problem with your home specifically, there may have been persistent issues in Canberra, and your pest controller will be able to advise you on problems to watch out for common in your area.

Will I need future visits?

It isn’t possible to assess whether your treatment will need repeated attention until the pest tech is in your home and can evaluate the severity of your issue. Therefore, this is the perfect time to ask your pest control expert whether the infestation has been completely dealt with or not. During this time, you’re best to discuss time frames, how to assess your progress, and the best course of action if you experience any concerns.

Every home is likely to have pest control issues at some stage, and at A1 Professional Pest Control, we enjoy transforming your home into a comfortable, pest-free space for your family to enjoy! Contact us today to discuss your pest control needs now!

I have a steel frame home, do I still need termite protection?

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:49:04 GMT

I have a steel frame home, do I still need termite protection?

Termites in Australia are nasty little critters. They are very active in munching through unfortunate and unprotected homes right across the country. And while no area is safe, the tropical regions are particularly at risk.

Understanding the recommended treatments

Many of us are aware that we need to protect our homes in Australia against termites by treating the slabs during the build stage with a termite mesh or similar. We also know that having regular checks and chemical treatments during the life of the property are also essential maintenance activities.

But I have a steel frame house…

Steel frame homes are resistant to termites from a structural/ frame point of view, which is great. So far (and thankfully) termites have not yet evolved to be able to masticate their way through that tough stuff, but have you considered the internal areas of your home? Even with a steel frame, you likely still have wooden floors and doors, as well as window frames, architraves and skirtings, Gyprock (or plasterboard) walls, timber cupboards – the list goes on. These are all vulnerable to termite attacks.

Hang on a minute… you mentioned Gyprock?

Yes, even Gyprock can be susceptible. Although Gypsum comes from rock, Gyprock is usually finished with a thick paper coating. And, you guessed it, termites like to eat the paper coating. Who would blame them? It’s the softest wood ever! This means an all reward, no effort treat for those nasty little creatures.

So the moral of the story?

Even though you have a steel framed house, you still need to protect it against termites. A quality termite treatment provider, such as A1 Professional Pest Control, can help you. Don’t waste your time with a DIY job, they generally don’t work and it’s really not worth it. The team at A1 Professional Pest Control are experts in providing termite treatments for your home, so call us today to book an appointment.

Sources:

– Queensland Building and Construction Commission: http://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/home-maintenance/protecting-against-termites
– Dentec Pest: https://dentecpest.com.au/can-steel-framed-homes-still-get-termites/