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Boost Curb Appeal With Pressure Washing Services

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Pressure washing involves spraying high-pressure water to remove loose paint, mildew, dirt, moss, and other debris from exterior surfaces like driveways and patios. This process can also remove chewing gum, oil stains, and other tough-to-remove contaminants from asphalt and concrete surfaces.Pressure Washing Services

Regular pressure washing can greatly improve your home’s curb appeal and air quality by removing mold, mildew, and other allergens. It can also help prevent weeds, fungus, and moss from growing on your property. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Pressure Washing Services.

Boosting your property’s curb appeal is one of the best ways to make it more appealing to visitors. Over time, dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and other contaminants build up on surfaces, causing them to look dull and unattractive. Pressure washing effectively removes these substances and restores the beauty of exterior features, such as driveways, sidewalks, porches, decks, roofs, siding, gutters, and downspouts.

Pressure washing involves using heat, detergents, and a strong stream of pressurized water to clean surfaces. The process is more effective than regular cleaning with a hose or manual cleaners, and can be completed in a fraction of the time. It’s also safer for delicate surfaces than chemicals, making it an ideal choice for outdoor cleaning.

Driveways and walkways are often the first things guests notice, but they can become stained with oil spills, tire marks, and other contaminants that detract from your property’s appearance and pose safety risks. Pressure washing these high-traffic areas restores their original shine and enhances safety by removing slippery substances.

Power washing is also an effective way to remove moss, lichen, and other plant growth from surfaces. This prevents them from growing and causing damage, and helps your property look healthy and well-maintained.

Whether you’re planning to sell your home or simply want it to look its best, professional pressure washing is an excellent investment. Dirt, grime, mold, mildew, oil stains, and other contaminants can negatively impact the appearance of your home, and may discourage potential buyers from showing interest. A fresh coat of paint and a sparkling clean exterior can make your home stand out in the competitive real estate market.

Removes Dirt and Mildew

Getting rid of dirt, mildew and mold takes more than just regular cleaning. It requires a strong stream of pressurized water to dislodge the deep-ingrained debris and contaminants from the surface. This method of cleaning is ideal for most surfaces on residential and commercial properties, including brick, concrete, masonry and even some types of wood.

In addition to being unsightly, dirt, mildew and mold can also cause damage to your home or business and affect the surrounding ecosystems. The proper combination of a detergent and pressure washing can easily eliminate these harmful growths, keeping your property safe and beautiful for you and the environment.

Power washing is a popular DIY method for cleaning homes and businesses, but improper use of the machine can harm certain materials. Using too much pressure can etch and ruin surfaces, while not using enough pressure can prevent stains from being removed. Professionals are trained in the correct techniques and pressure settings for each type of surface to ensure safe and effective results.

Aside from knowing the proper water pressure to use, a professional knows how to prepare the machine and the area for washing. This includes covering plants and other delicate items, setting up the nozzles correctly (to avoid damaging surfaces), and using the right detergent for each surface. They are also experienced in navigating around obstacles and working safely, making them an invaluable resource for cleaning hard-to-reach areas of your home or commercial property.

Mold and mildew are not just unsightly; they can degrade building materials and contribute to structural damage, as well as lead to respiratory and skin problems for those living or visiting your property. Using a fungicidal detergent in combination with pressure washing can easily remove these growths and keep them from returning quickly.

Prevents Water Damage

Keeping the exterior of your building and parking lot clean helps to prevent water damage. It also gives customers and passersby a good impression of your company, showing that you take care of your property. Whether you choose to pressure wash or use other methods, the desired outcome is the same: a sanitary environment for your people and your assets.

Regular cleaning impedes the accumulation of dirt, mold, mildew, and other materials that cause long-term deterioration and stains. In addition, a clean building exterior keeps certain organisms such as pollen from latching onto surfaces, which can lead to a variety of ailments.

Pressure washing removes these contaminants, allowing for a more receptive surface for paint and other materials to adhere. This can extend the life of your surfaces and minimize the need for repairs.

However, some surfaces aren’t able to withstand high levels of pressure. Roofs, painted siding, older brickwork, and other delicate surfaces require a more gentle approach known as soft washing. Soft washing uses a lower pressure with specialized detergents for an effective clean that is safer for the home. Professional services can determine the right method for your home, saving you money and stress while protecting your property.

DIY pressure washing can be dangerous, as incorrect psi or use of harsh chemicals can damage the surface being cleaned and even kill surrounding vegetation. Not to mention, clogged nozzles can quickly turn a seemingly simple task into a frustrating nightmare. Hiring professionals eliminates the risk of damaging your property and saves you time, ensuring a fast and efficient cleaning.

Prevents Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew can be dangerous if left unchecked, especially for those who suffer from allergies. They also eat away at surfaces and can cause deterioration. Fortunately, regular pressure washing removes these substances and prevents them from growing back. This service is particularly important for properties with high humidity levels, where fungal growth thrives.

Mold, mildew, and algae grow best on moist and organic materials, making them the perfect food for wood, vinyl, concrete, and stucco. The combination of these factors can deteriorate outdoor structures and cause structural damage. Regular pressure washing removes these organic substances, preventing their spread and protecting outdoor surfaces.

The use of pressure washing services is a simple way to increase curb appeal and extend the life of outdoor surfaces. These services are ideal for roofs, patios, decks, driveways, and other surfaces that require routine cleaning. In addition to providing a fresh look, pressure washing helps to protect the surface and reduce the risk of water damage, which can be expensive to repair or replace.

If you are considering hiring a professional to perform a pressure washing service, it is important to choose a company with experience in the industry. They should be familiar with the proper psi, water rotation, and cleaning products for different surfaces. They should also know how to use nozzles to prevent damaging the surface. The nozzles should be able to provide a wide spray when further away from the surface and a finer point when closer. This will prevent the nozzle from concentrating too much pressure on one area and causing damage. In addition, they should be familiar with the proper safety precautions to follow when using a power washer.

Reduces Maintenance Costs

Adding pressure washing to your facility maintenance schedule is a cost-effective way to maintain and improve your building’s exterior. Regular cleaning eliminates harmful substances that can deteriorate surfaces, saving you money in the long run by extending their lifespan. In addition, a clean building’s exterior is less likely to experience problems such as cracks and leaks.

Dirty walkways and outdoor surfaces can pose a safety hazard for employees and customers, increasing the risk of accidents. Pressure washing removes dangerous contaminants like mildew, mold, and algae, and it also reduces the likelihood of slip-and-fall accidents by removing slippery substances from surfaces.

Additionally, a clean building exterior can help you save on energy costs. Over time, grime builds up on windows, solar panels, skylights, and glass doors, reducing natural light penetration. Pressure washing eliminates these layers of dirt and debris, allowing sunlight to reach your home’s interior and lowering your utility bills.

A well-maintained building is a positive representation of your business and reflects on the quality of your services. It also attracts more customers and clients, increases brand recognition, and enhances your reputation in the community. In addition, a well-maintained building is more likely to pass inspections and appraisals when it comes time to sell or refinance. Finally, a clean facility meets health and safety regulations, ensuring that your employees and clients are safe in the workplace. Adding professional pressure washing to your maintenance plan will make sure that your commercial property is always in good condition.

Top Tips for Pest Control in Your Backyard

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Pests destroy crops, contaminate food and do untold damage to buildings. Rodents, for example, gnaw their way through about 20 percent of the world’s stored products.

Suppression and prevention are usually the goals. You can often reduce pests to an acceptable level using the right combination of methods. Contact Solutions Pest Control now!

Pest control insurance from £4.74 per month - Simply Business UK

Reliable pest control companies show their licenses and copies of pesticide labels before applying any chemicals. They also provide safety warnings and instructions.

The first step in pest control is correctly identifying the pest. This isn’t as simple as it sounds; many insects and rodents look similar, and immature forms may resemble adults. Additionally, natural forces affect populations, and if the environment is favorable for pests, they’ll increase until controlled by other factors.

Look for signs of a problem like gnawed wires or contaminated food packages. Mice scurrying across floors or cockroaches lurking in crevices also indicate the presence of pests. You should also inspect the outside of your home for entry points. Cracks and openings around doors, windows, utility pipes and vents should be caulked. Store firewood and other materials at least 20 feet away from the house, and keep shrubbery trimmed.

If you have any doubts, contact a pest control company. They can help identify the pest and suggest a strategy for controlling it. Some companies offer free estimates, and most will discuss a treatment plan and cost before beginning work. Shop around for the best price, and always ask a pest control company to provide recommendations and warranties.

Once you’ve identified the pest, it’s important to determine how the infestation got started. Pests thrive in unsanitary conditions and need access to water, food and shelter. Taking steps to remove these things from the environment will discourage them and may prevent them from returning.

Locate and eliminate the breeding site. This is generally where the pests are most active; it could be a dead mouse or squirrel in your attic, a pile of leaves or manure under a deck, a stack of trash in an open shed, or even dirty garbage cans. Clean drains regularly and store food in sealed containers. Keep garbage cans closed and dispose of waste promptly. Store fruit and vegetables in the refrigerator and don’t leave food out on counters or tables for extended periods. Keep trash cans closed and clean, and don’t allow them to overflow.

Inspecting the Infestation

Whether you are doing pest control yourself or hiring someone else to do it, before taking any action it is essential that you have accurate knowledge of the nature and extent of the infestation. That requires a thorough inspection by a person who is trained in identification and detection. The inspector should check for pests and their damage to building structures, artifacts, and furnishings. He or she should also inspect the property’s outdoor areas for conditions that increase risk of infestation.

A pest inspector should look for signs of pests, such as insect droppings (feces), gnawing marks, and damage to furniture and other articles. He or she should also inspect for conditions that might attract pests, such as water leaks, rot, mold growth, and excessive moisture.

If a house is being occupied, the inspector should talk to the occupants and ask about their experiences with pests. He or she should take note of any damage to objects and furnishings, especially those that are important to the occupants.

Routine pest inspections make it easier to spot a problem early on. This can help prevent it from getting out of hand and affecting the health and safety of occupants. It can also prevent the loss of property value due to pest-related damage.

It is a good idea to have a written record of the results of pest inspections and treatments. This will allow you to track the effectiveness of your pest management program and identify any areas that need improvement. The records should include the types of pests detected, their level of activity, and the treatment methods used.

Preventing pest infestations is a good way to protect the health and safety of people, preserve the value of property, and ensure a comfortable living environment. By implementing preventive measures, such as sealing entry points, maintaining a sanitary perimeter around buildings, and avoiding attracting environments, you can drastically reduce the number of pests in your home. Also, it is a good idea to store food in airtight containers and keep garbage bins covered and located away from the building.

Choosing a Strategy

There are many different ways to control pests, and the method you choose depends on the type of pest, its location, and your goals for pest management. To minimize harm to people and the environment, choose a strategy that is appropriate for the situation and fits within your budget. Whenever possible, select nonchemical methods. These include cultural practices, removing or blocking the pest’s food sources, and growing competitive plants. When chemical control is necessary, use the least-toxic option. Be sure to read and follow all product labels.

The first step in choosing a pest control strategy is to understand the pest’s life cycle and biology. This will help you decide how to treat the pest, and when to take action. In most situations, it is important to establish threshold levels, which indicate that pest numbers or damage have reached unacceptable limits.

Once you have identified the pest, inspect the site to see what is attracting it and causing problems. For example, a rodent problem may be caused by food left out, water in open containers, or clutter that provides hiding places. Then you can take steps to reduce these conditions, such as cleaning out garbage regularly and storing food in sealed containers.

You should also consider whether the pest is a nuisance or a threat to health or property. If it is a threat, you may need to take immediate action to protect the health or safety of people or pets. In other cases, the presence of a few pests in an outdoor setting can be tolerated if they don’t cause significant damage or inconvenience.

A traditional service model charges customers per pest inspection and treatment application. This model requires businesses to carefully evaluate costs and pricing so that services remain profitable. A partnership model increases sales by collaborating with businesses in related industries to provide bundled services to customers. For example, a pest control business may partner with lawn care or cleaning companies to offer discounted services and increase customer retention. This model may also involve leveraging professional networks to gain new customers.

Implementing the Strategy

A pest control strategy must involve a combination of physical, biological and chemical methods. Physical controls remove or prevent pests from reaching an unacceptable level — for example, removing or cleaning up equipment that can spread some insect pests; destruction of weeds and other plant material that could shelter pests; and careful timing of planting to avoid some insect problems (see above). Biological control involves using other organisms to reduce the number of the target pest — for instance, using pathogens (such as viruses, bacteria and fungi) that kill or debilitate the pest without harming people, pets or livestock. This method is often the most environmentally friendly way to manage some insects, including caterpillars and grubs. Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, is an example of a natural bacteria that is effective against certain caterpillars and grubs.

Chemical control involves the use of substances to kill or inhibit a pest’s feeding, mating or other essential activities — it includes a wide range of products, from naturally-derived organic compounds to synthetic chemicals. Some of these chemicals are highly targeted and have a low impact on non-target plants. Others are more general and have a greater effect on the entire ecosystem. Chemicals used for pest control can include sprays, baits, dusts and traps, as well as seed treatments, soil amendments and fungicides.

Monitoring is an important part of implementing a pest management program. Scouting and monitoring for insect, insect-like, mollusk or vertebrate pests is usually done by visual inspection. For weed and microbial pests, a regular routine of checking for damage, observing populations and noting environmental conditions is critical to understanding how the pests affect the site and when it might be time to initiate control measures.

Homeowners can set their own thresholds for when pest damage becomes unacceptable. To help with this decision, it is helpful to understand the life cycle of the pest — for instance, some pests have several generations a year and can quickly build up to damaging levels if not controlled. Choosing a control strategy that can quickly bring numbers below the acceptable threshold should be the main goal.

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The Importance and Benefits of Junk Removal for a Cleaner and Sustainable Environment

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Junk removal is an essential service that helps individuals, households, and businesses clear out unwanted items and maintain cleanliness in their spaces. The process involves collecting, transporting, and disposing of various forms of waste, including furniture, appliances, construction debris, electronic waste, and general clutter that accumulates over time. Whether due to moving, renovations, downsizing, or simply the need for a cleaner environment, junk removal plays a critical role in managing waste efficiently and responsibly. Contact Junk Removal Scottsdale for professional help.Junk Removal

One of the primary benefits of junk removal is the convenience it provides. Accumulating clutter can be overwhelming, and handling its disposal independently can be physically and logistically challenging. Many individuals lack the necessary equipment, time, or knowledge to properly dispose of different types of junk. Professionals in the field have the expertise to manage waste disposal in an organized and efficient manner, ensuring that the items are removed safely and promptly. They also adhere to regulations regarding waste disposal, preventing potential legal or environmental issues.

Another significant aspect of junk removal is its environmental impact. Proper disposal and recycling of unwanted items contribute to sustainability and reduce landfill waste. Many discarded materials can be repurposed, recycled, or donated, minimizing their contribution to environmental pollution. Responsible junk removal services often sort through collected items to determine what can be salvaged, ensuring that recyclable materials are processed accordingly and usable goods are given a second life. This approach helps conserve natural resources, reduces energy consumption, and mitigates the adverse effects of waste accumulation on ecosystems.

The health benefits of junk removal are also considerable. Cluttered spaces can pose various hazards, including tripping risks, exposure to allergens, and the presence of pests that thrive in neglected areas. Accumulated junk can harbor dust, mold, and other contaminants that may negatively impact indoor air quality, leading to respiratory issues and other health concerns. By eliminating excess junk, individuals create a cleaner and safer living or working environment that promotes overall well-being and hygiene.

Junk removal is particularly valuable during major life transitions such as moving, renovating, or estate cleanouts. Relocating to a new home or office often involves sorting through years of accumulated belongings, many of which may no longer be needed or functional. Renovation projects generate substantial debris that must be disposed of efficiently to keep the worksite safe and organized. Estate cleanouts, often necessitated by a family member’s passing or a significant lifestyle change, can be emotionally challenging and time-consuming. Having professional assistance in these situations helps streamline the process and alleviates the burden on individuals managing such transitions.

Businesses also benefit from junk removal services as they help maintain orderly workspaces and comply with waste management regulations. Offices, retail stores, warehouses, and construction sites frequently generate large amounts of waste that require proper handling. Regular junk removal ensures that work environments remain productive, aesthetically pleasing, and free of unnecessary hazards. Disposing of obsolete office equipment, outdated inventory, or construction debris in a responsible manner reflects a company’s commitment to cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

Another advantage of junk removal is the ability to reclaim valuable space. Many households and businesses have areas such as basements, attics, garages, and storage rooms filled with unused and unwanted items. Over time, these spaces become cluttered, limiting their functionality and aesthetic appeal. Removing junk allows for better utilization of available space, whether for storage, organization, or repurposing for other activities. A decluttered space contributes to a more comfortable and visually appealing environment, enhancing overall quality of life.

Junk removal also supports community initiatives by facilitating donations and repurposing of items. Many discarded goods, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics, can still be of use to others in need. Organizations that focus on redistribution often work with junk removal professionals to identify salvageable items and ensure they reach charitable causes. This approach benefits both individuals seeking to declutter and those in need of essential goods, fostering a culture of reuse and social responsibility.

Understanding the different methods of junk disposal is crucial for making informed decisions. Items can be sorted into categories such as recyclable materials, hazardous waste, electronics, and general trash. Recycling facilities process materials like paper, plastics, metals, and glass, reducing the demand for raw resources and energy consumption. Hazardous waste, including chemicals, batteries, and certain electronics, requires special handling to prevent environmental contamination and health risks. E-waste recycling ensures that outdated electronics are disposed of safely, recovering valuable materials and preventing toxic substances from entering the environment. By being mindful of these disposal methods, individuals and businesses can contribute to a more sustainable waste management system.

Incorporating junk removal into regular maintenance routines helps prevent clutter from becoming unmanageable. Periodic decluttering, whether on a seasonal or annual basis, allows individuals to assess their belongings and discard items that are no longer necessary. Establishing an organized system for managing possessions reduces the likelihood of excessive accumulation and makes future junk removal efforts more manageable. Additionally, staying informed about local waste disposal guidelines and available services ensures compliance with regulations and promotes responsible waste management practices.

The cost of junk removal varies depending on factors such as the volume and type of items being removed, accessibility, and location. Some services charge based on the amount of junk collected, while others may have fixed pricing for specific categories of waste. Additional fees may apply for hazardous materials or large-scale removals. Despite the associated costs, the benefits of junk removal in terms of time savings, convenience, and environmental impact often outweigh the expenses. Many individuals and businesses find value in investing in professional services to handle waste efficiently and responsibly.

Junk removal services have evolved with advancements in technology and changing consumer preferences. Many providers now offer online booking options, allowing customers to schedule pickups conveniently. Some companies also integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations, emphasizing sustainability through enhanced recycling efforts and partnerships with charitable organizations. Innovations in waste processing technology further improve the efficiency of junk removal, enabling better resource recovery and waste reduction strategies.

Ultimately, junk removal is an essential aspect of maintaining cleanliness, organization, and sustainability in both residential and commercial settings. By addressing the challenges associated with waste accumulation, these services contribute to healthier living and working environments while promoting responsible waste disposal practices. Whether for individual households or large businesses, investing in effective junk removal solutions helps manage waste efficiently, protect the environment, and improve overall quality of life.

 

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Insects, Rodents, Birds and Bird Predators

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Randolph Pest Control is the monitoring, treatment and prevention of pests. The goal is to reduce the pest population to below a threshold level.pest control

Insects are the largest class of arthropod, with more than 100,000 different species found on earth. There are insects that damage crops, but there are also beneficial insect species that help keep pest populations in check. Insects have a tough outer covering, called an exoskeleton, that provides protection and support. They have three segmented bodies and six legs. Their heads have one or two pairs of sensory antennae for detecting chemical cues and environmental stimuli.

Most insects have wings that allow them to fly. Some have tails for stabilization or to propel themselves. Some, such as the larvae of the drugstore beetle (Stegobium paniceum), are known for tunneling through books. The holes left by these beetles are often filled with piles of paper powder, giving them the common name of bookworms.

Scientists have been intentionally introducing beneficial insects to control pests since the 1930s. But with the invention of synthetic insecticides in the 1940s, interest in biological controls waned until the development of resistance to insecticides renewed interest.

The sterile insect technique, or SIT, is an integrated pest management strategy that reduces targeted pest populations by sustained releases of radiation-sterilized insects. This method takes advantage of the natural mating behaviors of insects to limit the number of fertile offspring produced by a release, which ultimately decreases target pest numbers and the frequency of resistant offspring resulting from genetic mutations.

SIT is effective in controlling pests such as the codling moth Cydia pomonella, and pink bollworm Peltinophora gossypiella. It is also being used to control the invasive weed kochia africana in cotton fields.

Cornell AES is working on research to develop SIT strategies that could potentially be used against other invasive crop pests, such as the corn rootworm Heliothis virescens. Other biocontrol techniques include the use of parasitoids, which attack and kill harmful organisms, as well as the development of transgenic crops that express insecticidal toxins. In addition, researchers are developing male-selecting transgenes for the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella that would suppress female insect reproduction. This approach may eventually provide an alternative to synthetic insecticides.

Rodents

Rodents are small animals, ranging from the tiny African pygmy mouse to the capybara, that have become an important part of many ecosystems. They have a very high reproductive rate, which contributes to their continued success as an evolutionary group. Their ability to survive in diverse environments, exploit a wide range of niches, and adapt to different habitats allows them to thrive around the world. Rodents are a major source of economic loss in agriculture and can cause damage to buildings and other structures from gnawing. They also spread diseases such as bubonic plague and typhus to humans.

Rodents have sharp, continuously growing incisor teeth on both their upper and lower jaws that they use to defend themselves, gnaw food, and excavate burrows. They are often able to learn how to avoid poisons and other traps, making them difficult pests to deal with. They are very intelligent and can develop a number of behavioral adaptations such as cheek pouches (for food transport), long tails (that help with balance, movement, and communication), specialized integument and pelage (such as porcupine quills and chinchilla fur), and sensory organ variations (including well-developed smell and vomeronasal organs).

Rodents chew and dig through food, paper, and other materials in homes and offices to make their own nests. They leave behind feces and urine, dislodge insulation, and cause water damage to drywall and other building components. They also carry and transmit a variety of diseases, including bubonic plague, typhus, hanta fever, and leptospirosis.

While many people keep rodents as pets, the decision to do so should be made after consulting with a veterinarian familiar with exotic mammals. Pet rodents require a large amount of space to roam and exercise, special bedding, and diets, and they can breed easily, creating numerous litters that must be cared for and rehomed. Pet rodents should be examined at least once a year to ensure their health and well-being.

The best way to prevent rodents is to seal entry points into your home, clean up any messes they create in the house, and set traps outside. If you do find yourself with a rodent infestation, professional pest control can safely address the issue and help you prevent it from happening again.

Birds

Birds are highly effective predators that can reduce insect pest populations without the economic, environmental and health costs associated with chemical sprays. Despite the fact that birds sometimes damage crops (especially during migratory periods), they are important for managing pests in agricultural ecosystems. The relationship between food producers and wild animals is complicated — home gardeners and rabbits, cattle ranchers and wolves, farmers and birds. The wrong species can decimate a farmer’s crop, but if used effectively, the right kinds of birds can provide valuable insect control services.

Whether in tropical rainforests or on Midwest farms, a variety of scientific studies show that birds are important for natural pest control. In fact, in a study of 118 pest-control studies across several types of farms, scientists found that birds reduced the need for pesticides by more than 80%.

In the 1960s, Rachel Carson’s best-selling book, Silent Spring, brought worldwide attention to the dangers of environmental contamination caused by the widespread use of pesticides. The accumulated chemicals, known as DDT and its derivatives, had a direct impact on bird populations by poisoning their eggs. DDT was also toxic to the fatty tissues of birds, causing them to lay eggs with very thin shells that would easily break under their weight during incubation.

Since then, accumulating research has shown that other common pesticides are affecting birds in similar ways. In the United States, for example, neonicotinoid insecticides, which have become popular as seed coatings, foliage sprays and soil drenches, are associated with a decline in many bird species.

While some researchers have focused on studying the effects of individual pesticides in lab experiments or on other continents, a new study by a University of Kentucky assistant professor offers the first large-scale analysis to determine how neonicotinoids are affecting bird populations nationwide. The results were published recently in the journal Nature Sustainability.

Scientists are exploring how to integrate birds into agricultural systems, particularly in Integrated Pest Management. One approach is to encourage the use of hedgerows, woodlots and streamside habitat on farmland, which can serve as a sanctuary for wildlife that provides pest control services. Other options include placing raptor perches and offering hawk and falcon training on the land, both of which can deter unwanted birds while bringing in the predators that control them.

Other Creatures

Often organisms rise to pest status because they escape control by natural regulating factors. This can occur because of their direct importation into a new area, or because human activities compromise the effectiveness of the organism’s natural enemies. It can also happen due to the uncontrolled reproduction of an organism. For example, thrips can quickly become a pest due to the high fecundity of its larvae.

Biological control uses the introduction of a pest’s natural enemies to suppress population growth. This can include importing predators from the pest’s home region (e.g., vedalia bettles were imported to control citrus cushion scales), or using genetic manipulation to create sterile pest males which cannot mate with fertile females. This is an expensive option, however, and carries with it ethical issues.