Blog
Pest prevalence in SA – part 2
29
Aug
Aug
Last month we launched Part 1 of our Pest Prevalence series, if you haven’t already, take a look.
Over the next few months we’ll be running a series of articles to help break down which pests are most common in certain seasons, so that you can be informed and prepared for possible pest infestations.
Please look out for our helpful and informative infographic at the end of the series.
May to August
The chilly and cold weather during these months causes some pests to migrate indoors in search of warmer temperatures.
There are four common pests to keep an eye out for over this period:
If you spot any of the signs mentioned below, then we highly recommend that you contact us today and we will determine the best solution to your pest problem, using the highest quality and safest chemicals and methods.
Rat
Rats are known to transmit a series of diseases, and are linked to about a dozen diseases repetitive, some of which are:
- Rat bite fever
- Salmonellosis
- Leptospirosis
- Lymphocytic Chorio-meningitis
- Plague
- Tularemia
It’s also helpful to note that rats are very persistent when trying to gain access to your office.
Signs of an infestation:
- Scratching noises in the ceiling
- Chewing through garbage
- Chewing on electrical cables
- Droppings
Mice
Mice have a smaller footprint than rats, and usually live on the ground and nest in burrows. They multiply quickly and can cause extensive damage to your office.
Signs of an infestation:
- Strong smell: Mice urinate frequently and have a strong urine smell
- Droppings: Mice leave droppings throughout their trail- on floors, in cupboards and near skirting
- Scratching noises: in ceilings, under flood boards, in wall partitions
- Footprint tracks
- Grease marks
Bed bugs
Bed bugs can be found all year round, but for the hospitality industry spike during winter and summer holiday season when people visit hotels and other overnight accommodation spaces.
The foot traffic to your hotel poses as the perfect breeding ground for these pests.
Places where bed bugs can be found:
- Mattress/ bed frames
- Sofa/ throws
- Cupboards
- Luggage
- Bedside cabinets
Signs of an infestation:
- Shed skin
- Blood smears
- Live bed bugs
- Eggs (1mm)
- Excretion of black marks
Fleas
Fleas can make their way into offices and vet shops during the colder months in search of warmer temperatures and food, therefore posing a big risk for office owners.
Fleas frequently live in:
- Spaces inhabited by pets, such as pet beds, throws or rugs
- Along walls
- Outdoor sheds
How to spot a human flea bite:
- Tiny dark spots surrounded by a reddened area
- Usually found on feet and lower legs
Flea bites are usually visible to the human eye, and can be avoided by:
- Checking your office pets
- Being more alert during this season as a vet
- Vacuuming your office space thoroughly
Perfect pest solution
At Bidvest Steiner, we have a range of pest management services and solutions to suit your specific needs.
Our Integrated Pest Management is an all-inclusive solution that provides superior pest control and consultation services to a broad spectrum of commercial clients such as:
- Food Manufacturers
- Retail
- Hospitality Industry
- Facility Management Firms
- Local Municipalities within South Africa
If you suspect that your company may have a possible pest infestation, then contact us today for more information around our complete range of solutions.
Remember to keep an eye out for part 3 of the series.