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  • The Varied Carpet Beetle (Anthrenus verbasci) a common house and museum pest

    The Varied Carpet Beetle Are your clothes being eaten? Got holes in your carpets? Seeing transparent skins and powdery dust like droppings on your carpets? You may be suffering from an infestation of Varied Carpet Beetle. The Varied Carpet Beetle (Anthrenus verbasci) is a common house and museum pest. The Varied Carpet Beetle is small in size (around 1.5 – 3.5m) with a round body which is white and golden yellow in colour with black, white and orange scales and black legs. The larvae are called “woolly bears” and this is due to their bodies being covered in hairs. It is the woolly bears which cause the damage to textiles as they are voracious feeders and they can cause significant damage to natural fibres in particular woollens. The Varied Carpet Beetle can also be found in stored food products and they are the only British species of the Anthrenus to do this. How to prevent the varied carpet beetle Prevention is advisable as once an infestation takes hold this can cause significant damage by the time it has been identified. Adopting good hygiene and cleaning is important as larvae can thrive out of sight and undisturbed. For example behind skirting boards, in the pile of woollen carpets (particularly close to skirting boards), in fibres and other organic dust between floor boards, and near spiders' webs, feeding on dead insects. Regular hoovering is advisable. They can also be destroyed by applications of proprietary insecticides orby freezing in bags in a deep freezer (at -18 °C) for 1-2 days. Because birds' nests in roofs can act as important sources of infestations, these are best removed and destroyed. Cavities attractive to nesting birds should be blocked, eg by wire wool. Woollens and other natural fibres should be cleaned and stored properly using securely fastened plastic or polythene bags. As an infestation of Varied Carpet Beetle can be very difficult to control , it is important to call in a professional pest controller who will have access to solutions not available to the general public. If you need help with varied carpet beetle call our friendly pest control team today. How to spot a Varied Carpet Beetle⬇ If you need to book a carpet beetle control treatment , give PGM & Son a call. We know how clear communication strengthens pest control efforts, so if you have pests, we have it covered! We are PGM & Son, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Pest Control Services, driving excellence in Pest Management. Our BPCA membership proves we’re committed to excellence in every part of our business. Get in touch today for help, support and guidance. Telephone 01981 540088 or Mobile 07964 370480 or email us contact@pgmpestcontrolc.co.uk with your questions. What our customers say Check out all our reviews

  • Having a Problem With Mice?

    Have you noticed the evenings starting to draw in and the mornings feeling colder when you wake up? If you’ve got a house mouse this may well be because of the Summer end; mice are often found in properties as they look for warmth and shelter, nesting sites and food sources. Mice may look cute, but they can carry some very serious diseases which spread to humans such as Salmonella and Listeria which cause food poisoning. Mice can also cause significant damage to buildings as they are capable of gnawing through electric cables, woodwork, pipes and packaging. Mice have been known to cause electrical fires and flooding in properties so early intervention is critical. For those running a business, particularly a food business, mice can cause irreparable damage to reputation. Customers don’t like sharing their lunch with mice! Don’t panic if you’ve seen mice in your house or business, at PGM & Son Mice Control Hereford we can help eradicate your mouse problem. How do you know if you have a mouse problem? Droppings! Mice droppings are usually black, 3-6mm long and rod shaped. You may find these under kitchen units and in roof spaces. Mice can lay lots of droppings, around 80 per day, and when freshly laid they are soft and moist. Nests – in lofts or under floorboards. Nests are made of wool, cloth and paper. Gnaw marks on skirting boards, pipes, cables and furniture. Dark grey smear marks left by their oily fur. It’s important to mouse proof your home or business – however, this can prove particularly tricky in older properties. Mice can squeeze through holes the size of the end of a bic biro! Mice breed rapidly so once you’ve seen one mouse you can be sure you’ll have a large family of them very soon if you don’t deal with the problem. This is why DIY remedies aren’t usually effective – mice adapt quickly and they are very mobile so a trained pest professional will be able to deal with your mouse problem far quicker and more effectively. If you spot the signs of mice, give us a call as soon as possible. Don’t let mice run riot in your home, garden or business. Give us a call at PGM & Son Pest Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire for help with mice control services . Give us a call on 01981 540088 or for emergency 24-hour call out 07964 370480 Or, drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

  • Ants in your Pant-ry?

    April has seen PGM & Son Pest Control out and about dealing with lots of ant problems. Climate change is a key factor in the rise in ants. And, with lots of rain recently and the hot sunny period already upon us and set to continue along with rain spells in between, we’re expecting the number of call-outs to continue to rise. And although they don’t carry transmittable diseases like other pests, they can still be a nuisance and they can, and do, bite. As with lots of other pests, prevention is often better than cure and simple steps like keeping food items in sealed containers, wiping down sides properly and not leaving pest food out can help enormously. If you do find you have a problem, it’s best to contact a pest controller as soon as possible because the problem can be treated much quicker and easier if you don’t waste time. So if you are having a problem with an ant infestation, if you need help to get rid of your ants then call PGM & Son Pest Control, Herefordshire and Worcestershire for help and advice. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or call us on 01981 241334 / 07964 370480 or use our contact us page on the website for a free no-obligation quote.

  • Take the Pest Test – Part 2: Carpet Beetles

    How to tell if you have Carpet Beetles? Answer these questions: 1. Do your carpets and rugs shows signs of holes or damage? 2. Are your leather sofas and chairs being nibbled? 3. Is there damage to your books and paperwork? 4. Have you noticed any shedding / bristly skins which are causing itching? 5. Have you see faecal matter, black or brown in colour and very dry? Sounds like you’ve got a carpet beetle problem! Carpet beetles can cause a huge amount of damage and they’re not easy to control or get rid of. Often, people mis-interpret signs of carpet beetle as moth activity. And it’s often difficult to locate the source of the problem because they are so small and they feast on lots of regular household items. We report regularly on preventative pest control measures and there’s no change here – it’s important to keep your home carpet beetle and pest-free. The Carpet Beetle Adults are most often see from April to June which is why, at PGM Pest Control Hereford, we’ve had an increase in carpet beetle enquiries recently. Don’t let the problem continue as it can end up costing large amounts of money, time, inconvenience and loss of your treasured items. But don’t despair! Call the pest experts today - at PGM & SON Pest Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire we’ll give you help, advice and solutions for all your pest problems, including carpet beetle. Call PGM & SON Pest Control today for friendly advice and a free no-obligation quote on 01981 540088

  • Having a Problem With Cluster Flies in Herefordshire?

    Having experienced a significant increase in rodent issues across Herefordshire the last few months we’ve been catapulted into Spring with an uptake in cluster fly calls. We regularly report on cluster fly problems across Herefordshire at this time of the year as the first shoots of Spring start to appear and the weather shows signs of improvement. Cluster fly problems across Herefordshire are seasonal and occur in the Spring and Autumn. In the Spring, cluster flies emerge from their Winter hibernation and start the task of seeking suitable outdoor sites to lay their eggs and carrying on the cluster fly cycle. We are often asked about the issue of cluster flies re-occurring Unfortunately, the fact is that cluster tend to return to the same locations across Herefordshire each year it is an unfortunate fact that if you have experienced a cluster fly issue previously you will likely suffer the same fate in the future. For this reason, we always try to educate Herefordshire residents that cluster fly prevention is unrealistic but please don’t worry because there are steps you can take to sort out your cluster fly problems ! Cluster Fly Fact Although cluster flies can be a nuisance and also a disturbance due to the numbers in which they congregate, Herefordshire residents should be assured that cluster flies are not considered “filth” flies. That said, cluster flies in significant numbers not only cause a nuisance but they can create a mess and the smell cluster flies emit in numbers is very strong and off putting. Tips on Dealing with Cluster Flies Proof your home, caravan or holiday home to reduce the numbers of cluster flies entering your property Hoover up your cluster flies Cluster Fly Control Services in Herefordshire If you have a heavy cluster fly infestation in Herefordshire it’s likely to be better treated by a qualified pest controller who can use insecticides or smoke generators to resolve your cluster fly problem. Professional pest controllers have access to solutions not available to the general Herefordshire public and the skills, knowledge and expertise to deal with the cluster fly problem. Read our most FAQs about cluster flies to answer your queries. If you’ve got a problem with Cluster Flies, give PGM & Son Cluster Fly Control Services a call on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480 for a free no-obligation chat. If you prefer, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or you can use the pest assist facility on the bottom right hand side of your screen for help, support and guidance.

  • Pest Waste Removal Hereford

    Having a problem with pest waste? Need pest mess removed? We’ve got it covered! Are bird droppings ruining your brickwork? Is rats’ urine causing a nasty smell in your loft? Is your business being targeted by pests? Have tenants left your property in a mess? Don’t worry, we can help! PGM & SON Pest Control carry out professional pest clearance and pest waste removal services at residential and commercial properties. We can clean, clear and remove pest waste, carcasses and general debris from lofts, garden sheds, garages and outhouses and office, factory, warehouse and containers. What can you expect from PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford’s Waste Clearance and Cleaning Service? Removal of pest waste , carcasses and general debris (including rubbish and your old junk!) Professional cleaning of pest waste including pigeon guano, rat and mice droppings, bird droppings, nesting materials and animal faeces Careful disposal of waste ; safe removal of contaminated insulation Has your building got asbestos? Not a problem – we work with trusted and approved contractors who are qualified to assist us under such circumstances We arrange for onsite skips or use or waste carriers’ licence to remove waste if you property has limited access Who benefits from our pest waste cleaning and clearance services? Residential properties – loft / attics; cellars; sheds; garages; outhouses and annexes End of tenancy clearance Commercial clearance and cleaning in shops; pubs; bars; cafes Work for landlords; estate agents; schools; churches; housing associations; local authorities We can also offer crime scene cleaning and trauma scene cleaning Ten reasons why you should choose PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford for your professional waste cleaning? Local, family run business Reliable, fast, effective Transparent, competitive pricing Environmentally friendly Fully licenced waste carriers £5m public liability NPTA members RSPH qualified Customer satisfaction guaranteed Award winning pest control services 2019 Get in touch today for a free no-obligation quote.

  • How to Deal with the Ratflation Crisis: Surging Demand for Private Pest Control Services

    Key Takeaways Understanding the signs of rodent infestations is crucial for prompt action. The UK is facing a significant rise in rodent infestations, known as the 'ratflation' crisis. Private pest control services are experiencing a surge in demand due to limited support from local councils. In regions like Worcestershire and Herefordshire, access to council assistance for pest control is severely limited or non-existent. Collaboration between authorities, communities, and private pest control services is essential to effectively combat the crisis. Understanding the signs of rodent infestations is crucial for prompt action In recent years, the UK has found itself grappling with a growing crisis – one that is not only concerning but also creeping into the very fabric of our homes and communities. We're talking about the alarming surge in rodent infestations, aptly dubbed as the 'Ratflation' crisis by the British Pest Control Association (BPCA). Phil Martin, an award-winning pest controller at PGM & Son Pest Control, sheds light on this pressing issue, offering invaluable insights on how to identify the tell-tale signs of infestations and what actions can be taken to address them. His expertise, shared during an interview with Jonathan Ray on BBC , underscores the severity of the situation. The UK is facing a significant rise in rodent infestations, known as the 'ratflation' crisis According to BPCA, the statistics are grim. Last year alone, there were over a quarter of a million home visits made by pest control professionals to tackle rat and mice infestations across the UK. To put it into perspective, that's nearly 750 visits per day . Such staggering numbers indicate a crisis that demands urgent attention and effective solutions. Private Pest Control Services are Experiencing a Surge in Demand Due to Limited Support from Local Councils Adding to the gravity of the situation is the dwindling support from local councils. With only a quarter of them continuing to offer pest removal services, the burden falls heavily on individuals and households to fend off these unwanted invaders. The situation is particularly dire in regions like Worcestershire and Herefordshire, where access to council assistance for pest control is severely limited, if not non-existent. In regions like Worcestershire and Herefordshire, access to council assistance for pest control is severely limited or non-existent In most parts of Worcestershire, council aid for pest removal is contingent upon being on benefits, leaving many without recourse. Meanwhile, Herefordshire presents an even bleaker scenario, offering no domestic pest removal service whatsoever. This stark reality underscores the crucial role played by private contractors in alleviating the pest burden borne by communities. In the face of this escalating crisis, it's imperative for homeowners and business proprietors to be vigilant and proactive. Understanding the signs of infestations and promptly seeking professional assistance can help mitigate the risks posed by pests. Moreover, there's a pressing need for greater collaboration between authorities, communities, and private pest control services to effectively combat the 'Ratflation' crisis. Collaboration between authorities, communities, and private pest control services is essential to effectively combat the crisis. As we navigate through these challenging times of climate change, it's evident that raising awareness and advocating for robust pest control measures are paramount. Together, we can stem the tide of infestations and reclaim our homes from the relentless encroachment of rodents. Let's not allow 'Ratflation' to become the new norm – it's time to take a stand against pests and safeguard our communities. If you have a rat infestation let us help! < Rat and Rodent Pest Control Services >

  • Cluster Fly Season: Why Cluster Flies Are Invading Your Home

    Now we’re into Autumn we’re starting to see cluster flies as they gather in the roof spaces and upper rooms of properties to hibernate, often in significantly large numbers. I had pest control in last year to treat cluster flies and they’re back again? Unfortunately, this is a common problem because cluster flies tend to return to the same location year after year so if you had a cluster fly issue in previous years and you’ve got them again it doesn’t mean your pest controller failed. Unfortunately, what it does mean is that you can expect your visitors once a year. However, once you’re aware of this it can help manage expectations and also enable you to get prepared to treat the problem as soon as it arrives. Cluster flies have a characteristic smell and are sluggish in flight. Cluster flies are a nuisance in the house in particular due to the large numbers in which they congregate. There is one species of cluster fly which is far more prevalent in rural areas such as Herefordshire due to the fact they are parasitic on earthworms. So, it’s not a surprise that so many Herefordshire residents and business owners experience cluster fly problems. If you’re having a problem with house flies, cluster flies, blue bottles or any other pests call PGM & SON Pest Control Hereford for advice and solutions. We will normally treat a cluster fly problem with an insecticidal fog or smoke generator as this is most effective. It is important to make sure there are no resident bats in your property or business before employing any eradication methods and we’re experienced in spotting evidence of bats so it’s always better to get a professional pest controller in rather than trying to treat the problem yourself. And, once the problem has been treated if you want some help in cleaning and removing the pest waste in a hygienic and efficient way, we can help with that too – ask us about our pest waste cleaning and removal services. If you’re in need of pest control call in the pest experts today – PGM & SON Pest Control Hereford. Call us on 01981 540088 or 07964 370 480. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Visit our website for more information at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk - USE OUR ONLINE CHAT FACILITY - Check out our reviews on Google and Trustpilot

  • The Dangers of DIY Pest Control: 5 Reasons Why you Should Rethink it

    Does DIY Pest Control Work? This week we’re taking a look at DIY pest control. A pest controller s' ‘phone regularly rings with stories from customers who’ve tried unsuccessfully to deal with a pest control problem themselves. Often, we’ll get calls from people who started with a small pest issue that they attempted to handle themselves with various potions they’ve purchased off the internet only to find that they haven’t solved the pest issue, the infestation has got significantly worse and they’re now out of pocket! We popped into a well-known national DIY store recently to check out the DIY pest control products on the market and were amazed at how many products were out there. There were literally dozens on the shelves and when we looked on the internet they run into thousands. Top 5 Reasons Why you Should be Wary about Undertaking DIY Pest Control Yourself You don’t know what you’re doing. Unless you’ve been trained to the same standards as professional pest controllers, it’s unlikely you’ll have the same knowledge and, more importantly, experience as they do. This knowledge, training and experience is essential for resolving pest problems quickly, effectively and humanely. You don’t know what you’re buying. Whilst products in reputable stores which have been through rigorous approval processes might be okay, the internet is an unregulated space and it’s very easy to buy a box or can of something with very little idea of what’s actually in it or whether it has passed, or even been through, a quality control process. You don’t know what you’re eradicating. Professional pest controllers are trained to carry out risk assessments and follow codes of practice to ensure that non-target species aren’t harmed when controlling pests . Imagine how horrified most of you would be to find out that in eradicating the pesky rats in your garden at the same time you accidentally poisoned your family pet, a barn owl or other non-target species. You might make the situation worse. There are various reasons why you might inadvertently make the situation worse but just a couple are that your DIY pest control may not work or work effectively meaning that you could very quickly increase a pest population over a short period of time. Also, some pests are resistant to some chemicals and the more DIY chemicals used, the more the pests evolve to become resistant and that’s a problem for us all! You could spend more in the long run. A pest treatment might seem expensive to you but consider this, repeatedly purchasing DIY products that don’t deal with the issue will soon add up. And, some pests have the ability to cause significant damage. An electric cable gnawed by mice or rats is not only dangerous but could prove costly to put right. And, our wood boring friends such as the Death Watch beetle , have the capacity to cause serious structural problems to properties. DIY PEST CONTROL Tips that WON’T COST A PENNY! Keep your windows and doors shut from pests. Remove your rubbish regularly and keep your bin lids on. Clear up spills and leftovers as soon as you’ve finished eating. Practice good hygiene , clean surfaces regularly; hoover and mop floors. Avoid buying natural fibres that might attract certain pests such as woollen rugs. Move things around your garden regularly to keep the rats on their toes – rats are neo-phobic which means they have a fear of new objects! Keep your garden tidy and cut back. DIY pest control can be a tempting option for homeowners looking to save money and take matters into their own hands. There are several reasons why DIY pest control is a bad idea: Lack of expertise: Pest control professionals have the training and experience to accurately identify pests and determine the best course of action for treatment. DIY solutions may not effectively target the specific type of pest, leading to continued infestations. Ineffective treatment: Pesticides and other pest control methods can be dangerous if not used properly. DIY treatments may not be applied correctly, leading to ineffective results or even harm to humans and pets. Health and safety concerns:  Pesticides and other pest control chemicals can be toxic and may pose a risk to humans and pets if handled improperly. Professionals are trained to safely handle and apply these products to minimize the risk of exposure. Damage to property: Improper application of pest control methods can result in damage to your home or yard. For example, using too much pesticide can kill plants or damage lawns. Legal issues:  In some cases, it may be illegal to use certain pest control methods or products without the proper training or licensing. Conclusion: While DIY pest control may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is often more effective and safer to hire a professional pest control company. If you are experiencing a pest issue then give your local pest controller a call. A professional pest controller will be happy to discuss the issue with you and explore the best options for dealing with your pest problem. For all your pest problems give PGM and Son Rat Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire a call on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480. If you prefer, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or u se the live chat facility on our website and if we’re not available on the live chat for any reason then there’s a handy message service for you to leave your details so we can call you back. We’re always on the end of the ‘phone for advice so don’t worry about your pest problems, give us a call and we'll help solve your pest problems.

  • The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire

    Key Takeaways Supporting local businesses strengthens the local economy and creates jobs. Local businesses contribute to community events, charities, and environmental initiatives. By supporting local businesses, you help build a vibrant, thriving community. Local businesses have a vested interest in the success and well-being of their community. The Vital Role of Local Businesses in Our Communities Supporting local businesses is more important than ever. Local family businesses, like ours at PGM and Son Pest Control, play a crucial role in the community, offering personalised services and contributing to the local economy. Here's why it's essential to support your local businesses and how doing so benefits everyone. Local Family Business Local family businesses bring a personal touch to their services. At PGM and Son Pest Control, we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our customers and providing customised pest control solutions. Our history, values, and commitment to the community set us apart from larger, impersonal corporations. A family operated business is generally truer to its company values as a whole, which gives you - the consumer - confidence in purchasing goods or services. Local businesses rely on word of mouth as well as referrals from other businesses, so it's important to shop local and consider them as a priority. With a local business that is run by a family operation, there is generally a rich business history that supports the company from the foundation up. With a local, family-owned business the chances are much greater of receiving high service and quality. Why Supporting your Local Businesses Matters Economic Benefits: Local businesses keep money within the community, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. Every pound spent locally generates more economic activity in the area. Community Benefits: Local businesses support community events, schools, and charities. They provide personalised services and products tailored to local needs, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Environmental Benefits: Local businesses often have a smaller carbon footprint compared to large chains. Reduced transportation emissions from local sourcing contribute to a healthier environment. How Local Businesses Support the Community Local businesses like PGM and Son Pest Control actively contribute to the community by: Sponsoring local events and sports teams, fostering community spirit. Providing jobs and training opportunities to local residents. Participating in charity drives and environmental initiatives, making a positive impact on local causes. Stay updated in your community and consider asking your neighbour or friends to recommend a services or products that are local before outsourcing from afar. The Vested Interest of Local Businesses Local businesses have a vested interest in the success and well-being of their community because: They rely on local customers for their livelihood, ensuring they provide the best possible service. Their reputation is built on community trust and satisfaction, motivating them to contribute positively to the community. To support local businesses, consider: Shopping at local stores and markets for your daily needs. Using local services and contractors for home improvements and other needs. Spreading the word and recommending local businesses to friends and family. Local Businesses make a Difference Supporting local businesses strengthens the local economy, creates jobs, and contributes to community well-being. By choosing local, you help build a vibrant, thriving community. Visit PGM and Son Pest Control to experience the benefits of supporting a local family business for your pest control needs, we serve the local areas of Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We focus on a beneficial relationship for everyone involved with our services, from our top community partners down to the very last resident in our community. Local businesses rely on customer reviews, so don't forget to take a moment out of your day to write a review when you receive excellent service or have a fantastic meal at your local restaurant or pub. ⬅You can leave us a review here :)

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