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As a local, family-run business in Hereford, PGM Pest Control is passionate about supporting our local community. With children and pets of our own, we understand the importance of giving back to causes that truly make a difference to our neighbours and friends. That’s why we are proud to support  Franfest2025 , a heartfelt local event raising funds for  The Little Princess Trust  in memory of Fran Lewis. This year, we are especially honoured to contribute to this incredible charity, which provides real-hair wigs to children and young people facing cancer and hair loss. Supporting local charities is at the heart of what we do, and we’re committed to making a positive impact in our community. At PGM Pest Control, we are proud to support #Franfest2025, a heartfelt event raising funds for  The Little Princess Trust  in memory of the beautiful Fran Lewis. Who Was Fran Lewis? Fran was a kind, selfless young woman with a passion for helping others. A dedicated supporter of The Little Princess Trust, she donated her hair   three times  to help provide real-hair wigs for children and young people affected by hair loss due to illness. Tragically, Fran passed away suddenly last June at just  19 years old  due to a clot on her lung. In the wake of this devastating loss, her family and friends have worked tirelessly to continue her legacy, raising over  £7,000  for The Little Princess Trust in her name. As a family we knew Fran personally making this cause especially close to our hearts. Read more about how Fran's family continue to support LPT The Story Behind Franfest2025 When Fran was 15, she experienced the loss of a school friend who passed away from a cardiac arrest. Last year, in their memory,  Fran’s mum, Vee, and his mum  held a joint event to mark what would have been their 21st birthdays, a joint charity event “Festival21” was held . The day featured  stalls, a BBQ, live music, and fireworks , raising money for their chosen charities. Following its success,  Vee is bringing the event back this year as Franfest2025, with all proceeds going to The Little Princess Trust. Join Us at the First Fundraising Event – Bring and Buy Sale This Saturday! 📅  Date:  Saturday 29th March 2025 📍  Location: Holmer Church Parish Centre, Homler, Hereford, HR4 9RG. ⏰  Time:  10:30am to 12:30pm Come along and  shop for a great cause —there will be  clothes, household items, books, toys, and more  at fantastic prices! Every purchase helps support The Little Princess Trust in Fran’s memory. How You Can Help Come along, grab a bargain, and help us make a difference in Fran’s name. Every penny raised will support this incredible cause! ✔  Donate Items  – If you have any good-quality items to contribute, please bring along on the day. ✔  Spread the Word  – Share this post with friends, family, and local groups! ✔  Attend & Support  – Join us on Saturday 29th March 2025 and grab a bargain! Fran’s kindness and generosity continue to inspire so many, and we’re honored to be part of  Franfest2025 . Let’s come together to celebrate her life and support a cause she loved. We’re honored to be part of this fundraising journey, and we’d love your support. Let’s make #Franfest2025   an event to remember!

PGM & SON Pest Control’s Alex Martin talks candidly to the British Heart Foundation’s about the physical challenges and emotional strain as he recovers from a major operation and adjusts to life with a mechanical heart valve. Listen to Alex’s story on the Ticker Tapes here: https://shows.acast.com/the-ticker-tapes/episodes/heart-valve-disease-alexs-story Those of you who know our small family team at PGM & SON Pest Control may not be aware of our nephew’s Alex’s journey over the last 18 months from finding out about a life-threatening condition to undergoing major heart valve surgery after having an early attempt aborted due to Covid-19. In June 2018 Alex took part with other family members, sponsored by PGM & SON Pest Control, in the Furlong Fury event in Hereford raising funds for SSAFA the Armed Forces Charity. Also pictured with some other members of the team in October 2019, accepting an award for finalists in the Family Business of the Year category at the Herefordshire Business Awards. https://www.facebook.com/pgmpestcontrol/photos/a.488460638258985/779928692445510/?type=3&theater Shortly after this, in November 2019 our nephew Alex received the devastating news of this life-threatening condition. In the British Heart Foundation’s Ticker Tapes podcast, Alex talks openly about his diagnosis and how having come to terms with it over the last 18 months . Hoping to help others facing similar life changing events, particularly young adults, and to encourage others to open up about their experiences, Alex has taken part in the British Heart Foundation’s podcast series: The Ticker Tapes. We’re so proud of how Alex has faced the last 18 months with courage, dignity and good humour. We all wish him well in his continued recovery and new life with his mechanical heart valve.

This week we’re reporting on the high numbers of call outs we’re getting about bees. Bees are vitally important to our ecosystem. They are beneficial and should be protected where possible. Why do we love bees at PGM & Son Pest Control? Bees are pollinators – they help plants to grow, breed and produce food. The vast majority of plants we need for food rely on pollination, especially by bees. Bees also pollinate the beautiful wild flowers across the countryside Thanks to bees we enjoy a range of foods from apples to pears to coffee and vanilla. And if you are wearing cotton, that’s because the cotton plant your threads came from was pollinated. Bees are not the only pollinators, but they are specialists – call them the subject matter experts of pollination! And contrary to popular belief – bees are not normally aggressive towards humans. If left alone to do their important job, they won’t bother you. Damage to our environment has been a hot topic in the news recently. Most of us care about the environment and the future for the next generations and the animal and insect kingdom so it’s very important we work together to protect species, particularly those on the decline such as the vitally important bee. What can you do if you have bees? Keep away from them. Don’t panic if your bees are more active on warm days – this is entirely normal. Enjoy watching them from a distance – bees are fascinating creatures! Educate your children on the benefits of bees and keep your children and pets away from them to allow them to do their important work. Make sure you carry out routine maintenance on your home to avoid bees entering your property or business. Leave them alone – they will naturally go towards the end of summer so enjoy your bees while you can! CHECK OUT THE PHOTO OF THIS FASCINATING BEES’ NEST WE RECENTLY HELPED RELOCATE!! What can you expect if you call PGM & Son about a bee problem? Firstly, we’ll ask you a bit more about your bees, what they look like, where you’ve seen them and also a bit about you and your family and pets. We do this to see whether there is an immediate risk to public health. If we believe there’s no immediate threat then we won’t treat bees; there’s no need to be alarmed about this. Bees won’t usually cause you any problems and we’ll normally advise you to leave them alone to carry on their important work of fulfilling their seasonal cycle which benefits the ecosystem around your home or business. You can also expect advice from us – we’ll give you advice over the ‘phone and we’ll often follow this up by sending you a copy of our guidance for bees. This document explains why we don’t treat bees as a pest and how you can contact local beekeepers who may be able to remove the swarm. When are bees considered a public health risk? We may treat a bees’ nest if the location of a bees’ nest is dangerous and removal is not possible. Or, if there are people with allergies living in the property or working on the premises. These are normally rare situations and so usually we will leave a bees’ nest alone. Learn more about bee nest removal advice here. If you have a bee problem you need help with in Herefordshire or Worcestershire , give PGM & Son Pest Control a call so we can discuss a range of solutions with you, which enable us to live in harmony with our friends the bees. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or call us on 01981 540088 / 07964 370480 or use our contact us page on the website to ask us for a copy of our guidance on bees.

Same Day Wasp Nest Removal across Herefordshire & Worcestershire Need to get rid of Wasps? Worried about Wasp stings? Got Wasps in Hereford or Worcester? Call PGM & Son Pest Control for SAME DAY Wasp Control Service on 01981 540088. Wasp Nest Control and Removal Wasps are an asset to the environment as they control other small pests. However, we know they can be a nuisance and potentially dangerous to some people and pets. At PGM we always look at ways to resolve the problem both for the client, their family and in consideration of the wider environment. A Look at The Wasp Common wasp, German wasp (Vespula Vulgaris / Vespula Germanica). Wasp Habitat You may find wasp nests in the following areas: Roof spaces Wall cavities Trees Wasp Nests are formed of paper (chewed wood) and the sizes vary In this video you'll see a queen wasp building her nest. Colonies will survive one season in the UK. Weather depending, a new nest starts around Spring by the overwintered Queen. Wasps may be aggressive if threatened. Some people are allergic to wasp stings and they can be fatal. The Breeding of Wasps The cycle is: egg, larvae, pupa, adult Eggs are laid (up to 1000) in hexagonal cells throughout the Spring and Summer The larvae are legless grubs and they develop in 4 weeks The pupae develop in 2 weeks Wasp Identification Adults are winged and around 10-20mm long They have a distinctive black and yellow colouration Queen wasps are the same but much larger Sluggish behaviour and a low bumbling buzz. You will hear them, see them and may even be stung by them Sometimes their nests are also seen and they can also be very large Wasp Control Measures They are relatively easy to control with sprays and dust applicators Safety clothing should be worn when treating a wasp nest, especially in an enclosed location At PGM and Son we see a lot of problems with wasps in Herefordshire & Worcestershire and surrounding areas. Wasps can inflict a painful sting and in some rare cases a single sting can induce anaphylactic shock – an extreme reaction to the toxins in the wasps venom. Same Day Wasp Nest Removal in Hereford & Worcester Call us for advice and solutions Have you got wasps? Need wasp control? Having a problem with Wasps? Looking for wasp nest removal service? Need a wasp nest specialist? Want the wasp guys? Wondering if wasps return to the same nest twice? We are here to answer all your questions, and provide help, support and guidance on all pest related problems. Transparent Pricing—No Surprises We believe in clear, upfront pricing. Our wasp nest removal services start from just £65 +vat or contact us for your quote , with no hidden fees. You’ll always know exactly what to expect before any work begins. Emergency & Out-of-Hours Service Wasps don’t keep office hours, and neither do we. Our team is available for emergency callouts, including evenings and weekends, to ensure you’re never left waiting with a wasp problem. We aim to be with you as quickly as possible— often the very same day you call. Joe Martin from PGM pest control using a Wasp Pole to treat a wasps nest in the eaves of a house Domestic & Commercial Solutions Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, we tailor our wasp control services to suit your needs. From private residences to restaurants, schools, and warehouses, we understand the unique challenges each setting presents. Our Guarantee & Aftercare We stand by our work. If the wasp nest isn’t fully eradicated after our visit, we offer a free follow-up treatment. Plus, we provide aftercare advice to help keep your property wasp-free. Wasp Species & Associated Risks Our technicians are trained to identify all common UK wasp species, including the aggressive common wasp and German wasp. Understanding the species helps us assess the risk and choose the safest, most effective treatment. Eco-Friendly & Non-Chemical Options We care about the environment as much as your safety. Where possible, we offer eco-friendly and non-chemical wasp control solutions. Ask us about our green options when you book your service. Prevention Tips Prevention is better than cure. We’ll advise you on simple steps—like sealing entry points, keeping bins closed, and removing food sources—to reduce the risk of future nests. Fully Qualified & Insured You’re in safe hands with PGM & Son. Our technicians are fully qualified, insured, and proud members of leading industry bodies. We invest in ongoing training to ensure the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Safety for Allergy Sufferers, Children & Pets Wasps can pose a serious risk to those with allergies, as well as to children and pets. We take extra precautions to ensure everyone’s safety during and after treatment. Let us know about any specific concerns when you call. Why Choose Professional Removal Over DIY? DIY wasp nest removal is risky and often ineffective. Our experts have the knowledge, equipment, and protective gear to remove nests safely and thoroughly—saving you time, stress, and potential injury. Seasonal Wasp Advice Wasp activity peaks in late spring and summer, but nests can appear any time from April to October. Early intervention is key—contact us as soon as you spot increased wasp activity. If you’re facing a wasp problem in Herefordshire or Worcestershire , call PGM & Son Pest Control today on 01981 540088 or Whatsapp 07964 370480 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help—fast, friendly, and local.

Think you Have a Wood Wasp Problem? Learn all about the Giant Wood Wasp The Horntail, aka “giant wood wasp” or “greater horntail” is often mistaken for a wasp with its yellow and black bands. However, the horntail is harmless to humans as it does not sting. We recently came across a horntail and thought we’d share the photo we took to let people know what to look out for. We recently came across a horntail and thought we’d share the photo we took to let people know what to look out for. What does the horntail look like? Well, it’s often mistaken for a wasp and it’s easy to see why. But, on closer inspection you can see that the horntail has a large barrel-shaped body with no waist, unlike the wasp which has a distinctive waist. Its colour may also change from black to metallic blue and sometimes black, red and yellow. The females have a long ‘sting’ called an ovipositor ; she uses this to penetrate timber (usually pine) and then buries her eggs deep into the wood. Female wood wasps tend to look for dead /depleted trees to lay eggs. A female wood wasp can lay up to 200 eggs . Larvae emerge into adults by chewing wood Eggs develop into insects with six legs and strong jaws – strong enough to gnaw through solid wood ! It can take around five years to reach maturity and tunnel through the timber. Close up image of a wood wasp Is the horntail dangerous? Horntails can, and do, make large holes on interior surfaces looking. The damage can be horrendous and found anywhere such as room tiles, hardwood floors, carpets and wallboard. They can also make their way through soft metal such as lead. Although they do not sting , they can still be quite scary as they are very noisy buzzers! Most worryingly is the fact they can cause damage to buildings. If you think you have a wood wasp nest, you should find a professional Pest controller . It may also be advisable to call a qualified surveyor to inspect property for structural damage. Need a pest controller for wood wasp nest removal in Herefordshire and Worcestershire   and the surrounding areas? PGM Pest Control deals with all aspects of wasp nest removal for both domestic and commercial properties. Our prices are affordable , fair and transparent . We are a genuine local family run business offering fast response and emergency call outs 7 days per week. We can also offer same day service for wasp nest removal, subject to availability. PGM and Son Pest Control is fully qualified in wasp control and a member of BPCA and NPTA. PGM & Son Pest Control carries comprehensive public liability insurance. If you think you have a wasp problem don’t delay – call us today. Call us on 01981 540088  or call our wasp pest technician Phil on directly 07964 370480 . Or, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or you can use the contact us page.

Did you know the box caterpillar and fuchsia mite top UK garden pests list? In 2017, the box caterpillar and fuchsia mite topped the Royal Horticultural Society’s pest list and the RHS is predicting this will continue into 2018. It’s easy to forget the role of the humble insect when you see your prize roses damaged but we’d urge you to consider what benefits insects provide and what your options for treating any infestation are prior to going ahead with use of insecticides. There may be alternative solutions you haven’t considered that are better for the environment and the pests. You can find out more information about the box caterpillar and fuchsia mite on our website The RHS is also warning of the deadly bacterial disease called Xylella which has devastated plants and trees in parts of Southern Europe. The RHS is calling for greater controls at the border as, currently, UK citizens can bring back any plants grown in the EU. So if you are going on holiday this year, think carefully before bringing home that clipping from the lovely plant, flower or tree you see abroad – it may cause a threat to the nation’s plants. FAQs for Getting Ready to Spring into Your Garden What common garden pests should I be aware of in spring? In early spring gardens often see pests like box caterpillars and fuchsia mites, which have previously topped UK pest lists and can damage plants if left unmanaged. Should I always use insecticides if I spot pests in my garden? Not necessarily — the article highlights considering the ecological role of insects and exploring alternative or less harmful pest management options before automatically resorting to insecticides. How can I protect plants from harmful pests without chemicals? You can encourage beneficial insects, improve garden hygiene, use physical barriers, and choose plant varieties resistant to pests. Many pests can also be managed with non-chemical approaches that help maintain a balanced ecosystem. Why is it important to think about plant disease risks like Xylella when gardening? Plant diseases such as Xylella can devastate plants and trees; being cautious about bringing plant clippings from abroad helps reduce the risk of introducing harmful pathogens to the garden. When should I consult a professional pest control service for my garden? If you’re unsure about identifying a pest, worried about plant damage, or considering strong chemical controls, expert advice can help you choose appropriate and safe solutions tailored to your garden.

Key takeaways Choose a licensed and experienced loft clearance service provider who specialises in pest infestation clean-up and removal. It is important to contact a professional pest control service provider to assess and treat the infestation. Loft clearance services alone will not prevent future infestations. If you have had a rodent infestation, it is important to seal up all entry points to prevent further infestations. Loft clearance services may require the use of protective gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles to protect against exposure to hazardous materials and waste products. It is important to follow the advice of the loft clearance service provider and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. LoftClearance Services Following a Pest Infestation Loft clearance services following a pest infestation refer to the process of removing any debris, waste, and contaminated materials from the loft or attic area of a building after a pest infestation. Pest infestations, such as rodents or insects, can cause significant damage to the insulation, wiring, and other materials in the loft. The waste products produced by the pests, such as urine, faeces, and shed skin, can also contaminate the area and create unpleasant odors. Loft clearance services involve removing all contaminated materials, including insulation, wiring, and any other items that may have been damaged by the pests or contaminated by their waste products. The space is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining traces of pests and their waste products. It is important to have a professional loft clearance service carried out after a pest infestation to ensure that all contaminated materials are removed safely and effectively, and to prevent any further damage to the building. This can also help to prevent the re-infestation of pests in the future. The Importance of Loft Clearance Services Following a Pest Infestation PGM & SON are specialists in the removal of contaminated loft insulation, pipe lagging, pest corpses and pest faeces such as rat and mouse droppings and bird guano, including disinfection, cleaning and the laying of new insulation and pipe lagging. Our trained technicians are experienced professionals in dealing with rat infestations, eliminating the cause and cleaning and decontaminating loft spaces, council properties, cellars, outbuildings and commercial sites. Many of the lofts we visit have poor insulation and most are not worth trying to save, so we believe taking everything out, cleaning up the mess, spraying to remove dangerous germs and diseases, then re-insulating to government recommendations is the best policy. When pests such as rats, mice, squirrels and birds take up residence in a loft widespread damage is caused to pipe lagging and loft insulation. Diseases such as Psittacosis, Salmonella, from bird pests - such as pigeons - are passed to humans from contact or inhalation and leptospirosis from contact with rat urine. Contaminated Loft Insulation Removal, Disposal, Disinfection and laying of new Insulation   If you have items that have been infested by rats, mice, cockroaches or bed bugs, then we are able to safely remove these items and dispose of them in the correct manner.   We are also able to remove items that have become contaminated with pigeon mess known as pigeon guano. We can then provide a full clean of the area if required. We carry out a disinfection with biocide to eradicate all harmful pathogens, bacteria that cause disease. Clean and clear loft of all contaminated loft insulation, damaged pipe lagging and pest faeces and droppings. Lay new loft insulation and renew pipe lagging. Finally, consider investing in preventative measures such as regular pest control inspections and maintaining a clean and clutter-free living environment to prevent future pest infestations. Don't delay, check your loft today! For more information on our loft clearance services, as well as Frequently asked Questions click on the link below, or get a fixed price quote for a loft clearance . a family run business Your Satisfaction Is Our Priority Contact PGM & Son Pest Control Services today for your free non-obligation quotation on loft clearance, we serve Herefordshire and Worcestershire . Call us now for a personal, discreet and professional award winning service on 01981 540088 or email us contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Rat and Rodent Control Bed Bug Control Flea Control Pest Prevention Services Woodworm Control Commercial Pest Control Need help and advice about a pest problem? Get in touch today! We’re here for you anytime! #MakePestControlGreenAgain

🔍 Quick Navigation To help you find what matters most, we’ve added links below that jump straight to each section. Dealing with Pests in Your Loft: Mice, Rats, and Noises in the Attic What animal is in my loft? Identifying rodents in the loft Signs of squirrels in the loft Understanding scratching sounds in the loft What to do about noises in the loft, but no droppings Understanding seasonal pest activity in lofts: changes and prevention Tips for preventing loft infestations: effective ways to keep pests out FAQ: Common questions about loft pests and pest control Dealing with Pests in Your Loft: Mice, Rats, and Noises in the Attic Have you been hearing noises in your loft space? Scratching and gnawing are common noises from pests in loft spaces. Common signs of pests in attics can also include droppings, nests, signs of habitation and strong urine smells. More serious tell-tale signs damage from pest gnawing such as damage to water tanks and electrical cables and pipe work. What Animal is in My Loft? Your loft could become a home for various animals seeking shelter and warmth. Common culprits include mice , rats , squirrels , and birds . Mice and rats often leave droppings and gnawed materials, while squirrels may create larger nests from shredded insulation or plant matter and make loud scurrying noises during the day. Birds, particularly pigeons or starlings, may gain access through gaps and leave feathers, droppings, or nesting debris. In rarer cases, bats may inhabit lofts, but these are a protected species in the UK, and their presence must be handled carefully. Identifying the animal is key to taking the right steps for removal or control Identifying Rodents in the Loft Signs of rodents in your loft include scratching noises at night, droppings, a strong ammonia-like smell, and gnawed materials like insulation or wires. Look for nests made of shredded paper or fabric in hidden spots. Spotting one rodent likely means more, so quick action is essential to avoid damage and health risks. Signs of Squirrels in the Loft Signs of squirrels in your loft include loud scurrying, scratching, or gnawing sounds, especially during the daytime when they are most active. You might notice droppings, larger than those of mice, or chewed materials like wood, insulation, or wires. Look for nests made of shredded insulation, twigs, or leaves, often in corners or secluded spots. Entry points can sometimes be seen as gnawed holes or gaps in eaves or roof spaces. Additionally, you may find tufts of fur or spot squirrel tracks in dusty areas. Identifying these signs early is important to prevent structural damage and potential fire hazards caused by their activity. Understanding Scratching Sounds in the Loft Scratching sounds in the loft can be a sign of unwanted animal activity. Mice and rats are common culprits, often heard during the night as they scurry or gnaw on materials. Squirrels, on the other hand, are more active during the day and may create louder, more sporadic noises. Birds or bats might also be responsible, with fluttering or scraping sounds as they move or roost. These noises could indicate nesting, foraging, or attempts to enter through gaps in the roof or walls. Identifying the cause of these sounds is essential to determine the appropriate action to protect your loft from potential damage or infestations. What to Do About Noises in the Loft but No Droppings Hearing noises in the loft but not finding droppings can still point to animal activity. Noises during the day might indicate squirrels, as they are diurnal, while nighttime sounds could suggest mice, rats, or even birds settling. Begin by inspecting for signs other than droppings, such as gnawed materials, nests, or entry points like holes in the roof or walls. Check for tracks in dusty areas or evidence of chewing on wires or wood. It’s possible the noises are caused by animals that rarely leave droppings, like bats, or even structural issues such as loose tiles or pipes. If you're uncertain, consulting a pest control professional can help identify the cause and provide the right solution. Understanding Seasonal Pest Activity in Lofts: Changes and Prevention Pest activity in lofts varies with the seasons as animals and insects seek shelter, warmth, or nesting sites. During winter, rodents like mice and rats are common visitors to lofts, as they escape the cold and search for food and safety. Signs may include scratching noises and gnawed materials. In spring and summer, lofts become appealing to wasps, which may build nests under eaves or in secluded loft corners. Birds might also use lofts as nesting spots. By autumn, pests like spiders or cluster flies might take refuge in loft spaces to hibernate through the colder months. Tips for Preventing Loft Infestations: Effective Ways to Keep Pests Out Seal Gaps and Cracks : Inspect your roof and loft for potential entry points, such as holes or gaps, and seal them securely. Store Items Properly : Avoid clutter in your loft and use sealed containers to prevent pests from nesting in stored materials. Monitor for Nests : Regularly check for wasp nests in spring and early summer and remove them safely if spotted early. Maintain Hygiene : Keep food crumbs, debris, and rubbish out of the loft, as these can attract rodents. Inspect Insulation : Ensure loft insulation is intact and free of damage that could provide nesting material for pests. Secure Access Points : Install fine-mesh screens over vents and chimneys to prevent birds and insects from entering the loft. Tailoring your pest prevention efforts to the seasons ensures that your loft stays pest-free year-round, protecting it from potential damage or infestations. FAQ: Common Questions About Loft Pests and Pest Control Q: How long does it take to get rid of a rat infestation? A: The time required to eliminate a rat infestation depends on its size and the chosen control method. Using traps or bait can take several days to weeks, while professional pest control services typically resolve infestations more quickly. Regular monitoring and follow-up treatments may be needed to ensure success. Q: Is it safe to handle pest droppings myself? A: It's not safe to handle pest droppings without proper precautions. Droppings can carry harmful bacteria and diseases like hantavirus. Always wear gloves, a mask, and disinfect the area thoroughly if you must handle droppings. For larger infestations, professional cleaning is recommended. Q: How do I know what pest is in my loft? A: Identifying pests involves looking for clues such as droppings, nesting materials, gnawed surfaces, or entry points. For example, rodents leave small droppings and chewed wires, while squirrels often cause daytime noises and shredded insulation. A pest control professional can help confirm the exact type of pest. Q: Can pests in the loft cause health risks? A: Yes, pests like rodents and birds can carry diseases and leave behind droppings that contaminate surfaces. They may also bring parasites like fleas or ticks into your home. Addressing infestations promptly helps reduce these risks. Q: Are DIY pest control methods effective for loft infestations? A: DIY methods, such as traps and natural repellents, can work for small infestations if used correctly. However, larger or persistent problems often require professional pest control services to ensure effective and long-term solutions. Q: How can I prevent pests from entering my loft? A: To prevent pests, seal any gaps or holes in your roof, vents, or walls. Keep the loft clean and clutter-free, and avoid storing food or pet supplies in the area. Regular inspections can also help catch problems early. Q: Can I relocate a squirrel or bird from my loft myself? A: In the UK, certain wildlife, such as squirrels and birds, are protected under law, and relocating them without permission may be illegal. It’s best to contact a professional pest control service familiar with regulations to handle the situation appropriately. Don't delay, check your loft today! For more information on our loft clearance services, as well as Frequently asked Questions click on the link below. GOT PESTS IN YOUR LOFT SPACE? WE'VE GOT IT COVERED! a local family run business Your Satisfaction Is Our Priority Need help or advice about a pest problem? Get in touch today! We’re here for you anytime! #MakePestControlGreenAgai n PGM & Son cover Herefordshire and Worcestershire Get in touch today for pest help, support and guidance. 01981 540088

This week we’re taking a look at bats. Bats often get a bad press and people can be wary, or even scared, of bats but bats are a protected species and so it is important for the public to be aware of this and to understand that you can live in harmony with your bats. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides protection for all species of bat found in the United Kingdom. Signs you may have Bats Many householders go for years unaware they have bats. Signs of bats can include: Bat droppings on windows, walls or sills. Bats may be visible on ridge beams inside the roof void and often tucked away from sight. Chattering sounds bats make at dusk before flying out to feed. During Summer months you may see bats emerging when they come out to feed around dusk time. What Should You Do If You Suspect Bats in Your Home? Don’t disturb them or block entry points. Contact your local bat group or the Bat Conservation Trust. Seek professional advice if you're planning renovation work near a bat roost. The important thing to remember is not to disturb your bats. Do NOT shine lights up at the ridge to look for them. Why you Must Not Touch, or Disturb Bats It is illegal to kill, or even disturb, bats in their roost. Bats can only be handled by those with a license to do so. Won’t Bats cause damage to my property? Bats aren’t rodents so they don’t gnaw wire, pipes, insulation or wood. They don’t build nests or bring prey into their roost. Bats are clean animals. Tips for living with Bats You should cover your water tank to prevent any bats from drowning. Cover any stored items with a dust sheet (but not plastic) to protect items from bat droppings. If you have cats, bring them in for the night half an hour before sunset so that bats can emerge from their roosts undisturbed. NEVER try to catch a flying bat , it is likely that you will cause serious injury to it and you may even receive a bite in self-defence! Visit www.bats.org.uk for information about living with bats and advice and tips on wildlife-friendly gardening, bat boxes and how to identify bat species. Are you having a problem with Bats? If you are having a problem with bats or you’ve come across an injured bat, you should contact The Bat Conservation Trust or call their helpline on 0345 1300 228 . They will give you advice and they can arrange for a specialist to visit your property to advise you on the best course of action, where necessary. FAQs about Bats Q: Are bats protected in the UK? A: Yes. All bat species and their roosts are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. Q: Can pest control remove bats? A: Pest controllers cannot remove bats without a licence. You must contact organisations like Natural England for advice if bats are roosting in your property. Q: Do bats pose a health risk? A: Bats in the UK rarely carry rabies. While the risk is very low, it’s advised not to handle them directly. Q: What signs indicate bats in the loft? A: Common signs include droppings, squeaking sounds at dusk, or spotting them flying in/out around sunset. Q: Will bats damage my home? A: No. Bats do not gnaw on materials or cause structural damage like rodents. Need Help After a Bat Roost Has Moved On? While bats don’t cause damage like rodents, they can leave behind mess in your loft space. If you're left with droppings or debris after a roost has moved on, our Loft Clearance service can help restore your loft to a safe, clean condition. We safely remove waste, disinfect affected areas, and make the space usable again. If you’re unsure whether the noise in your loft is caused by bats or something more destructive like rats or mice, our Rodent Control specialists can inspect the space and resolve any rodent issues quickly, using safe and humane methods. #MakePestControlGreenAgain About PGM Pest Control PGM Pest Control is an award-winning pest control company based in the UK, offering trusted, effective, and environmentally responsible services for homes and businesses accross all towns and villages across Herefordshire and Worcestershire . Known for our expert knowledge, educational resources, and excellent customer service, we go beyond treatments — we help our clients understand pests and prevent future problems. 👉 You can email PGM & Son Pest Control Services at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk   or call us on 01981 540088. For out of hours use our for emergency 24-hour callout number 07964 370480 or use our contact us page  on the website for a free no-obligation quote.

ARE BATS SCARING YOU THIS HALLOWEEN ? Why are some animals associated with Halloween and pest control? Bats are a popular one associated with Halloween; bats are mostly nocturnal and hunt for prey at night. Apparently, they developed a spooky reputation after bats were first seen drinking the blood of cattle in Central and South America. Combined with their clawed wings that cover their bodies like a cape when they hang upside down, bats are often connected to vampires. Bats are also historically associated with witches and some people believed that witches used bat blood in their potions and spells. They also resemble rats which many people dislike. However, unlike rats, bats are a protected species and pest controllers won’t touch them for this reason. They are also an important part of the ecosystem as they keep bug populations under control. If you want more information about living in harmony with your bats get in touch with the Bat Conservation Trust which has lots of useful information and advice to set your mind at rest if you find you are sharing your home with bats this Halloween. Also check out these fun facts about bats ! Experiencing a Rat problem in Hereford? Need Rat control in Worcester? Get in touch with PGM & Son Rodent Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire on 01981 540088 or drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk for all your rat control needs.