Pestuk

International Pest Control – March/April 2026 – Vol 68, Nr.2

2026-03-31T12:13:41-00:00

Cover image: Medieval native red squirrels might have been responsible for spreading leprosy.
Picture by wirestock, Freepik

In this issue – largely put together by our new Deputy Editor – we report on a significant new UK grant for precision breeding to develop more sustainable crops, and funding to better understand disease in rice and to look at novel RNAi fungicides. Conventional pesticides are yet again in the spotlight, this time for affecting soil life and diversity while in the USA Dicamba has been approved for over-the-top application to control super-weeds in cotton and soybean.

Pest of the issue is the carpet beetle, the scourge of anyone whose home is full of natural fibres. Our resident expert Alex Wade explains their lifecycle and how best to control them.

The second part of our coverage of November 2025’s BCPC meeting on the “Shape of Future Crop Production” is to be found in this issue with the morning’s topics covering “Current & Future Strategies”, policy as a driver of Plant Breeding Innovation, Next Generation products: RNAi, secondary metabolites, proteins and peptides. In the afternoon the focus was on PPPs and their usage, and updates on both UK Pesticides Policy and regulation changes in the UK.

Internationally we have the Global Public Health Summit in Hong Kong to look forward to in June and Pestworld 2026 in Texas. More locally the NPTA has joined the UK government Trustmark scheme aimed at giving householders confidence in trades, and BPCA have launched a new careers hub for pest controllers.

Company news is the usual mix of innovation, partnership, acquisition and appointments with Koppert, BASF, Certis Belchim, Bayer, 1env Solutions, Syngentia, Andermatt, and Nichino all making contributions.

Our Special Feature this issue is Control of Vertebrate Pests. If past performance had been anything to go by it would have been all about rodents: instead we have deer pest problems, red squirrels as a vector of disease, bats infecting pigs with a diarrhoea causing bacteria, and remote sensing the population of fossorial water vole – a major pest of pastures and crops. And then we have the use of lynx scent to change deer behaviour in the forests of eastern Germany.

Water is kryptonite, but only if you are a bed bug, as while bugs avoid moisture – even blood – Brazilian mosquitoes can’t get enough of human blood and with their normal habitat, the Atlantic forest, dwindling, we’re in the firing line: not good for yellow fever, dengue, Zika, Mayaro, Sabiá, and chikungunya. Meanwhile in the search for means to control dengue “silent infections” may hold a clue.

Field-evolved resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, is undermining the effectiveness of corn that targets root worms with the combination of Bt and RNA interference. Other topics under Agriculture include a gene that could triple wheat production, genes that control wheat height and grain size, and bats that eat agricultural pests (when they are not spreading porcine diarrhoea!).

In Horticulture we look at the control of the fungal foes of perfect turf grass, the lifecycle of thrips and biostimulant trials in greenhouses. Banana wilt makes another appearance in Forestry and Plantation where we also look at the impact of wildfires on forest soils, the way a fungus can turn the tables on bark beetles, how nitrogen is key to forest regrowth and how almond anthracnose may be suppressed by fungi within the almond trees’ own biome.

The giant Asian mantis is making its way into Europe as the climate becomes more favourable to its lifecycle and the way to cutting European agriculture’s climate emissions by 40% is described by a Norwegian University. Meanwhile, we can look forward to worse droughts even as rainfall increases.

In the next issue, Invasive Pests & Vectors of Disease is the topic for our special feature – all contributions welcome!

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control March/April 2026
Volume 68, Number 2.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

JIC secures £21.5m for precision breeding research
€1.25m for research into infection mechanisms in rice
Pesticides significantly affect soil life and biodiversity
USDA-funded study tracks RNAi biofungicide impacts
EPA update on over-the-top dicamba application

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Carpet beetle

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

BCPC 2025 Congress Report (Day Two)
Global Public Health & Food Safety Summit, June 4-5
PestWorld 2026, Grapevine, Texas
NPTA joins TrustMark as approved Scheme Provider
BPCA launches new pest careers hub

COMPANY NEWS

Limonica Ulti-Mite: new thrips and whitefly control
BASF | Nunhems to acquire Noble Seeds Pvt Ltd
Moa Technology and Certis Belchim partnership
Bayer to launch innovative strawberry variety
BASF to acquire biological control group AgBiTech
Koppert and Certhon high-tech moth breeding facility
New managing director at 1env Solutions Ltd
SAP and Syngenta Partner for AI in AgriculturAndermatt awarded grant to fight fall armyworm in Kenya
Nichino Europe secures exclusive rights for Vitro
Syngenta to launch X-Terra® hybrid wheat

SPECIAL FEATURE: Control of Vertebrate Pests

Lower deer densities helps restore Highland woodlands
Feeling sorry for red squirrels? This may change your mind!
Bat virome study reveals origins of porcine diarrhoea
Remote sensing model targets water voles in Spain
Lynx scent reduces deer damage in recovering forests

PUBLIC HEALTH

Water is bed bugs’ kryptonite
Mosquitoes’ thirst for human blood
High levels of Chagas disease parasite near US-Mexico border
Silent dengue infections hold clues for vaccine design?

AGRICULTURE

Pest resistance threatens corn industry’s newest biotech
Turning pesticide residues into plant nutrients
Gene discovered that could triple wheat production
Pathogen disables plants’ early warning system
Wheat genes for plant height and grain size identified
A sticky solution for enhanced pesticide deposition
Bats eat agricultural pests near natural habitats

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Protecting turfgrass from fungal foes
Lifecycle of the short-spined thrips
Grower-led biostimulant trials across UK glasshouses
Thrips parvispinus: biology, risks and management

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Ecuador fights bananas fungus with biotechnology
Wildfires reshape forest soils for decades
Fungus turns bark beetles’ defences against them
Nitrogen is key to faster regrowth in deforested areas
Almond trees may hold the cure for anthracnose

CLIMATE CHANGE

Call me invasive: the giant Asian mantis in Europe
How Europe can cut agriculture CO2 emissions by 40%
Crop droughts to get worse even as rain increases

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – March/April 2026 issue.

The post International Pest Control – March/April 2026 – Vol 68, Nr.2 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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Company Profile…Insect Science®: Semiochemical strategies for pest control

2026-02-18T23:05:16-00:00

For 25 years, Insect Science® has been at the forefront of South Africa’s semiochemical industry, delivering science-driven, Responsible Pest Management® solutions for commercial agriculture. Headquartered in Tzaneen and supported by a satellite office in Paarl, Insect Science specialises in helping farmers manage pests using nature’s own communication signals. This reduces growers’ reliance on conventional crop sprays and strengthens integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

Insect Science was built around a simple but ambitious idea: use insect behaviour to protect crops more intelligently. Today, that idea has grown into a full in-house ecosystem of research, product development, manufacturing, and farmer training that supplies growers across South Africa and beyond.

Borromean Rings illustrating how Research & Development, Manufacturing, and Technical Support work together to drive innovation at Insect Science. Image: Insect Science®

From field to finished product

Analytical chemistry in action: GC-EAD preparation using an insect antenna. Photo: Derius Erasmus

Insect Science’s strength lies not in a single breakthrough, but in the full scientific chain that lies behind every product. The process begins in the field, where the technical team works closely with farmers to identify economically important pests and understand the pressures growers face in real orchards and fields.

Back at headquarters, the research journey moves into advanced analytical chemistry. Using a GC-EAD instrument (where an insect antenna is connected to an electro-antennogram detector) Insect Science’s analytical chemist identifies the semiochemical compounds that insects naturally respond to. These chemical cues form the blueprint for new pheromones and attractants.

Insect Science’s synthesis laboratory.
Photos: Derius Erasmus

Once identified, our synthetic chemist reproduces these compounds for consistent use in lures, traps, and control technologies. Every new formulation undergoes multiple field trials across different regions, generating robust, real-world data before any product is submitted for regulatory approval. Only after registration does manufacturing move into full-scale production. This is all done in-house to ensure quality, traceability, and reliability.

This end-to-end capability is rare in the global semiochemical sector, and it ensures that farmers receive tools that are not only scientifically validated but also practical and effective under local conditions.

A leading range of monitoring and control solutions

Insect Science® is well known for its extensive range of lures – the backbone of its monitoring technologies – but its innovation extends beyond monitoring tools to include effective pest management solutions based on disruption or attraction methods.

X-Mate® Mating disruption

X-Mate® C.G.O. for citrus flower moth management applied in a lemon orchard. Photo: Insect Science®

A species-specific control method that disperses a high concentration of synthetic pheromone into the orchard, causing non-competitive mating disruption leading to disorientated male moths so they cannot locate females.

Last Call Attract-and-kill

This precision method uses a species-specific semiochemical attractant combined with a small amount of contact insecticide to lure the target insect and eliminate it upon contact.

These products are not applied directly to the edible crop, nor is it systemic in nature, leaving no residue on harvested fruit. They are rain-fast and, being species-specific, do not harm beneficial insects. This makes them easy to integrate into IPM programmes for sustainable pest control.

These technologies form a crucial part of Responsible Pest Management®, allowing farmers to reduce chemical use without compromising crop protection.

Serving diverse high-value crop sectors

Across citrus, avocado, table grapes, berries, macadamia nuts, stone fruit, tomatoes, roses, grains and more, Insect Science provides tailored semiochemical tools backed by technical guidance and field support.

Monitoring traps are optimised for specific pests, crops, and environments, including the McPhail Trap for fruit flies. Photo: Insect Science®

The Delta Trap® for Lepidoptera. Photo: Insect Science®

Originally known for its specialisation in moth pheromones, Insect Science has broadened its research horizon. Its recent identification of the attractant for the macadamia felted coccid (Eriococcus ironsidei) marks a significant step into the complex world of sucking insects – a direction that will shape many of its future innovations.

Quality, responsibility, and industry leadership

Insect Science follows rigorous quality standards and holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, ensuring consistency across research, production, and product support. The company is committed to continuous improvement, constantly refining its processes to enhance reliability, efficiency, and customer value. Insect Science is also an active member of the South African Bioproduct Organisation (SABO) and CropLife South Africa, contributing to national industry standards and promoting responsible use of biological and semiochemical products.

In 2025, Insect Science was named Koppert’s preferred semiochemical supplier globally, strengthening international collaboration and reinforcing its reputation as a trusted industry leader.

Collaboration as a catalyst for innovation

Insect Science’s strength lies in its collective expertise. Scientists, applied entomologists, chemists, product developers, and manufacturing teams work side-by-side – an integrated structure that speeds up innovation and ensures that technologies are grounded in both scientific accuracy and agricultural practicality.

This collaborative model extends beyond Insect Science itself. Insect Science actively seeks partnerships with organisations, distributors, and research groups that share its commitment to responsible agriculture.

As demand grows for residue-free, sustainable pest management solutions, Insect Science is expanding its reach. Insect Science already serves multiple African countries and is advancing registration and partnership projects in Brazil, Türkiye, Egypt, Spain, and Morocco.

With Responsible Pest Management® as its guiding vision, Insect Science aims to shape a future where growers can protect crops more effectively while preserving the ecological balance that agriculture depends on.

From foundational research to final application, Insect Science continues to prove that the smallest chemical signals can lead to some of the biggest advances in sustainable farming.

For more information: info@insectscience.co.za / www.insectscience.co.za

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2026 issue

The post Company Profile…Insect Science®: Semiochemical strategies for pest control first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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International Pest Control – January/February 2026 – Vol 68, Nr.1

2026-02-16T20:43:20-00:00

Cover image: Insect Science®’s analytical chemist Dr Bouwer working on the GC-EAD instrument – where an insect antenna is connected to an electroantennogram detector.
Picture by Derius Erasmus

As if chemical pesticides are not under enough pressure, a team led by the University of Cambridge tested the effect of 1,076 chemical food contaminants including herbicides and insecticides on 22 species of gut bacteria. 168 were found to be toxic and the data is now being used to predict if industrial chemicals will be harmful to human gut bacteria.

On the plus side, Sustainable Crop Management (SPM) would have positive effects across the globe and, according to Production Economics Group at the University of Bonn, the key will be supporting farmers during this transformation by offering them effective alternatives for crop protection.

Monsanto is a step closer to the US Supreme Court establishing if companies, having complied with federal warning label requirements, should be punished under state laws. This is a general principle that will apply to a wide range of products, not solely glyphosate.

The Special Feature this issue is about the impact of climate change on our industry and an early entry on the topic is the news that IFAD and GEF have announced climate resilience investments. Our Pest of the Issue is the Cluster Fly – more of a nuisance than harmful pest – but still one that must be controlled.

The BCPC Congress is a regular winter feature: we cover the first day in this issue with day 2 appearing in the next issue. So many topics: hopefully some are of interest! Lots of conferences are coming up in 2026 covering topics as wide as Photosynthesis and Bystander Exposure.

We have plentiful news from the industry, many are regulars in this section: Koppert, Bayer, BASF, ADAMA, Syngenta, Tyro Group, WUR, Amoéba, M2i, Noble Seeds and as usual it is all about new products, partnerships and acquisitions.

The subject of our company profile is South African company Insect Science®. Deeply involved in the semiochemical market, from foundational research to final application, Insect Science aims to prove that the smallest chemical signals can lead to big advances in sustainable farming.

So to the climate change special feature: we have ten articles for you with topics ranging from the enhanced spread of vectors of disease to the adaptation of crops and trees. We’re also seeing the negative impacts of climate change with failed or poor harvests which may mean more expensive food for you and me but poverty for some farmers. Even the nutritional value of crops can be changed – inevitably for the worse. All ten articles are supported by peer reviewed papers and there were many more contending for space.

We have a fascinating introduction to the complexities of EFSA’s revised birds and mammals guidance provided by Jennifer Duncan of Sagentia Regulatory. We look at virus interactions, a metabolic model for potatoes that could lead to increased yield and less pesticide use, a wheat crop that can make its own fertiliser and more nutritious rice made with less fertiliser.

Our own Terry Mabbet finalises his four-part look at OPM in the UK and the impact on insects and birds. Then we move from oaks to cacao, on to citrus, back to chocolate – and this time coffee too. We finish with a piece on how conifers fight their enemies. We end with our 2025 index.

We have a new selection of Special Features for 2026 – if you or your organisation want to write an article for any of them just let me know. Finally, you might notice we have a new team member, Deputy Editor Maria Elisa Leandro. She will hopefully be taking over some of the work from me for future issues and we will have a full introduction in the next issue. New to our Technical Consultant team is Raja Mahandran and we look forward to his contributions.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control January/February 2026
Volume 68, Number 1.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Pesticide pollutants are toxic to our ‘good’ gut bacteria
SPM would have positive effects across the globe
US Supreme Court decision to review the Durnell case
IFAD and the GEF announce three climate resilience investments

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Cluster fly

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

BCPC 2025 Congress Report (Day One)
BIOKET 2026
Photosynthesis 2026
Spore to Store – Urban Mushroom Symposium
Plant BioProTech 2026
PestEx 2026: The UK’s biggest pest control industry event
Worker, Operator, Bystander and Resident Exposure and Risk Assessment

COMPANY NEWS

Gold Award for the sustainable hive
New European forestry business support manager
BASF celebrates five years of Selontra® rodent control
Tyro Group expands in USA with acquisition of EnviroSMART
Partnership to co-develop Gilboa® fungicide
WUR biological pest control professorship extended
CRD lifts restriction for Bayer’s Iblon® fungicide
Natural breakthrough in protecting cereals
Long-term partnership for M2i Group & Pherobio
India: BASF Nunhems to acquire Noble Seeds

COMPANY PROFILE

Insect Science®: Semiochemical strategies for pest control

SPECIAL FEATURE: Impact of Climate Change on Pests and Diseases

Climate is changing fast – and forests are 200 years behind
Forest trees hunt for a ‘balanced diet’ under elevated CO2
Rollercoaster harvests are the new normal
Bark beetles reshape forest microclimate
Shade trees can cut chocolate’s environmental impact
Increased CO2 makes food more calorific & less nutritious
Invasive plants are rapidly changing the tropics
Cutting CO2 e emissions by 30% without affecting yield
Climate change could expand habitats for mosquitoes
Can cocoa farmers adapt to climate change?

AGRICULTURE

Navigating EFSA’s revised birds and mammals guidance
New insight into mixed virus interactions in plants
Growth or defence: how to increase potato yield
Wheat that makes its own fertilise
How to grow more nutritious rice that uses less fertiliser

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

OPM insecticide spray fallout on insects and birds
Crossbreeding produces disease-resistant cacao plants
Mysterious tubular structure in citrus pest symbionts
Coffee and chocolate are under threat
How conifers ward off their enemies.

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

INDEX

International Pest Control Index Volume 67 – 2025

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2026 issue.

The post International Pest Control – January/February 2026 – Vol 68, Nr.1 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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International Pest Control – November/December 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.6

2025-12-10T13:54:45-00:00

The vectors of multiple diseases including dengue, chikungunya and Zika, posing a public health risk to populations, have now been detected in Southern England, another benefit of global warming: “Send not to know for whom the bell tolls…” And global food
systems will need a major overhaul if we are to mitigate climate change, stop biodiversity loss and avert a crisis, according to a paper recently published in Nature. Hopefully AI, biotech and the kind of investment the James Hutton Institute has received can help. And if you have any stinky socks, consider their research potential before putting them in the wash – according to Sightsavers they have their uses.

Our pest of the issue is the booklouse, the bane of historic libraries but best controlled using environmental factors – especially humidity. We report on an upcoming conference on Fungicides, the 2025 Global Pest Management Conference in Lagos and Pestworld 2025.

In company news its once again the merry-go-round of mergers, acquisitions, upgrades and new products. Insect Science has made it to Koppert’s preferred supplier, Biobest has upgraded its Side Effects app to display the impact of a product on beneficials, camera technology has been integrated at Microshare and Tactacam, and Rentokil has won Innovation of the Year with its AI powered pest monitoring and identification tool. Biofirst Group has launched Bioworks in Europe, Syngenta is using AI to identify the best vegetable varieties for a grower’s situation, Babolna Bio is celebrating 60 years, Groupe Berkem has launched its first biosolution for the agricultural sector and BASF has expanded access to its field management tool.

In our special feature section on Biocontrol and IPM we report on the “New IPM 2025” conference in Swansea, UK. We look at the integration of sticky traps into IPM, how a parasitoid could save the box, how in Vietnam IPHM (integrated plant health management) has boosted yields by 10% while cutting pesticide use by 40%, the possible role of the Manchurian walnut tree in pest control and, last but not least, how CO2 and nitrogen management can control IPM costs.

In public health we look at the evolution of malaria vectors in response to control efforts, how a drug can kill mosquitoes, mosquito hot spots in Brazil, neglected tropical diseases and how worker’s gut bacteria are impacted by pesticide application.

In Agriculture cassava witches’ broom is a problem to be tackled, dicamba damage in soya can now be assessed by satellite, a genetic discovery could lead to peanut varieties better suited to a warmer planet, and regen agriculture gets the thumbs up from CABI. A new variety of tomato rootstock resistant to root-knot nematodes is impressing farmers and giving them the confidence to bring back organic tomatoes.

In Forestry we have part 3 of Dr Terry Mabbett’s series on OPM, we look at how Norway spruce needs protection from insects and fungi, the resurgence of the Yellowstone aspen, British ash woodland fighting back against ash dieback, and how tree mixes can enhance forestry growth.

Also in this issue is our plan of Special Features for 2026 so if you have an interest in contributing to any of the topics do contact me – we like articles to be a multiple of 600 words (one page) up to a maximum of 2,400 words. No advertorial, just good science about your products or about a paper you have recently published that has practical implications for pest control in its widest sense.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control November/December 2025
Volume 67, Number 6.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Invasive mosquito vector species detected in United Kingdom
AI and biotech driving the next revolution
Overhaul global food systems to avert crisis
James Hutton Institute receives a £3 million investment
And finally… Stinky socks help replace human bait

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Booklouse

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

21st International Reinhardsbrunn Symposium on Modern Fungicides & Antifungal Compounds
Global Pest Management Conference (GPMC) 2025, Lagos
PestWorld 2025 breaks all records

COMPANY NEWS

Insect Science now Koppert’s preferred semiochemicals supplier
Biobest’s upgraded Side Effects app safeguards beneficials
Microshare and Tactacam integrate cellular camera technology
Rentokil Pest Control wins the Innovation of the Year Award
BioWorks enters European market
AI to identify the best vegetable varieties for growers
Babolna Bio celebrates its 60th anniversary
Groupe Berkem launches OPSeed75
NOVATERM® helps PMPs detect termite activity
BASF expands global availability of xarvio® FIELD MANAGER

SPECIAL FEATURE: Biocontrol and IPM

IPM 2025 – Global collaboration, Welsh innovation
Integrating sticky traps into modern crop protection
Parasitoid could save box trees
Vietnam: helping farmers learn to ‘listen to plants’
Manchurian walnut tree key to eco-friendly weed control
Good CO₂ & nitrogen management can control IPM costs

PUBLIC HEALTH

Genomic evolution of malaria transmitting mosquito
Drug kills mosquitoes through ingestion and surface contact
How gut bacteria change after exposure to pesticides
Tackling neglected tropical diseases among migrant populations
Mosquito-borne disease hotspots predicted in Brazil

AGRICULTURE

Cassava witches’ broom disease takes off in South America
Detecting soybean dicamba damage from the sky
Genetic discovery could help peanuts beat global warming
Molecular defence against potato pathogen
Regenerative agriculture highlighted as a transformative approach

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Regaining confidence to continue growing organic tomatoes
East-West divide in lettuce pest threatens UK crop yields

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Oak processionary moth, a lesson in control failure. Part 3: The current state of play
Could new technology save coffee?
Norway spruce protection against insects & fungal infestation
Yellowstone aspen showing signs of recovery
British ash woodland is evolving resistance to ash dieback
The right tree mix enhances forest productivity & services

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – November/December 2025 issue.

The post International Pest Control – November/December 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.6 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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Company Profile…ENDURA S.p.A: 45 years of innovation, growth, and a vision for the future

2025-10-13T14:24:47-00:00

Endura Plant, The Chemical Hub, Ravenna (Italy).

Endura has marked a pivotal moment in its history with four major milestones: the inauguration of its state-of-the-art headquarters, the celebration of its 45th anniversary, the launch of its new PBO Prime product and the unveiling of a new website. These achievements signify Endura’s continued evolution, redefining industry standards through quality, responsibility, and innovation.

Innovation and growth

Endura’s new headquarters is not just a larger, more modern facility, it has been intentionally designed to enhance team synergy, drive innovation, and optimise processes.

“Our new headquarters is a strategic foundation that will allow us to better serve our clients and partners while strengthening our leadership position in the industry,” says Marianna Vollaro, CEO of Endura S.p.A. “We have created a dynamic environment where collaboration, research, and sustainability shape every decision.”

Located in Bologna (Italy), this advanced facility reflects Endura’s core values: operational efficiency, technological innovation, and environmental responsibility. Through targeted investments, Endura continues to expand its production capacity, ensuring high-quality solutions for clients worldwide.

45 years of leadership

In 2025, Endura proudly celebrates 45 years of excellence in pest control.

Marianna Vollaro, CEO of Endura

“Marking 45 years is a tribute to our journey of growth, dedication, and commitment to serving our clients and employees. We embody the ‘Made in Italy’ tradition, combining craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to deliver outstanding solutions,,” says Vollaro.

Since its inception, Endura has excelled in regulatory compliance, technical advancements, logistics, and customer service. Its highly skilled team remains the backbone of the company, ensuring that every product upholds the highest standards of quality and ethics.

Looking ahead, Endura remains committed to driving innovation, with a focus on developing sustainable solutions for a safer, healthier environment. This anniversary is not just a reflection of past achievements but a promise for the next 45 years of excellence and industry leadership.

Fine chemicals with sustainability in mind

Endura is pleased to announce the launch of Piperonyl butoxide (PBO) Prime, a milestone innovation introduced in celebration of the company’s 45th anniversary. PBO PRIME is a premium, high-grade synergist, it has the world’s lowest levels of the impurities dipiperonyl ether (DPE) and dipiperonyl methane (DPM), well below the threshold for potential classification as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) and/or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB).

PBT and vPvB classifications are based on the properties of the active substance and on the presence, over certain thresholds, of impurities classified as PBT and vPvB. While PBO itself is not a PBT nor a vPvB substance, the two potential impurities in PBO, DPM and DPE, could fulfill PBT and vPvB criteria. If confirmed to be PBT and vPvB, these two impurities when present in PBO at levels above the CLP threshold could result in the classification of the PBO and/or any biocidal products containing the PBO, as PBT or vPvB. PBO Prime is also fully compliant with the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) approval of PBO.

In 1999, Endura launched the world’s first synthetic production of PBO through an environmentally friendly and sustainable process developed to avoid Sassafras tree deforestation. PBO had been historically produced from safrole, a component of sassafras oil obtained from the tree by a destructive process that is reported as requiring about 70 kg of sassafras wood to make only 1 kg of PBO.

Now thanks to its new distillation process (patent pending), Endura has taken another step towards a more sustainable future by reducing the environmental impact of PBO thanks to achieving the minimum amounts of DPE and DPM, both of which could be classified as PBT or vPvB impurities.

“We push the boundaries of knowledge and smart solutions through continuous improvement of PBO. Committed to responsible care and
sustainability, we shape a future where innovation empowers and simplifies lives – always with a strong customer focus,” explained Vollaro.

A trusted partner in pest control chemistry

In 2025, Endura also unveiled a completely redesigned website (www.endura.it) a milestone that reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and customer engagement. Designed for clarity, usability, and accessibility, the new platform enables more intuitive navigation and deeper insight into the breadth of Endura’s capabilities.

“Digitalisation is a key component of our growth strategy. Our new website enhances communication, making it clearer and more accessible, ensuring our customers have an experience that reflects our high standards,” says Vollaro.

A standout feature of the new platform is the Academy – a dedicated blog where Endura shares expert articles and regulatory insights. Curated by its team of specialists, the section empowers clients with practical knowledge to support smarter, more informed business decisions. The refreshed site serves as more than a digital storefront: it is a strategic tool that supports transparency, technical education, and collaboration across the pest control and biocidal product value chains.

The updated platform strengthens Endura’s commitment to transparency and knowledge sharing, further cementing its position as an industry leader. This digital transformation aligns with Endura’s broader mission: to deliver not just fine chemicals, but complete, science-backed solutions tailored to the unique regulatory and operational needs of clients worldwide.

Endura laboratory.

Endura’s commitment beyond chemistry

Endura is recognised not only for delivering high-quality fine chemicals, but also for offering an integrated suite of services that support clients from product concept to commercialisation.

Scientific expertise and technical support

Endura’s dedicated R&D and Technical Support teams assist clients across the entire product lifecycle – from new product development to formulation optimisation and efficacy improvement. They offer robust analytical, physicochemical, stability, and efficacy support. Endura boasts:

Over 7,000 tests conducted annually
150 analytical QC methods
A portfolio of 340 validated methods

The company offers ongoing regulatory support to its clients that spans multiple frameworks, including:

Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) submissions at both EU and local levels
CLP, GHS, and dangerous goods labelling and classification
REACH compliance as per Regulation (CE) No. 1907/2006

With over 300 active substance registrations worldwide, Endura demonstrates deep regulatory competence and global reach.
Integrated logistics and customer care

Endura ensures that its logistics and customer support systems are as reliable as its technical services. Tailored supply chain strategies facilitate efficient, timely, and cost-effective product delivery across international markets. Each client benefits from personalised assistance and prompt service, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.

Antonio Tozzi,1966.

A legacy of excellence: the history of Endura S.p.A.

The history of Endura is relatively recent, having been established in 1980, but its origins date back to the 1950s when Antonio Tozzi first cofounded Sariaf, an agro-chemical business in Faenza, Italy, then in 1958 Industria Chimica Tozzi in Idice (BO), Italy, where the first Piperonyl butoxide (PBO) was produced, and finally in 1966 Chimosa in Pontecchio Marconi (BO), Italy. From Chimosa – which was acquired by Ciba-Geigy in 1979 – Endura was born, operating in the sector of active and synergistic ingredients for insecticides.

Chimosa, in addition to antioxidants and UV stabilisers for plastics, produced Piperonyl butoxide (PBO), which is the main synergistic compound for insecticides. Subsequently, in 1979, the production of Tetramethrin (TTM), a synthetic pyrethroid, was added. Both products, PBO and TTM, are significant in the insecticide industry for pest control in household, professional and agricultural environments.

Endura celebrates 45 years.

In 1999, the Endura plant at the Chemical Hub of Ravenna, Italy was set up on a greenfield site, to produce Piperonyl butoxide (PBO), shifting from natural to synthetic production, reducing deforestation and improving capacity.

Today, Endura continues to shape the future of the pest control industry by delivering integrated, science-backed solutions that combine regulatory expertise, technical innovation, and customer-centric service on a global scale.

All images by Endura S.p.A
For more information: info@endura.it / www.endura.it/

Published in International Pest Control – September/October 2025 issue

The post Company Profile…ENDURA S.p.A: 45 years of innovation, growth, and a vision for the future first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-10-12

2025-10-12T04:00:01-00:00

International Pest Control – September/October 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.5

2025-10-07T21:31:00-00:00

Cover image: Endura – 45 years of chemistry and innovation.
Picture by Endura S.p.A

The Human Genome Project took 13 years from launch to completion and cost an estimated $2.7 billion. Now, using massively parallel sequencing, the task can be completed in just hours: my friendly AI says the record is 7.5 hours although more normally it takes weeks. Now gene sequencing is used in all parts of our industry from plants to pests. Temperature-sensitive lethality (tsl) mutation has been used since the 1980s to kill female fruit flies at the embryonic stage and produce sterile males at an industrial scale. But only now has the single point mutation responsible for tsl been identified. It occurs in a gene found in many other insect species which opens the door to its use in highly specific control strategies for other pest species.

Technology use in pest control is also a growing sector. CABI’s BioProtection Portal, the development of which we have reported on several times over the past few years, has won them a Gold Stevie Award. In the US, wheat disease has been shown to be responsible for the loss of 560 million bushels of wheat (about 15.24 million tonnes) costing $2.9 billion. Fusarium head blight, stripe rust, and leaf rust emerged as the top three yield-reducing pathogens.

In Europe new records are being set, but not good ones, with longer, more intense transmission seasons for mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus infection and chikungunya virus disease. Longer summers, milder winters and changes in rainfall are all contributing to mosquitoes extending their range and increasing disease pressure on Europeans.

The news section concludes with the discovery that potatoes are just tomatoes with big roots. The potato is apparently a hybrid between the tomato and Etuberosum which shared a common ancestor with the tomato 14 million years ago and was able to interbreed nine million years ago.

Pest of the Issue is the common house mosquito Culex pipiens, a carrier of West Nile virus amongst other diseases.

In Association & Society News we report on the launch of the Pest Management Industry Sustainability Guidelines and the programme for the AAB’s International Advances in Pesticide Application (IAPA) 2026.

Company News follows its well-established pattern of new product launches, including new tomato varieties from Bayer and on-farm forage analysis, acquisitions (Biobest), investments (Koppert), developments in AI, expanding partnerships and the adoption of “sustainable” wood treatments. We also have two companies publishing their Sustainability Reports.

This issue carries a company profile: Endura, a manufacture of Piperonyl butoxide, with origins dating back to the 1950s, is celebrating 45 years in the business of manufacturing fine chemicals for the pest control industry.

Our Special Feature on Advances in Application Technology, has contributions from Dr Partho Dhang (one of our Technical Consultants) and John Clayton of Micron Sprayers plus articles about precision dispensing of biocontrol agents, electric weed control and drones.

Public Health features mossies (they have very variable feeding preferences) and viruses (a vaccine for Nipah virus, which affects both pigs and humans). We also have an in-depth article on Wolbachia-based dengue control.

Unravelling the mechanism by which the large and economically important group of core eudicots produces indole could lead to targeted breeding of plants more attractive to pollinators and less susceptible to pathogens and pests according to researchers at the Max Planck Institute. Regenerative agriculture – something we haven’t paid much attention to previously – is the subject of an article looking at the use of biostimulants from Pedro Cabanita of Certis Belchim.

The timber industry is struggling to find a safe fumigant that isn’t a potent greenhouse gas, but which can be used to control the spread of invasive pests which have led to tree mortality worldwide costing an estimated $669 billion in losses. Dr Matt Hall considers the options. Our own Dr Terry Mabbett continues his three-part series on Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) with a look at pesticide spraying and the failure to control the spread of the pest in the UK.

Finally, we look at the impact of climate change on arsenic levels in rice and global crop yields – neither are positive for farmers and consumers. So that’s cheered everyone up!

Our next special feature is on Biocontrol and IPM so if you can contribute let us know! Articles come in multiples of about 600 words up to a maximum of 2,400, supported by high quality images (needed for print) and/or tables and charts.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control September/October 2025
Volume 67, Number 5.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Genetic discovery advances insect pest control
CABI BioProtection Portal wins Gold Stevie Award
Wheat disease losses total $2.9 billion
Europe sets new records for mosquito-borne diseases
And finally… Potato evolved from tomato 9 million years ago

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Common house mosquito

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

Launch of the Pest Management Industry Sustainability Guidelines
International Advances in Pesticide Application – IAPA26

COMPANY NEWS

Recharge achieves EU fertilising product certification
Protection against resistance-breaking tomato brown rugose fruit virus
Biobest acquires Ecoation technology
On-farm nutritional analysis with handheld spectrometer
Amoéba investments strengthens strategic collaboration
AI that tells growers when pests will strike
Malaysia adopts environmentally sustainable treatment for wood
Bayer expands partnership with M2i Group
Biobest & Bogaerts improve Entomatic compatibility
BioFirst Group publish 2024 Sustainability Report
Koppert publishes 2024 Sustainability Report

COMPANY PROFILE

Endura: 45 years of innovation, growth, and a vision for the future

SPECIAL FEATURE: Advances in Application Technology

Advances in pest control application technology
Application technology and survey tools for locust control
Entomatic Handheld – easy precision dispensing
Electric weed control: comparison to conventional weed control
Drone applications effective for common reed control

PUBLIC HEALTH

Surprising flexibility in mosquito feeding
Vaccine hopes for deadly Nipah virus
Wolbachia-based dengue control challenges

AGRICULTURE

Flowering plants use a pseudoenzyme to form indole
The legume crop rotation pattern best for soil health
Regenerative agriculture: the growth of a new approach

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Native seeding controls annual, but not perennial, invasive plants

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Phosphine: no easy way out of timber industry’s phytosanitary bind
Oak processionary moth, a lesson in control failure. Part 2: Pesticide spraying

CLIMATE CHANGE

Rising global temperatures could bump up arsenic in rice
Climate change cuts global crop yields

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – September/October 2025 issue.

The post International Pest Control – September/October 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.5 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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International Pest Control – July/August 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.4

2025-08-07T14:55:07-00:00

Cover image: Cimex lectularius.
Picture by Dr Richard Naylor

It’s great to start an issue with good news – the approval of the first malaria medicine for newborns and young infants. It is astonishing to think that until now – 2025 – the protection of this vulnerable group has depended on formulations intended for older children (not without risk) and control of the vector: no vaccines are approved for this age group.

Agriculture’s contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is not falling as fast as we need and although emission intensity has improved, overall emissions remain stubbornly high. Most striking is the huge contribution of ruminants which are the largest single element in all continents. This is largely due to the methane emissions of this group – difficult to see how this is addressed without a change in demand for ruminant products.

In “And Finally” I reveal my interest in all things related to the brewing and consumption of beer and this article on how rice-based worts can improve the taste of non-alcoholic beers points to a new market for rice – unfortunately another major source of agriculture’s GHG emissions.

Our “pest of the Issue” is the green bottle fly. Found worldwide this fly is a vector of multiple diseases and dangerous to both humans and livestock, our resident expert Alex Wade explains its lifecycle and control.

In Association News we cover Biological Control in Glasshouses (IBMA Spain), Pestworld 2025 (NPMA), the 11th ICUP, and the next annual New IPM symposium planned for the 8-9th September.

Company news includes the usual mix of acquisitions, mergers, and new products from Syngenta, Novartis, Koppert, Bayer, Biobest, Eurofins and Planet. Perhaps one of the most significant is the emergency authorisation of a new insecticide from Syngenta for the control of Hylobius abietis in Sitka spruce.

Our Special Feature on Pest Control in the Food and Hospitality Industry includes contributions from several companies and practitioners. Bed bugs are a popular subject for our contributors with three contributors covering early detection, humidity and the use of silica dust, and front-line control. Packaging matters are also covered, as are considerations for pest control in urban areas, and the new LED technology to replace the use of fluorescent lights which are on a path to being banned across Europe due to their mercury content. We finish with considerations regarding control in explosive atmospheres.

In Public Health we report on how male mosquitoes can avoid traps, while in Agriculture we look at how variety in wheat can affect the choices aphids make and how pest pressure can be reduced by varietal selection. Other topics covered in Agriculture include how fungi can weaken plant defences, and how advances in genetics mean we have a better understanding of the potato genome. We learn how plants modify their microbiome and the triggers that hatch potato parasites.

In Forestry and Plantation, we start a comprehensive series of three, possibly four articles by our in-house expert Dr Terry Mabbett on oak processionary moth – OPM. This pest is spreading across the UK having invaded from Europe. Some trees now have over 100 nests and the cost of bagging and incinerating the nests is a burden on local authorities, home and landowners. It is also a horrible job requiring full protective clothing to keep the irritant hairs at bay.

In our next issue our Special Feature is on Innovation in Pesticide Application, and we welcome contributions for this, and our other sections.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control July/August 2025
Volume 67, Number 4.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

First malaria medicine for newborn babies and young infants
OECD‑FAO Agricultural Outlook 2025‑2034
Transboundary plant pests and diseases
And finally… Rice rebels: Research reveals the grain’s brewing benefits

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Green bottle fly

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

Biological control is the strategy capable of shielding greenhouses
Pestworld 2025 – Programme announced
11th International Conference on Urban Pests Report
New IPM – Working Together Symposium 2025

COMPANY NEWS

Syngenta acquires biological assets from Novartis
Koppert launches Stingray 25 in France
New maize seed facility in Kabwe, Zambia
Retirement at Biobest
Accuracy of hyperspectral satellite testing confirmed
New level of precision agriculture
Emergency Authorisation for the new insecticide from Syngenta

SPECIAL FEATURE: Pest Control in the Food and Hospitality Industry

Early detection of bed bugs
Why package penetration testing matters
Influence of humidity on a silica dust-filled barrier tape for bed bug control
Lighting the future of fly control in food & hospitality
Considerations in pest control in urban areas
The front line in the fight against bed bug resurgence
Pest control in hazardous areas

PUBLIC HEALTH

How male mosquitoes target females – and avoid traps

AGRICULTURE

Harnessing wheat variety for aphid and virus control
Fungal protein critical to causing fusarium head blight
Novel approach to decoding the potato genome
Wheat roots are quietly engineering their microbiomes
A threesome that hatches potato parasites

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

OPM, a lesson in control failure
Part 1: Political problems and pitfalls.

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – July/August 2025 issue.

The post International Pest Control – July/August 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.4 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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AI crop predictor aids Africa’s crisis planning

2025-07-29T14:26:27-00:00

Researchers say the AI tool will aid the production of staple foods including, maize, cassava, and sorghum, across 47 African countries. Photo: K-State, CC BY 2.0

An Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool is using satellite remote sensing and machine learning to predict agricultural yields of key crops across Africa, to help mitigate the harms of climate change and other crises, its developers say. The Africa Agriculture Watch (AAgWa) tool will aid the production of staple foods including, maize, cassava and sorghum, across 47 African countries.

The web-based platform, launched on 27 April, was designed to help tackle some of the impacts of climate change, conflicts and pests on food production. Racine Ly, director for data management, digital products, and technology at AKADEMIYA2063, says Africa’s agricultural sector faces multiple threats, including supply chain disruptions, as a result of extreme climate events and health crises.

“Relying on conventional analytic techniques alone will not deliver the effective decision-making we need to meet these challenges,” he explains. The developers say AAgWa will give policy-makers timely access to high-quality, predictive analytics, which are often lacking on the continent.

The crops were selected largely because of their contribution to food security in Africa, as well as high trade value, says Ly. “Our rural communities will, for example, consume more millet, sorghum, and yam,” he explained. “Those are not really used in international trade, but they are very critical in our livelihoods, so we rather focus on those because if they suffer from destruction or disruption these communities will also suffer in their livelihoods.”

Read the full article in the JanFeb2024 sample copy

First published in SciDevNet

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2024 issue.

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Subscribers have free online access to all articles from 2004.

The post AI crop predictor aids Africa’s crisis planning first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

New Release – The Pest Report | July 2025 – Issue 3

2025-07-28T16:41:47-00:00

The latest issue of The Pest Report is now available, bringing essential insights for professionals across crop protection, agronomy, and pest management. This edition covers timely and high-impact topics affecting global agriculture:

Tuta absoluta
Gain updated strategies and integrated approaches for managing the Tomato Leaf Miner—a persistent threat in tomato production.

Winter Moth
Explore the seasonal dynamics, monitoring practices, and targeted solutions to reduce damage caused by this widespread defoliator.

Pear Worms
Understand the biology, behavior, and most effective control methods for pear worm infestations.

Copper Fungicides
A critical evaluation of copper fungicide persistence, resistance concerns, and its evolving role in sustainable agriculture.

Access the full report now at www.thepestreport.com

This issue is a must-read for agronomists, growers, researchers, and pest control professionals striving for sustainable and science-driven solutions.

The post New Release – The Pest Report | July 2025 – Issue 3 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-07-27

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Outlooks on Pest Management – June 2025 Vol36:3 – Editorial

2025-07-25T09:50:27-00:00

By no means all Doom and Gloom!

Outlooks on Pest Management is widely known as a primary source of reliable and up to the minute information on a broad range of topics that are of interest and importance to pest management practitioners, industry and researchers around the world. This continues to be reflected in this issue with articles and news that convey the international perspective that is essential in a globalised industry. However, to remain relevant we must listen and respond to opinions and advice of our readers. Feedback indicates that many appreciate the balance struck between encouraging and worrying news, with a recent comment suggesting that “…in current challenging times it helps to avoid it all being doom and gloom, while still raising the difficult issues we need to confront”. Such comments are very helpful when setting the tone of the publication so please keep them coming.

In this issue, we continue to try to strike the balance between the encouraging and the worrying. Amongst reports on a wide range of subjects in the Regulatory News section, one carries a warning of a growing impact of climate change that is resulting in an increasing risk to water quality, aquatic ecosystems and worrying levels of toxic metal contamination of farmland around the world. On a more positive note, the enactment of new UK regulations designed to facilitate the use of precision breeding technologies in agriculture by offering a more streamlined regulatory process for gene edited crops, and new regulatory approvals/registrations of herbicides, are also highlighted. Our Biotechnology News section carries 8 reports of progress in varying subjects areas, for example, enzyme suppressing plant immune defences that may promote the engineering of Fusarium-resistant crops, whereas less welcome news of the discovery of genetic changes in fungal pathogen populations which may make Phoma stem canker harder to control. Ongoing research in other sectors is yielding improved understanding or new solutions that are essential if we are to meet the ever-increasing challenges we face. For example, our R&D News section has 28 items reporting such advances, reflecting the substantial effort to resolve or alleviate the range of complex difficulties that the industry faces.

An essential first step when tackling pest or disease outbreaks is to understand relevant biology, thus enabling identification of aspects that may underpin the design and optimisation of control approaches. Thus, a major paper by Dr. Glenn Wright focussing on the highly destructive citrus greening disease is an important feature in this issue. The article considers both the disease and its vector, and its effects on both citrus trees and the citrus industry in the USA. Where a disease is also a problem in other areas of the world with similar climatic conditions to those encountered “at home”, useful information can often be obtained from studies of spread and impact conducted in those areas and this aspect has been discussed. Successful methods used to tackle the disease in the USA are presented and the paper concludes with suggestions of approaches that may slow the movement of citrus greening disease and reduce its impact when it arrives in new areas.

An internationally important pest, the Red Palm Weevil is the subject of another article in this issue. Early detection of infestation is difficult as all life stages may be found inside the host palm, and a paper by Mohamed Bo and colleagues investigate the potential use of acoustic sensors to address this issue. They conclude that although the precision of these portable devices is limited, their affordability and ready availability may offer opportunities for using them as a tool to support manual visual inspections and decision making. It is tempting to speculate that the advent of a.i. techniques could offer the potential for training models to improve accuracy of assessments of infestations in the future.

In the third major article of this issue, Dr. Julia Bello-Bravo and co-authors tackle the issue of scaling of integrated pest management (IPM) and other research for development knowledge in the global South. Reaching end users in some regions is a perennial problem that severely impacts accessibility to, and thus uptake of new advances. The paper identifies some primary causal issues before describing a university- based research and scaling program (Scientific Animations Without Borders), which has developed an “encyclopaedia” model for scaling content to provide high quality learning and access to materials for continued learning. This is a fascinating article which provides information that potentially could enhance uptake of findings from a wide range of future work.

Thus, the current issue maintains our target of providing a diverse coverage of pest management advances from across the world that deliver stimulating/practically useful transfer- able information … and it is not all doom and gloom!

Author: Keith Walters, Outlooks on Pest Management (OPM) Editorial Board Member

Published in: Outlooks on Pest Management June 2025 Vol36:3.
Other articles published in OPM

The post Outlooks on Pest Management – June 2025 Vol36:3 – Editorial first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Impact of climate change on subterranean termite

2025-07-20T21:48:09-00:00

Coptotermes formosanus. Photo: Partho Dhang, PhD

Termite control is a major enterprise in most parts of the world, undertaken to protect structures and properties. Historically the interaction of termites and humans probably started when termites attacked crops and manmade structures containing cellulosic material. This interaction has now taken a shape resembling a confrontation, thanks to extensive land use by humans for agriculture and development.

Urbanisation is playing a big role, with large areas of the earth’s landmass being rapidly converted into real estates. Trade in wood and wood derived products also play a role in transporting infestation across the globe. In this manner invasive termite species have found new shelters in territories where they were previously unknown. The number of invasive termites has jumped from 17 to 28 in little over half a century. In this situation it is important to know if climate, a limiting factor in termite bio-ecology, will play any role in making them a bigger concern.

Termite distribution is mainly around the tropical countries. Globally, termite diversity is greatest in tropical areas and decreases with increasing latitude, and only a few termite genera are found beyond 40° latitude (Eggleton,2000). It is observed that termite distribution and abundance is closely linked to distribution and abundance of rainfall (Wood and Johnson, 1986; Buxton, 1981), temperature, and relative humidity (Cabrerra, 1994).

Also, termite foraging patterns are linked to key abiotic parameters (Haagsma and Rust 1995; Dibog et al. 1998; Haverty et al. 1999; Evans and Gleason 2001; Mesenger and Su 2005; Moura et al. 2006). In studies it was shown that foraging activity of Coptotermes lacteus was correlated with both soil and air temperature (Evans and Gleason 2001). In another study, the preferred soil temperatures of the western subterranean termite, Reticulitermes hesperus was reported to be in the range from 29-32°C (Smith and Rust 1994), indicating the role of temperature as a dominant factor in determining distribution.

Read the full article in the JanFeb 2024 sample copy

Author: Dr Partho Dhang, Independent consultant. Belarmino Street, Makati
City, Philippines

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2024 issue.

The post Impact of climate change on subterranean termite first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-07-20

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VERV programme – questions for the EPA

2025-07-19T15:13:15-00:00

Spraying to prevent malaria. Vanuatu 2009. Photo: AusAID

This is the second article in a two-part series regarding the intertwined problems of growing insecticide resistance and the lack of investment in novel public health use insecticides (Part I can be found in the November/December 2023 issue of IPC). A new US incentive programme aims to mitigate these problems. Reading the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announcement of the new programme raises questions which EPA will need to clarify. Our questions and others will be discussed by stakeholders and EPA on February 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. Readers can register to attend the meeting using the link at the bottom of this article.

On December 18, 2023, EPA released Pesticide Registration (PR) Notice 2023-2, to announce the establishment of the Vector Expedited Review Voucher (VERV) Programme, which was mandated in the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2022 (PRIA 5). VERV is a new incentive to stimulate the development of novel mosquito control products to help prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika.

VERV is modelled after the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Priority Review Voucher (PRV) programme legislated in 2007 (Sec. 524 FDA Amendments Act), which offers a priority review of a second product as a reward for new treatments targeting selected diseases. While VERV and PRV are built upon the same value-creating model, there is a key difference between the two agencies: EPA does not have pre-existing, separate processes to accelerate the review of a product. FDA’s four expediting programmes, accelerated approval, breakthrough, fast track, and priority review, are dedicated processes which are differentiated from standard reviews.

Under the law, EPA receives up to $500,000 annually for fiscal years 2022-2027 from the EPA Expedited Review and Reregistration Fund (“maintenance fee fund”) for VERV programme administration. (FIFRA).

The availability of resources raises the first of several potential questions regarding the new VERV programme.

Q: How will EPA use the available funding to create a process to expedite the review when an awarded voucher is exercised on a second product?

Q: Does EPA’s recent experience of expediting the review of products effective against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes Covid-19, provide a benchmark for a differentiated expediting process? (EPA COVID-related Expedited Product Reviews)

VERV rewards the registrant of a new public health use insecticide, the “vector product”, with a voucher. The registrant submits the vector product for the applicable PRIA category and pays the relevant registration fee. The review of the vector product follows the standard decision review timing for its PRIA category – it is not expedited. If the product is eligible and approved, the registrant is awarded a voucher. The eligibility criteria for VERV are described at EPA’s VERV website. (EPA VERV Website)

Read the full article in the JanFeb2024 sample copy

Authors: Jeffrey Moe*, Alan Ayers**, Justin McBeath***

* Adjunct Professor, Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, jmoe@duke.edu
** Former executive, Bayer Crop Sciences, alan.ayers@outlook.com
*** Chief Executive Officer, Innovative Vector Control Consortium, justin.mcbeath@ivcc.com

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2024 issue.

The post VERV programme – questions for the EPA first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Functional diversification of a wild potato

2025-07-16T13:59:00-00:00

Phytophthora infestans potato. Photo: Rasbak

Globally, huge quantities of crop protection agents are sprayed to control potato late blight. To make potato farming more sustainable and less reliant on sprays, we need crops that are inherently resistant to such diseases.

“There is a continuous ‘arms race’ between the potato plant and Phytophthora,” says Vivianne Vleeshouwers, a plant scientist at Wageningen University & Research.

The plant fiercely defends itself when it can detect an invasion of this notorious fungus-like pathogen (known as an oomycete). Detection immediately triggers several defence responses, such as making part of a leaf die off in a controlled manner to stop the spread of the disease. However, Phytophthora, like many notorious crop pathogens, can repeatedly bypass detection by means of mutating.

Read the full article in the JanFeb2024 sample copy

Authors: Wageningen University & Research, University of Tübingen (Germany), The Sainsbury Laboratory in Norwich

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2024 issue.

The post Functional diversification of a wild potato first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Tomatoes: Responding to the spread of ToBRFV

2025-07-15T13:45:26-00:00

Paul Grootscholten of Agro Care on the left and Frank van Antwerpen, Product Manager Tomato for Western Europe, on the right.. Photo: Enza Zaden

In recent years, the tomato industry has faced a major challenge from the spread of tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), and despite many phytosanitary measures, infection rates have continued to rise. New High Resistance varieties will change this in the short term, and Paul Grootscholten of Agro Care has been evaluating the high resistant “HREZ” varieties from Enza Zaden.

HREZ is a growing collection of tomato varieties that may herald a long-awaited change for the tomato industry. The first six varieties have been on the market in the Benelux since last year; and in 2023 the range will have expanded to more than twenty HREZ varieties in almost all segments.

“No grower wants his plants to die,” explains Paul Grootscholten of Agro Care. “But in recent years, that has certainly been the reality. Everyone in our company has handled it well, but it’s not something you can control. You’re in survival mode, not knowing what the crop will be like tomorrow.” The situation at Agro Care is now completely different, however, with the arrival of the High Resistance tomato varieties. “We currently grow almost only HREZ varieties here. The one variety that is not yet resistant will be replaced next year. It’s great for us to be able to focus fully on cultivation once again.”

The new varieties arrived just in time for Grootscholten and his colleagues: “It was a waiting game; we were a bit on edge, of course.” Still, he’s pleased with the pace at which High Resistance options have become available. After all, it was only relatively recently, in 2016, that one plant at Enza Zaden exhibited a remarkable and promising performance. While it normally can take well over seven years before that would lead to a new introduction on the market, there are already more than 500 hectares of High Resistance tomatoes in the Benelux sector.

Read the full article in the JanFeb2024 sample copy

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2024 issue.

The post Tomatoes: Responding to the spread of ToBRFV first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Ips typographus in the UK – an answer for every entry

2025-07-14T17:57:44-00:00

Scottish Forestry believes the finding is a ‘one-off’ with the Ips typographus beetle coming in through the Forth Port of Grangemouth. Photo: Forest Research

The alien invasive spruce bark beetle Ips typographus continues to crop up in the UK with the latest discovery in Scotland and a first for that country. This is certainly the scariest identification so far given that the bulk of commercial forestry in Scotland is based on Sitka spruce. This latest finding of Ips typographus in Scotland was of a single beetle picked up in an improved insect pheromone trap and deployed as part of Scottish Forestry’s new surveillance programme. However, to put the finding into context Scottish Forestry says it is just a single Ips typographus beetle found amongst 6,500 other insects and covering 40 different species.

James Knott, head of tree health at Scottish Forestry said: “Although this is the first time we have found Ips typographus in Scotland, we currently believe it is a one-off that hitch-hiked here.” Now I take that comment to suggest the beetle came in on a crate or a suitcase and not as a pest on its natural host tree material which in this case is spruce timber and wood with bark and most likely Norway spruce.

Indeed, Scottish Forestry says the beetle found in woodland in Fife is believed to have arrived on the back of goods being shipped into Scotland via the port of Grangemouth. As an Englishman my knowledge of Scotland, both in geography and trading patterns is notoriously sketchy so I checked both the relevant geography and the nature of trade going through Grangemouth Port and this is what I found out:

Grangemouth is on the Firth of Forth within the county of Stirling and Falkirk, historically in the County of Stirlingshire but now falling within the unitary authority of Falkirk. And low and behold Grangemouth is just two miles south-west of the boundary with Fife.

So what about trade aspects? Grangemouth is one of the Forth Ports and Scotland’s largest individual port, handling 9 million tonnes of cargo each year through liquid, specialist container and general cargo terminals. Imported goods include food, drink, machinery, steel products, paper and timber, the latter being the import of interest here.

Forth Ports has a dedicated forest products terminal at Grangemouth and there will apparently soon be a massive biomass burning plant operating at Grangemouth. When planning permission was granted back in 2013 for the biomass burning plant objections were raised by Green MSP (Member of the Scottish Parliament) Alison Johnstone who said the plant would burn up to 1.5 million tonnes of imported wood every year. Commissioning of the plant was scheduled for late 2023.

No mention of where the wood is likely to come from (or indeed whether wood is arriving already in anticipation) and the sort of tree species involved, but conifers including spruce are likely to be involved and sourced from continental Europe where Ips typographus has run riot for centuries if not millennia on Norway spruce. And clearly the easiest and cheapest source of foreign wood earmarked for biomass burning in the UK including Scotland.

No mention of what port the wood for biomass burning was likely to come in through but for proximity and economy Grangemouth would appear to be the obvious choice.

I use the term wood advisedly because material for biomass burning is likely to be low grade wood and logically more likely to be suffering from pest infestation and perhaps less likely to undergo as thorough inspection as high grade timber for cutting and construction. If the Ips typographus beetle did indeed come in through Grangemouth as Scottish Forestry implies, and specifically within imported bark-covered spruce timber or wood, then I would not choose the term ‘hitch-hiked’ to describe the pest’s ride into Scotland.

Scotland is lucky if this is a ‘one off’ beetle which Scottish Forestry says it is. And a lot more fortunate than England where established breeding populations of Ips typographus have been found across Southern England since 2018. The first was in Kent with subsequent findings in East and West Sussex and then Surrey, with at least 23 outbreaks reported by August 2023, apparently all on Norway spruce. UK government says: “Outbreaks have resulted from natural dispersal (blow over) of Ips typographus adult beetles from the continent. They say there is no evidence of onward dispersal from any outbreak site in England.” The type of evidence on which this assumption is based has not been specified.

Read the full article in the JanFeb2024 sample copy

Author: Dr Terry Mabbett, Independent Consultant

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2024 issue.

The post Ips typographus in the UK – an answer for every entry first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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International Pest Control – Hub

2025-06-25T12:28:02-00:00

We’re proud to announce the official launch of Hub.International-Pest-Control.com — the global meeting point for professionals across Public Health, Agriculture, Horticulture & Amenity, Forestry & Plantation, and Animal Health sectors.

This is more than just a website — it’s a community-driven platform built for pest management professionals worldwide. Whether you’re on the front lines, in the lab, or behind the scenes, this is your space to connect, learn, and grow.

What You’ll Find Inside:
Community – Connect, collaborate, and share knowledge with fellow experts from every corner of the industry.

Articles – Stay informed with expert insights, industry news, and practical tips that matter to your work.

Catalog – Explore a curated network of trusted manufacturers, distributors, and pest intelligence organizations who support the global pest control ecosystem.

Join the Hub today and be part of the future of integrated pest management:
Hub.International-Pest-Control.com

Together, let’s build a smarter, stronger pest management community.

#PestControl #PublicHealth #Agriculture #Forestry #AnimalHealth #IPM #PestManagement #InternationalPestControl #IndustryHub #PestProfessionals #Horticulture

The post International Pest Control – Hub first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

3 surprising facts about cockroaches - can roaches live without their head?

2025-06-25T05:00:53-00:00

International Pest Control – May/June 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.3

2025-06-23T09:57:35-00:00

Cover image: Alcohol makes male fruit flies of the species Drosophila melanogaster more sexy by stimulating the production of sex pheromones. As a result, male flies are more successful at mating after consuming certain amounts of alcohol.
Picture by Anna Schrol

Starting to sound like a scratched record – a metaphor that only works for some – late again, but better late…

Once again climate change has threaded its way through this issue. Even if you are in denial about it being caused by human activities you can’t ignore the real-world impacts. IFAD are investing US$9.2m in a project in Libya to help smallholders make water supplies last longer: high temperatures, reduced rainfall and salt-water intrusion are all impacting on the country’s ability to grow crops.

Sterile Insect Techniques (SIT) have long played a role in the control of insect pests, at an IAEA organised conference in Agadir delegates from 16 African countries got together to discuss the use of SIT in the protection of fruit and vegetable crops including citrus. It’s not often you can spot a benefit from “Brexit” but the UK Parliament has used its freedom from the EU to implement the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act for plants in England which puts England in line with most countries outside the EU.

Our Pest of the Issue is the Field Mouse: these delightful little creatures with a love for cereals only become a pest when they enter our stores in search of easy food. The Association news jumps from Lagos to Dubai, Lund and Orlando. The UK NPTA has a new Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Lawrenson.

The usual suspects appear in company news with updates from Catchmaster, Koppert, Russell IPM, Bayer, Syngenta, Biobest, Pelsis, Certis Belchim and others. New appointments, mergers and new offices all feature.

Our special feature is on the control of vectors of disease, and we look at arboviruses in Latin America, a new pesticide for malaria control in Africa, the global threat of Lyme disease, re-imagining vector control, challenges to vector control and how male mosquitoes find females.

In agriculture we consider a practical use for fly poo, and look at unveiling the genetic secrets of rice, innovation in the fight against FWA and the first new plant tissue to be discovered in 100 years.

Horticulture is the area where AI and technology can be expected to make the quickest progress. Computer vision systems are being developed to monitor greenhouse crops, the French authorities are concerned about tomato fruit blotch virus, and WSSA are exercised by the impact of spray volume on herbicide application – surely something we worked out 30 years ago? Drones are now being deployed indoors against mites – what happens in the greenhouse may soon be commonplace in the field.

Kiwi production can be helped by bumblebees, while it’s important to control both deer population and invasive shrubs if a healthy forest is to be regenerated. The UK’s National Trust is busy trying to regenerate habit near Liverpool by improving nature-rich habitats such as wetlands and species-rich grasslands, which in turn will encourage biodiversity. The chinaberry tree is being promoted as a fire-resistant replacement in areas that are more susceptible to forest fires (which feels like the whole world). We look at ways of improving the control of the large pine weevil in the UK – this is a pest which can severely damage young saplings if not properly controlled from an early stage.

In our section on climate change we consider its impact on the world’s crops, look at how it might bring new diseases to greenhouses and how African cocoa production is now under pressure from changes in temperature and rainfall.

Animal Health rarely appears as we get few notifications of interesting research but in this issue we cover work that shows how livestock can foster harmful pests, and the US has approved gene edited pigs, developed at Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute, which are resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS).

Next issue we focus on Pest Control in the Food and Hospitality Industry so if this is a topic in which you have expertise, we’d welcome your contribution

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control May/June 2025
Volume 67, Number 3.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Project to help farmers combat water scarcity
Suppressing fruit flies in Africa
The future of plant science in England is bright
And finally… Alcohol makes male flies sexy

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Rodents: Field mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus)

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

Global Pest Management Conference
Records broken at PestWorld East 2025
ICUP 2025 – Only days to go. Register now!
UK NPTA COO retirement
Book your place now at PestWorld 2025

COMPANY NEWS

Syngenta forges strategic collaboration with Al Dahra
Catchmaster appoints new International Sales Director
Koppert Cress plans DAC technology in greenhouses
Russell IPM open new offices at East Malling Trust campus
Guru Ramamurthy is new CFO for Bayer’s Crop Science Division
Alliance to develop next-generation pest management solutions
Biobest appoints new General Manager for NL
New range of sustainable LED fly control solutions
Certis Belchim & Redestos strengthen partnership
Leadership shift at Koppert

SPECIAL FEATURE: Control of Vectors of Disease

Arbovirus transmission in Latin America and Brazil
A new weapon against malaria
The global threat of Lyme disease
Re-imagining vector control: Modern perspective on forgotten giants – a review
Challenges in vector control in hot climates
How male mosquitoes target females – and avoid traps

AGRICULTURE

Fly poo boosts Malawi crop yields
Genetic secrets of rice pave way for future farming
Innovative solution launched against fall armyworm
First new plant tissue discovered in 160 years

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

New computer vision system can guide crop monitoring
French FSA warns of ‘new’ ToRFV tomato virus
Spray volume effects on herbicide application
Combatting spider mites incrementally with drones

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Optimising kiwi production with bumblebees
Healthy forests require combined control
Transforming land into thriving woodlands
Fire-tolerant chinaberry tree endorsed for forest planting
Protecting Europe’s forests against climate change
The art of application to target weevil feeding activity

CLIMATE CHANGE

How climate change could affect half of global crops
Climate change brings new diseases to greenhouses
African cocoa production under pressure

ANIMAL HEALTH

Switching wildlife for livestock fosters harmful pests
US approves gene-edited pigs

OBITUARY

János Daru

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – May/June 2025 issue.

The post International Pest Control – May/June 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.3 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

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The Pest Report – Newsletter

2025-05-30T16:40:36-00:00

In the fast-moving world of pest management, staying informed can be a challenge. That’s why Research Information Ltd (RIL) is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new monthly digital newsletter: The Pest Report.

Designed specifically for the global pest management community, The Pest Report delivers concise, curated insights that professionals can actually make time for. Each issue will feature expertly written articles, each one a quick 3-minute read, offering you the latest developments, research highlights, and trends affecting the pest control industry worldwide.

Whether you’re in policy, field operations, research, or business leadership, The Pest Report aims to be your go-to source for trusted information—delivered straight to your inbox and ready to read with your morning coffee.

What to Expect:

Short, impactful articles: Each piece is written to be read in approximate three minutes.

Up-to-date, relevant topics: Covering everything from invasive species to novel control technologies.

Global scope: We provide a worldwide perspective, addressing issues and innovations from across the pest management spectrum.

Further reading links: For those who want to dig deeper, every article includes references and resources to explore more.

This newsletter is perfect for busy professionals who want to stay informed without getting bogged down in lengthy reports or academic papers.

Be In the Know—In Minutes

Whether you’re on a job site, in a lab, or at your desk, The Pest Report gives you what you need to stay ahead of the curve in pest management—without breaking your schedule.

The first issue of The Pest Report lands this month. Subscribe now to make sure you don’t miss out on timely, targeted content crafted for professionals like you.

This inaugural issue of May 2025 features articles on the following topics:

Grey Silverfish Management: Insights and Strategies
Eliminating Stink Bugs: Effective Solutions
Whitefly Control: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approaches
Combating Fusarium oxysporum: Techniques and Practices
Eco-Tech Innovations for Managing Aphids
Advances in Controlling the False Codling Moth

Free Subscription: Home – The Pest Report

Stay sharp. Stay current. Stay pest-wise—with The Pest Report.

The post The Pest Report – Newsletter first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Pest Control with Air Rifles - Squirrel Shooting - The Metal Feeder

2025-05-29T22:34:45-00:00

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How to Get Rid of Groundhogs?

2025-05-09T10:00:19-00:00

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, might look cute from a distance, but for homeowners and gardeners, they can quickly become a serious nuisance. If you’ve noticed mounds of soil, eaten plants, or holes near your shed or deck, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a groundhog problem. In this blog, we’ll explore how to get rid of groundhogs and how to keep them away for good.

How to Get Rid of Groundhogs?

There are several methods for removing groundhogs, ranging from DIY approaches to professional interventions. Here are some of the most effective strategies:

Live Trapping

Live traps are a humane way to capture and relocate groundhogs. Use bait such as cantaloupe, apples, or lettuce, and place the trap near the entrance of their burrow. Always check local wildlife regulations before relocating an animal.

Fencing

Install a sturdy fence around your garden or property. A groundhog-proof fence should be at least 3 feet high and buried at least 1 foot underground. Bending the top of the fence outward at a 45-degree angle will prevent them from climbing over.

Repellents

There are both commercial and homemade repellents available. These often use smells or tastes that groundhogs dislike, such as garlic, pepper, or predator urine. While repellents can be effective temporarily, they often need reapplication after rain or watering.

Flooding or Smoking the Burrow

Some homeowners try flooding or smoking groundhog burrows. These methods are not always effective and can be dangerous or inhumane. They should be used with caution and are best left to professionals.

How to Prevent Groundhogs from Home?

Once you’ve removed the groundhogs, it’s important to take steps to ensure they don’t return:

Seal Off Access Points: Close off spaces under decks, sheds, and porches with hardware cloth or lattice buried into the ground. This eliminates ideal burrowing locations.
Remove Attractants: Groundhogs are drawn to easy food sources. Harvest garden crops promptly, secure trash bins, and clean up fallen fruits or vegetables.
Keep the Yard Tidy: Trim tall grass, remove brush piles, and avoid clutter that could provide cover for groundhogs.
Use Motion-Activated Devices: Sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents that activate with movement can scare groundhogs away before they settle in.

Conclusion

Dealing with groundhogs can be frustrating, especially when they keep returning despite your best DIY efforts. While methods like fencing, repellents, and trapping can be effective for minor infestations but for continuous infestations, contact a licensed pest control service. Professionals have the experience and tools needed to remove groundhogs efficiently and ensure they don’t come back.

The post How to Get Rid of Groundhogs? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

3 interesting facts about rats in 30 seconds! Can rats swim? Are they nocturnal?

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What Kills Maggots Instantly?

2025-04-29T11:01:17-00:00

Discovering maggots in your home is not only unpleasant but can also be a sign of a bigger hygiene issue. These squirming white larvae are typically the offspring of flies and thrive in rotting organic matter.

Whether they’re found in your trash bin, kitchen, or yard, most people want a fast and effective way to get rid of them. In this blog post, we’ll explain at what kills maggots instantly and how to prevent them from invading your space.

What Kills Maggots Instantly?

When you need to eliminate maggots immediately, the following methods are the most effective:

Boiling Water: Plain boiling water is one of the simplest and fastest ways to kill maggots. Just pour it directly over the infestation. The heat will instantly kill the maggots on contact.
Bleach Solution: A mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 1 part water) is another strong solution. Not only does it kill maggots instantly, but it also disinfects the area, preventing future pest infestations.
Vinegar and Boiling Water: While vinegar alone won’t kill maggots, combining it with boiling water enhances the effect. It helps neutralize odor and clean surfaces afterward, which can deter flies from returning.
Insecticides: Specialized insecticides labeled for fly larvae or maggots offer instant kill results. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use them in well-ventilated areas.
Lime or Salt: Sprinkling lime or salt directly onto maggots dehydrates and kills them quickly. This method is especially useful for outdoor areas like garbage bins.

How to Prevent Maggots From Home?

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding maggot infestations. Here are a few tips to keep them at bay:

Seal Garbage Tightly: Always close trash bins properly and take out the garbage regularly, especially if it contains food waste.
Clean Bins Frequently: Disinfect your indoor and outdoor garbage bins with bleach or a disinfectant cleaner to remove any residue that could attract flies.
Use Fly Screens: Keep windows and doors screened to prevent flies from entering and laying eggs inside your home.
Store Food Properly: Don’t leave food out, especially meat or dairy. Store all perishables in sealed containers or in the fridge.
Take Out Pet Waste Promptly: Pet waste can also attract flies, so clean up after pets immediately and dispose of waste properly.

Conclusion

Finding maggots in your home can be distressing, but they can be killed instantly using common household methods like boiling water, bleach, and vinegar. With proper waste management and preventive measures can keep these pests from returning. If maggot infestations persist, consider calling a professional pest control service to address the root cause effectively.

The post What Kills Maggots Instantly? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-04-27

2025-04-27T04:00:01-00:00

International Pest Control – March/April 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.2

2025-04-21T13:06:39-00:00

Cover image: The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) is a native beetle of East Asia that has spread to North America, Russia, and Eastern Europe where it is responsible for the deaths of millions of ash trees.
Picture by International Pheromone Systems

Firstly, an apology for the late arrival of this issue – I’m afraid being Editor is not a full-time role and year end – March – is always a very busy period for the day job! I hope none of you were holding your breath for this issue.

It seems that every issue is permeated by the impacts of climate change, and we kick off with the news that the Bayer and Pula Foundations have taken on the task of insuring 10 million smallholder farmers by 2030 and unlocking 127 million US dollars in cover. CABI’s Chief Scientist wins recognition for his contribution to the adoption of IPM while IFAS continues to support rural women and their families in India. We conclude the news section with a new zombie fungus which has been named after Sir David Attenborough – I am sure this is intended as a compliment.

The pest of the issue is the house mouse – whose ability to reproduce is matched only by their ability to squeeze through the smallest of gaps and cause millions of dollars’ worth of damage every year.

We finish our in-depth reporting of the 2024 BCPC Congress and we also include cover of the 61st BCPC Weeds Review which took place slightly earlier in 2024. Coming up we have the 11th ICUP in Sweden and the AAB’s Legumes in Science and Practice.

Company news from Biobest, Bayer, Ecospray, Syngenta, BASF, Acadian, Andermatt, Certis Belchim, and Ceres include the usual new joint ventures, new staff and product repackaging as well as some genuinely new products. The term AI also seems to crop up every now and then!

This issue’s special feature is the Pests of Crop and Amenity Trees, and we kick off with a review of control of that old favourite of apple growers – the codling moth – by Izabel Filis from i2L Research. The next focus is the beautiful but deadly emerald ash borer, an invader from East Asia, which has the potential to wipe out the ash in the UK as it has done in Russia, Eastern Europe, the USA and Canada. Dr Terry Mabbett looks at plane wilt and its impact on our cities where plane is a major feature and in particular in London where it is the principal tree of parks and squares and provides shade and cooling – reducing the impact of climate change on our ever-warmer cities. We finish this section with a short practical article on pest control in amenity trees from Laura Mahecha of the Kline Group.

In Agriculture prioritising invasive non-native species, delivering a more oil-rich sorghum, the impact of Palmer amaranth in rice, and the results of the “Pragati” sustainable castor bean program in 2024 are all featured, as is an alternative to those banned neonicotinoids that could come to the rescue of sugar beet farmers.

Technology is to the fore in the Horticulture section with the expansion of BASF’s digital farming toolkit into grapes but with a view to including tomatoes and potatoes from 2026 – which is only next year! We cover the winners of the WUR Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge, a new strain of the green peach aphid which is resistant to a wider range of chemicals and how feeding ants sugar may make them prey on aphids rather than protecting them.

Scientists at the University of Florida have genetically edited a citrus tree so it can kill off the first instar nymphs of the psyllids responsible for spreading Huanglongbing: it uses the Bt gene but one can’t help wondering how long it will be before resistance sets in. We also look at a potential new control agent for the papaya mealybug, strategies for controlling Huanglongbing in Europe and the use of citizen science to assess the establishment and spread of an introduced weed biological control agent.

Hopefully the next issue will be hot on the heels of this one and we will get back onto our regular cycle of production. Articles on any relevant topic are always welcome.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control March/April 2025
Volume 67, Number 2.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Insurance for 10 million smallholder farmers in Africa and South Asia
Celebrating a lifelong commitment to IPM
Commitment to inclusive agricultural growth
Global public sentiment towards transformative technology
And finally…Zombie fungus named in honour of Sir David Attenborough

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Rodents: House mouse (Mus musculus)

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

BCPC 2024, Part 2: Shaping the future of crop protection
NPTA new board members
AAB: Roots to Regenerative Agriculture
BCPC Weeds Review 2024
International Conference on Urban Pests (ICUP) 2025
AAB: Legumes in Science and Practice – June 3rd to 4th

COMPANY NEWS

Simpler to use, easier to feed…
Bayer and Ecospray reach distribution agreement
Farmers rewarded for regenerative farming practices
Launch of a novel rice insecticide
Expanded partnership
Upgraded Crop-Scanner scouting web portal
Launch of new Italian subsidiary
Gold Medal for innovative solution
AI’s growing role in agriculture
Sustainability gets a boost

SPECIAL FEATURE: Pests of Crop & Amenity Trees

Small moth, big problem: codling moth control struggle
Early detection of deadly emerald ash borer needed
Plane wilt could wipe out London’s plane trees
Pest control in professional turf and amenity trees

AGRICULTURE

How to prioritise species for management
CABBI pipeline delivers oil-rich sorghum
Palmer amaranth threatens furrow-irrigated rice yields
Pragati sustainable castor bean program 2024 results
Alternative approach for sugar beet growers

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Launch of xarvio® FIELD MANAGER for Fruits & Veggies
4th Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge winners
New strain of green peach aphid
Feeding ants sugar makes them prey on aphids – maybe
Coir recycling offers savings for soft fruit growers

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Breakthrough approach to combat citrus greening disease
Preference for the smell of decay
Papaya mealybug biological control agent approved
Safeguarding Europe’s citrus production
DNA barcodes and citizen science control invasive shrub

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – March/April 2025 issue.

The post International Pest Control – March/April 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.2 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

How to Remove a Mud Nest?

2025-04-21T10:37:27-00:00

Mud nests are most commonly built by insects like mud dauber wasps or certain types of termites. These nests are often found in sheltered outdoor areas such as under eaves, in garages, sheds, attics, or even on walls. While mud nests are fascinating architectural feats of nature, they can be unsightly, attract unwanted pests, and may pose a risk of stings if the nest is active. In this article, we will explore how to remove mud dust from your home.

How to Remove a Mud Nest?

Before you begin the removal process, it’s essential to identify whether the nest is active. Look for insect activity, if you see wasps flying in and out frequently, the nest is likely in use. Always prioritize safety and consider calling a professional if you’re unsure.

Here’s how to safely remove a mud nest:

Wear Protective Clothing: If dealing with wasps, wear long sleeves, gloves, and ideally a face mask or shield to protect yourself from potential stings.
Choose the Right Time: Early morning or evening is best for removal, as insects are less active during cooler hours.
Spray Insecticide: If the nest is active, use a wasp or insect-specific spray to eliminate the inhabitants. Follow the instructions on the can carefully and retreat to a safe distance after spraying.
Wait and Observe: Give it at least 24 hours to ensure all activity has stopped before removing the nest.
Physically Remove the Nest: Use a scraper, putty knife, or stiff brush to knock the nest off the wall or surface. Collect the remains in a sealed bag and dispose of it properly.
Clean the Area: Wash the surface with soapy water or a mild bleach solution to remove scent markers that might attract future nest builders.

How to Prevent from Mud Nest?

Prevention is key to keeping your home mud-nest-free. Here are a few tips:

Seal Cracks and Gaps: Insects often build nests in small cracks or crevices. Seal entry points around windows, doors, vents, and eaves.
Use Natural Repellents: Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella can deter wasps. Spray these in high-risk areas regularly.
Install Mesh Screens: Cover vents and openings with fine mesh to block entry.
Keep Outdoor Areas Clean
Remove spider webs, cobwebs, and debris regularly to make the environment less appealing for insects.
Apply Residual Insecticides: In areas with frequent problems, consider using a long-lasting insecticide on surfaces where nests have been previously built.

Conclusion

Removing a mud nest can be a straightforward process if done with care and proper precautions. Whether you’re dealing with a small dauber nest or something more substantial, understanding how to safely remove and prevent them is essential. Always consider pest control services experts for help with large or persistent infestations.

The post How to Remove a Mud Nest? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-04-20

2025-04-20T04:00:01-00:00

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2025-04-13T04:00:01-00:00

How to Get Rid of Rabbits in Your Garden?

2025-04-11T09:08:43-00:00

Rabbits might look cute and innocent, but if you’re a gardener, you know how much damage they can do. These small, furry intruders are notorious for munching on vegetables, flowers, and shrubs, often leaving behind a trail of destruction. In this blog, we’ll explore how to get rid of rabbits in your garden and keep them from coming back.

How to Get Rid of Rabbits in Your Garden?

Getting rid of rabbits effectively involves a combination of humane removal, deterrents, and modifying your garden environment. Here are some proven methods:

Physical Barriers

Installing fencing is one of the most effective ways to keep rabbits out. Use a mesh wire fence (like chicken wire) that’s at least 2 feet high and bury it 6-10 inches into the ground to stop rabbits from digging underneath.

Rabbit Repellents

There are many commercial rabbit repellents available that use scents and tastes rabbits dislike, such as garlic, rotten egg, or predator urine. Apply these around the perimeter and on affected plants, but remember to reapply after rain.

Remove Attractants

Rabbits are more likely to hang around if your garden is inviting. Clear away dense brush, wood piles, tall grass, or other areas where rabbits might hide or nest.

Use Natural Predators

Encourage natural rabbit predators like hawks, owls, or even dogs and cats to frequent your garden area. The presence of these animals often scares rabbits away.

Preventive Measures for Rabbits

Prevention is just as important as removal. Here are some long-term strategies to rabbit-proof your garden:

Rabbit-Resistant Plants: Plant varieties that rabbits tend to avoid, such as lavender, marigolds, onions, and rosemary. Incorporating these into your landscape can help make your garden less appealing.
Garden Netting and Covers: For vegetable patches and flower beds, use garden netting or row covers to protect young plants. These are especially helpful during early growing stages when plants are most vulnerable.
Regular Maintenance: Keep your lawn mowed and remove weeds or debris regularly. This limits hiding spots and discourages rabbits from settling in.
Secure Compost and Food Sources: Ensure compost bins are tightly sealed and don’t leave pet food or scraps outside. Easy access to food is a major attractant.

Conclusion

While rabbits might seem like harmless creatures, their appetite for plants can wreak havoc on your garden. Fortunately, by combining physical barriers, deterrents, and smart landscaping, you can protect your plants and reclaim your space. Always choose humane and eco-friendly methods when possible, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional pest control service if the problem persists.

The post How to Get Rid of Rabbits in Your Garden? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-04-06

2025-04-06T04:00:01-00:00

How to Keep Pests Out of a Dog House?

2025-04-03T10:40:11-00:00

A dog house should be a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend, but it can also attract unwanted pests like fleas, ticks, ants, and even rodents. These pests can not only make your dog uncomfortable but also pose health risks. Keeping your dog’s shelter clean and pest-free is essential for their well-being. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to keep pests out of a dog house.

How to Keep Pests Out of a Dog House?

Preventing pests is always better than dealing with an infestation. Here are some essential steps to keep your dog’s house pest-free:

Choose the Right Location: Place the dog house in a dry, elevated area to avoid moisture buildup, which attracts pests. Keep it away from trash bins and stagnant water.
Use Pest-Repellent Materials: Line the interior with cedar chips or diatomaceous earth, which are natural deterrents for fleas, ticks, and other insects.
Seal Cracks and Openings: Inspect the dog house for any gaps or cracks where pests might enter and seal them with pet-safe caulking.
Keep the Surrounding Area Clean: Regularly mow the grass, remove food scraps, and clean up any pet waste around the dog house to deter rodents and insects.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Wash the dog house frequently with pet-safe disinfectants and replace bedding to prevent infestations.

How to Get Rid of Pests in a Dog House?

If pests have already invaded your dog’s house, take immediate action with these steps:

Deep Clean the Dog House: Remove all bedding, wash it in hot water, and scrub the interior with a mild disinfectant. Let it dry completely before use.
Apply Natural Repellent: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth, use essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus (diluted), or place cedar chips inside to drive away pests.
Use Pet-Safe Pest Control: If the infestation is severe, use non-toxic flea and tick sprays or consult a vet for safe treatment options.
Improve Ventilation and Drainage: Ensure the dog house has good airflow and no moisture buildup, which attracts pests.
Check Your Dog Regularly: Groom and inspect your pet for fleas, ticks, or signs of irritation to catch infestations early and prevent them from spreading.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog house pest-free requires regular maintenance, a clean environment, and proactive pest prevention. By following these steps, you can ensure your pet stays comfortable and healthy. If you notice persistent pest problems, consult a professional pest control service for additional solutions.

The post How to Keep Pests Out of a Dog House? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

What Causes Weevils to Appear?

2025-04-01T09:40:38-00:00

Weevils are tiny, pesky insects that can invade your home, particularly your kitchen and pantry. These small beetles are known for infesting grains, rice, flour, and other stored food items, making them a nuisance for homeowners. But what causes these insects to appear. In this blog, we will explore the reasons behind weevil infestations and how to prevent them.

What Causes Weevils to Appear?

Weevils typically come from food products that are already infested. Here are the main causes of weevil infestations:

Infested Food Products

Weevils often originate from packaged food items such as rice, flour, pasta, and grains. These pests lay their eggs inside food products, and once they hatch, they continue to feed and multiply. If you bring home an infested product from the grocery store, weevils can spread to other food items in your pantry.

Warm and Humid Environments

Weevils thrive in warm, humid conditions. If your home, particularly your kitchen or pantry, is not well-ventilated, it can create the perfect breeding ground for these pests.

Poor Food Storage Practices

Leaving food items in open containers or in paper or plastic bags can make it easier for weevils to infest your food. If weevils find an entry point, they will quickly take over, especially in foods stored for long periods.

Lack of Regular Cleaning

Pantries that are rarely cleaned can become a hotspot for weevils. Old food particles, spilled grains, and expired products provide an ideal environment for these insects to breed.

How to Prevent Weevils from Entering Your Home?

To keep weevils away, focus on proper food storage, cleanliness, and natural repellents. Store dry goods in airtight containers, inspect food before buying, and regularly clean your pantry. Follow these simple steps to prevent infestations:

Inspect Food Items: Check for tiny holes or bugs in packaging before purchasing.
Use Airtight Containers: Store grains, flour, and rice in sealed containers.
Keep Pantry Clean: Wipe shelves, remove spills, and vacuum regularly.
Reduce Humidity: Ensure good ventilation to keep the pantry dry.
Use Natural Repellents: Place bay leaves, cloves, or neem leaves in storage areas.
Freeze Suspected Items: Freeze grains for 3–4 days to kill eggs or larvae.

Conclusion

Weevils can quickly become a nuisance if not controlled early. By inspecting food, storing it properly, and keeping your pantry clean, you can prevent infestations. However, if the problem persists or spreads beyond your kitchen, professional pest control services can help eliminate them effectively. So, contact a pest control expert for a thorough inspection and long-term solutions!

The post What Causes Weevils to Appear? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-03-30

2025-03-30T04:00:01-00:00

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2025-03-23T04:00:01-00:00

What is the Best Remedy Against Borers?

2025-03-21T11:30:10-00:00

Borers are tiny but highly destructive pests that can cause serious damage to wooden structures, furniture, and even live trees. These insects create unsightly holes, and compromise the integrity of your property. If you suspect borer activity, it’s important to act quickly. In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify a borer infestation and discuss what is the best remedy against borers.

How to Identify Borer Infestation?

Early detection is key to preventing long-term damage from borers. Here are some telltale signs of an infestation:

Tiny Round Exit Holes: Small round holes on the surface of wood indicate where adult borers have exited.
Frass (Wood Dust): A fine, powdery dust near the holes or on the floor may suggest active larvae inside the wood.
Weakened or Hollow Wood: Tapping the surface may reveal hollow-sounding areas or weakened structural integrity.
Discoloration or Swelling: Especially in trees or timber, discoloration, swelling, or sap oozing from holes can be a red flag.

What is the Best Remedy Against Borers?

Successfully managing borers involves a combination of treatment and prevention. Here are the most effective remedies:

1. Chemical Treatments

For active infestations, chemical insecticides are the most effective immediate remedy.

Surface Sprays and Injections: Use products containing Permethrin, Bifenthrin, or Borate. Injecting insecticides directly into the borer holes can target larvae.
Systemic Insecticides (for trees): Products like Imidacloprid can be applied to the soil and absorbed by trees to kill borers feeding inside.

2. Heat Treatment

Borers are sensitive to heat. Exposing infested furniture or wood to high temperatures (above 50°C or 122°F) for several hours can kill larvae and eggs. For large or valuable items, consider professional heat treatment services.

3. Freezing Method

For smaller wooden items, freezing can be an effective and chemical-free pest control method. Place the item in a freezer for at least 72 hours to kill all life stages of the borer.

4. Neem Oil or Natural Repellents

Neem oil has natural insecticidal properties and can deter borers, especially when used regularly on trees or garden plants. Mix neem oil with water and a small amount of dish soap to spray on affected areas.

Conclusion

Borers may be small, but their ability to cause structural damage makes them a pest you can’t afford to ignore. Whether you choose chemical treatments, heat, freezing, or natural solutions, the key to successful control lies in early detection and consistent action. For severe infestations, contact professional pest control services to get rid of borers.

The post What is the Best Remedy Against Borers? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-03-16

2025-03-16T04:00:01-00:00

What Smells Deter Birds from Nesting?

2025-03-13T09:58:31-00:00

Birds may be lovely to watch, but when they start nesting in unwanted areas like rooftops, balconies, or vents, they can cause damage and leave behind droppings and debris. One effective and natural way to deter birds is by using certain scents that they find unpleasant. In this blog, we’ll explore which smells deter birds, why scent-based deterrents are effective, and how you can use them safely.

What Smells Deter Birds from Nesting?

Birds have a keen sense of smell, and certain scents are naturally repellent to them. Here are some of the most effective smells that discourage birds from nesting in unwanted areas:

Peppermint Oil: Peppermint has a strong, refreshing scent that birds find overwhelming. Applying a few drops of peppermint oil on cotton balls and placing them near nesting areas can help keep birds away.
Citrus: Birds dislike the strong smell of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes. You can scatter citrus peels around problem areas or use citrus-scented sprays to create an unpleasant environment for birds.
Vinegar: The sharp, pungent odor of vinegar is another effective bird deterrent. Mixing equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and applying it to nesting spots can discourage birds from settling there.
Garlic: Garlic has a strong, pungent smell that most birds find offensive. Crushing garlic cloves and placing them near nesting sites or using garlic oil as a spray can be effective in keeping birds at bay.
Cayenne Pepper: The spicy scent of cayenne pepper irritates birds’ senses. You can sprinkle cayenne pepper powder around nesting areas or mix it with water to create a spray.
Essential Oils Many birds find the intense aromas of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree unpleasant. Adding a few drops of these oils to cotton balls or mixing them with water in a spray bottle can help deter birds.

Why Use Scents to Deter Birds?

Using scents to deter birds offers several benefits:

Eco-Friendly Solution: Natural repellents are safe for the environment and won’t harm the birds.
Non-Invasive: Unlike nets or spikes, scent-based deterrents do not physically disrupt the area.
Cost-Effective: Essential oils, vinegar, and spices are affordable and easy to apply.
Safe for Pets and Children: When used correctly, scent-based repellents pose minimal risks to your family or pets.

Conclusion

Peppermint oil, citrus, garlic, vinegar, and spicy peppers are all powerful natural repellents that can help you maintain a bird-free property. By using these natural methods, you can protect your home from birds nesting without causing them harm. For more bird problems, consider consulting a professional pest control service to ensure your property remains safe and secure.

The post What Smells Deter Birds from Nesting? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

What Smell Do Ladybugs Hate?

2025-03-11T04:40:10-00:00

Ladybugs are often seen as beneficial insects because they help control pests like aphids. However, when they invade homes in large numbers, they can become a nuisance. Ladybugs are particularly known for swarming in the fall as they search for a warm place to overwinter. In this article, we will explore what smells do ladybugs hate and how it helps you prevent them from entering your home.

What Smell Do Ladybugs Hate?

Ladybugs have a strong aversion to certain odors. The following scents are known to repel them:

Citrus Scents: Ladybugs dislike the strong aroma of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. Spraying citrus-based cleaners or essential oils can deter them.
Clove Oil: This pungent spice is highly effective at repelling ladybugs. Placing clove oil-dipped cotton balls near entry points can keep them at bay.
Bay Leaves: The strong scent of bay leaves is unpleasant to ladybugs. Placing fresh or dried bay leaves near windows and doors can discourage them from entering.
Peppermint Oil: This refreshing scent is pleasant to humans but acts as a natural repellent for ladybugs. Mixing peppermint oil with water and spraying it around your home can be an effective solution.
Camphor and Menthol: These strong-smelling substances are particularly disliked by ladybugs. Using menthol-based products or camphor blocks near entry points can prevent infestations.

How to Prevent Ladybug Infestations?

In addition to using scents that ladybugs hate, follow these preventive measures to keep them out of your home:

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings around windows, doors, and vents. Sealing these entry points can prevent ladybugs from sneaking inside.
Install Screens: Use fine mesh screens on windows, doors, and vents to block their entry.
Clean Your Home Regularly: Vacuuming and dusting can help remove ladybug pheromones, which attract more of them.
Use Natural Repellents: Spraying citrus, clove, or peppermint oils in potential entry areas can discourage ladybugs.
Reduce Outdoor Attractants: Ladybugs are often drawn to light-colored buildings. Installing yellow or sodium vapor lights outdoors can reduce their attraction.

Conclusion

While ladybugs can be beneficial in the garden, they can quickly become a nuisance when they invade your home. Using natural repellents like citrus, clove, and peppermint, along with sealing entry points and maintaining cleanliness, can help keep them at bay. However, if you’re dealing with a large infestation, contact professional pest control services, they can provide an effective and lasting solution.

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What Are the Pest Control Methods for Dental Offices?

2025-03-10T05:06:46-00:00

Dental offices must maintain a high level of cleanliness and hygiene to ensure the safety of patients and staff. However, like any other commercial space, they are susceptible to pest infestations.

Pests such as rodents, cockroaches, ants, and flies can pose serious health risks, damage equipment, and create an unpleasant environment. In this article, we will explore the best pest control methods for dental offices and how to implement them.

What are the Common Pests Found in Dental Office?

Before implementing pest control strategies, it is important to identify the types of pests that may invade a dental office:

Rodents: These pests can chew on wires, contaminate surfaces, and spread diseases.
Cockroaches: Roaches thrive in dark, damp areas and can carry bacteria that cause infections.
Ants: Attracted to food and water, ants can quickly become a nuisance in break rooms and patient areas.
Flies: Flies can carry bacteria and contaminate surfaces, posing a risk to hygiene.
Termites: Though less common, termites can damage wooden furniture, floors, and walls.

What Are the Pest Control Methods for Dental Offices?

1. Maintain a Clean and Sanitary Environment

Keeping floors, countertops, and equipment sanitized prevents pest infestations. Trash bins should be emptied daily, and food must be stored in airtight containers. Spills, especially sugary ones, should be cleaned immediately to avoid attracting pests.

2. Proper Waste Management

Using covered trash bins and disposing of food waste promptly reduces pest risks. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting waste bins prevents residue buildup. Licensed waste disposal services should handle medical and biohazardous waste safely.

3. Seal Entry Points

Sealing cracks, holes, and gaps prevents pests from entering the office. Installing door sweeps and screened windows blocks common entryways. Fixing leaks and removing standing water eliminates moisture sources that attract pests.

4. Schedule Regular Pest Inspections

Routine inspections detect and eliminate pest issues before they worsen. Pest control professionals provide safe treatments tailored to dental clinics. Inspections every few months help maintain a pest-free environment.

5. Use Safe and Non-Toxic Pest Control Solutions

Enclosed bait stations and non-toxic traps effectively manage pests. Natural repellents like peppermint oil deter insects without harming patients. Eco-friendly treatments minimize chemical use while ensuring pest control.

6. Educate Staff on Pest Prevention

Training staff on cleanliness and food storage reduces infestation risks. Employees should recognize early pest signs and report issues promptly. Proper waste disposal and storage practices prevent attracting pests.

Conclusion

A pest-free dental office is essential for patient safety and maintaining a professional reputation. By following preventive measures and conducting regular maintenance, dental practices can effectively manage and prevent pest problems. If you suspect a pest issue in your office, it is best to consult with a pest control expert immediately to protect your practice and ensure a clean environment.

The post What Are the Pest Control Methods for Dental Offices? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-03-09

2025-03-09T05:00:01-00:00

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2025-03-02T05:00:01-00:00

What Plants Are Most Affected by Thrips?

2025-03-01T10:08:33-00:00

Thrips are tiny, slender insects that can cause significant damage to a wide variety of plants. These pests feed on plant cells by puncturing the surface and sucking out the contents, leading to distorted growth, silvery or speckled leaves, and even the transmission of plant viruses. In this article, we will explore what plants are most affected by thrips.

What Plants Are Most Affected by Thrips?

Roses

Roses are a favorite target for thrips, especially flower thrips and western flower thrips. These pests attack the delicate petals, causing browning and deformation. Buds may fail to open, and blooms can appear discolored or speckled. If you grow roses, regular inspection and treatment are necessary to keep thrips at bay.

Onions, Garlic, and Leeks

Thrips, particularly onion thrips, are a common pest in vegetable gardens. They cause white streaks and distorted growth in onions, garlic, and leeks. A heavy infestation can weaken plants, reducing yields and making crops more vulnerable to disease.

Tomatoes and Peppers

Thrips are notorious for transmitting tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), which can devastate tomato and pepper crops. Symptoms include yellowing, curling leaves, and spotted or deformed fruit. These crops need extra protection, especially in warm seasons when thrips populations surge.

Beans and Peas

Legume crops, such as green beans and peas, are frequently affected by thrips. The damage appears as silvery streaks on leaves, curling, and reduced pod development. Thrips feeding on flowers can also impact pollination and fruit set.

Strawberries

Strawberries suffer from thrips damage in the form of deformed fruit and reduced yields. These pests feed on the developing berries, causing discoloration and a rough texture. Thrips-infested strawberries may also fail to ripen properly.

How to Control Thrips?

If your plants are showing signs of thrips damage, consider these control methods:

Prune and Remove Infected Parts: Remove damaged leaves and flowers to reduce the thrips population.
Use Insecticidal Soaps and Neem Oil: These organic treatments can help manage infestations without harming beneficial insects.
Introduce Natural Predators: Ladybugs and lacewings are effective at controlling thrips naturally.
Reflective Mulch: Placing reflective mulch around plants can help deter thrips by confusing them.
Sticky Traps: Yellow or blue sticky traps can capture adult thrips and reduce their numbers.

Conclusion

Thrips can severely damage a variety of plants, from vegetables and fruits to ornamentals and flowers. If left unmanaged, they stunt growth, deform crops, and spread plant diseases.

While DIY methods like pruning, insecticidal soaps, and natural predators can help, severe infestations often require professional intervention. If thrips persist despite your efforts, contacting professional pest control services is the best solution.

The post What Plants Are Most Affected by Thrips? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

The Pesticide Manual 20th Edition

2025-02-28T14:20:54-00:00

Date of Publication November 2024
Hardback
+1400 Pages
ISBN 978-1-9998966-9-0

This newly-revised edition includes information on 42 new active ingredients, 38 of which have recently received an ISO common name or WHO-INN. The Pesticide Manual now includes data on 856 active ingredients, along with 353 derivatives (esters/salts/isomers) of these pesticides, for a total of 1209 individual compounds.

A continuing goal of The Pesticide Manual is to present data in formats which allow for simple comparisons between active ingredients. Towards this end, in this edition the Environmental Fate section has been completely revamped and updated. New fields have been added that describe the behaviour of the pesticide in the environment (Plant Fate, Soil Fate, Soil Half Life, Soil Absorption Coefficients).

In addition, the Hydrolytic Stability and Aqueous Photolytic Stability fields, previously located in the Physical Chemistry section, have now been moved to Environmental Fate.

Taken together, these data provide a comprehensive overview of how a pesticide may behave in the soil or water and how it may metabolize in plants or degrade in the environment.

Two new fields that describe the behaviour of a pesticide once ingested by animals (typically rats) have also been added to the Environmental Fate section. These include Animal Absorption and Excretion, which details the extent of uptake of the pesticide into bodily tissues, whether it is metabolised and how the pesticide, and/or its metabolites, are excreted, and Animal Metabolism, which describes how the pesticide metabolises.

There have been two additional significant changes to this edition of The Pesticide Manual. First, the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) has developed a separate mode of action classification scheme for nematicides; these are now included in The Pesticide Manual as “IRAC Nematicide”. Second, the EU Approval Expiration Approval date is now included along with the EU Status under the Regulatory section.

Users of The Online Pesticide Manual (bcpc.org/product-category/online-subscriptions) will still find structural codes / identifiers, in the form of InChI, InChI Key and SMILES, for all active ingredients and associated esters, isomers and salts. These identifiers can be used with drawing software in order to generate chemical structures for personal use. The InChI Key can be used directly within a search engine for an internet search for the chemical substance. The searching capabilities of the online version also provide for facile retrieval of data on individual compounds or groups of pesticides. Further, The Online Pesticide Manual includes direct links to company websites, online databases and other useful references and resources as well as full details on the 816 pesticides currently classified as Supplementary.

More Info & Purchase

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The UK Pesticide Guide 2025

2025-02-28T14:05:01-00:00

Date of Publication January 2025
Hardback
810 Pages
ISBN 978-1-0687958-0-0

his is the 38th edition of the UK Pesticide Guide and Brexit still affects the entries listed in this guide because Northern Ireland still has to comply with EU pesticide regulations while Great Britain can make its own decisions. As new actives are approved for GB use, the slower approval process in the EU means that they are often not yet approved for use in Northern Ireland! The difference between GB and NI continues with parallel approvals and with some EAMUs. As the original parallel approval products passed their final use up date in GB some have been replaced with products having different MAPP numbers for GB and NI use respectively. New EAMUs have been added to this edition and note some are only valid in GB while others are approved for use in both GB and NI.

All these differences have been incorporated in this guide so where apparent duplicate entries are listed, one might be for GB use with a different expiry date to the identical product listed for use in Northern Ireland only.

The 2025 edition has one new active ingredient – pydiflumetafen – but there are also new mixtures, formulations and new products. There are new actives in the pipeline and they may gain approval during 2025 when they will be added to the on-line UKPG database. The gains and losses of actives are summarised in the following table with losses clearly out-stripping gains. The new fungicide mixtures perhaps highlight the perceived opportunities in the market with the demise of mancozeb.

To receive monthly updates on new products, approvals and expiry dates email publications@bcpc.org and include “UKPG updates” in the subject line. HRAC (Herbicide Resistance Action Committee) have changed the mode of action codes for herbicides from an alpha-numeric to a numeric code two years ago and in this edition of the book just the new numbers are used. Where a conversion from the old code to the new one is sought, the 2024 edition of this book should help with conversion. The instability in energy prices caused by the turmoil in the Middle East may lead to further increases in product prices so it becomes even more essential to use pesticides in the most efficient way and we hope that the information on this book and database helps with that aim.

Many products have been demoted from Section 2 to Section 3 (Products Also Registered) as their approvals approach the expiry date or are no longer marketed by the companies concerned. As always, this book is a snapshot of the products with a valid approval on 16th October 2024 when the text went for initial typesetting. If you cannot see a product in the main section of the book, please check the index because it may be listed in ‘Products Also Registered’. For those who must have the most up-to-date information I can recommend the on-line version of UKPG which is a searchable database with much more information than we can squeeze into the book.

More Info & Purchase

The post The UK Pesticide Guide 2025 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-02-23

2025-02-23T05:00:01-00:00

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2025-02-16T05:00:01-00:00

How to Get Rid of Tiger Beetles?

2025-02-14T04:45:14-00:00

Tiger beetles play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by controlling other insect populations, they can sometimes become a nuisance, especially when they invade gardens, lawns, or homes. If you’re dealing with an unwanted tiger beetle infestation, it’s important to address the issue effectively without harming the environment. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to get rid of tiger beetles safely.

How to Identify Tiger Beetles?

Before attempting to control tiger beetles, it’s essential to correctly identify them. Here are some key characteristics to look out for:

Appearance: Tiger beetles are typically 0.3 to 0.75 inches (8-20 mm) long, with long legs and large, bulging eyes.
Colors: They come in various metallic colors, including green, blue, red, and bronze. Some species have intricate patterns on their wing covers.
Mandibles: Tiger beetles have large, sickle-shaped mandibles (jaws) that are clearly visible.
Behavior: These insects are known for their quick movements and ability to run fast when disturbed.

How to Get Rid of Tiger Beetles?

While tiger beetles are beneficial predators, their presence in large numbers can be problematic. Here are some effective and eco-friendly ways to manage and get rid of tiger beetles:

Remove Their Habitat

Tiger beetles thrive in sandy, open areas where they can hunt and lay eggs. If you have patches of bare soil or sand in your yard, consider covering them with mulch, grass, or ground cover plants.

Reduce Outdoor Lighting

Tiger beetles, like many other insects, are attracted to light. If you have bright outdoor lights near your home, consider switching to yellow or sodium vapor bulbs, which are less appealing to insects.

Use Natural Repellents

Certain natural repellents can help deter tiger beetles without harming them or the environment. For example, diatomaceous earth can be sprinkled around areas where tiger beetles are active

Natural Predators

Encourage the presence of natural predators that feed on tiger beetles, such as birds, frogs, or larger predatory insects. Installing bird feeders or creating a small pond in your yard can attract these predators and help keep the tiger beetle population in check.

Conclusion

Tiger beetles play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. By identifying them correctly and taking proactive measures, you can effectively reduce their numbers and prevent future infestations. If the problem persists, seeking professional pest control services may be the best solution.

The post How to Get Rid of Tiger Beetles? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

How to Get Rid of Tsetse Fly?

2025-02-10T09:23:10-00:00

Tsetse flies are blood-sucking insects that are found mainly in sub-Saharan Africa. They are notorious for spreading sleeping sickness (trypanosomiasis) in humans and nagana in animals. Due to their ability to transmit these dangerous diseases, controlling and preventing their spread is crucial. In this blog, we will how to get rid of tsetse fly and to prevent them.

What Causes Tsetse Fly Infestation?

Tsetse flies thrive in regions that are home to large populations of wild animals, especially in dense forests, riverbanks, and savannahs. The flies prefer areas with abundant vegetation, as they use the thick vegetation as shelter during the day and a place to rest.

Several factors contribute to the infestation of tsetse flies, including:

Wildlife Habitats: The flies are drawn to areas where they can find large herbivores, such as antelopes, buffaloes, and elephants, which are their primary sources of blood.
Water Sources: Tsetse flies are attracted to areas near rivers and lakes, where they can find both water for hydration and large animals to feed on.
Climate: Warm and humid environments are ideal for tsetse fly reproduction. During the rainy season, the conditions become even more favorable for the flies to multiply.

How to Get Rid of Tsetse Flies?

Getting rid of tsetse flies requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some effective strategies that can help you control and eliminate these dangerous pests:

Use of Insecticides: Spraying insecticides around affected areas is one of the most common methods of reducing tsetse fly populations. However, care should be taken to ensure that the insecticides used are effective and environmentally friendly.
Tsetse Fly Traps: Traps designed specifically for tsetse flies use a combination of visual and chemical attractants to lure flies and trap them. These traps are strategically placed in areas where tsetse fly activity is most prevalent.
Clearing Vegetation: Tsetse flies use dense vegetation for shelter during the day, so clearing bushy areas, especially around water bodies, can help reduce their habitat.
Protective Clothing and Repellents: For individuals working in tsetse fly-prone areas, wearing protective clothing and using insect repellents can help reduce the risk of bites.
Biological Control: Introducing natural predators or parasites that target tsetse flies can help reduce their population. For instance, certain species of parasitic wasps are known to lay their eggs inside tsetse fly pupae, which can reduce the number of adult flies.

Conclusion

Tsetse flies pose a serious threat to humans and animals due to their ability to spread deadly diseases. While preventive measures like traps, insecticides, and clearing vegetation can help, infestations may return if not properly managed. If you experience a recurring tsetse fly problem, it’s best to seek professional pest control services.

The post How to Get Rid of Tsetse Fly? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-02-09

2025-02-09T05:00:01-00:00

International Pest Control – January/February 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.1

2025-02-07T12:12:21-00:00

Cover image: Relatively low levels of bark stripping are seen on trees in woodlands in and around London because the grey squirrel population is too well fed in public parks and householders’ gardens.
Picture by Dr Terry Mabbett

Preserving harvested crops and ensuring the best price goes to the farmer is critical to feeding the world’s population. In Kenya the focus is on reducing crop loss of up to 40% by introducing affordable and community operated cold chain facilities. In Australia grain and vegetable growers are joining forces to invest nearly $25 million on a project to “reduce reliance on broad-spectrum insecticides and implement innovative strategies to manage pest populations”.

It’s great to report that the (EPA) has issued its first voucher under its Vector Expedited Review Voucher (VERV) Program. We first covered this innovative programme in Nov/Dec 2023 and Jan/Feb 2024 issues. More concerning is the ongoing impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) which according to some reports is one mutation away from easier transmission amongst humans: this feels like a story we will be returning to.

We report on three conferences: the UK BCPC (this is a two-part report with the second part in the next issue) which took on the task of “Shaping the Future of Crop Protection”, UK PestTech 2024 which bills itself as “A Showcase of Innovation and Community” and finally the annual Association of Applied Biologists IPM meeting.

Lots of association news from AAB, GPMC, IBMA, NPMA and TPMA/PMAT while company news includes the usual mix of new production and acquisitions from Koppert, Killgerm, Croda, Rentokil Initial, Andermatt, the newly renamed Fruit Research Centre, Bayer and BASF.

The special feature this issue is Climate Change and Pest Management, a bit of a cheat on my part as I know I could fill the magazine on this one topic – whether it is agriculture finding ways to mitigate its impact, modify the crops that are grown, invest in biofuels, fight climate enhanced herbicide resistance, phytomining, or invasive pest control. And yes, all of these could have been spread through the magazine under our regular sections which just leads to the conclusion that there is no sector that is not touched by climate change.

In Public Health we report on Toxic Male Technique, not a description of American politics but a method of controlling the vectors of disease by working as quickly as pesticides. Currently at the proof-of-concept stage this method could replace sterile male release. We also have some advice on avoiding the poisoning of non-target species when controlling rats (which are the Pest of the Issue).

Can cover crops outcompete herbicide resistant weeds? That’s a question University of Idaho graduate students are trying to answer. With a lot of weeds now glyphosate resistant, using cover crops to outcompete weeds – thereby reducing reliance on herbicides – would also help farmers comply with a new US EPA Endangered Species Act strategy.

Genes also come to the fore in a project to boost disease resistance in wheat by identifying which genes are important in determining resistance. Genes may also play a role in reversing insecticide resistance by creation of a new genetic system that converts insecticide-resistant forms of mutated insect genes back to their natural, native form. Syngenta is hoping AI can help it discover novel methods of disease control, significantly reduce discovery time for new safe crop protection solutions and get them into the hands of farmers as quickly as possible.

In Horticulture and Amenity, the new tool on the block seems to be ways of “applying” biological control agents like spider mites. We report on the BioBee solution and Koppert’s Aerobreez.

In Forestry and Plantation our resident expert Dr Terry Mabbett looks at the role of that introduced pest the grey squirrel and what is the best tree to plant given the onslaught of introduced tree pests that the UK is suffering from. Finally, we have our annual index to help you find articles from 2024.

In our next issue we look at the pests of crop and amenity trees – if you would like to contribute, please feel free to email us your article with pictures.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control January/February 2025
Volume 67, Number 1.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Cold chain tech adds value and cuts crop losses
Grain and horticulture work together in Aus
First VERV voucher for novel mosquito control products
Enhanced surveillance of highly pathogenic avian influenza
Award for research on insect viruses

PEST OF THE ISSUE

Rodents: Brown rat

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

BCPC 2024, Part 1: Shaping the future of crop protection
PestTech 2024: A showcase of innovation and community
IPM in uncertain climatic and economic environments
Legumes in science and practice, Reading, June 25
Global Pest Management Coalition selects board
IBMA and FAO sign Letter of Intent
PestWorld East 2025 registration open
TPMA achieves national association status as PMAT

COMPANY NEWS

Launch of innovative biofungicide solution
Killgerm appoint UK MD
New Senior Global Regulatory Specialist at Koppert
New Croda drone adjuvant
Rentokil Initial is officially admired
Acquisition of the beneficial insect business
Proeftuin Randwijk has a new name – Fruit Research Centre Randwijk
End to Roundup litigation in Australia
BASF Pest Control celebrates 75 years at Widnes, UK

SPECIAL FEATURE: Climate Change and Pest Management

Greenhouse horticulture using direct air capture of CO2
BASF global carbon field trial programme results
Farmers open to innovation to cope with climate change
Bayer acquires camelina to advance biofuels
Will agricultural weeds finally claim the upper hand?
IFAD boosting spending to support climate action
Phytomining key lithium-ion battery metal
Phytobiome engineering = greater food security?
Bayer and Neste to collaborate on feedstocks for renewable fuels
Targeting invasive pests threatening health

PUBLIC HEALTH

Engineered mosquitoes could transform disease control
Reducing the risk of poisoning non-target species

AGRICULTURE

Controlling weeds with cover crops
Wheat genes to boost disease resistance
New gene drive reverses insecticide resistance
AI to advance safe, sustainable weed control

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Decreased insect mortality and consistent flow rates
Natutec Airobreez: an application device for biocontrol

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Growing sycamore – don’t forget the grey squirrels.

BOOKS

UK Pesticide Guide 2025 – Book review
Pesticide Manual 20th Edition – Book review

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

INDEX

International Pest Control Index Volume 66 – 2024

Published in International Pest Control – January/February 2025 issue.

The post International Pest Control – January/February 2025 – Vol 67, Nr.1 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Tick?

2025-02-05T10:02:01-00:00

Tick bites are a common occurrence, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or even gardening. While most tick bites are harmless, some can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other infections. In this article, we will explain the necessary actions to take immediately after a tick bite.

What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Tick?

Remain Calm and Identify the Tick

The first step after discovering a tick bite is to stay calm. Most ticks do not transmit diseases immediately, and removal within a reasonable time frame can reduce the risk of infection. Once you notice the bite, carefully inspect the tick. Different species of ticks can carry different diseases, so identifying the tick can be helpful for healthcare professionals later.

Safely Remove the Tick

The key to reducing the risk of tick-borne illness is to remove the tick as soon as possible. Here’s how to do it safely:

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible, ensuring you grab it by the head or mouthparts.
Pull gently and steadily without twisting, as twisting may cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off and remain embedded in the skin.
After removing the tick, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol, an antiseptic, or soap and water.

Dispose of the Tick Properly

Once the tick is removed, you need to dispose of it properly. You can place the tick in a sealed bag or container and store it in the freezer to keep it intact for possible identification.

Monitor for Symptoms

After a tick bite, it’s essential to keep an eye out for any symptoms that may indicate an infection. Common signs to look for include:

A rash (especially a bullseye-shaped rash, which is characteristic of Lyme disease)
Fever
Fatigue
Muscle or joint aches If any of these symptoms develop, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately, as prompt treatment can prevent the infection from spreading.

Seek Medical Advice if Necessary

Even if you don’t show immediate signs of illness, it’s a good idea to contact a healthcare provider after a tick bite, especially if you were bitten in an area where tick-borne diseases are common.

Conclusion

A tick bite can be unsettling, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. By removing the tick carefully, monitoring for symptoms, and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing a tick-borne illness. If you frequently encounter ticks, you have to consult a pest control professional for advice on keeping ticks away from home.

The post What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Tick? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-02-02

2025-02-02T05:00:01-00:00

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-01-26

2025-01-26T05:00:01-00:00

Why Do I Suddenly Have Drain Flies?

2025-01-25T09:53:40-00:00

Drain flies, also known as sink flies or sewer gnats, can appear out of nowhere and quickly become a nuisance in your home. These tiny, moth-like insects are often seen hovering around sinks, bathtubs, or drains.

While they might seem harmless, their sudden presence is usually a sign of an underlying issue. In this blog, we’ll explore why drain flies may have invaded your home, steps you can take to prevent them, and how to keep them from coming back.

Why Do I Suddenly Have Drain Flies?

The sudden appearance of drain flies is often linked to issues within your home’s plumbing system. Here are the main reasons you might notice them:

Standing Water in Drains: Drain flies thrive in stagnant water where organic matter has built up. This creates the perfect breeding ground for their larvae. If a drain isn’t regularly cleaned or used, it can become a hotspot for drain flies.
Organic Debris Buildup: Soap scum, grease, hair, and other debris trapped in drains serve as food for drain flies. Over time, this accumulation can create a breeding environment deep within your pipes.
Leaks or Moisture Issues: Leaky pipes or damp areas around your plumbing can attract drain flies. Even a minor leak can create the right conditions for their larvae to develop.
Seasonal Factors: Drain flies are more common during warm and humid weather. They thrive in moist environments, so you may notice an increase during spring and summer months.

Preventive Measures for Drain Flies

Getting rid of drain flies and preventing their return requires both immediate action and long-term strategies. Here’s how you can tackle the problem:

Clean Your Drains Regularly: Use a pipe brush or drain cleaner to remove organic buildup in your drains. For a natural solution, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water.
Fix Leaks Promptly: Inspect your plumbing system for leaks and repair them as soon as possible. Drying out damp areas will make your home less attractive to drain flies.
Keep Drains Covered: Use drain covers or strainers to catch debris before it goes down the pipes. This reduces the amount of organic material that can accumulate in your plumbing.
Eliminate Standing Water: Check for areas where water may pool, such as sinks, showers, and even outdoor areas. Empty and clean these spaces to discourage drain fly activity.
Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners: Enzyme-based drain cleaners break down organic matter without harsh chemicals. Regular use can keep your drains clean and free from fly-attracting debris.

Conclusion

The sudden appearance of drain flies can be frustrating, but understanding their habits and knowing how to address the root cause will help you manage them effectively. Keeping your drains clean and addressing moisture issues promptly can go a long way in preventing future infestations. If the problem persists, consulting a pest control services can provide a long-term solution.

The post Why Do I Suddenly Have Drain Flies? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-01-19

2025-01-19T05:00:01-00:00

Company Profile…20 years of BioGenius serving its customers

2025-01-14T16:38:12-00:00

“To care about long lasting, effective and protective biocidal products to provide safer lives for peoplearound the world.”

At BioGenius, we work for our global customers: Competent. Testing. Together. For over 700 customers worldwide, these three principles have become more crucial than ever in the approval of active ingredients and products for biocidal and plant protection purposes.

When BioGenius was founded in 2004, the approval of biocidal products was still in its early stages in Europe. Yet, even back then, the BioGenius founders had a clear vision of the challenges that manufacturers and suppliers of biocides would face and the level of service BioGenius would provide.

BioGenius managing director Alexander Brux (left) and senior managing director Mike Bublitz (right).

Armed with this foresight and a small initial customer base, our team grew rapidly. Our strategy focused on establishing ourselves as a provider of “one-stop-shop” laboratory services for all technical studies of biocidal and plant protection products, with an initial emphasis on insecticides and repellents.

Early focus on efficacy testing

Direct spray test with crawling insects.

Our efficacy testing, including in-house insect breeding, has been a flagship service since our inception, ensuring that BioGenius can conduct tests year-round, independent of seasonal or supply constraints.

Soon, it became clear that our blend of efficacy tests, analytics, and application testing was highly valued by customers, and today, BioGenius remains nearly unique in Europe with this combination of services in analytics and efficacy testing.
Additionally, BioGenius made a strategic decision to GLP-certify our analytics and application testing areas from the start. BioGenius’s early involvement in the EU-wide biocide approval requirements has given us a considerable advantage due to our comprehensive know-how in requirements, methods, active ingredients, and products, especially in insecticide and repellent testing.

Expanding our service portfolio

One of our main challenges from the beginning was the continuous alignment of BioGenius’ service portfolio with the increasing international standards for active ingredient and product approvals.

Approximately ten years ago, this led to an expansion to support additional product types, such as disinfection and hygiene products, preservatives, and rodent control products.

After nearly 20 years of supporting international approval projects, BioGenius now provides services for over half of the 22 biocidal product types required for EU-wide approval packages, serving both European and non-European clients. We also manage projects in vector control (WHO), pest control, and plant protection, which are often required for global approvals.

Key service areas

Our essential analytical services include the development and validation of analysis methods for GC, HPLC, and IC, as well as for GC-MS and LC-MS.

A specialised service is the 5-batch analysis of active ingredients and products, essential for the relocation of production sites and mandatory for assessing the technical equivalence of active ingredients.

Ion chromatography analytics in the GLP-Laboratory.

In addition, our services include physico-chemical data packages and the short-term and long-term stability of formulations and products, combined with application properties, such as spray characteristics.

Example setup of a corrosion on metals measurement

For several years, we have offered transport safety data testing, such as metal corrosion, in our laboratories according to international standards like UN C.1, all under GLP conditions if required.

In terms of insect efficacy testing, BioGenius is one of Europe’s leading laboratories, housing more than 26 species of harmful insects, including four mosquito species and three cockroach species, which are available throughout the year. Our diverse test laboratories allow us to assess nearly any insect protection application, covering both domestic and professional pest control needs. Additionally, we conduct vector control tests for international clients, such as malaria prevention.

Our test methods are closely aligned with EU guidelines and international standards, including those from the WHO. BioGenius was also actively involved in establishing approval requirements within the EU BPR framework for repellent testing.

Breeding of clothes moth population.

In recent years, the demand for spatial repellent tests has grown significantly among our customers. We test the “spatial repellent effect” in our 30 m³ apartment-like connected rooms, as well as in our standard 20 m³ stainless steel chambers used for simulated-use tests, such as for fogger devices.

Growing role of technical consulting services

In the past 4-5 years, consulting has become increasingly essential for our clients, helping them navigate the testing landscape before beginning initial tests.

Our technical consultations cover:

Efficacy testing requirements
Stability parameters
Necessary analysis methods
Project costs
Potential alliances for cooperative opportunities

The detailed guidance documents, which often act as a “hidden agenda,” frequently raise questions among our clients. Our extensive experience enables us to help clients navigate the complexities of the BPR and PPP. With our two decades of biocide expertise, BioGenius holds a globally recognised reputation and can integrate additional areas of expertise through our network – our “one-stop-shop.”

We are proud to serve more than 700 customers in over 50 countries. Our service is regarded as well-structured and reliable by many regulatory authorities.

The BioGenius strategy is to become a provider of “one-stop-shop” laboratory services for all technical studies of biocidal and plant protection products.

Where next for BioGenius?

Each year, we revisit this vital question. In 2020, we set the course for BioGenius’ development, preparing for future challenges. Key steps include a generational change in our laboratory and in our management, as well as investments in modernising our instrumental analytics systems and efficacy testing capabilities.

Since July 2024, BioGenius has been part of the viridiusLAB AG laboratory group, opening new, diverse opportunities for high-quality, comprehensive service to our clients.

Future projects and trends

Our unique combination of efficacy testing laboratories and analytical capabilities is becoming increasingly important for studies on product residues in indoor environments following insecticide application. This type of data is crucial for clients’ risk assessments. Early projects have already begun, and more are planned for 2025.

Our focus on bio-pesticides, initiated in 2022, has already yielded projects, leveraging our viridiusLAB network to meet emerging needs. BioGenius is prepared for the growing responsibilities involved in international biocidal and plant protection product approvals.

All photos by BioGenius

For more information: info@biogenius.de / www.biogenius.de
Published in International Pest Control – November/December 2024 issue

The post Company Profile…20 years of BioGenius serving its customers first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-01-12

2025-01-12T05:00:01-00:00

What Season Are Pests Most Active?

2025-01-11T10:51:40-00:00

Pests are a constant concern for homeowners and businesses alike, with different seasons bringing out different types of insects and rodents. While pests can invade your space at any time of the year, understanding when they are most active can help you prepare and protect your home. In this blog, we will explore at what season the pests are most active.

What Season Are Pests Most Active?

The activity level of pests varies with the changing seasons, and different pests are active at different times of the year. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and the pests most commonly found during each:

Spring

As the weather warms up, pests like ants, termites, and cockroaches begin to come out of hibernation or reproduce. Spring also marks the start of the breeding season for many insects, including flies, mosquitoes, and spiders. As plants bloom and vegetation grows, these pests start seeking food and shelter indoors, making spring an especially busy time for pest control.

Summer

Summer is when pests are generally most active. The warm weather creates optimal conditions for pests to thrive. Mosquitoes, flies, ants, and wasps are in full force. Additionally, rodents like rats and mice are often looking for food and water sources to survive during the hotter months.

Fall

As temperatures cool down, pests start to look for warmer, more sheltered environments, often indoors. Rodents, including mice and rats, begin to enter homes in search of shelter, especially in regions where winters are harsh.

Winter

While many pests become less active during the winter, some, like rodents, continue to seek warmth inside homes. Termites, ants, and cockroaches are still present but less active. However, in warmer climates, pests like mosquitoes and certain types of ants can remain active year-round.

How to Prevent Pests Year-Round?

The key to keeping pests at bay is to be proactive in pest control throughout the year. Here are some tips for preventing infestations:

Seal Entry Points: Ensure that all cracks and crevices in windows, doors, and walls are sealed. Pests often enter through these gaps.
Keep a Clean Home: Regularly clean your home, especially in areas where food is prepared. Properly dispose of trash and eliminate standing water.
Maintain Your Yard: Trim back bushes, trees, and other plants that can provide entry points or shelter for pests.
Use Pest Control Products: Use insect repellents, traps, and professional pest control services to keep pests under control.

Conclusion

No matter the season, pests can pose a serious threat to your home and health. If you’re dealing with a pest issue or want to protect your property year-round, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact a trusted pest control service today to ensure your home remains safe, clean, and pest-free.

The post What Season Are Pests Most Active? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

What Kills Aphids Instantly?

2025-01-08T10:16:31-00:00

Aphids, also known as plant lice, are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, often leaving gardeners frustrated as they wreak havoc on flowers, vegetables, and shrubs. These pests reproduce rapidly, making it critical to act quickly to eliminate them.

The good news is that several effective methods, both natural and chemical, can kill aphids instantly. In this blog, we’ll explore the best ways to deal with aphids and keep your plants thriving.

How To Kill Aphid Quickly?

There are several natural remedies that can instantly kill aphids without harming beneficial insects or the environment.

Neem Oil Spray

Neem oil is a powerful natural insecticide that disrupts the life cycle of aphids, killing them on contact. To use:

Mix two teaspoons of neem oil with one liter of water
Add a few drops of dish soap to emulsify the solution
Spray directly onto the aphids, ensuring coverage of the undersides of leaves

Neem oil not only kills aphids but also deters future infestations.

Homemade Soap Solution

A simple soap and water mixture can suffocate aphids upon contact. Here’s how to prepare it:

Mix one tablespoon of liquid dish soap with one quart of water
Pour the mixture into a spray bottle
Spray generously on aphid-infested areas

Soap solutions are safe for most plants but avoid using harsh soaps that can damage delicate leaves.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. When sprinkled on plants, it dehydrates and kills aphids instantly. Simply dust the powder on leaves and stems where aphids are visible. Be cautious to avoid inhaling the powder and reapply after rain.

Beneficial Insects

While not instant in the same way as sprays, introducing natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can provide rapid results. These insects feast on aphids, helping to control their population naturally.

How to Prevent Future Aphid Infestations?

Once you’ve eliminated the aphids, take steps to prevent their return:

Plant Companion Herbs: Aphids dislike strong-smelling plants like garlic, chives, and marigolds.
Maintain Plant Health: Healthy plants are more resistant to pests. Keep your garden well-watered and fertilized.
Regular Monitoring: Check plants regularly for signs of aphids and take action at the first sign of infestation.

Conclusion

Aphids can be a big problem if there are too many of them, and sometimes sprays and home tricks might not be enough. If your plants are covered in aphids and you can’t get rid of them, it’s a good idea to call a pest control service. These experts know exactly how to handle big infestations and will make sure your garden is safe and healthy again

The post What Kills Aphids Instantly? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2025-01-05

2025-01-05T05:00:01-00:00

What Diseases Are Caused by Whiteflies?

2024-12-30T08:10:17-00:00

Whiteflies are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can wreak havoc on plants, both indoors and outdoors. While these pests are notorious for their impact on agriculture and gardening, their presence also poses health concerns for humans indirectly. In this article, we will explore what diseases are caused by whiteflies to plants and humans.

Diseases Caused by Whiteflies

Whiteflies act as carriers for several plant viruses, spreading diseases from one plant to another. Below are the major diseases caused by whiteflies:

1. Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV)

One of the most significant diseases spread by whiteflies, particularly the Bemisia tabaci species, is the Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus. It severely affects tomato plants, leading to:

Yellowing and curling of leaves
Reduced fruit production
Stunted growth

The economic impact of TYLCV on tomato crops is substantial, especially in regions where tomatoes are a major agricultural product.

2. Cassava Mosaic Virus

In regions where cassava is a staple crop, the Cassava Mosaic Virus poses a significant threat. Transmitted by the Bemisia tabaci whitefly, this virus causes:

Mottling and distortion of leaves
Poor tuber development
Significant yield losses, affecting food security

3. Bean Golden Mosaic Virus

Affecting beans, the Bean Golden Mosaic Virus leads to:

Yellowing of leaves in a mosaic pattern
Reduced pod production
Weak plant growth

This disease can devastate legume crops, causing economic hardship for farmers.

4. Cucumber Vein Yellowing Virus (CVYV)

Cucumbers and other cucurbits are often plagued by the Cucumber Vein Yellowing Virus, which whiteflies transmit. Symptoms include:

Yellowing along the veins of leaves
Poor fruit quality
Premature plant death

5. Cotton Leaf Curl Virus

In cotton-producing regions, the Cotton Leaf Curl Virus is a major problem. It causes:

Upward curling of leaves
Reduced boll production
Economic losses in the textile industry

Indirect Effects on Human Health

Although whiteflies themselves do not directly transmit diseases to humans, their activity can have indirect health implications:

Allergic Reactions: The fine powdery substance produced by whiteflies can irritate sensitive individuals.
Fungal Growth: Whiteflies excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mould. This fungal growth can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies.
Economic Impact: The crop losses caused by whitefly-borne diseases can affect food availability and prices, indirectly impacting human nutrition and well-being.

Conclusion

Whiteflies are more than just a nuisance; their role in spreading plant diseases can have far-reaching consequences for agriculture, ecosystems, and human well-being. By understanding the diseases caused by these pests, you can protect your plants and minimise the impact of whiteflies. If the whiteflies infestation is more, contact professional pest control services to handle them.

The post What Diseases Are Caused by Whiteflies? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-12-29

2024-12-29T05:00:01-00:00

Pest Control with Air Rifles - Squirrel Shooting - Ted's

2024-12-24T12:51:45-00:00

Company Profile…Aldef Global: Revolutionising the pest control industry with innovation and expertise

2024-12-22T17:08:46-00:00

Aldef Global office team. Photo: Aldef Global

Aldef Global, founded by Ana Francisco in 2013, has rapidly emerged as a leader in the pest control industry, combining decades of experience, industry expertise, and a deep commitment to innovation. With its roots in Ana’s early years working at Plastdiversity, a company founded by her parents, Aldef Global has grown from a small distribution operation in Poland to a multi-faceted production and packaging powerhouse serving clients across Europe and beyond.

A visionary start

Ana Francisco’s journey began as a young teenager assisting her family business, Plastdiversity, where she learned the art of client relations and business development. Early on, she was involved in everything from writing letters and faxes to attending exhibitions and seeking new clients. This hands-on experience, coupled with her university education, propelled her to drive an astounding 1200% sales growth within a few months of joining Plastdiversity full-time. Her drive and passion for the pest control industry were the foundation upon which Aldef Global was built.

Aldef Global first employee – Grzegorz Cichon. Photo: Aldef Global

Establishing Aldef Global

In 2013, Ana relocated to Poland and established Aldef Global with a focus on distribution. With only one employee in the logistics department, the company began its journey of growth. Today, Aldef Global has expanded to a 25-person team, and the company has diversified its offerings to include production, packaging services, and private-label manufacturing. The transformation from a two-person team to a fully operational business reflects the company’s commitment to growth, excellence, and innovation.

A culture of collaboration and Innovation

Aldef Global’s success is driven by a strong team culture, where employees are valued, and a positive atmosphere fosters collaboration. As Ana envisioned, the company has developed a solid and reliable team that is flexible and motivated to tackle new challenges. The daily coffee breaks, where the team discusses current projects and future goals, are a testament to the company’s strong internal culture and emphasis on teamwork.

Filling line in the Aldef Global factory. Photo: Aldef Global

A wide range of global services

Strategically located in southern Poland, Aldef Global benefits from its central position in Europe, ensuring swift and efficient supply chain operations across the continent. The company also maintains strong partnerships with local service providers, such as formulation companies and Plastdiversity in Portugal for moulding and injection moulding services.

Comprehensive services and industry expertise

Aldef Global serves a diverse range of clients, from pest control distributors to companies seeking contract manufacturing services for private-label products. The company’s expertise and adaptability allow it to cater to various market needs, from R&D and prototyping to mould manufacturing, production, and packaging. Whether producing eco-friendly pest control products or working on large-scale contract manufacturing, Aldef Global tailors its services to meet each client’s specific requirements.

Ana Francisco’s long-standing relationships with industry experts, scientists, and business partners worldwide have allowed Aldef Global to engage in several joint ventures. These collaborations are set to revolutionise the pest control industry by developing new, cutting-edge products. Aldef Global is continuously innovating, focusing on creating effective, easy-to-use, and environmentally conscious products.

Formulation line dedicated for Aldef Global. Photo: Asplant

Commitment to sustainability and quality

Aldef Global recognises the importance of sustainability in today’s market. The company incorporates high percentages of recycled materials into its products and is working on several eco-friendly solutions for the pest control industry.

Aldef Global is ISO certified

With its recent ISO certification for “Packaging products for the pest control industry” and ongoing efforts to secure GHMP certification, Aldef Global is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality in its operations.

Looking to the future

As Aldef Global continues to grow, its future goals include expanding contract manufacturing services and becoming the top European supplier for the pest control industry. With a reputation for professionalism, flexibility, and innovative solutions, Aldef Global is well-positioned to lead the industry in delivering high-quality products and services that meet the ever-evolving demands of the global pest control market.

Ana Francisco, CEO. Photo: Aldef Global

Through Ana Francisco’s leadership and vision, Aldef Global stands poised to revolutionise the pest control industry with groundbreaking products, eco-conscious innovations, and a dedication to excellence that defines its past, present, and future.

For more information: info@aldefglobal.com / www.aldefglobal.com.
Published in International Pest Control – September/October 2024 issue

The post Company Profile…Aldef Global: Revolutionising the pest control industry with innovation and expertise first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-12-22

2024-12-22T05:00:01-00:00

Are Brown Rats Dangerous?

2024-12-18T10:05:14-00:00

Brown rats, also known as Norway rats or sewer rats, are one of the most common rodents found worldwide. Their adaptability to various environments, from urban streets to rural fields, makes them a frequent presence in human habitats. In this blog, we will explore whether brown rats are truly dangerous, their potential health risks, and why pest control is essential for keeping them at bay.

Are Brown Rats Really Dangerous?

The short answer is yes, brown rats are dangerous. Their danger primarily stems from their ability to spread diseases, contaminate food and water, and damage property.

They are known to gnaw on electrical wires, wooden structures, and pipes, which can lead to fires, structural damage, and costly repairs. Brown rats are also highly adaptable and breed rapidly, making infestations challenging to manage.

What makes them particularly threatening is their close interaction with human environments. Brown rats are excellent scavengers and thrive on leftovers, garbage, and improperly stored food, often infiltrating homes, restaurants, and businesses. Their presence is not just unpleasant but a signal of potential health hazards.

What are the Health Risks of Rats?

Brown rats are vectors for several diseases, directly or indirectly affecting human health. Here’s a closer look at the health risks they pose:

Parasite Carriers: Brown rats are hosts to fleas, ticks, and mites that carry their own set of diseases. For instance, fleas from rats were historically responsible for spreading the plague. Today, they continue to pose a risk of allergic reactions and secondary infections.
Allergies and Asthma: Rat droppings, dander, and urine can exacerbate allergies and trigger asthma attacks in sensitive individuals, especially children and the elderly.
Psychological Stress: Beyond physical health, a rat infestation can cause significant mental stress. The constant worry about contamination, unpleasant odours, and the noise of rats moving or gnawing can affect one’s quality of life.

How to Identify a Rat Problem?

Identifying a rat infestation early can help mitigate its dangers. Here are common signs:

Droppings and Urine: Brown rats leave small, pellet-shaped droppings, often near food sources or hiding spots.
Gnaw Marks: Rats gnaw on wood, wires, and other materials, leaving distinctive marks.
Noises at Night: Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings are a common indicator of rat activity.
Nests: Brown rats use shredded materials like paper, fabric, or insulation to create nests.
Footprints or Tail Marks: Look for tracks in dusty areas or smudge marks on walls where they travel.

Conclusion

Brown rats pose serious risks to your health, safety, and property. From spreading diseases to causing costly damage, these pests require swift action to control. If you suspect a rat infestation, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contact professional pest control services today to protect your home or business and ensure a safe, rodent-free environment.

The post Are Brown Rats Dangerous? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-12-15

2024-12-15T05:00:01-00:00

International Pest Control – November/December 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.6

2024-12-09T12:07:49-00:00

Cover image: The BioGenius strategy is to become a provider of “one-stop-shop” laboratory services for all technical studies of biocidal and plant protection products.
Picture by BioGenius

Controlling a plant virus rarely jeopardises up to 500 jobs but in South Australia the state government has quarantined greenhouse crops infected with tomato brown rugose virus (ToBRV) and ordered crop destruction and disinfection. Meanwhile, in the USA the focus is on spreading the lessons learnt from a decade of funding the Tomato Organic Management and Improvement (TOMI) project. And in Wales a BioHUB has been opened at the University of Swansea with the aim of innovation in the use of natural products across agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

We don’t often carry Opinion pieces but in this issue, four leading scientists and regulatory specialists in the biopesticides field make the case for change in the regulatory process for these products. “Biopesticides will require a balanced, informed and intelligent risk review by the authorities.” We need to get this right in order to achieve a smooth transition away from conventional, increasingly ineffective, chemical pesticides.

Bug of the Issue is the pharoah ant, a tropical species which has infested homes worldwide.

We carry a report from the IPM 2024 conference held in September at the University of Swansea – a successful and interesting event.

Company news includes the usual mix of acquisitions, product launches, awards and appointments from Orkin, Koppert, PestCo Holdings, Pest Solutions, Andermatt, BioFirst and Certis Belchim.

Our Company Profile features German company BioGenius who are focused on becoming a key provider of “one-stop-shop” laboratory services for all technical studies of biocidal and plant protection products.

Our Special Feature section is about Technology in Pest Control, and we kick off with a plea from African Sub-Saharan smallholders for better access to technology taken for granted elsewhere.

One way to avoid pests is to create an entirely artificial growing environment. Vertical farming provides just that, but the industry has not been an unqualified success and energy consumption – alongside energy price – is critical. WUR reports on a system of smarter control of artificial lighting which improves plant health and reduces costs.

Robot use on farms is coming to the fore. An interesting study looked at two strategies for weed control: one relied on using herbicides until resistance made them ineffective (myopic management) then switched to robots, the other looked at extending the life of herbicides by using robots early on – interestingly the mixed-use mode is the most cost effective. Are you a myopic pest manager or are you forward looking? This section also includes articles on the digitisation of pest control from Pelsis, Syngenta and Owl Sentry.

In Agriculture we look at a potentially new group of pesticides based on organically derived Furfurylamine. A newly discovered plant protein GAME15 involved in regulation of susceptibility to insects such as leafhoppers and Colorado potato beetles may offer new ways of control. Other topics include mitigating heat stress in tomatoes, rapid virus detection, and a new soft fruit breeding programme.

We conclude with a magnum opus on the current state of the Ips typographus invasion of the UK and its potential to devastate an important commercial tree crop. Written by Dr Terry Mabbett it challenges the view that the invasion was just down to blow-ins from the continent and asks if we are not significantly underestimating the risk from infested Norway spruce earmarked for biomass burning and firewood.

And we close with the hope of a breakthrough in the fight against both Fusarium Tropical Race 4 (TR4) and Black Sigatoka, two of the most destructive diseases for bananas with the development of a resistant plant. Maybe it’s time for the Cavendish to move on…

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control November/December 2024
Volume 66, Number 6.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

ToBRFV: “We have one chance to contain this virus”
TOMI project receives $3.5M grant
New Welsh £4.5m biotechnology hub

OPINION

Regulatory reform for the UK

BUG OF THE ISSUE

Pharoah ant

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

New IPM 2024: Emerging Opportunities symposium
New President of the European Association for Potato Research
ICUP 2025 early bird registration open
PestWorld 2024 hits a new high in Denver

COMPANY NEWS

Beaver Pest Control acquired by Orkin
Koppert launches renewed Side Effects app
Green Mango Pest Control acquired by PestCo Holdings
Commitment to net zero shines through at awards
Andermatt Group AG acquires 80% of Agricheck
Top honours at the 2024 Trends Impact Awards
Koppert: new Global Leadership Team
Gold in the Bernard Blum Award 2024
Inaugural Sustainability Report
Biology for a better tomorrow

COMPANY PROFILE

20 years of BioGenius serving its customers

SPECIAL FEATURE: Technology in Pest Control

African smallholders need improved access to technology
Dynamic control for more efficient vertical farming
Automating trap checks can transform your business
Pelsis Group: setting the bar for pest control?
AI can help growers increase yields by up to five percent
A myopic strategy will cost more in the long run
AI for the pest control business

AGRICULTURE

Bio-based insecticidal ingredients
Key protein discovered in solanaceous plants
Novel genetic basis of pest resistance

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Mitigating heat stress in tomatoes with C4L biostimulant
Detecting viruses at lightning speed
New soft fruit pre-breeding research

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Ips typographus: all is finally revealed… or is it?
Breakthrough in fight against devastating banana diseases
Sustainable agriculture in olives

CLIMATE CHANGE

Latin American trial heralds methane free rice

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – November/December 2024 issue.

The post International Pest Control – November/December 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.6 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

What are the Hardest Bug to Get Rid Of?

2024-12-09T10:39:36-00:00

When it comes to pest control, not all bugs are created equal. While some may be dealt with relatively easily using traps, sprays, or other preventive measures, others are much more resilient and challenging to eradicate. In this blog, let’s explore what are the hardest bug to get rid of and why they are hardest to kill.

What are the Hardest Bug to Kill?

Some pest are more resilient to eliminate and they need some special care to get rid of. Those bugs are termites, bed bugs, and cockroaches. Their unique characteristics, reproduction rates, and ability to hide make them challenging even for professionals.

Termites

Termites are eusocial insects that thrive in colonies, often hidden within walls or wooden structures. They can go undetected for years, causing extensive damage to homes by feeding on cellulose found in wood, books, and wallpaper.

Termites reproduce rapidly, with queens laying thousands of eggs daily. Even when treated, colonies can reestablish themselves if any survivors remain. Professional treatments, including bait systems like Sentricon, are critical for effective termite eradication.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, flat insects that excel at hiding in mattresses, furniture, and even electrical outlets. They reproduce quickly, with a single infestation leading to hundreds of offspring in just weeks.

Modern bed bugs are resistant to many insecticides due to their tough exoskeletons and evolving genetic defenses. Effective eradication often involves a combination of treatments, including heat, steam, and targeted insecticides. Professional pest control services offer the best chance at complete removal.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are infamous for their survival skills. They can withstand various environmental conditions, hide in the smallest crevices, and reproduce at alarming rates. Some species can even reproduce asexually, compounding the challenge of eradication.

They are resistant to many over-the-counter treatments and require professional-grade insecticides, bait stations, and thorough preventive measures to control infestations.

Why Are These Pests So Hard to Eliminate?

The difficulty in eradicating these pests stems from their biology and behavior:

Rapid Reproduction: These pests can quickly replace lost members of their colonies, making it crucial to address entire populations.
Hiding Habits: Their ability to hide in hard-to-reach areas prolongs infestations and makes complete extermination challenging.
Resistance to Treatments: Over time, these pests have developed resistance to many conventional insecticides, necessitating advanced, targeted approaches.

Conclusion

Dealing with pests like termites, bed bugs, and cockroaches requires persistence, knowledge, and often professional intervention. These pests are challenging to eliminate due to their rapid reproduction, elusive hiding habits, and resistance to traditional treatments. However, with the right strategies like integrated pest management, homeowners can manage to control these pests.

The post What are the Hardest Bug to Get Rid Of? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-12-08

2024-12-08T05:00:01-00:00

What is the Best Killer for Armyworms?

2024-12-04T10:18:16-00:00

Armyworms are notorious pests that can wreak havoc on lawns, gardens, and agricultural crops. These voracious feeders can strip entire fields of leafy vegetation in just a matter of days, making effective control essential for maintaining healthy plants. Understanding what armyworms are and how to manage their population is important for gardeners and farmers. In this blog, we’ll explore what are the best killer for armyworms.

What are Armyworms?

Armyworms are the larvae of several moth species, most commonly the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and the true armyworm (Pseudaletia unipuncta). They typically appear in late spring to early summer, with populations peaking during warm weather. Armyworms are characterized by their greenish-brown colour, and they only have the ability to move in large groups, resembling an army on the march.

Signs of Infestation

Before delving into the best killers, it’s essential to identify the problem early. Signs of an armyworm infestation include:

Irregularly chewed leaves
Wilting or browning grass
Discovery of clusters of small, greenish or brown caterpillars
A noticeable increase in bird activity, as many birds feed on armyworms

Chemical Control Options

For severe infestations, chemical pesticides can be effective. Here are some top choices:

Pyrethroids: Chemicals like permethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin are effective at killing armyworms on contact. These are synthetic versions of naturally occurring insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers.

Bacillus thuringiensis: This naturally occurring bacterium is one of the safest options available. Bt specifically targets caterpillars, including armyworms, by producing toxins that disrupt their digestive systems. It’s ideal for organic gardeners looking for an eco-friendly solution.

Insect Growth Regulators: Products containing IGRs like methoprene interfere with the growth and development of armyworms. These are particularly useful as they disrupt their life cycle, preventing larvae from reaching maturity and reproducing.

Natural Control Methods

If you prefer non-chemical approaches, several natural methods can help manage armyworm populations:

Handpicking: For small infestations, handpicking the larvae can be a quick and effective method. Wear gloves and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.
Beneficial Insects: Encourage the presence of natural predators, such as parasitic wasps and ladybugs, which can help keep armyworm numbers in check.
Neem Oil: Derived from the seeds of the neem tree, neem oil acts as a repellent and disrupts the feeding behaviour of armyworms. It can be sprayed on affected plants to protect them from further damage.
Companion Planting: Certain plants, like marigolds and basil, can deter armyworms when planted alongside susceptible crops.

Conclusion

The best killer will depend on the severity of the infestation and whether you prefer chemical or natural solutions. Chemical pesticides offer fast results, while natural methods like Bacillus thuringiensis and neem oil provide more eco-friendly alternatives. If you experience a severe infestation, it’s always best to contact professional pest control services.

The post What is the Best Killer for Armyworms? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-12-01

2024-12-01T05:00:01-00:00

What Smell Do Silverfish Hate?

2024-11-25T10:42:38-00:00

Silverfish are some of the most persistent pests that can invade your home, causing damage to your belongings and food. These small, silvery creatures thrive in dark, humid environments, making areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens prime targets for an infestation. In this blog, we’ll explore into what smells do silverfish hate and how you can use them to keep your home pest-free.

What Smell Do Silverfish Hate?

Silverfish have a highly sensitive sense of smell, and there are several odors that they find unpleasant. By using these scents strategically, you can make your home an inhospitable environment for them. Here are the top smells silverfish can’t stand:

1. Cedarwood

Cedarwood is one of the most effective natural deterrents for silverfish. The strong, aromatic scent of cedar acts as a pest repellent for many types of pests, including silverfish. Cedarwood not only makes your home smell fresh and inviting but also protects your fabrics and wooden furniture.

2. Citrus

Silverfish are repelled by the sharp, zesty aroma of citrus fruits like lemon, orange, and lime. The scent of citrus is unpleasant to them and can disrupt their feeding habits. To use this smell to your advantage, you can place citrus peels in areas where silverfish are likely to appear.

3. Lavender

Lavender is another scent that silverfish detest. Its calming and aromatic properties are not only beneficial for humans but can also help in keeping pests at bay. The strong scent of lavender makes it a natural deterrent for silverfish and other pests like moths and mosquitoes. You can use dried lavender sachets in your closet, or essential oils in a diffuser, or even spray a diluted solution of lavender oil around your home to keep silverfish away.

4. Mint

The strong, cool fragrance of mint is another scent that silverfish find intolerable. Silverfish dislike both the scent and the cooling sensation that mint leaves behind. You can plant mint around your home or use peppermint essential oil to create a barrier. A peppermint oil spray can be particularly effective in the kitchen and bathroom, where silverfish are commonly found.

5. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus has a potent, refreshing aroma that silverfish tend to avoid. The smell is so strong that it can disrupt their senses and drive them away from infested areas. You can use eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle to cover areas like baseboards, cracks, and other places where silverfish may be hiding.

Conclusion

While silverfish may be small, their ability to destroy paper, fabrics, and other household items can make them a real nuisance. By understanding the smells they hate, you can take proactive steps to make your home less inviting to these unwelcome pests. If you’ve tried these methods and still find silverfish lurking in your home, it’s time to call in professional pest control services.

The post What Smell Do Silverfish Hate? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-11-24

2024-11-24T05:00:01-00:00

Introducing Natural Products BioHUB, Swansea University

2024-11-20T13:34:15-00:00

The Natural Products BioHUB engaging with the general public at the Swansea Science Festival 2023.

Natural Products BioHUB, a Swansea University-led collaboration with Swansea City Council is at the forefront of accelerating the green economy through collaboration and fast tracking of innovative research into new products, services and businesses. The NP BioHUB is funded by the UK Government Levelling Up Fund through Swansea City Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Open Fund call. Through a successful application, the project received £587,280, to evolve the Swansea region by creating a greener and more sustainable city.

The Natural Products BioHUB at Swansea University aims to foster innovation and collaboration in the field of natural product research and development. Swansea University offers world leading research expertise in algal and microbial biotechnology, and invertebrate model systems. These research areas form the basis of novel product creation across multiple industrial sectors. The local resources together with analytical, computational, and engineering facilities at Swansea University fit well in addressing industrial challenges in scale up and product development.

By bringing together academic experts, industry leaders, and local stakeholders, a dynamic ecosystem has been created allowing the expansion of knowledge within the field. The project aims to help pinpoint, and potentially solve, challenges within the natural product sector, through facilitating partnerships with industry leaders around the world.

Through its focus on natural products, NP BioHUB is working to drive economic growth through creation of new businesses, inward investment, job creation, and by establishing links with national and international markets. With a strong emphasis on community engagement and the exchange of ideas, the NP BioHUB is more than solely a centre for research and innovation, but also a hub for economic and social development in the Swansea region.

Why natural products?

As the world looks for more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, the inclusion of natural products, the applied use of cells and their products, within the agricultural, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries is expanding rapidly. By adapting to natural solutions, there will be less reliance on synthetic chemicals which will contribute to a healthier and greener environment for the global population. The shift away from harmful chemicals and pesticides allows for greater interest in developing natural solutions and we believe that natural products are the way forward. Not only do they offer a viable and sustainable alternative to chemicals, but they also benefit the planet and human and animal health. Swansea University’s academic expertise has a record of accomplishment particularly in the commercialisation of algal and fungal biotechnologies.

Project aims:

The current project is funded until the end of 2024 and is looking to support green development across the Swansea region.

Working alongside Swansea Council, NP BioHUB aims to:

Offer research and development expertise to local businesses, including start-ups and spin-outs, in the biotech field to help drive natural products to market.
Bring together biotech, data science, and robotics companies through networking events and the promotion of natural product developments within the region.
Improve green infrastructure and allow the public access to more nature-based local products.
Increase tourism to the area through networking activities, including the eagerly anticipated New IPM Symposium (https://www.newipm.com), taking place in September of this year.
Encourage relocation of bio-based and biotech companies to the Swansea area through partnerships and opportunities.
Promote the development of the biophilic building located in Swansea City centre, which will house offices and lab equipment for businesses looking to develop their research and collaborate with other Swansea businesses within the biotech sector.

Our Research:

Swansea University serves as a focal point for translational natural products research, boasting expertise across various key subject areas. The university’s extensive repository of innovative research and solutions forms the bedrock for collaboration between academia and industry. For example, our microbe-based research has had multiple successes in launching and supporting novel products and businesses. Through the NP BioHUB, networking opportunities will be facilitated among stakeholders, nurturing extended R&D partnerships for start-ups and spin-outs, as well as providing access to novel intellectual property for commercialisation.

The proposed Accelerator in Process Engineering offers a platform for businesses to expand with R&D assistance and prototyping proficiency, thereby mitigating risks and enhancing efficiency.

The Accelerator in Analytical Chemistry utilises Swansea University’s Chemistry Department facilities for the exploration and advancement of antimicrobial agents and insect attractants. The establishment of a national natural product library and insectarium, in conjunction with Computational Foundry’s expertise in machine learning and big data, further cements Swansea University’s position as a trailblazer in multidisciplinary collaboration for green innovation.

Impact on the community:

Working with the local community is central to the NP BioHUB mission. We want to ensure our research benefits the health, well-being and economic prosperity of Swansea residents and the wider region. Our project supports UN sustainable development goals, including health and wellbeing, clean energy, innovation, sustainable cities, and climate action. We also work with schools, colleges and other outreach programmes where we illustrate the benefits of our scientific research to the community through events like the Swansea Science Festival.

We are working with local businesses to raise awareness on some of the natural product benefits including:

The ability to treat and prevent diseases, with 75% of today’s antibiotics being derived from natural products
Developing microbial plant protection products which don’t have detrimental effects on human health or the environment as an alternative to traditional chemicals
Their easy accessibility and sustainable nature
Capturing industrial waste like CO2 from the brewing industry to grow algae

By raising awareness of just a few natural product benefits, we are hoping the community will become better informed and encourage more businesses to follow and make more environmentally conscious decisions.

Vision for Business and Industry support

By working with the businesses and industry leaders, the NP BioHUB has identified the need for establishing an infrastructure to fulfil the needs of emerging and growing businesses. Some examples of these include:

Spin-out and incubation spaces
Screening platforms
Analytical equipment
Specialised laboratories
Natural product library
Ability to network and engage with other businesses within the biotech space through university channels
Advice and support on IP protection and business, finance and grant applications.

The Natural Products BioHUB exhibiting at the Green Economy Conference in Swansea to showcase their research excellence and the support available for businesses. From left to right: Hamzah Bhatti (Research & Engagement Assistant), Dr Farooq Shah and Dr Abdul Waidi (Project Officer).

Research and industry-led funding opportunities

The feedback from industry highlighted the benefits of working in collaboration with NP BioHUB as a one-stop solution to their R&D needs. Furthermore, Swansea Bay region has a diverse natural habitat offering an abundance of natural materials to study and develop.

Recent developments:

Over the last six months, NP BioHUB has recruited four new members of staff to raise awareness of the BioHUB mission and to better facilitate connections between the university and biotech leaders around the world. There is a strong focus on the upcoming symposium in September 2024, in partnership with IBMA UK, which is looking to attract hundreds of business leaders, academics, and industry experts to Swansea over three days. Current supporters include Koppert, i2L research, and MGK insect control solutions.

Swansea University has recently invested over £1.2 million to refurbish lab spaces within the geography and bioscience departments, which will enhance current studies including the resilience of ecosystems, climate patterns, and plastic-consuming microbes. The university is also proud to be working with local schools by supplying seeded spirulina culture to the ongoing ‘our classroom climate’ programme.

If you’d be interested in working with our NP BioHUB, then get in contact with the team at
Biohub@swansea.ac.uk

All photos: Dr Farooq Shah

Author: Bethan Payne – Faculty of Science & Engineering, Swansea University

For more information visit NP BioHUN website

Published in International Pest Control – Jul/Aug 2024

The post Introducing Natural Products BioHUB, Swansea University first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Are Red Spider Mites Harmful to Humans?

2024-11-20T10:19:26-00:00

Red spider mites, tiny arachnids known for their voracious appetite for plants, are a common sight in gardens, greenhouses, and even indoor houseplants. They are infamous for being among the most common plant pests, particularly in warm, dry environments. In this article, let’s explore whether this red spider mites are harmful to humans or not.

What Are Red Spider Mites?

Red spider mites are minuscule creatures, often less than 0.5 millimeters in size. Their reddish hue and ability to spin fine silk webs make them distinctive. They thrive in warm, dry conditions, reproducing rapidly in favourable environments.

Spider mites infest various plants, ranging from ornamental flowers to crops, by piercing plant cells and extracting sap. This process leads to visible damage, including yellowing, stippling, and leaf drop.

How Can Red Spider Mites Affect Human Health?

Red spider mites are not dangerous to humans because they don’t bite, sting, or transmit diseases, but they can still be a nuisance in specific situations. Here are some ways they might affect humans:

Allergic Reactions

The silk webs and waste materials produced by spider mites can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. These allergens may cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes. This is particularly problematic for people with pre-existing respiratory issues like asthma or allergies to dust mites, as the symptoms can overlap and exacerbate existing conditions.

Skin Irritation

While spider mites do not bite humans, some people report mild skin irritation after handling heavily infested plants. This irritation is not caused by the mites themselves but rather by contact with their silk, feces, or the fine hairs on the plants that have been disturbed by the infestation.

Emotional Distress

For plant lovers and gardeners, a red spider mite infestation can be a source of frustration and emotional stress. The rapid destruction of beloved plants can lead to feelings of helplessness and concern, especially when the infestation spreads to prized or rare specimens.

How Can You Prevent and Manage Red Spider Mites?

The best way to mitigate any indirect effects of red spider mites on humans is to address infestations promptly. Here are some practical tips to control and prevent these pests:

Maintain Plant Health: Healthy plants are more resistant to pest infestations. Ensure proper watering, fertilization, and air circulation to create an environment that is less hospitable to mites.
Introduce Natural Predators: Beneficial insects such as ladybugs or predatory mites can help control spider mite populations. These natural allies reduce the need for chemical interventions.
Regular Cleaning: For indoor plants, wiping leaves with a damp cloth and vacuuming any visible webs can keep spider mites at bay.

Conclusion

while red spider mites are not directly harmful to humans, their presence can lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and significant damage to plants. If the infestation of red spider mites becomes severe and traditional control methods are ineffective, it may be time to call in professional pest control services.

The post Are Red Spider Mites Harmful to Humans? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-11-17

2024-11-17T05:00:01-00:00

What is the Difference Between a Carpet Beetle and a Fur Beetle?

2024-11-11T09:46:36-00:00

If you’ve ever found tiny beetles scuttling across your floor, you might have wondered what they are and whether they threaten your home. Carpet beetles and fur beetles are two common pests that can cause damage to fabrics, but understanding the difference between them is essential for effective pest control. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between carpet and fur beetles and how to deal with them.

What Are Carpet Beetles?

Carpet beetles are tiny, oval-shaped insects that feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, and fur. As the name suggests, they are often associated with carpets, but they can infest a wide range of household textiles, including clothing, upholstery, and curtains.

What Are Fur Beetles?

Fur beetles are part of the family Dermestidae and, like carpet beetles, are known for their ability to damage animal-based materials such as furs, skins, and feathers. They are also attracted to other organic materials, including leather, hides, and stored food products.

Key Differences Between Carpet Beetles and Fur Beetles

Though both carpet beetles and fur beetles can cause damage to textiles, there are a few key differences between these two pests:

Preferred Food Sources

Carpet Beetles: These beetles primarily feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, cotton, and synthetic materials that contain natural fibers. They are also attracted to feathers, dead insects, and animal products.
Fur Beetles: Fur beetles are more attracted to animal-based materials such as fur, hides, and leather, making them a particular threat to furs and leather goods.

Appearance

Carpet Beetles: Adult carpet beetles are typically small (1/8 to 3/16 inch), with a distinctive mottled appearance featuring black, white, and orange or yellow patterns. Larvae are worm-like with tufts of hair along their bodies.
Fur Beetles: Fur beetles are larger, measuring 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch, and usually dark brown or black in color. Their larvae are bigger and often more robust compared to carpet beetle larvae.

Habitat and Infestation Locations

Carpet Beetles: These beetles are commonly found in carpets, rugs, clothing, upholstery, and stored textiles. They prefer hidden areas that offer warmth, such as closets, attics, and underneath furniture.
Fur Beetles: Fur beetles are commonly found in homes with fur or leather items, including clothing, upholstery, or stuffed animal collections. They can also infest stored items in attics or basements.

Damage Caused

Carpet Beetles: The larvae of carpet beetles cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and other fabric-based items. They can create holes, stains, and visible damage on natural fiber materials.
Fur Beetles: Fur beetles primarily damage furs, hides, and leather goods. Their larvae will eat through the material, leaving holes and visible signs of degradation.

Conclusion

While both carpet beetles and fur beetles pose similar threats to your textiles and belongings, understanding their differences can help you identify the source of the infestation and take appropriate action. If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with carpet beetles or fur beetles, a pest control professional can help identify the culprit and provide the best solution to keep your home pest-free.

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Weekly Top Posts: 2024-11-10

2024-11-10T05:00:01-00:00

What Attracts Mealworms to Your House?

2024-11-08T11:17:35-00:00

Mealworms, the larvae of darkling beetles, are a common household pest that can appear unexpectedly, often making homeowners wonder how they got in. While these insects don’t pose a direct health risk, their presence can be unsettling and lead to larger infestations if not addressed.

Understanding what attracts mealworms to your home is the first step in preventing an infestation. In this article, we’ll explore what attracts mealworms to your indoors and how to prevent them from entering.

What Attracts Mealworms to House?

Mealworms typically enter homes in search of food, moisture, and warmth. Here are the main attractants that could be drawing them into your house.

Food Sources

Mealworms are highly attracted to food, especially dry grains, cereals, oats, flour, and pet food. These foods are a staple in their diet, and if left exposed or improperly stored, they provide an easy food source.

Warm, Humid Environments

Like many pests, mealworms prefer warm, humid environments. Their ideal temperature range is between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), which happens to be quite common in homes, especially during warmer months.

Areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements offer the perfect combination of warmth and moisture. Mealworms can thrive in these spaces, where humidity helps them develop and feed, creating an environment conducive to their life cycle.

Pet Food and Waste

Pet food is another major attractant for mealworms. If pet food is left out uncovered or stored improperly, it can provide a feast for mealworms.

Additionally, pet waste can also attract these pests, especially if left uncleaned for long periods. Mealworms are opportunistic feeders and will seek out any available organic matter, including pet food and waste.

How to Prevent Mealworms from Entering Your Home?

Now that you know what attracts mealworms, here are some steps you can take to keep them out of your home.

Store Food Properly: Keep grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers. This makes it more difficult for mealworms to get to the food.
Reduce Humidity: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms. Repair any leaks and ensure your home is well-ventilated to avoid creating a moist environment.
Seal Entry Points: Check for cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and your foundation, and seal them with weather stripping or caulk to keep beetles from entering.
Clean Up Spills: Clean food spills and crumbs immediately, especially in pantries and kitchen areas, where mealworms can easily find their food sources.
Store Organic Matter Away: Keep firewood and compost away from your house. Regularly inspect outdoor areas for signs of beetle activity.

Conclusion

Mealworms can be a nuisance, but with the right prevention strategies, you can keep them out of your home. By eliminating food sources, reducing moisture, sealing cracks, and keeping your home clean, you’ll create a less inviting environment for these pests.

If mealworms do find their way into your home, a professional pest control service can help identify the source and provide effective treatment to eliminate the infestation.

The post What Attracts Mealworms to Your House? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-11-03

2024-11-03T04:00:01-00:00

Jackie Wales – Assistant Editor

2024-10-31T17:24:25-00:00

Jackie Wales

Jackie Wales, after studying Environmental Biology at York and Applied Entomology at Imperial College Jackie began her career as a London borough technical officer, getting involved in contaminated land investigation before spending nearly 20 years as an environmental consultant rising to project team manager, developing proof-reading and sub-editing skills along the way. She has undertaken proofreading work for independent consultancies over the last 12 years, as well as working in e-commerce product management and as a professional gardener for private customers and the National Trust.

The post Jackie Wales – Assistant Editor first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Fabio Castello – Technical Consultant

2024-10-31T17:22:48-00:00

Fabio Castello

Fabio Castello, a biologist who now trains managers in pest control strategies and integrated pest management as applied to vector control programs including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, Mayaro, filariasis, West Nile virus, malaria, leptospirosis, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, Chagas disease and onchocerciasis. Over 14 years of experience in running and managing a private pest control business and three years experience in domestic sales to the Pest Control Operators and Public Health market.

The post Fabio Castello – Technical Consultant first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Partho Dhang – Technical Consultant

2024-10-31T17:20:19-00:00

Partho Dhang

Partho Dhang, earned his Ph.D. from university of Madras in India. He is a zoologist, entomologist consultant, author and entrepreneur. He is a prolific writer in scientific world and also a regular speaker in international conferences around the world. He has written and edited four books with CABI. He also serves as an adjudicator for award of the degree of doctorate for number of universities. Presently he lives in the Philippines and India.

The post Partho Dhang – Technical Consultant first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Dr Terry Mabbett – Technical Consultant

2024-10-31T17:18:48-00:00

Dr Terry Mabbett is a pest, disease and weed control specialist with forty years of international experience covering research, consultancy and journalism in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, amenity, livestock and public health. His current areas of particular interest are the protection of tropical tree crops and exotic insect pests and plant pathogens of Britain’s native, naturalised and forest plantation trees.

Drterrymabbett@btinternet.com

The post Dr Terry Mabbett – Technical Consultant first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Graham Matthews DSc., FSB., FRES. – Technical Consultant

2024-10-31T17:16:19-00:00

Graham Matthews

Graham Matthews DSc., FSB., FRES. began his career in Africa working on cotton pest management before joining Imperial College. Research and teaching pesticide application at Imperial and overseas has been interspersed with consultancies for international organisations, such as the World Bank. Author of several books, he was formerly an editor of Crop Protection. Retired in 2001 and now Emeritus Professor of Pest Management.

www.dropdata.net

The post Graham Matthews DSc., FSB., FRES. – Technical Consultant first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Alex Wade – Technical Consultant

2024-10-31T17:14:30-00:00

Alex Wade has exceptional experience in the development of strategies and products designed to control vertebrate and invertebrate pest populations. He is a respected technical writer, trainer, and public speaker. A director of Wade Environmental Ltd, his technical writing and speaking, as well as his expertise in product development and efficacy testing, have taken him around the world. Alex is proud to call the United Kingdom home.

The post Alex Wade – Technical Consultant first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

How To Get Rid of Biscuit Beetles?

2024-10-28T08:23:30-00:00

An infestation in the pantry can be uncomfortable and annoying. One of the annoying pests that frequently invade houses is the biscuit beetle, or we can call it drugstore beetles.

These tiny insects frequently infest food items that are preserved, particularly cereals, grains, and biscuits. However, with the right information and preventive steps, you can eradicate the biscuit beetles from your kitchen and avoid further infestations. In this article, let’s explore the information on how to get rid of biscuit beetles and completely eliminate them from the house.

Why Do You Get Biscuit Beetles?

Before we discuss the biscuit beetle’s attraction to the house, let’s see what exactly biscuit beetles are. Biscuit beetles are usually 2 to 3 millimetres long and mostly invade where foods are stored.

They are oval-shaped, red-coloured, small beetles with frontal wings, which are called elytra. Because of their short wings, they can’t usually fly longer, so they mostly crawl, which makes it easy for us to catch these insects and eliminate them from our space.

Now, let’s see what actually attracts biscuit beetles to our home,

Biscuit beetles are mostly attracted to dry food sources like biscuits, nuts and spices.
Biscuit beetles need high humidity and high moisture environments for reproduction. So places with moisture deteriorating products can attract biscuit beetles.
Sometimes, lack of cleaning in the kitchen, such as food spills and debris, may cause biscuit beetle infestation in our house.

How to Get Rid of Biscuit Beetles?

With suitable methods and information, you can quickly eliminate these biscuit beetles and prevent future pest infestations in the house. Those methods of eliminating the beetles are,

Inspect and Clean: Examine cupboards, pantry items, and sealed food containers for signs of infestation. Discard any infested food products, especially grains, biscuits, and dried goods. Vacuum shelves, floors, and corners to remove beetles, larvae, and eggs. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.

Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to close any cracks in walls or around windows and doors to prevent re-entry. Airtight containers for food storage are used to deter beetle access.

Use Natural Remedies: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in affected areas. It’s a natural insecticide that dehydrates and kills insects. Use essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus as a deterrent. Mix with water and spray-infested areas.

Chemical Solutions: If the infestation persists, consider using an insecticide specifically labelled for beetle control, following all instructions carefully.

Regular Monitoring: Use sticky traps or pheromone traps to monitor for beetle activity. Regularly check food storage areas for signs of infestation to catch any new activity early.

Conclusion

Biscuit beetles can be a major problem in the kitchen and can spread to health issues in the house, especially for children and elderly people. So, eliminating them quickly is the best course of action to control the infestation and have a pest-free environment in the house. If the infestation is severe after applying the above steps, it is best to contact a pest control professional for assistance.

The post How To Get Rid of Biscuit Beetles? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-10-27

2024-10-27T04:00:01-00:00

How To Get Rid of Woodworm?

2024-10-23T10:28:21-00:00

Woodworm infestations can cause significant damage to wooden structures, furniture, and other wood items in your home. These small pests burrow into wood, creating holes and tunnels, weakening its structural integrity over time. If you notice signs of woodworm, it’s important to act swiftly to prevent further damage. In this article, we will explore how to get rid of woodworm effectively.

What Attracts Woodworms To Garden?

Woodworms are the larvae of wood-boring beetles, and they thrive in certain conditions. Understanding what attracts them can help you prevent an infestation:

Moisture: Damp wood is particularly attractive to woodworms, making homes with poor ventilation or high humidity more vulnerable to infestation.
Softwood: Woodworms often prefer softwoods like pine, spruce, and cedar, although they can also attack hardwoods.
Untreated Wood: Unsealed or untreated wood is a prime target for woodworms. Wooden items like beams, furniture, and floorboards that lack a protective coating are more susceptible.
Old Furniture and Structures: Older wooden furniture and structures that have been weakened by age or decay tend to attract wood-boring beetles, providing an ideal environment for woodworm larvae to thrive.

How to Get Rid of Woodworms?

Once you identify a woodworm infestation, there are several methods you can use to get rid of it:

Identify the Affected Area: Look for small round holes (exit holes) in the wood, fine dust (frass) around the holes, and damaged or weakened wood. These are key signs of an active infestation.

Ventilate the Area: Since woodworms are drawn to damp wood, improving your home’s ventilation can help. Use dehumidifiers or fix leaks to reduce moisture levels, which will make the environment less attractive to woodworms.

Use Woodworm Treatment Products: Apply a specialised woodworm treatment to the affected wood, such as a wood preservative or insecticide. These products can penetrate deep into the wood, killing the larvae and preventing future infestations. Ensure the wood is thoroughly treated and follow product instructions carefully.

Heat Treatment: Woodworms cannot survive extreme temperatures. In some cases, heat treatment can kill the larvae inside the wood. This method involves raising the wood’s temperature to around 55°C (131°F) for a period, effectively eliminating the pests.

Freezing Treatment: For smaller items, freezing can be an effective solution. Placing infested furniture or wood pieces in a freezer for at least two weeks can kill woodworm larvae.

Conclusion

Woodworm infestations can be a serious problem if left unchecked, but with early identification and effective treatment, you can rid your home of these destructive pests.

Regular inspections, maintaining dry conditions, and treating your wood with preservatives will help ensure that woodworm infestations are not happening. Don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from pest control services to eradicate the problem if the infestation is severe.

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Weekly Top Posts: 2024-10-20

2024-10-20T04:00:01-00:00

How to keep rats and mice out of your home

2024-10-18T08:15:04-00:00

International Pest Control – September/October 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.5

2024-10-14T14:21:27-00:00

COVER IMAGE: Adult and immature bed bugs.
Picture by Stephen Ausmus, USDA Agricultural Research Service

It doesn’t seem that long ago that the UN member states established the Sustainable Development Goals, although why they chose to number them and always present them in that order is beyond me. Next year will be the tenth anniversary of that event and no-doubt there will be a summit involving lots of people travelling on aircraft (see Goal 13) to some capital or other to celebrate the event. But the latest report on the status of SDG2 (Zero Hunger) launched in Brazil (more air travel no doubt) suggests we have gone backwards 15 years to the levels of undernourishment comparable to those in 2008-2009. Between 713 and 757 million people were undernourished in 2023.

At the same time 30% of food is estimated to be lost in storage and in this issue – as our Special Feature on Managing Storage Pests – we carry a report from the EU funded novIGRain project from the conference on the Integrated Protection of Stored Products. While it did sound like a fascinating conference with some very interesting science being reported it is a concern that only one novel active ingredient was presented to delegates at a time when all the old pesticides are either increasingly ineffective due to resistance or being withdrawn because of toxicity concerns. The high cost burden of regulation was seen by most delegates as a cause of this lack of innovation and there is a direct link between regulation stifling innovation and the future cost and availability of food – food that we have successfully grown and protected from pests from seed to harvest but which we cannot protect in storage.

Back to our news section and of interest to users of DCPA is that it has finally been banned in the USA – it was banned for use in Europe in 2009. It is hard to find out where in the world this chemical may still be used, but reading the EPAs findings suggests there is no safe way of using the product.

The bug of the issue is the American cockroach which loves a warm, damp environment – so it may be looking forward to an extended range thanks to climate change?

We carry reports from the FAOPMA Pest Summit, the Second International Conference on Biological Control and the Asian Pest Management Forum and we have information about PestWorld and the UK’s BCPC conference in November.

Aldef Global has a company profile in this issue, having grown from a small distribution operation in Poland to a multi-faceted production and packaging organisation serving clients worldwide.

Company news is the usual mix of new products (although often based on old active ingredients – see above), future plans, take-overs, partnerships and awards. We feature a range of companies including Bayer, Killgerm, Pelsis, Syngenta and Bionema.

In our Public Health section Stephen Doggett raises the concerning issue of human death associated with bed bug treatments, an issue which underlines the importance of using trained professional pest controllers.

In the greenhouse it seems innovation is moving apace and we report on a possible solution to “Tuta”, a defence against thrips, and improving resilience of tomatoes to climate change

In Forestry our own Terry Mabbett reviews alien plant species in the UK. I am sure a similar story could be written for many countries but in the UK some of our “invaders” go back hundreds of years, to the point where they have almost become accepted as indigenous! This section also looks at the control of papaya mealy bugs in Kenya and fruit flies in the USA.

Finally, we close with sections on climate change and animal health, which include an interview with the CEO of one of the world’s first carbon neutral pest control companies and the roll out of an unproven swine fever vaccine in the Philippines.

Our next issue will feature Technology in Pest Control. Contributions to this, or any of our regular sections are most welcome.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control September/October 2024
Volume 66, Number 5.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Hunger numbers stubbornly high for three consecutive years
‘Paradigm shift’ needed to improve African food safety
UK readiness for EU deforestation-free regulation
EPA announces emergency suspension of DCPA
And finally… Human urine could be an eco-friendly crop fertiliser

BUG OF THE ISSUE

American cockroach

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

Monsoon failed to dampen FAOPMA Pest Summit 2024
Second International Conference on Biological Control (2025)
PestWorld 2024 events for international delegates
Shaping the future of crop protection
Asian Pest Management Forum 2024: A landmark event

COMPANY NEWS

Bayer to deliver ten blockbusters in ten years
New General Manager for Killgerm Ireland
AI improves disease detection
Pelsis (UK) new rodent control products
Digital Assistant wins prestigious award
South Korea registers eFUME® for postharvest fumigation
Syngenta Biologicals/Provivi® partnership
Bayer awards incubator opportunity
New appointments at Bionema Group
State-of-the-art operations centre for Killgerm France

COMPANY PROFILE

Aldef Global: Revolutionising the pest control industry with innovation and expertise

SPECIAL FEATURE: Managing storage pests

Working group on the Integrated Protection of Stored Products

PUBLIC HEALTH

Human deaths associated with bed bug treatments
Genetically modified flies can reduce waste

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

A real solution for the ‘Tuta’?
Innovative defence against invasive thrips
Improving tomato resilience to climate change

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Alien plant species already at home in the UK
Control of papaya mealybug in Kenya
Fruit fly eradication

CLIMATE CHANGE

Pesterminators achieve carbon neutral status
More energy-efficient growing power
A modelling framework to forecast pest risk

ANIMAL HEALTH

Philippines to roll out unproven swine fever vaccine
Gene-edited goats exhibit resistance to mastitis
Gene editing produces pigs resistant to influenza A virus

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – September/October 2024 issue.

The post International Pest Control – September/October 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.5 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

How to Get Rid of Wharf Borer?

2024-10-14T09:51:21-00:00

Wharf borers are wood-boring beetles known for causing damage to wooden structures, especially those located near water sources like piers, docks, and old wharves.

These pests thrive in moist wood that has been softened by fungi, making them a significant concern for property owners near waterways. In this article, we’ll explore the signs of wharf borer infestations, effective methods for eliminating them, and how to prevent future infestations.

Signs of Wharf Borer Infestation

Detecting a wharf borer infestation early is key to minimising damage. Here are some common signs:

Small Exit Holes: Wharf borers leave tiny, round exit holes in infested wood. These holes are where adult beetles emerge after their larvae stage.
Frass: Infested wood will often have a powdery substance known as frass, which is the result of larvae feeding on the wood.
Softened Wood: Wharf borers target wood that is already decaying, so if you notice any sections of wood that feel soft or spongy, it could be a sign of an infestation.
Visible Larvae: The larvae of wharf borers are cream-coloured and can often be seen when damaged wood is exposed.

How to Get Rid of Wharf Borer?

Getting rid of wharf borers involves addressing the moisture problem and removing their food source (decaying wood). Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Identify the Source of Moisture: Wharf borers thrive in damp environments, so identifying and fixing the source of moisture is crucial. Check for leaks, inadequate drainage, or any areas where water may accumulate around wooden structures.
Remove Infested Wood: Any decaying or water-damaged wood should be removed and replaced. Wharf borers are less likely to infest sound, dry wood. Make sure to dispose of infested wood far from other wooden structures to prevent the spread of the beetles.
Improve Ventilation: Moist, poorly ventilated areas are attractive to wharf borers. Ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces, basements, or other areas with wooden structures. This will help reduce humidity levels, making the environment less favourable for beetles.
Use Chemical Treatments: In some cases, chemical insecticides or wood preservatives can be used to treat infested areas. Borate-based treatments can penetrate wood and kill larvae, helping to prevent future pest infestations.
Monitor for Reinfestation: After removing infested wood and treating the area, continue to monitor for any signs of re-infestation. Check wooden structures regularly for new exit holes or the presence of adult beetles, particularly in damp areas.

Conclusion

Wharf borers are primarily a concern in damp, decaying wood, but their presence can signal bigger issues related to moisture and wood decay.

Regular monitoring and maintenance are key to keeping wharf borers at bay and ensuring the longevity of your wood-based assets. If you suspect a severe infestation, it’s always best to seek professional pest control services to ensure the problem is fully resolved.

The post How to Get Rid of Wharf Borer? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-10-13

2024-10-13T04:00:01-00:00

How to Get Rid of Thrips?

2024-10-09T04:46:14-00:00

Thrips, small, slender insects often found in gardens and on indoor plants, can be a nuisance for both plant enthusiasts and agricultural professionals. These pests feed by puncturing plant cells and sucking out their contents, leading to unsightly damage and stunted growth. In this article, we’ll explore what attracts thrips, how to get rid of thrips, and effective prevention tips.

What Attracts Thrips To Home?

Understanding what draws thrips to your plants is the first step in managing a pest infestation. Here are some common factors:

Plants in bloom: Thrips are attracted to plants that are flowering or producing fruits. They are particularly drawn to vibrant colours and sweet nectar.
Warm and dry conditions: Thrips thrive in warm, dry environments. Indoor plants in low-humidity areas can be especially vulnerable.
Shelter and protection: Thrips prefer dense foliage, which offers protection and allows them to reproduce rapidly without being disturbed.
Weak or stressed plants: Plants that are weakened by poor care, pests, or diseases are more likely to be targeted by thrips, as they provide an easy food source.

How to Get Rid of Thrips?

Eliminating thrips can be challenging due to their small size and ability to hide in plant crevices. However, with consistent effort, it is possible to control and eventually eradicate thrips infestations. Here are some effective methods:

Prune affected areas: Remove and dispose of any heavily infested leaves, flowers, or branches. This will help reduce the population and prevent further spread.
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil: Insecticidal soaps and neem oil are natural, non-toxic ways to treat thrips. Spray the affected plants thoroughly, making sure to reach the undersides of leaves where thrips often hide.
Apply sticky traps: Yellow or blue sticky traps can be used to catch adult thrips. Place these traps around your plants to monitor and reduce the number of flying insects.
Introduce beneficial insects: Predatory insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and minute pirate bugs feed on thrips. Introducing these natural enemies into your garden can help control the pest population.
Water spray: Regularly hosing down your plants with a strong jet of water can dislodge thrips. Be sure to spray both the tops and bottoms of the leaves.
Use insecticides: If the infestation is severe, you may need to use chemical insecticides. Look for products specifically designed to target thrips. Always follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use.

Conclusion

Thrips can cause significant damage to your plants, but with the right approach, you can get rid of them and prevent future infestations. By using a combination of natural and chemical methods, as well as maintaining a healthy garden environment, you can keep these pests at bay. If these DIY methods are not working, contact professional pest control services to get rid of these pests. Regular monitoring and early intervention are key to protecting your plants from thrips and other pests.

The post How to Get Rid of Thrips? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-10-06

2024-10-06T04:00:01-00:00

How to Get Rid of Red Spider Mites?

2024-10-03T10:07:50-00:00

Red spider mites are tiny pests that can wreak havoc on your garden or indoor plants. These mites are common in dry, warm environments and can quickly multiply, causing damage to plants by sucking out their sap. In this article, we’ll explain how to identify red spider mites and how to get rid of red spider mites effectively.

How to Identify Red Spider Mites?

The first step in controlling red spider mites is to identify them correctly. Here are some signs to look for:

Size & Colour: These mites are very small, typically less than 1mm long, and have a reddish-brown colour. A magnifying glass might be needed to spot them.
Webbing on Plants: One of the signs of a spider mite infestation is the presence of fine webbing on the underside of leaves or around the stems.
Leaf Damage: Red spider mites feed on the plant’s sap, leaving behind yellow or brown speckles, which eventually lead to the leaf becoming pale, curling, and falling off.
Plant Weakness: Affected plants may appear weak, stunted, and less productive in terms of growth and blooming.

How to Get Rid of Red Spider Mites?

Once you have identified a red spider mite infestation, it’s crucial to take action promptly to prevent further spread. Here are some natural and chemical methods to eradicate red spider mites effectively:

Increase Humidity

Red spider mites thrive in dry environments, so increasing the humidity around the affected plants can help discourage their spread. Regularly misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby can create an unfavourable environment for the mites.

Rinse & Wipe the Leaves

Using a strong spray of water, rinse the plants to dislodge the mites. Pay special attention to the undersides of leaves where they tend to cluster. After rinsing, gently wipe down the leaves with a soft cloth to remove any remaining mites.

Introduce Natural Predators

Beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites are natural enemies of red spider mites. Introducing these predators into your garden can help control the population naturally and without chemicals.

Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide and fungicide that can be effective against spider mites. Mix neem oil with water and spray it onto the affected plants, covering all surfaces thoroughly. Repeat the application every few days until the mites are gone.

Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soaps are specially formulated to kill pests like spider mites without harming plants. They work by breaking down the protective coating of the mites, leading to their dehydration and death. Spray the affected plants with the insecticidal soap, ensuring complete coverage.

Conclusion

Red spider mites can be a persistent nuisance, but early identification and treatment can save your plants from severe damage. Using natural remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or even introducing natural predators can effectively control their population. If these methods don’t work, contact professional pest control services, they can quickly get rid of red spider mites with the right measures.

The post How to Get Rid of Red Spider Mites? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-09-29

2024-09-29T04:00:01-00:00

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-09-22

2024-09-22T04:00:01-00:00

How to Get Rid of Midges?

2024-09-20T08:46:03-00:00

Midges are tiny, flying insects that can become a nuisance in your home or outdoor spaces, especially during the warmer months. Known for their irritating bites and tendency to swarm, midges can quickly turn a relaxing evening into an uncomfortable experience. In this article, let’s explore how to get rid of midges and prevent them from entering our homes.

Signs of Midges Infestation

Before tackling the issue, it’s important to identify whether you are indeed dealing with midges. Here are common signs of an infestation:

Swarming Clouds: Midges often gather in large swarms, especially around water sources, light fixtures, or windows.
Biting: Some species of midges, like the biting midge, can cause itchy, red welts on the skin.
Presence Near Water: Midges are attracted to moist environments, so check for any stagnant water nearby. This could be small ponds, puddles, or even poorly draining flowerpots.
Larvae in Water: Their larvae live in water, so inspect standing water for wriggling, small larvae, which indicates breeding.

How to Get Rid of Midges?

Getting rid of midges requires a combination of preventive measures and active treatments. Here’s how you can tackle a midge infestation,

Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Midges breed in standing water. Remove any sources of stagnant water from your property, such as uncovered pools, buckets, or clogged gutters. Regularly change water in birdbaths and plant saucers to prevent midge larvae from developing.
Use Insect Traps: UV light traps can attract and kill adult midges. Place these traps around areas where midges are most commonly found, such as near doors, windows, or patios. Sticky traps are also effective for capturing midges indoors.
Apply Insect Repellent: When outdoors, especially in the evening, use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin to deter biting midges. These repellents help create a protective barrier on your skin, minimizing bites.
Install Mesh Screens: Prevent midges from entering your home by installing fine mesh screens on windows and doors. This keeps midges out while allowing fresh air to circulate inside your living space.
Consider Natural Predators: Encouraging the presence of natural predators, such as birds or bats, can help reduce midge populations. You can attract these predators by installing birdhouses or bat boxes in your yard.
Use Chemical Treatments: For severe pest infestations, consider using insecticides. Pyrethroid-based sprays can be effective in killing adult midges. However, use caution when applying chemicals, especially near water sources, as they can harm other wildlife.

Conclusion

Midges can be a pesky problem, especially in areas near water, but with proper prevention and treatment strategies, you can minimise their presence. By eliminating breeding grounds, using traps and repellents, and considering natural solutions, you can enjoy a midge-free indoor and outdoor environment. If the infestation continues, consult a professional pest control service to ensure your home remains midge-free.

The post How to Get Rid of Midges? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-09-15

2024-09-15T04:00:01-00:00

What Attracts Maggots to Your House?

2024-09-13T03:39:23-00:00

Maggots are unwelcome guests in any home, often appearing suddenly and causing distress. Understanding what attracts these pests can help you prevent an infestation and maintain a clean and healthy living environment. In this blog, we’ll explore what attracts maggots, the signs of a maggot infestation, and the factors that attract them to your home.

What Are Maggots?

Maggots are the larval stage of flies, typically the common housefly or blowfly. These tiny, legless creatures are pale white or cream-coloured and resemble small worms. Maggots play an important role in the decomposition process, breaking down organic matter. While they are beneficial in natural ecosystems, maggots are certainly not welcome in your home.

Signs of Maggot Infestation

Detecting a maggot infestation early can help you take prompt action. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

Visible Maggots: The most obvious sign is seeing maggots crawling on surfaces, particularly near food, garbage, or pet areas.
Bad Odours: A foul, rotting smell can indicate decaying organic material, which may attract flies to lay eggs and lead to a maggot infestation.
Increased Fly Activity: If you notice an unusual number of flies inside your home, it could be a sign that maggots are present or about to appear.
Clusters of Eggs: Fly eggs resemble small, white clusters, often found near food sources or in garbage bins. If left unchecked, these eggs will hatch into maggots.

What Attracts Maggots To Your House?

Several factors can attract maggots into your home, most of which are related to the availability of organic material for flies to lay their eggs. Key attractions include:

Food Waste: Improperly stored or disposed of food is the primary attractant for flies. Leftover food, especially meat, dairy, and other perishable items, can quickly become a breeding ground for maggots.
Garbage: Overflowing or uncovered garbage bins are an open invitation for flies. The decaying organic matter inside provides an ideal environment for maggots to thrive.
Pet Waste: If pet waste is not promptly cleaned up, it can attract flies, leading to a maggot infestation. This is especially true for outdoor areas where pet waste may accumulate.
Rotting Organic Matter: Any type of decaying organic matter, such as dead animals, compost piles, or decaying plants, can attract flies. Once flies lay their eggs, maggots will soon follow.

Conclusion

Maggots are drawn to your home by the presence of decaying organic matter, food waste, and garbage. Maintaining cleanliness and proper waste disposal practices is crucial to prevent a maggot infestation.

Regularly clean your home, promptly dispose of food waste, and keep garbage bins sealed and clean. If you don’t know how to get rid of maggots, contact pest control services like Empire Pest Control. We have trained people to deal with those kinds of pests.

The post What Attracts Maggots to Your House? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

How to Get Rid of Fur Beetles?

2024-09-11T09:13:33-00:00

Fur beetles are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to natural fibres, including wool, fur, silk, and even feathers. These tiny insects often go unnoticed until their presence is indicated by small holes in fabrics or the sight of larvae in dark corners. In this article, we will explore how to get rid of fur beetles and live in a pest-free environment.

How to Identify Fur Beetles?

Fur beetles are small, oval-shaped insects that typically measure between 2 to 5 millimetres in length. Their bodies are covered with tiny scales, giving them a slightly fuzzy appearance. The most common species, such as the varied carpet beetle, are often black with a mix of white, brown, and yellow scales on their backs, creating a distinctive mottled pattern.

The larvae, which are the main culprits in causing damage, are worm-like and covered with bristly hairs. They are usually longer than the adult beetles, measuring up to 7 millimetres.

How to Get Rid of Fur Beetles?

Once you have identified a fur beetle infestation, you need to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here are the most effective methods to eliminate fur beetles from your home:

Thorough Cleaning: Start by thoroughly vacuuming your home, especially in areas where you suspect an pest infestation, such as carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, and storage areas. Pay extra attention to cracks and crevices where larvae may be hiding. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the vacuum canister immediately to prevent re-infestation.
Wash and Freeze Infested Items: Wash all infested fabrics, including clothing, blankets, and curtains, in hot water. For delicate items that cannot be washed, place them in a plastic bag and freeze them for at least 48 hours to kill any larvae or eggs.
Use Insecticides: Apply a suitable insecticide labelled for carpet beetles to areas where you have seen the pests or signs of damage. Focus on cracks, crevices, and baseboards. Ensure that the insecticide is safe for use on fabrics if treating upholstered furniture or carpets.
Deploy Pheromone Traps: Pheromone traps are effective in capturing adult beetles and can help monitor the extent of the infestation. Place these traps in areas where you have noticed beetles, such as near windows or in storage areas.
Seal Cracks and Gaps: To prevent fur beetles from entering your home, seal any cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and walls. Make sure window screens are intact, and use weather stripping around doors to eliminate entry points.

Conclusion

Fur beetles can be a persistent and damaging pest, but by identifying them early and following these proven steps, you can effectively eliminate them from your home. However, if these methods do not work or you find the infestation too large to handle on your own, it is best to contact a professional pest control service.

The post How to Get Rid of Fur Beetles? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-09-08

2024-09-08T04:00:01-00:00

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-09-01

2024-09-01T04:00:01-00:00

How To Get Rid of Longhorn Beetles?

2024-08-31T05:31:27-00:00

Longhorn beetles are wood-boring insects known for their long antennae, which can be as long as or longer than their bodies. These pests are particularly problematic because they can cause significant damage to wooden structures and trees by tunnelling into the wood. In this article, we’ll explore how to get rid of longhorn beetles and preventive measures to keep your property safe.

Signs of Infestation

Detecting a longhorn beetle infestation early is key to effective control. Here are some common signs to look out for:

Exit Holes: Adult beetles leave circular or oval-shaped exit holes in wood as they emerge, typically around 1/4 to 3/8 inches in diameter.
Damaged Wood: Soft, crumbling wood or weakened structures may indicate an active infestation.
Visible Beetles: You may spot adult beetles, which have long antennae and are often black or brown, around the affected area.
Unusual Noises: In quiet environments, you may hear faint clicking or rustling sounds as the larvae tunnel through the wood.

How to Get Rid of Longhorn Beetles?

Once you’ve identified a longhorn beetle infestation, it’s important to take immediate action to eliminate these pests. Here are some effective methods:

Remove Infested Wood: The most effective way to stop a pest infestation is to remove and destroy infested wood. This prevents the beetles from spreading to other areas.
Use Insecticides: Applying an insecticide specifically designed for wood-boring insects can help kill longhorn beetles. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and apply the insecticide to all affected areas.
Heat Treatment: Longhorn beetles are sensitive to heat. Exposing infested wood to high temperatures (around 120-140°F) for an extended period can effectively kill both larvae and adult beetles. This method is particularly useful for treating large wooden items that cannot be removed or replaced.
Fumigation: For severe infestations, fumigation may be necessary. This involves sealing the affected area and introducing a gas that is lethal to the beetles. Fumigation should only be carried out by professionals, as it requires specialized equipment and knowledge.
Natural Predators: Introducing natural predators, such as parasitic wasps, can help control longhorn beetle populations. These predators target beetle larvae, reducing their numbers.
Seal Cracks and Crevices: To prevent future infestations, seal any cracks and crevices in your home’s exterior. This will reduce the chances of beetles entering and laying eggs in your wooden structures.

Conclusion

Longhorn beetles can damage trees, wooden structures, and furniture if not dealt with quickly. By. Using methods like removing infested wood, applying insecticides or borate treatments, or trying heat and cold treatments to get rid of these pests. If these steps do not work, it’s best to call professional pest control services to handle the problem effectively.

The post How To Get Rid of Longhorn Beetles? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Pest Control with Air Rifles - Squirrel Shooting - Manbily Tripod

2024-08-27T18:38:01-00:00

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-08-25

2024-08-25T04:00:01-00:00

How To Get Rid of House Moth?

2024-08-23T10:34:41-00:00

House moths can be a persistent nuisance, damaging clothes, carpets, and even food products. These tiny invaders often go unnoticed until the damage is done. Whether you’re dealing with clothes moths or pantry moths, taking proactive measures to eliminate them is essential. In this article, we will explore how to get rid of house moth and protect your home from further infestation.

How to Identify House Moth?

Identifying the type of moth in your home is the first step toward effective control. The most common household moths are clothes moths and pantry moths.

Clothes Moths: These small, golden, or brown moths are notorious for laying eggs on natural fibers like wool, silk, and fur. The larvae, not the adult moths, are responsible for the damage as they feed on these fibers. You might notice irregular holes in your clothes or threads left behind.

Pantry Moths: Also known as Indian meal moths, these moths are usually found in kitchens and food storage areas. They have a distinct two-tone coloration with a dark band across their wings. If you notice webbing in food packages or small moths flying in the pantry, you likely have a pantry moth problem.

How to Eliminate House Moth?

Once you’ve identified the type of moth, it’s time to take action. Here’s how you can effectively eliminate house moths:

Clean and Vacuum Thoroughly

Start by cleaning and vacuuming the affected areas. Pay special attention to closets, under furniture, and inside drawers for clothes moths. Clean out all food storage areas for pantry moths, including cupboards and pantries. Dispose of any infested food items and vacuum the shelves, corners, and crevices.

Wash or Freeze Fabrics

For clothes moths, wash infested clothing and fabrics in hot water or have them dry cleaned, for delicate items that can’t be washed, freezing them for 24-48 hours can kill moth eggs and larvae.

Use Moth Traps

Set up pheromone traps in areas where you’ve noticed moth activity. These traps attract and capture adult moths, reducing their population over time. Moth traps are effective for both clothes and pantry moths.

Apply Natural Repellents

Certain natural repellents, such as lavender, cedar, and bay leaves, can repel moths. Place sachets of these items in closets, drawers, and food storage areas to deter moths from laying eggs.

Seal Cracks and Gaps

Prevent moths from entering your home by sealing cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and vents. This is especially important in areas where food is stored.

Store Items Properly

Store clothing in airtight containers or garment bags, and keep pantry items in sealed glass or plastic containers. This will help prevent future infestations by denying moths access to food and fabric sources.

Conclusion

House moths can be a challenging pest to eliminate, but with the proper identification and elimination strategies, you can protect your home from their damage. Regular cleaning, using traps, and employing natural repellents will help keep your home moth-free. If these DIY methods are not working means, call pest control services to eradicate these pests and prevent future pest infestation.

The post How To Get Rid of House Moth? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Stop Pests in Their Tracks with FlexiArmour Expansion

2024-08-22T12:14:52-00:00

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-08-18

2024-08-18T04:00:01-00:00

PestTech 2024 – 06 November 2024

2024-08-15T11:21:54-00:00

Pest Tech 2024 – The Stadium MK, Milton Keynes

After the huge success of last years event we are back at the MK arena, Milton Keynes for another spectacular event, There will be new exhibitors this year and speakers. Full details to follow!

Please keep an eye on the Website www.npta.org.uk for the pre-registration details.

Car parking this year is chargeable on site and you do need to register your vehicle at the reception area before entering the show otherwise you will get charged. The NPTA are once again funding the car park for the day of the show so attendees are able to attend and park for free.

The post PestTech 2024 – 06 November 2024 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Battling summer bugs: Keeping your home pest-free during the warm months | Rentokil

2024-08-14T10:30:10-00:00

How to Get Rid of Earwigs?

2024-08-13T10:05:31-00:00

Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects that can be quite a nuisance if they invade your home. Despite common myths, these insects are not dangerous, but their presence can be unsettling. In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify earwigs and provide effective methods to get rid of them.

How to Identify Earwigs?

Earwigs are easily recognisable by their slender, dark brown or black bodies and the pair of pincers at the end of their abdomen. These pincers are used for defence and hunting smaller insects. Adult earwigs range in size from 1/4 to 1 inch long. They have a flattened body, allowing them to squeeze into tight spaces, which is why they often find their way into homes.

They are typically found in damp, dark environments. They are nocturnal creatures, hiding during the day under rocks, mulch, or in the crevices of buildings.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs?

With the right methods and steps, you can easily eliminate the earwigs from your garden or space. Those steps are,

Eliminate Moisture Sources

Earwigs thrive in moist environments, so reducing moisture is key to controlling them. Fix leaky pipes, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and ensure proper ventilation in your home. Outdoors, avoid over-watering plants and remove standing water sources.

Seal Entry Points

Earwigs can enter your home through cracks, gaps, and crevices. Inspect the exterior of your home and seal any potential entry points with caulk. Pay special attention to windows, doors, and the foundation of your house.

Use Natural Repellents

Several natural repellents can help deter earwigs. Sprinkling diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home creates a barrier that earwigs find difficult to cross. Essential oils like cedar, lavender, and tea tree oil can also be effective when diluted and sprayed around entry points.

Create Traps

Trapping earwigs is an efficient way to reduce their population. Simple traps can be made by rolling up damp newspaper or cardboard and placing it in areas where earwigs are active. In the morning, dispose of the traps, along with the trapped earwigs.

Use Pesticides Carefully

If natural methods are not sufficient, consider using pesticides as a last resort. Opt for insecticides specifically designed for earwigs and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Always apply pesticides in areas where children and pets cannot reach.

Maintain Your Yard

Keeping your yard tidy can help prevent earwigs from taking up residence. Regularly mow the lawn, trim overgrown vegetation, and remove leaf litter and debris. Mulch should be kept away from the foundation of your home to reduce the likelihood of earwig infestations.

Conclusion

Earwigs may not pose a significant threat, but their presence in your home can be unsettling. By identifying these pests early and taking proactive steps to eliminate moisture, seal entry points, and use natural or chemical controls, you can effectively keep earwigs at bay. If the earwig infestation continues, contact pest control services to control the pest infestation.

The post How to Get Rid of Earwigs? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-08-11

2024-08-11T04:00:01-00:00

How To Get Rid of Cluster Flies?

2024-08-09T08:55:50-00:00

Cluster flies can be a persistent nuisance, particularly during the cooler months when they seek shelter inside homes and buildings. These flies, also known as attic flies, often invade in large numbers, creating unsightly clusters on windows and in loft spaces. In this blog, we’ll explore how to get rid of cluster flies and make a pest-free environment.

How To Identify Cluster Flies?

Cluster flies are typically around 8mm in length and dark grey with small patches of gold hair on their backs and long wings. They can be identified by moving more slowly than other flies and often congregate in large groups in warm parts of a building, such as attics or near windows.

How To Get Rid of Cluster Flies?

Handling flies infestation calls for a strategic combination of preventive and control measures. Here is how to effectively contain and extinguish these pests:

Seal Entry Points

Start by inspecting your home for potential entry points where cluster flies might enter, such as cracks, gaps around windows and doors, and vents. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these openings, which will help prevent flies from gaining access to your home. Proper sealing is crucial in reducing the likelihood of new flies entering and establishing themselves indoors.

Use Insecticides

Applying insecticides can target cluster flies that have already made their way inside. Focus on areas where these pests are commonly found, such as window sills, attics, and wall voids. Residual sprays and dust designed to kill flies can be applied to window sills, attics, wall voids, etc., likely to be harbouring the developing fly pests. Be very careful to follow the labelling directions so as not to fail in the elimination of the flies or place yourself in a dangerous situation.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming is a quick and effective method of removing visible flies from your home. Regularly use a vacuum cleaner to capture flies on surfaces like floors and windowsills. After vacuuming, be sure to empty the vacuum bag or container outside to prevent the pests from reintroducing themselves into your living space.

Light Traps

Light traps can help control cluster fly populations by attracting and capturing them. Place these traps in dark, undisturbed areas like attics and cellars where cluster flies are known to overwinter. Check and clean the trap on a regular basis to maintain effectiveness and ensure the catching of flies.

Conclusion

Cluster flies can be a persistent problem, especially during the colder months when they seek warmth indoors. By identifying these pests correctly and implementing a combination of sealing entry points, using insecticides, vacuuming, and installing light traps, you can effectively reduce their numbers and prevent future pest infestations. For severe cases, professional pest control services can provide a comprehensive solution to keep your home fly-free.

The post How To Get Rid of Cluster Flies? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-08-04

2024-08-04T04:00:01-00:00

International Pest Control – July/August 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.4

2024-08-02T11:00:56-00:00

COVER IMAGE: Aedes aegypti, vector of dengue – the most important mosquito-borne virus in the world
Picture by James Gathany, CDC

Back on track this issue… the Special Feature section returns and there is no shortage of articles about Biting Insects. We may now have a malaria vaccine that is over 70% effective in children (do watch the BBC Horizon documentary “The Battle to Beat Malaria” if you haven’t already – but only after you’ve read this issue!). Unfortunately, there are other diseases carried by biting insects knocking on the door of human mortality, foremost amongst them dengue, and we have an update on the year to date with the latest figures suggesting over 10 million cases so far in 2024.

But before we get to the Special Feature we have our usual news section which kicks off with more genetic engineering (a theme of the last issue), this time targeted at making a plant produce all the sugars needed to make the perfect infant formula milk. We then report on the drought affecting 30 million people in Southern Africa, and in particular Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Inequality in research is reported to be stifling research in Africa, while there is concern that the agricultural models to optimise yield rarely consider the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Finally in this section I could not resist a report on how weed control is critical to golf ball roll on greens – who knew?

Our bug of the issue is the black garden ant, prone to invading your home as it forages for food.

We report on the Pestworld 2024 programme, new scholarships, NPMA’s key partner programme, the June Global Food Safety Summit, this year’s forthcoming IPM Symposium at Swansea University (2-4 September 2024) and the 5th AAB PlantEd Congress in October.

The company news section is jammed with acquisitions, appointments, renamings and product launches from Stara, Andermatt, BioFirst, Earlham Institute, Bayer, Nurture Group, Oxitec and BASF.

Our company profile is the launch of the Natural Products BioHUB, at Swansea University with a full report on this novel startup which aims to foster innovation and collaboration in the field of natural product research and development.

Which brings us to those Biting Insects of Special Feature fame. We kick off with a history of the bed bug – better read at breakfast than at supper – before we get into an update of the dengue crisis in the FAOPMA region by Stephen Doggett. Our own advisor Dr Partho Dhang takes a look at the growing nuisance of sandflies in the Philippine islands while Dr Hassam Nayem reviews the use of Bti for mosquito control. We finish with a short article which links obesity with the severity of dengue in children.

Multiple-herbicide resistant (MHR) waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) could be controlled by diflufenican, a new mode of action herbicide for preemergence use in corn. A study of plant immune systems may allow improved disease resistance. A protective microbiome could help bolster food security and help the environment while in Italy genetically engineered rice resistant to rice blast is undergoing field trials. Finally we take a look at how foliar feeds can make African maize more productive and better able to resist attack by pests and diseases.

In Horticulture the search continues for benign pesticides that are target specific – and one find is a sort of glue that sticks the insect to the plant. Also in this section is a bizarre – and dare I say Heath-Robinson machine – that sucks white fly off glasshouse crop plants! And we finish this section with a look at why some plant diseases like the big city.

Dr Terry Mabbett wonders if the UK Government’s BTOM (Border Target Operating Model) is fit for purpose: it is designed to prevent further entry of insect pests like oak processionary moth which first arrived in UK on oak tree planting material imported from a range of EU countries.

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control July/August 2024
Volume 66, Number 4.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Making baby formula as nutritious as breast milk
Southern Africa drought crisis demands fresh solution
African research ‘stifled by unequal partnerships’
Little attention for SDG in agricultural models
And finally… Controlling turf grass weeds and golf ball roll

BUG OF THE ISSUE

Black garden ant

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

PMF announces three new endowed scholarships
Anticimex joins NPMA’s Key Partners Program
Global Public Health & Food Safety Summit
Programme for PestWorld 2024 announced
New IPM 2024 Symposium: Emerging Opportunities
5th AAB PlantEd Congress: Agricultural Biotechnology

COMPANY NEWS

First Latin American ONE SMART SPRAY sprayer
Andermatt Group acquires BioTEPP
BioFirst appoints Bart Sosef as President
Spinout TraitSeq to transform agricultural sector
Advances in genome-editing initiatives for nutrition
Nurture Group rebrands its pest control business
Koppert unveils sustainability strategy
Koppert and Fresh Energy forge partnership
HSAT partnership aims to drive global expansion
Herbicide Effeeda (Fenquinotrione) registration progress
First release of Friendly mosquitoes in Africa
Pest controllers put job before mental health

COMPANY PROFILE

Introducing Natural Products BioHUB, Swansea University

SPECIAL FEATURE: Control of Biting Invertebrates

Getting rid of bed bugs: trickier than ever
Dengue: the crisis continues
Growing nuisance from sandflies on Philippine islands
Bti for mosquito control: a scientific perspective
Obese children with dengue ‘more likely hospitalised’

PUBLIC HEALTH

Can AI free cities from rat infestations?

AGRICULTURE

Diflufenican effective for herbicide-resistant waterhemp
How the plant immune system functions
Scientists engineer plant microbiome
Disease-resistant rice for risotto
African maize offers opportunities for foliar feeding

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Sticky pesticide to combat pest insects
Controlling bacterial wilt in tomato in Taiwan
Vacuum machine targets whitefly pests
Why some plant diseases thrive in urban environments

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

BTOM set to go boom, or bust

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – July/August 2024 issue.

The post International Pest Control – July/August 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.4 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

How to Get Rid of Booklice?

2024-07-30T09:56:05-00:00

Booklice are tiny pests that can be a nuisance in homes and libraries. These small insects thrive in damp, warm environments and can often be found in books, paper products, and stored food items. Although they are harmless to humans, they can cause significant damage to books and paper. In this article, we will explain everything about how to get rid of booklice and reduce its infestation.

How to Identify Booklice?

Before tackling a booklice infestation, it’s essential to identify the pests correctly. Booklice are tiny, measuring about 1-2 millimetres in length. They are usually pale white or light brown and have a soft body. Booklice are often mistaken for dust particles or other small insects, but a closer look reveals their distinct features.

Causes of Booklice Infestations

Booklice thrive in humid environments where they feed on mould, fungi, and organic matter. Common causes of booklice infestations include:

High Humidity: Booklice need moisture to survive, so they are commonly found in damp areas.
Mould and Mildew: These pests feed on mould and mildew, which can grow on paper, books, and other organic materials.
Stored Food Products: Booklice can also infest stored food items, particularly grains and cereals.

How to Get Rid of Booklice?

We can easily get rid of the booklice infestation by following simple steps, those steps.

Reduce Humidity

To lower the humidity levels in your home, especially in areas where booklice are commonly found, use dehumidifiers. Ensure proper ventilation in rooms by using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Additionally, fix any leaks or sources of moisture, such as dripping pipes or condensation on windows.

Eliminate Mould and Mildew

Clean affected areas with a solution of water and mild detergent to remove mould and mildew. To prevent mould growth on surfaces and in books, use mould inhibitors and fungicides.

Store Items Properly

Store books, papers, and other susceptible items in a cool, dry place. Use airtight containers for storing food products to prevent booklice from accessing them. Regularly check stored items for signs of mould or moisture and address any issues promptly.

Vacuum and Clean

Regularly vacuum floors, shelves, and other areas where booklice may be present. Dispose of vacuum bags or empty canisters outside to prevent re-infestation. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris that can attract booklice.

Use Insecticides

In severe infestations, consider using insecticides specifically designed for booklice. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and apply insecticides to cracks, crevices, and other hiding spots where booklice may reside.

Conclusion

Booklice can be a persistent problem, but with the right strategies, you can eliminate them and prevent future insect infestations. By reducing humidity, eliminating mould, and maintaining proper storage and cleaning practices, you can keep your home free of booklice. If you encounter a severe infestation, consider seeking professional pest control services like Empire Pest Control to address the problem effectively.

The post How to Get Rid of Booklice? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-07-28

2024-07-28T04:00:01-00:00

Ghilotina – Top of the line

2024-07-27T15:07:38-00:00

The necessity to provide a comprehensive and dependable pest management solution gave rise to the Ghilotina brand in 2003. Since then, we have succeeded in creating an extensive catalog of products that meet the highest standards, based on rigorous testing by both experts and non-expert users.

Ghilotina has become a successful international brand, offering products that efficiently address pest management issues on every continent. Since 2020, we have expanded our portfolio to include a wider range of solutions. With considerable pest management experience, we are dedicated to helping customers achieve excellent results in pest control.

Experience and expertise

For over 15 years, our primary goal has been to provide effective pest control products. Ghilotina meets customers’ needs by offering a diverse selection of environmentally friendly solutions that ensure efficiency and respect for the environment.

Ghilotina stands out as a leading provider of pest control products. Our diverse range caters to both professional and domestic customers, offering top-of-the-line solutions designed for maximum effectiveness. Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our collaboration with the world’s finest manufacturers, guaranteeing exceptional quality you can trust.

Product Catalog

In our catalog, you can find the following product categories:

Insecticides

One of the many notable products is Buglea. This versatile insecticide can be used to control both crawling and flying insects, indoors and outdoors. It is effective against actively developing stages, such as larvae, nymphs, and adult forms. The unique quality of Buglea is that it does not encourage the growth of resistance to insecticides and does not leave any harmful residues when combined with water.

Attractants and lures

Our catalog features a range of attractive baits in various flavors, including aniseed, chocolate, curry, and peanut. These baits can be used to lure pests or to mask human odors at bait stations and new traps. After applying the spray, rats and mice are less cautious about approaching bait stations. Additionally, these products are safe, non-toxic, and pose no risk to pets or non-target animals.

Bait stations and rodenticides

The attractants are designed to work seamlessly with bait raticide and bait stations. We offer a wide selection of bait stations, ranging from classic designs to decorative options like the S24 The Rock. Stations themselves are constructed from durable materials such as plastic, cardboard, and metal, ensuring long-lasting functionality and optimal placement flexibility.

Repellents

Our portfolio encompasses repellents for a variety of nuisance pests. This includes formulations targeting birds, snakes, and mosquitoes or ticks. The i300 Flit Citri effectively repels both ticks and mosquitoes, offering long-lasting protection, up to six hours against ticks and ten hours against mosquitoes when applied on the skin. For snake deterrence, we offer a granular repellent (Ghilotina Reptiles Repellent) formulated with active aromatic essences. This eco-friendly solution effectively repels reptiles from treated areas without harming them, other wildlife, or humans.

Larvicides

Undoubtedly the leading product in this category is NoZZoff. This innovative and eco-friendly solution arrives ready to use and targets stagnant and still waters for effective mosquito larvae and pupae control. Notably, NoZZoff is formulated without silicone, thereby mitigating the development of resistance in target mosquito populations. Furthermore, it boasts a non-toxic composition, ensuring safety for both human health and the environment.

Traps

The extensive catalog encompasses a diverse range of traps specifically designed to target a comprehensive list of common pests. These include cockroaches, ants, bed bugs, flies, mosquitoes, textile and food moths, silverfish, spiders, vinegar flies, wasps, rodents (rats and mice), and various moth species, along with additional solutions for mole control.

Equipment

This category showcases a curated selection of high-caliber application equipment for gel repellents, user-friendly fogging units, and robust applicators for powdered insecticides. Recognizing the paramount importance of safety in pest control operations, we also offer top-tier, laminated coverall protective suits, ensuring complete protection for the user.

Detailed information on our extensive range of pest control solutions can be found within the Ghilotina catalog.

The post Ghilotina – Top of the line first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

PestConnect: The digital frontier of pest prevention | Rentokil

2024-07-25T14:19:26-00:00

EcoCatch Flies: Leading the charge in eco-friendly outdoor fly control | Rentokil

2024-07-25T13:55:30-00:00

EcoCatch Flies: Power-free, superior outdoor fly control | Rentokil

2024-07-25T13:43:04-00:00

EcoCatch Flies: Design meets functionality in an outdoor fly trap | Rentokil

2024-07-25T13:33:28-00:00

How to Get Rid of Fireflies?

2024-07-22T09:40:02-00:00

Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, are a fascinating sight on warm summer nights. However, there may be situations where their presence becomes less enchanting, especially if they invade your home or garden in large numbers. In this article, let’s see how to get rid of fireflies with effective DIY methods to manage and eliminate them if you’re dealing with an unwanted firefly infestation.

How to Get Rid of Fireflies?

Before discussing methods for getting rid of fireflies, it’s essential to understand a bit about these insects. They thrive in moist environments and are attracted to light. While they are generally harmless to humans, their presence can become a nuisance.

1. Reduce Outdoor Lighting

Fireflies are attracted to light. By minimizing outdoor lighting, you can make your surroundings less appealing to them. Use motion-sensor lights or low-wattage bulbs to reduce the overall light pollution in your yard.

2. Reduce Moisture

Fireflies prefer moist environments. Ensure your garden or yard is not overly damp. Fix any leaky hoses, faucets, or irrigation systems. Proper drainage and reducing standing water can make your outdoor space less inviting for fireflies.

3. Trim Vegetation

Fireflies often hide in tall grass and dense vegetation during the day. Keep your lawn mowed and trim any overgrown bushes or plants. This reduces the hiding spots for fireflies and makes your garden less attractive to them.

4. Use Yellow Bug Lights

Consider replacing your outdoor lights with yellow bug lights. These bulbs are less attractive to insects, including fireflies, and can help keep them away from your home.

5. Natural Predators

Introduce natural predators into your garden, such as spiders, birds, and bats. These creatures can help control the firefly population by preying on them.

6. Homemade Firefly Traps

Create homemade traps using a jar with a lid, some soapy water, and a small flashlight. Place the flashlight inside the jar to attract fireflies and fill the jar with soapy water to trap them. This method is effective but may require patience.

7. Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, like peppermint and lavender, can repel fireflies. Mix a few drops of these oils with water in a spray bottle and apply it around your outdoor living areas.

Preventing Future Infestations

Once you’ve managed to get rid of fireflies, it’s crucial to take preventive measures to avoid future infestations:

Maintain a clean yard: Regularly remove debris, leaves, and grass clippings.
Seal entry points: Check your home for gaps and cracks where fireflies could enter and seal them.
Proper waste management: Ensure your garbage cans are tightly sealed to avoid attracting fireflies.

Conclusion

While fireflies are beautiful creatures, they can become a nuisance when they invade your personal space. By following these DIY methods, you can effectively reduce their presence around your home. However, if you have any doubts about these methods or if they do not seem to be working then contact professional pest control services, they have experts who can provide more advanced solutions to manage and eliminate fireflies.

The post How to Get Rid of Fireflies? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-07-21

2024-07-21T04:00:01-00:00

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-07-14

2024-07-14T04:00:01-00:00

What Smell Keep Mosquito Away?

2024-07-08T11:00:19-00:00

Mosquitoes are one of the disease spreading insects, they can carry diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. While there are many commercial products available to repel these pesky insects, many people prefer natural solutions. One effective and natural way to keep mosquitoes at bay is by using certain smells that they find unpleasant. In this blog post, we’ll explore various scents that mosquitoes dislike and how you can use them to protect yourself and your home.

What Smell Keep Mosquito Away?

Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to smells and they locate their targets by detecting carbon dioxide, body odors, and heat. Certain natural compounds can interfere with their ability to detect these cues, making you less attractive to them. These compounds are often found in essential oils, which can be used in various ways to repel mosquitoes.

Top Smells That Keep Mosquito Away

There are some certain oil smells that keep the mosquitoes entirely away from our house. Such Smells are,

Citronella

Citronella is perhaps the most well-known mosquito repellent. Derived from the lemongrass plant, citronella oil has a distinct lemony scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. You can use citronella candles, oils, or even plant citronella grass in your garden. The pleasant aroma not only keeps mosquitoes away but also adds a refreshing fragrance to your outdoor space.

Lavender

Lavender is another scent that mosquitoes dislike. The sweet, floral aroma of lavender is pleasant to humans but acts as a deterrent to mosquitoes. You can use lavender essential oil in diffusers, spray it around your home, or plant lavender in your garden. Additionally, dried lavender bundles can be placed around your living areas for continuous protection.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil, with its strong, menthol-like smell, is highly effective in repelling mosquitoes. Eucalyptus not only keeps mosquitoes away but also has antiseptic properties, making it a great addition to your home. You can mix eucalyptus oil with water and spray it around, or use it in diffusers to maintain a mosquito-free environment.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil is another natural mosquito repellent. The strong, minty smell of peppermint is something mosquitoes avoid. Using peppermint essential oil in a spray bottle with water can be an effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Additionally, planting peppermint around your home can act as a natural barrier against these pests.

Garlic

Garlic’s strong smell is not just effective in repelling vampires; it also works against mosquitoes. Eating garlic or using garlic sprays can help keep mosquitoes away. While the scent might be a bit strong for some, the effectiveness of garlic in repelling mosquitoes makes it worth considering.

Conclusion

Using natural scents is an effective and eco-friendly way to repel mosquitoes, allowing you to enjoy a mosquito-free environment. However, if these methods don’t fully resolve your mosquito problem, it may be time to call pest control services for a more comprehensive solution.

Try these oils for a mosquito-free home, but don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Stay protected and enjoy a pleasant, mosquito-free environment!

The post What Smell Keep Mosquito Away? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-07-07

2024-07-07T04:00:01-00:00

What is Heat Treatment for Bed Bugs?

2024-07-03T10:19:57-00:00

Dealing with a bed bug infestation can be a frustrating and challenging experience for homeowners. Traditional methods may not always be effective, especially as bed bugs develop resistance to pesticides. In such cases, heat treatment emerges as a potent solution. In this blog, we will explain exactly what is heat treatment for bed bugs and how can we use that to get rid of bed bugs.

What is Heat Treatment for Bed Bugs?

Heat treatment is a non-chemical approach to get rid of bed bugs. It involves raising the temperature of an infested area to a level that is lethal for these pests. Typically, temperatures are maintained between 48 °C and 60°C for several hours. This method effectively finds bed bugs hiding places, including cracks, crevices, and inside furniture, ensuring that all life stages of the bugs, from eggs to adults, are eradicated in one treatment session.

How Heat Treatment Works?

The process begins with thorough preparation. Before heat treatment starts, it’s essential to remove heat-sensitive items such as electronics, plants, and certain personal belongings that could be damaged by high temperatures. This process allows for better heat circulation and ensures the treatment’s effectiveness.

Pest control experts use specialised equipment, such as industrial heaters and fans, to distribute heat evenly throughout the infested area. They monitor the temperature using sensors to guarantee it remains within the lethal range for bed bugs. This approach is crucial to eliminating all pests and preventing insect infestation.

How to Use Heat Treatment on Bed Bugs?

We can use the heat treatment method as three steps to kill bed bugs. Those steps are,

Preparation: Clear the treated area of clutter to allow for efficient heat distribution. Launder all linens, clothing, and fabrics on high heat to eliminate any bed bugs residing within them. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture thoroughly to remove as many bugs and eggs as possible before treatment.

Execution: Leave the treatment area during the process along with any pets to avoid exposure to high temperatures. Professionals will gradually increase and maintain the temperature to ensure complete eradication of bed bugs. After treatment, allow sufficient time for the area to cool before re-entering.

Post-Treatment: Inspect the area post-treatment to ensure no bed bugs or eggs survive. Use bed bug-proof encasements on mattresses and box springs to prevent re-infestation. Regularly monitor for signs of bed bugs and maintain cleanliness to reduce the likelihood of future infestations.

Conclusion

Heat treatment is a powerful method to get rid of bed bugs. While it may come with a higher upfront cost and require careful preparation, its effectiveness often makes it a worthwhile investment for those dealing with persistent infestations. Always consult with professional pest control services to ensure the treatment is carried out safely and effectively, tailored to your home’s specific needs.

The post What is Heat Treatment for Bed Bugs? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-06-30

2024-06-30T04:00:01-00:00

What Scent Do Insects Hate?

2024-06-25T09:46:57-00:00

When it comes to keeping your home free of unwanted pests, using scents that repel insects can be an effective and natural method. Many common household pests, including mosquitoes, ants, and flies, are repelled by specific scents. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most effective scents that pests hate, which can help you maintain an insect-free environment.

What Scent Do Insects Hate?

Insects are repelled by a variety of scents that humans find pleasant, primarily because they interfere with the insects’ ability to locate food or mates. Such scents which acts as insect repellents are,

Citrus

Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges, produce a refreshing aroma that is pleasant to humans but detested by many insects. Citrus peels contain compounds like limonene, which act as natural insect repellents. You can use citrus peels by placing them near entry points, such as windowsills and doorways, to deter insects.

Lavender

Lavender is not only popular for its soothing fragrance and beautiful flowers but also for its insect-repelling properties. Lavender oil contains compounds like linalool and camphor, which are effective in repelling mosquitoes, flies, and moths. Using lavender sachets in closets and drawers or diffusing lavender oil in your home can help keep these pests at bay.

Peppermint

Peppermint has a strong, minty aroma that is refreshing to us but overwhelming for insects like ants, spiders, and mosquitoes. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which acts as a natural insecticide and repellent. You can create a simple peppermint spray by mixing peppermint essential oil with water and spraying it around your home’s entry points.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil is another powerful scent that insects find offensive. It contains compounds like cineole, which can repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests. Eucalyptus oil can be used in diffusers or diluted with water to create a spray that you can use around your home to keep insects away.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has a strong, medicinal scent that can deter a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, ants, and lice. The active compounds in tea tree oil, such as terpinene-4-ol, are known for their insecticidal properties. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a spray bottle filled with water and using it around your home can help keep pests away.

Clove

Clove oil has a strong, spicy scent that can repel a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, ants, and flies. The active ingredient in clove oil is known for its insect-repelling properties. Creating a clove oil spray by mixing a few drops with water can help keep insects away from your home.

Conclusion

Using natural scents to repel insects is a safe and effective method to maintain an insect-free home. Scents, which we mentioned above, are not only pleasant to humans but also serve as powerful deterrents for a variety of pests. By combining these natural repellent scents with professional pest control services when needed, you can maintain a healthy and pest-free home environment.

The post What Scent Do Insects Hate? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-06-23

2024-06-23T04:00:01-00:00

How to Destroy Lanternfly Eggs?

2024-06-18T10:52:27-00:00

Spotted Lanternflies, invasive pests native to Southeast Asia, have been causing significant agricultural damage worldwide. One of the most effective ways to control their population is to destroy their eggs before they hatch. In this blog, we will explain how to identify and eliminate lanternfly eggs, helping to protect your plants and crops.

Identifying Lanternfly Eggs

Lanternfly eggs are typically laid on flat surfaces in clusters of 30 to 50 eggs. These clusters resemble mud splatters or smudges and are about an inch long. Initially, they appear as light grey or tan, later turning darker and more cracked as they age. By properly identifying the lanternfly eggs, we can easily manage to destroy them.

How to Destroy Lanternfly Eggs?

Lantern eggs can be easily destroyed with some simple methods. Those you are

Scraping: Use a putty knife or similar tool to scrape the egg masses off the surface they are attached to. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the sticky substance covering the eggs. Once you have scraped the eggs off, place them in a bag and dispose of them in the trash.

Smashing: If the eggs are laid on a hard surface, such as a rock or a tree trunk, you can simply smash them with a hammer or another heavy object. Again, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands.

Soaking: If the eggs are laid on a surface that can be soaked, such as a tree trunk, you can use a solution of water and soap to destroy them. Simply spray the solution on the eggs and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping the eggs away.

Freezing: If the eggs are laid on a surface that can be frozen, such as a rock or outdoor furniture, you can use a freezing spray to destroy them. Simply spray the eggs with the freezing spray and wait for them to freeze before scraping them off.

With these above-mentioned methods, we can easily destroy the lanternfly eggs and stop the pest infestation in our space.

Preventive Measures

Regularly inspect trees, plants, and outdoor structures for Lanternfly egg masses, nymphs, or adults. Early detection can help prevent the spread of these pests.
Tree of Heaven is a preferred host plant for Lanternflies. Removing these trees from your property can help reduce the attractiveness of your area to Lanternflies.
Use sticky bands or barriers like tree banding to trap and prevent Lanternfly nymphs from climbing up trees. This method can help reduce the number of adult Lanternflies in your area.

Conclusion

Destroying lanternfly eggs is important for managing the lanternfly population and protecting your plants and crops. With the right methods, which we mentioned, we can easily destroy the eggs and stop their infestation. If you need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to call pest control services like Empire Pest Control for expert help. We have the experience and tools necessary to manage lanternfly infestations effectively.

The post How to Destroy Lanternfly Eggs? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

International Pest Control – May/June 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.3

2024-06-17T22:41:20-00:00

COVER IMAGE : Perennial flower margin bordering a commercial apple orchard
Picture by University of Reading, Charlotte Howard

I’ll start with an apology to those of you who were anticipating a special feature on Vertebrate Pests. It turns out this was a bad choice on my part as we had no-one stepping up to write articles and perhaps this topic may be regarded as old hat.What is definitely not out of fashion is the use of genetics in pest control and I could have made a new Special Feature on that topic alone by drawing together the many articles in this issue. Also filling my inbox (almost typed in-tray – remember those?) are articles on invasive species and the impact of climate change on pests – present and future.

Maybe it’s time to review our more traditional sections? And while we don’t have a Special Feature, we do still have 56 pages of pest control related articles which I hope you will find of interest.

We kick off with an article that I find exciting – the funding of the digitisation of the UK’s Natural History Museum collections. This is not only good for researchers in the UK: it has a worldwide impact as researchers around the world will be able to access the museum’s amazing collections from their desktop. For many of us the word agriculture conjures up thoughts of agribusiness and 1,000 hectare farms with big machinery yet worldwide it is the family farm that feeds 70% of the population. We carry an interview with Alvaro Lario, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

The first article with a genetic bias is the news of innovation funding for a group of UK organisations with the aim of simplifying and speeding up the transition of cutting-edge genome research tools, workflows, and software into industrial applications.

Association News kicks off with a report from Dr Partho Dhang from the 15th Pacific Rim Termite Research Group (PRTRG) Conference in Manila. We also report on the new Asia Pest Management Association as well as activity at CRRU and NPMA.

Company news includes Bayer, BASF, Certis Belchim, Biobest Group, OCS, PestPac, Orkin, Wade Environmental, Syngenta and Bionema.

In Public Health we discover that modifying mosquito fertility may result in an alternative way of reducing the pool of harmful human viruses circulating in insect populations and Syngenta claims to have a solution for the control of German Cockroach.

Agriculture is a full section with articles on FAW, individually tailored RNA or DNA-based molecules to reliably fight off viral infections in plants, Rothamsted’s view on the impact of a glyphosate ban on UK agriculture, how baculoviruses infect the insect brain, how fungi infect insects, new rice varieties to fight rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) and the need to substantially improve rice production in Africa.

Understanding caterpillars’ sensory world and the monitoring of Echinothrips are the subjects of interest in Horticulture & Amenity while in Forestry & Plantation papaya mealybug, Banana Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW), air samplers, sugar cane’s genetic code, protecting apples with flowers, a weakness in the spotted lantern fly’s defences and the spread of Panama disease all feature.

In Climate Change we discover how ozone removes the mating barrier between insect species resulting in sterility, learn about biocontrol of invasive water lettuce, and we close with an article on how forest soils can help fight climate change.
In the next issue I hope to have a special feature on the control of biting invertebrates, which reminds me, the bug of this issue is the bedbug. So, if you think you have some interesting thoughts about controlling biting invertebrates do let me know!!

Chris Endacott, Editor International Pest Control magazine
editor@international-pest-control.com

Contents International Pest Control May/June 2024
Volume 66, Number 3.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Programme to digitise the UK’s natural science collections
“Without family farming, we would not have eaten today”
UK plant breeders to benefit from online research tools
And finally… €22.8 million grant for research into plant tactile sense

BUG OF THE ISSUE

Common bedbug

ASSOCIATION & SOCIETY NEWS

15th Pacific Rim Termite Research Group (PRTRG) Conference
Asia Pest Management Association
Nigel Cheeseright returns to CRRU
NPMA Academy full schedule announced

COMPANY NEWS

Driving regenerative practices in agriculture
A new seed treatment bio-fungicide for cereals
BASF breaks ground on the new fermentation plant
Inauguration of a state-of-the-art facility
OCS acquires Abate pest management services
Empowering Brazilian farmers to foster biodiversity
Certis Belchim partners with Landlab
Pest control industry expert Alex Wade joins BASF
New biological insecticide will be the first available for arable crops
PestPac modernises & internationalises
New Orkin UK Group managing director
New Head of Operations at Wade Environmental
Syngenta’s ADEPIDYN® technology registered in Great Britain
Bionema wins King’s Award for Enterprise.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Bacteria can enhance host insect’s fertility
Proven to stop cockroach activity

AGRICULTURE

Lessons learned in the fight against fall armyworm (FAW)
Novel RNA or DNA-based substances can protect plants
Baculoviruses need help to infect caterpillar brain
Glyphosate ban could lead to difficult trade-offs
Nature is inventive
How fungi improve their ability to infect insects
New rice lines for Africa
African rice production must become more efficient

HORTICULTURE & AMENITY

Caterpillar noses are surprisingly sophisticated
Echinothrips monitoring improvements

FORESTRY & PLANTATION

Farmer perceptions of papaya mealybug biological control
Consequences of inaction on devastating banana disease
Air samplers could help pest management practices
Researchers crack sugarcane’s complex genetic code
Insects protect apples when flowers are planted on farms
Spotted lanternfly reveals a potential weakness
Organic banana growers do not escape Panama disease

CLIMATE CHANGE

Ozone removes mating barriers between fly species
Biocontrol of invasive water lettuce plant
Forest soils to fight climate change

CALENDAR

Upcoming pest control events

Published in International Pest Control – May/June 2024 issue.

The post International Pest Control – May/June 2024 – Vol 66, Nr.3 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-06-16

2024-06-16T04:00:01-00:00

What Attracts Caterpillars to Your House?

2024-06-10T09:53:09-00:00

Caterpillars can be fascinating creatures to observe in their natural habitat, but finding them inside your home can be less than delightful. Understanding what attracts these munching larvae to your abode is crucial for preventing an invasion and keeping your living spaces free from their presence. In this blog, we will explore what attracts caterpillars to your house and how we can penetrate those attractions.

What Attracts Caterpillars to Your House?

Caterpillars are fascinating creatures in the natural world, but when they start infiltrating your home or garden, they can become a nuisance. Understanding what attracts these pesky critters to your house is the first step toward effective pest control. The things that attract the caterpillar are,

Food Sources: Caterpillars are attracted to plants and foliage, especially those rich in nutrients. If your home has a garden with a variety of plants, it may be inviting these hungry caterpillars for a feast.
Moisture: Caterpillars thrive in moist environments, so areas around leaky faucets, watering cans, or damp soil can attract them to your house.
Warmth: During colder months, caterpillars seek warmth, making cracks in walls, windows, or doors potential entry points to your cozy home.
Lights: Artificial lights at night can also draw caterpillars towards your house, mistaking them for natural moonlight.

Effective Pest Control Solution

Caterpillar infestations can be difficult to manage, but with the correct techniques, you can keep these pests out of your house and garden.

Here are some pest control options that will help you manage and avoid caterpillar infestations:

Planting Herbs: Planting certain herbs and flowers like dill, fennel, and marigolds can deter caterpillars due to their strong scents or natural repellent properties.
DIY Traps: Create simple traps using containers filled with soapy water placed strategically around your garden to catch caterpillars that may be munching on your plants.
Physical Removal: To effectively remove caterpillars from your garden, handpick them from your plants and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.
Crop Rotation: Rotate your crops each season to disrupt caterpillars’ life cycle and reduce the chances of infestations in your garden.
Compost Management: Properly manage your compost pile to avoid creating a breeding ground for caterpillars. Turn your compost regularly and ensure it reaches high temperatures to deter pests.

By implementing a combination of these strategies, you can effectively manage caterpillar populations in your garden while maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem.

Conclusion

Understanding what attracts caterpillars to your house is important to preventing infestations. Implementing the above-mentioned techniques is essential to effectively managing and avoiding caterpillar invasions. If this DIY method does not work, get help from pest control services to reduce the caterpillar population and safeguard your home and garden.

The post What Attracts Caterpillars to Your House? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-06-09

2024-06-09T04:00:01-00:00

What Attracts Stable Flies? & How to Get Rid of It?

2024-06-07T10:57:26-00:00

Stable flies, also known as biting house flies, can be a pesky nuisance for both humans and animals. Identifying what attracts these blood-sucking pests is crucial in effectively controlling and preventing infestations. In this blog post, what attracts stable flies to your home and how to get rid of them.

What Attracts Stable Flies?

Stable flies are attracted to various factors that make them thrive in specific environments. Here are some common attractants for stable flies:

Stable flies are drawn to moist, decaying organic matter like wet hay, manure, and spilled animal feed, ideal for their larvae to develop.
Livestock and their waste attract stable flies that feed on animals’ blood, especially in areas with accumulated waste near barns, stables, and pastures.
The smell of decaying matter and sweat lures stable flies with the odor of rotting vegetation, wet hay, and perspiration.
Active during warm weather, stable flies thrive in higher temperatures, making them more common in summer.
Preferring humid environments, stable flies are often found near water bodies, marshes, or damp surfaces that support their survival and breeding.

By understanding what attracts stable flies, you can take proactive measures to reduce their presence and prevent infestations.

How to Get Rid of Stable Flies?

Stable flies can be a nuisance, especially in agriculture and farms. But with some techniques, we can easily get rid of them. Those techniques are,

Sanitation

Stable flies are attracted to decaying organic matter, especially manure, so it’s essential to clean up these areas regularly. Remove any manure piles or rotting vegetation near your property, as these serve as breeding grounds for stable flies.

Fly traps

There are various types of fly traps you can use to catch stable flies. Sticky traps are coated with a substance that flies get stuck to when they land on it. Electric traps attract flies with light and then zap them. Baited traps use attractants to lure flies in. Place these traps strategically around areas where stable flies are most prevalent.

Biological control

Introducing natural predators of stable flies can be an effective way to manage their population. Certain species of parasitic wasps feed on stable fly larvae, helping to reduce their numbers. Research the types of predators that are native to your area and consider introducing them with the help of experts.

Chemical control

In severe cases where other methods are not effective, insecticides may be necessary. Use insecticides labeled explicitly for stable flies and follow the instructions carefully to ensure safety for humans and other animals. Consider using targeted sprays in areas where stable flies rest and breed.

Conclusion

Stable flies should be eradicated from agricultural land and farms because they will kill our plants. With the above-mentioned techniques and by reducing the attraction, you can eliminate the stable flies from your land. If these DIY methods are not working, there is always an option to call pest control services, they can easily eradicate this pests.

The post What Attracts Stable Flies? & How to Get Rid of It? appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

Weekly Top Posts: 2024-06-02

2024-06-02T04:00:01-00:00

APMA 2024

2024-05-30T11:05:30-00:00

1st APMA-2024 Bangkok Forum, International Pest Management Conference in Asia-Pacific, in Bangkok Thailand, July 10-11, 2024:

To explore the Pest Management Opportunity in Asia – Future Outlook.
To catch up with over 20 World Renown Distinguished Speakers.
To meet the most up-to-date Pest Control Chemicals and Equipment suppliers.
To greet our fellow Professional PCO Friends and Colleagues in Asia Pacific.
To gain new opportunities for Networking among the Professional PCO Industry.
To enjoy Bangkok at its best, Thai Foods and Friendly Thai Hospitality.

Registration Fee is only US$300 per person, Covering:

2 full conference days
2 lunches
4 tea breaks
1 gala dinner
2 nights Twin-Sharing room at the Venue Emerald Bangkok Hotel (July 9-11, 2024)
2 breakfast buffets at the Venue Emerald Bangkok Hotel

The First 100 APMA-2024 Online Registrations and Payments get an APMA Jacket FREE.

Link for register APMA2024 – https://www.apma2024.com/registration/

The post APMA 2024 first appeared on International Pest Control Magazine.

Wasp vs Hoverfly – Difference Between Them

2024-05-30T10:25:02-00:00

When it comes to flying insects, it’s essential to distinguish between friendly pollinators like hoverflies and potentially aggressive pests like wasps. Understanding the differences between these two insects can help you protect your garden, promote biodiversity, and ensure a safe environment for yourself and your family. In this blog, we will explain the major difference between wasps and hoverflies and how to identify them correctly.

Difference Between Wasp and Hoverfly

Understanding the differences between wasps and hoverflies is crucial for effective pest control and maintaining a balanced ecosystem in your garden. We can differentiate them in terms of physical characteristics, diet, and nesting behaviour. Let’s see the differences one by one.

Physical Characteristics

Wasp

Wasps are typically larger and more robust in size compared to hoverflies.
They have distinct black and yellow stripes on their bodies, which serve as a warning signal for potential predators.
Wasps have smooth bodies and a defined narrow waist, giving them a sleek appearance.

Hoverfly

Hoverflies are smaller and more delicate than wasps, often resembling bees in size.
They have a distinctive black and yellow pattern on their bodies, mimicking the appearance of stinging insects, for protection.
Hoverflies have a wider, rounder body shape compared to the slender waist of wasps.

Behaviour and Diet

Wasp

Wasps are predators and scavengers, feeding on other insects, nectar, and sugary substances.
They can become aggressive when threatened, especially around their nests, and may sting multiple times in defense.
Wasps play a role in controlling pest populations but can also be a nuisance in residential areas.

Hoverfly

Hoverflies are harmless pollinators that feed on nectar and pollen from flowers.
They are valuable allies in the garden, helping to pollinate plants and control aphid populations by consuming them.
Hoverflies are docile insects that mimic the appearance of stinging insects for protection but do not possess a stinger themselves.

Nesting Behaviour

Wasp

Wasps build paper-like nests from chewed wood fibres mixed with saliva. They are often found in sheltered areas such as eaves, attics, or tree branches.
Their nests can contain hundreds to thousands of individuals, depending on the species.
It is crucial to exercise caution around wasp nests to avoid provoking defensive behaviour.

Hoverfly

Hoverflies do not build nests like wasps; instead, they lay eggs near aphid colonies to provide food for their larvae.
The larvae of hoverflies are voracious predators of aphids, making them beneficial for natural pest control in gardens.
Since hoverflies do not form large colonies or exhibit aggressive behaviour, they pose no threat to humans and can be welcomed into outdoor spaces.

Conclusion

While wasps and hoverflies may share similar appearances, understanding their differences in physical characteristics, behaviour, and nesting habits can help with effective pest control. If you cannot identify an insect and want to get rid of it from your garden or personal, call pest control services to eliminate it effectively.

The post Wasp vs Hoverfly – Difference Between Them appeared first on Empire Pest Control London.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

PEST OF THE ISSUE

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

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