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If you’ve got woodlice in your garden that’s usually great news. Woodlice are largely beneficial pests and cause little or no damage to healthy plants. If you’ve got masses of woodlice in your compost bin that’s common and actually a good thing as woodlice are a key part of the process of composting as they break down plant material. It’s worth watching young seedlings and soft fruit plants as woodlice can cause damage to those by eating small holes in young leaves and soft fruits such as strawberries and raspberries. Otherwise though woodlice are useful contributors in the garden and as they are plentiful in most gardens and allotments, they aren’t cause for concern. However, woodlice inside properties can be a different matter. Whilst small numbers and the occasional woodlouse isn’t much to worry about and treatment isn’t necessary, heavy infestations can be more of a concern. Why you should be worried about woodlice Woodlice feed on rotten wood and other vegetable matter and they like damp areas so if you’ve got lots of woodlice in your property this could signal other problems such as signs of damp, rotten wood, blocked gutters, vegetation build up. Sometimes these can pose more serious problems in your property. Simple steps to prevent woodlice becoming a problem in your property: Deal with any damp spots in your property as early as possible Remove any vegetation such as moss and leaves from your gutters and drains Regularly check timbers for early signs of rot and put it right as soon as possible Make sure you regularly preserve wood and timbers Don’t forget about door mats when cleaning your property – check and clean underneath as under a mat is a great spot for woodlice to live! If you need help and advice with woodlice in Herefordshire or Worcestershire give PGM & Son Pest Control a call on 01981 540088 for a free no-obligation chat. If you prefer, you can email us contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or use the PGM AI Assist facility on the right hand side of your screen.

This week we’re looking at the Death Watch Beetle, often located in historic buildings, such as stately homes, where they’ve likely made their home for many years, often from the inception of the building, as Death Watch Beetle were often already in the timbers used in the construction. The Death Watch Beetle is a wood boring beetle whose grubs eat hardwood structural timbers. These grubs can live up to ten years inside timber (although they don’t like softwood) after which they emerge as beetles. The Death Watch Beetle is around 7mm in length and bears a mottled brown / grey outer shell. They can fit through a much smaller hole of around half their size. Death Watch Beetle causes severe structural damage to hardwood timbers usually where some form of decay is present Interesting fact about the Death Watch Beetle Adult Death Watch Beetles’ mating call is produced by beating their heads against the wood and resulting in a fast tapping sound. The adults rarely fly and their natural predator is the spider. Death Watch Beetle infestations are declining, and this is thought to be because old buildings are treated as they are restored, or the buildings are demolished altogether. For centuries, people believed a small beetle’s ticking sound foretold death in the house. Today, we know the truth — but the damage it causes is still very real. So if you hear a faint ticking sound coming from wooden beams at night, you might not be imagining things — it could be a death watch beetle signaling to a mate from inside your timber. Death watch beetle infestations are far less common than woodworm — but far more serious. Because they target hardwood structural timbers, correct identification and professional treatment are critical. How to treat Death Watch Beetle Treating a death watch beetle infestation requires more than a quick surface spray — these beetles live deep inside hardwood timber and often indicate an underlying moisture problem. Chemical fumigation treatment can be used to treat an infestation. Specialist advice can achieve a more environmentally friendly solution such as regulating moisture levels with a view to killing off the beetle. However, in situations where improvement to the environment can’t be achieved, chemical intervention is more likely. Book a Professional Death Watch Beetle Survey If you suspect death watch beetle activity, the most important next step is a professional timber survey. Because these infestations develop deep inside hardwood beams and are often linked to hidden moisture or decay, surface checks alone are rarely enough to assess the true extent of the problem Our specialist death watch beetle surveys across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are designed to give you clear answers — not guesswork During a death watch beetle survey, we: Inspect affected and surrounding timbers Identify the insect species correctly Check for active vs historic infestation Assess structural risk Test timber moisture levels Look for fungal decay that may be encouraging activity Provide a written findings report and treatment recommendations This allows you to understand exactly what is happening, how serious it is, and what — if anything — needs to be done next. Early identification often means more targeted treatment, lower repair costs, and less disruption to your property. If you’ve noticed exit holes in hardwood beams, crumbling timber, or unexplained bore dust, don’t wait for the damage to spread. Book a professional death watch beetle survey today with PGM & Son Pest Control Services and get a definitive assessment from a qualified timber specialist. Call us on 01981 540088 or email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Check out our reviews on Google and Trustpilot

Key takeaway The pest control industry is facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, which is impacting the quality of services provided to customers. To address this issue, it's important to promote the value of skilled trades in pest control and create initiatives that support the growth of skilled trades in the industry. Offering competitive career opportunities, training programs, and mentorship can help attract more young people to the field and build a strong, sustainable workforce for the future. Pest Control – A Dying Trade? This week, we're taking a look at the UK's labour shortage situation and what it means for the future of pest control services. Why the Uni Culture is Leaving Skilled Trades in the UK with a Labour Shortage The demand for skilled tradespeople is dying out as a “Uni” culture in the UK leaves skilled trades with a labour shortage and demand for skilled tradespeople high. But a University education no longer guarantees better job prospects or a higher salary and can actually present hurdles for employment. According to Prospects, part of Jisc, a survey highlighted that 96% of University respondents said they faced barriers when looking for jobs or apprenticeships. University students said that having the required work experience was their biggest barrier, followed by a lack of opportunities to apply for and having the necessary skills. Conversely, apprenticeship students have gained valuable work skills and experience well before their peers in higher education by their early 20s meaning that they are ahead of the game well before their school counterparts. Why are young people not joining the pest control industry? According to one graduate service technician speaking at the BPCA 80th anniversary parliamentary reception at the House of Commons her experience is that “Sometimes when they first meet me, customers say that because I’m young, I’m inexperienced and, therefore, incapable of solving their problems,” she said. But that’s so wrong! Pest Control is a highly skilled trade Pest controllers must pass qualifications to be able to purchase and use professional poisons and chemicals. Reputable pest controllers will pass a Level 2 qualification in pest management set by the Royal Society for Public Health and carry out a minimum level of continuous professional development each year to maintain skills and knowledge. Many pest controllers go onto achieve advanced and specialist qualifications as well and follow Codes of Conduct from professional trade bodies. Pest controllers learn practical skills on the job through apprenticeships and mentoring schemes and shadowing more experienced pest controllers. Those thinking of a career in pest control shouldn’t be put off – everyone must start from the beginning! The Importance of Skilled Trades in Pest Control and How to Attract the Next Generation Like other tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, bricklayers, stonemasons and many more, pest controllers face a dying trades crisis as a “Uni” culture over the last few decades has resulted in less apprenticeships and fewer young people being motivated to pursue skilled labour jobs. The internet and social media have also created and encouraged a “get rich quick” culture where young people can earn vast amounts of money very quickly without having to do much work. This potentially leaves the UK in a skilled labour crisis in the future as a generation retires with no-one to pass on the skills to. Until robots can collect rats or mice or rid a house of wasps it’s time for the pest control industry to step up and encourage more young people into the industry and to support young people through their early career paths. Many pest control businesses are sole trader or small family run businesses. Government apprenticeship schemes are therefore not accessible, and the cost of the apprentice falls on the small business putting them at a major disadvantage to the industry giants. Creating initiatives that support the growth of skilled trades in the pest control industry Another strategy could be to offer competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract more young people to the field. This could include apprenticeship programs that offer on-the-job training and mentorship, as well as opportunities for continuing education and professional development. Attracting the next generation of skilled tradespeople to the pest control industry is essential to ensure the continued success and growth of the industry. By highlighting the importance of skilled trades and offering competitive career opportunities and training programs, pest control companies can help address the current labour shortage and build a strong, sustainable workforce for the future. There is room for all business sizes and competition is a good thing for consumers. Pest control is a vital public health service Skills required to be a good pest controller include having a desire to help people – pest control is about listening to people’s pest problems and finding ways to solve the problem for them. Customer service is an essential skill when working in Pest Control You must be great with people, pest control is about dealing with all sorts of people daily; some may be difficult and antagonistic, so you need to have a thick skin sometimes to maintain positive relations for repeat business. Pest control is a responsible job that that requires commitment, motivation, and tenacity. It’s not for everyone but most people in pest control love the industry and wouldn’t want to do anything else! From rats, to wasps, silverfish, pigeons, bed bugs, and cockroaches, the PGM & Son Pest Control pest technicians are expert in treating every pest in your household or business premises across all location in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Call today for help, support and guidance on 01981 540088 or email contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

What you'll learn on this page about Silverfish What are silverfish Signs of an infestation Interesting facts How to prevent silverfish Silverfish FAQs This week, we’re looking at the problem of silverfish. Silverfish are very common across the world and thrive in human habitats due to our lifestyles. What are Silverfish? Whilst silverfish are mostly considered to be a nuisance, if they increase in significant numbers, they can become a problem particularly in environments such as sterile places, for example, hospitals. Silverfish are small wingless insects around 12mm long and silver in colour with a distinctive cigar-shaped body. Silverfish may be an indicator of a damp problem so it’s always best to get it checked out. Signs of a Silverfish Infestation You will probably find them in damp areas, commonly bathrooms, kitchens, cellars and lofts – they thrive in humidity. Silverfish are nocturnal in habit and they mainly feed on starchy substances such as carbohydrate foods, glues and wall- paper paste. Silverfish can be very destructive, feeding on paper items such as books, photos and plaster Interesting facts about silverfish Interesting fact number 1: A silverfish can grow a new leg if it loses one! Interesting fact number 2: The male silverfish spins a silk-thread structure, depositing a small dot of semen under one of the strands. He then coerces the female, by pushing, until she walks beneath one of the strands held tight by the male, comes into contact with the semen and absorbs it into her own body. Wow! that’s not a mating ritual you come across very often! What Can I Do to Keep Silverfish at Bay? Treat areas of damp Control humidity Keep dust and debris to a minimum Vacuum regularly Store food in containers with tight fitting lids How to Prevent Silverfish Create an inhospitable environment for silverfish, from maintaining optimal humidity levels to sealing off potential entry points. Armed with the knowledge below, you can take proactive steps to ensure that your home remains silverfish-free. Reduce Moisture Dehumidifiers: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms to maintain humidity levels below 60%146. Fix Leaks: Ensure all pipes and taps are leak-free to prevent moisture. Improve Ventilation: Use extractor fans during and after showers, and open windows to enhance airflow. Entry Points Caulk Cracks: Seal all cracks and crevices around windows, doors, pipes, and electrical outlets with caulk. Screen Vents: Install or repair vent screens to prevent entry through vents. Declutter and Clean Remove Clutter: Regularly declutter storage areas, especially in basements and loft spaces, to reduce hiding spots. Regular Cleaning: Vacuum and dust frequently to remove potential food sources like starches and saccharides. Clean Bathroom: Regularly clean the bathroom, including drying towels and wiping surfaces to reduce moisture. Proper Storage Airtight Containers: Store food and dry goods in airtight containers to prevent moisture and food access. Protect Clothing: Store seasonal clothes in airtight containers to prevent a silverfish infestation. If you discover you have a silverfish problem, the use of approved insecticides is most likely to prove most effective, contact your local pest control service for help, support and guidance. If you’ve got silverfish in Herefordshire or Worcestershire, call PGM & Son Silverfish Inspection & Control Services, for advice and solutions. Call us today on 01981 54008 for a free no-obligation quote, or email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

Did you know there are around 2,500 types of moth recorded in the UK and only a small number cause a nuisance by damaging fabrics and textiles in homes and businesses? This week we’re looking at the rise in moth problems, why this might be, what you can do to try to prevent a moth problem and what you should do if you find you have a moth infestation. Like most other pest controllers, at PGM & Son Pest Control we’ve also noticed a rise in moth problems. This is likely to be a combination of factors, including: The return to use of natural fibres – people are using less man-made products due to their impact on the environment. Whereas in the 1970s moths were much less a problem due to the use of polyester and nylon products Globalisation – more frequent travel and import of goods from around the world increases the transport of pests Less use of central heating due to concerns over the economy improves conditions for the brown house moth whereas an improved climate is also better for the common clothes moth How do you know if you have a moth problem? The main indicator will, unfortunately, be damage to fabrics and textiles, such as holes in clothes, carpets, rugs, curtains etc. Other indicators include small maggot like larvae, silken cases in which the larvae live, pupae (the silk cocoons from which the adults will eventually emerge) You may also see the adult winged moths although they tend to crawl rather than fly What can you do to try and prevent a moth infestation? 8 practical measures you can take to prevent a moth infestation Deny entry to the property by use of fly screens, curtains and sealed doors. Keep rarely used fabrics and textiles in sealed plastic bags (time to store the wedding dress!) or suitcases. Regularly clean your natural fibre clothes by shaking them thoroughly, washing them on the highest temperature the manufacturers’ guidelines will allow or (certainly for silk products) freezing them. Hoover regularly – make sure to reach all those hard to reach or hidden areas such as underneath the sofa and beds. Removing moth eggs before they hatch is key. Check your loft for birds’ nests and remove them as moths are attracted to nests. Use moth repellents, for example, hang mothballs in your wardrobes, cupboards and drawers. Ensure your vintage clothes are properly dry cleaned. Keep an eye out for signs of moths – early intervention is always key. For Moth Control in Hereford and Worcester call PGM & SON Pest Control If you’ve spotted the sign of a moth infestation, give us a call at PGM & Son Moth Control Hereford. We’ll deal with your moth problem for you. Call us on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480. Or, drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk PGM & SON Pest Control is a local Hereford based family run pest control firm. We’re friendly, trustworthy and reliable. We offer fair and transparent prices, fast call outs and advice and guidance. Call us today – you won’t be disappointed.

As the weather warms up and people start to book their holiday visits, local hotel, B&B and Airbnb and other holiday accommodation businesses are advised to check for bedbugs now before the holiday season starts. Why should holiday businesses check for bedbugs? Bed bugs are much more common these days as people travel more frequently and transmit problem bed bugs from one holiday let to another. Unfortunately, bed bugs often become a major issue for holiday accommodation businesses as people can be be embarrassed about bed bugs and so will often try to deal with the problem themselves. DIY bed bug treatments often just prolong the problem though and often an infestation then gets out of control. Don’t let a bedbug problem get out of control in your hotel or Airbnb holiday let business! Bed Bug Fact Bed bugs are prehistoric insects and they’ve been around for at least 115 million years. This should give you an idea of how resilient these little insects are! Five reasons to deal quickly with a bedbug problem in your Hotel, B&B or Holiday Rental Business COST If you must replace of furniture, mattresses, towels and bedding in a holiday business it can become an expensive exercise not to mention the environmental impact. REPUTATIONAL DAMAGE Negative online and press reports can cause irreparable damage to your business. The sharing of bad experiences can spread very quickly in today’s online world. Reputational damage can be unlimited. LOSS OF INCOME Following on from reputational damage, if customers act on bad worth of mouth and online reviews or other press reports, you could find your business suffers a loss in revenue as your bookings fall. FINANCIAL LOSS Customers who come across a bedbug problem whilst staying at your holiday property will likely complain and want a refund. LEGAL ACTION It’s not unheard of for customers take you businesses to court following pest issues in their holiday accommodation. This might then result in your business incurring cost, loss of revenue, financial loss and reputational damage – things to be avoided!! John Horsley Technical Officer at BPCA advises: “Bed Bugs can live for up to a year without feeding, so a room that has been unused for a few months may not be as empty as it appears". Bed Bugs 101 Bedbugs are parasitic insects that can be transported on items such as luggage and second-hand furniture. They will hide in crevices in beds, nearby furniture, behind skirting boards, under loose wallpaper and even in plug sockets. If you spot signs of a bedbug infestation we strongly recommend you act immediately and contact a professional pest control company, preferably a member of the BPCA. This is why dealing with a bedbug problem early on is absolutely essential. Bedbugs bite and can cause irritation and distress. Some people are more prone to allergies and may react to bedbug bites as well. Imagine your horror when a customer approaches your reception desk scratching itchy painful swollen lumps. What businesses are more likely to experience bedbug infestations? High volume businesses and those who welcome frequent travellers may experience more infestations than others, but the reality is that most stay businesses can find they have a bedbug problem. Common businesses include hotels, B&Bs, hotels, Airbnb and other holiday let businesses. But other businesses might also find they experience bedbug problems such as aeroplanes, cinemas, office buildings, campsites. DIY treatments are usually ineffective and can prolong and worsen a bedbug infestation (for example causing bedbugs to migrate to other rooms or even to adjacent properties) so it’s usually best to call in the professionals immediately. Check out our Bed bug Control Services if you have got a bedbug problem, it’s best to call in the professionals than rely on DIY methods that just do not work. For all your pest problems give PGM & Son Pest Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire 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

What Are Bed Bugs? Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are tiny, flat, oval-shaped insects, about the size of an apple seed. They feed exclusively on human blood, usually at night, and can quickly become a major problem in homes, hotels, and rental properties. Bed Bugs Key facts: Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown and swell after feeding. They do not fly but move quickly across floors, walls, and ceilings. Bed bugs can survive for months without feeding, making them hard to eradicate. Why Are Bed Bugs Still a Problem? With increased travel, property rentals, and second-hand furniture sales, bed bugs remain a persistent nuisance. Even clean homes and businesses are at risk—bed bugs hitchhike on luggage, clothing, and furniture. Did you know? Bed bugs can lie dormant for months, waiting for a human host. This means vacant properties, hotels, or Airbnbs can have hidden infestations ready to emerge when people return. How Do I Know If I Have Bed Bugs? Common Signs of Bed Bugs Bites: Red, itchy welts, often in clusters or zigzag patterns, usually on exposed skin. Blood stains: Small red marks on sheets or pillowcases. Dark spots: Bed bug excrement on bedding, mattresses, or walls. Shed skins: Tiny, pale-yellow shells in mattress seams or furniture crevices. Odour: A musty, sweet smell from bed bug scent glands. Where to Look for Bed Bugs Mattress seams and tags Bed frames and headboards Box springs Behind wallpaper or wall hangings Bedside tables and furniture joints Wardrobes, curtains, and carpets Luggage, clothing, and soft furnishings Sofas and armchairs What should I do If I find Bed Bugs? Step 1: Don’t Panic—But Act Fast Bed bugs multiply quickly. Early action is key to preventing a large infestation. Step 2: Contain the Problem Declutter: Remove unnecessary items from the affected room. Isolate bedding: Bag bedding, clothes, and soft items in sealed plastic bags until they can be washed. Vacuum thoroughly: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter on mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and floors. Empty the vacuum outside immediately. Step 3: Clean and Treat Wash bedding and clothes at 60°C (140°F) or higher, then tumble dry on hot for 30+ minutes. Steam clean mattresses, bed frames, and carpets—bed bugs and eggs die at 60°C+. Encase mattresses and pillows in bed bug-proof covers. Step 4: Don’t Rely on DIY Sprays Most shop-bought sprays are ineffective against eggs and hidden bugs. Professional treatment is highly recommended for complete eradication. Why Professional Bed Bug treatment is best Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate without expert help. At PGM Pest Control, we use the latest, safest, and most effective methods, including: Targeted heat treatments that kill all life stages, including eggs Professional-grade insecticides applied by trained technicians Follow-up inspections to ensure the infestation is fully eradicated How to prevent Bed Bugs Inspect hotel beds and furniture when travelling Check second-hand furniture before bringing it home Vacuum regularly and keep bedrooms clutter-free Use protective mattress encasements Be vigilant after guests or travel Learn more about Bed Bugs or call PGM & Son Pest Control on 01981 540088 or email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk PGM are trusted across Herefordshire & Worcestershire for fast, effective, and affordable bed bug control in both residential and commercial premises. Bed Bug FAQs↗

With the press reporting a potential bedbug invasion coming across the Channel from France, this week we’ve been inundated with calls from the public and media outlets about bedbugs. So, with the reports of a tsunami of bedbugs across Europe should you be worried about bedbugs? Bedbugs are a nuisance pest Although they do bite, they are not known to carry disease. Bedbugs carry a bit of a stigma with them and because of this people can be reluctant to call in the pest control professionals which means that a bedbug issue can very quickly spiral out of control. However, bedbugs are not discriminate about their host and both clean and dirty properties can find they are infested with bedbugs. The main issue with bedbugs is that they are extremely transferable – in other words they are well travelled. Imagine the scenario – you’ve been on holiday and unbeknown to you, a bed bug crawls inside your luggage. When you get home, you pop your suitcase on the bed to unpack and the bedbugs crawl out onto your bed. Before you know it you’re infested with bedbugs! Should I be worried if I have bed bugs? Contrary to popular belief bedbug's don’t just live in your bed either. We often find bed bugs' hiding in plug sockets, behind picture frames and skirting boards and in bed frames. This is why bedbugs are so difficult to control. They are tiny and they get EVERYWHERE! Often people are either too embarrassed to call in a professional or they attempt DIY treatments themselves. In both cases, they are all too often just prolonging the problem and letting it become much worse. Phil Martin, award winning pest technician and Owner of PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford & Worcester has been speaking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, The Hereford Times and Greatest Hits Radio Herefordshire and Worcestershire this week about bedbugs. Listen to the recordings here ▶▶▶▶ Bed Bug Top Tip If you think you have bed bugs, you should contact your local council or pest control service. It's very difficult to get rid of bedbugs yourself because they can be hard to find and may be resistant to some insecticides. If you are suffering from a bedbug infestation call in the professionals. If you have a problem with Bed Bugs get in touch for help, support and guidance. Call PGM Pest Control Servcies on 01981 540088 or email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or use the PGM AI Pest Assist for free help, support and guidance on our website.

By PGM Pest Control Services | Published in celebration of Earth Day, April 22 What Is Earth Day? Every April 22nd, more than one billion people across 193 countries pause to reflect on the health of our planet. Earth Day was first observed in 1970, sparked by growing public awareness of pollution, habitat destruction, and the long-term consequences of industrial chemicals on wildlife and human health. More than five decades later, Earth Day remains a powerful reminder that the choices we make — including how we manage pests in our homes and businesses — have real consequences for the ecosystems we all depend on. Here in the UK, that message is more relevant than ever. The Hidden Environmental Cost of Conventional Pest Control Traditional pest control has long relied on broad-spectrum chemical pesticides: products designed to kill insects and rodents quickly and efficiently. While effective in the short term, these chemicals carry significant environmental risks that responsible pest controllers cannot ignore . Pesticide drift and runoff is a serious concern. When chemicals are applied outdoors, they don’t always stay where they’re intended. Wind can carry them into neighbouring gardens and hedgerows, while rainfall washes them into streams, rivers, and groundwater — where they can persist for months or years. Non-target species are often the hidden casualties. Bees, butterflies, hedgehogs, barn owls, and beneficial insects like ground beetles and lacewings can all be harmed by pesticide applications aimed at other pests. The UK has seen dramatic declines in many of these species over recent decades, and pesticide use is a recognised contributing factor. Rodenticide resistance and secondary poisoning present particular challenges in the UK. The overuse of certain anticoagulant rodenticides has been linked to resistance in rat and mouse populations, as well as the poisoning of birds of prey — including red kites and barn owls — that feed on affected rodents. This is precisely why the UK’s Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) and the Rodenticide Stewardship Regime exist, and why compliance with these frameworks matters. Earth Day as a Catalyst for Change in Pest Management Earth Day has helped push consumers and businesses to demand more environmentally responsible practices across every industry — pest management included. In the UK, this shift is reflected in the growing emphasis on professional standards, stewardship schemes, and sustainable methods throughout the sector. Regulatory bodies and industry organisations such as the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) set the framework within which responsible pest controllers operate. But going beyond minimum compliance — genuinely integrating environmental responsibility into every job — is what distinguishes truly professional pest management from a quick chemical fix. The RSPH Level 3 Standard: What It Means for You At PGM Pest Control Services, we hold the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) Level 3 Award in Pest Management — the benchmark qualification for professional pest controllers in the UK. This isn’t just a certificate on the wall. It represents a thorough, accredited understanding of pest biology , control methods , legislation , health and safety , and — critically — the responsible use of pesticides . RSPH Level 3 qualified technicians are trained to assess pest problems holistically Identifying the root causes, evaluating the risk to people and the environment, and selecting the most appropriate and least harmful solution. It’s exactly the kind of rigorous, evidence-based approach that Earth Day’s values call for. When you choose an award-winning, RSPH Level 3 qualified company like PGM, you’re not just getting effective pest control — you’re choosing a service that takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. Integrated Pest Management: Working With Nature, Not Against It The gold standard for environmentally responsible pest control is Integrated Pest Management (IPM) — a science-based approach that prioritises prevention, accurate identification, and minimal chemical intervention. Rather than defaulting to a chemical spray at the first sign of a problem, IPM asks: Why are the pests here, and how can we make conditions less favourable to them? The 5 Core Principles of IPM Include: Prevention first Proofing entry points, addressing moisture issues, improving waste management, and removing harbourage are the first line of defence. Accurate identification Knowing exactly what pest you’re dealing with — and understanding its behaviour and lifecycle — enables targeted, effective action. Threshold-based intervention Not every sighting warrants treatment. Action is taken when pest activity reaches a level that poses a genuine risk. Least-toxic methods first Physical controls, traps, biological methods, and targeted treatments take priority over broad-spectrum chemical applications. Monitoring and review Ongoing assessment ensures treatments are working and allows the approach to be refined over time. IPM is widely endorsed by the BPCA and is increasingly expected by public sector clients, food businesses, and environmentally conscious commercial premises throughout the UK. Practical Green Pest Prevention Tips for UK Homeowners and Businesses Responsible pest management starts before a pest controller ever sets foot on your property. Here’s what you can do : At home: Seal gaps around pipes, cables, and doors — mice can squeeze through a gap the width of a pencil. Fix dripping taps and address damp — many pests are drawn to moisture. Store food in sealed containers and manage compost carefully to avoid attracting rats. Keep gardens tidy ; log piles and dense ground cover close to the property can provide harbourage for rodents. For businesses: Implement a documented pest management programme with regular inspections. Train staff to identify early signs of pest activity and report promptly. Work with a qualified pest controller who can advise on proofing and site hygiene as part of an ongoing service. When choosing a pest control company: Look for RSPH Level 3 or BPCA-qualified technicians. Ask whether the company follows the CRRU Stewardship Regime for rodenticide use. Choose a company that offers a full survey and written report, not just a reactive spray-and-go service. The Bigger Picture: Pests, British Wildlife, and Our Shared Environment It’s easy to think of pest control as a purely practical matter — keeping rats out of the kitchen or pigeons off the roof . But every pest management decision has a wider ripple effect. The UK’s wildlife is under pressure Hedgehog numbers have fallen sharply Farmland birds are in decline Many of our native insects are struggling Responsible pest control — carried out by qualified professionals using evidence-based methods — is part of protecting, not threatening, the natural world we share. At PGM Pest Control Services , we understand that our work takes place within a wider ecosystem. That’s why we approach every job with care, expertise, and a genuine commitment to doing things the right way. Responsible Pest Control, Every Day Earth Day is a reminder that environmental responsibility isn’t a once-a-year commitment — it’s a standard to uphold every day, on every job. For us at PGM Pest Control Services, that means bringing our full RSPH Level 3 expertise to bear on every call-out, recommending the most sustainable and effective solutions, and always considering the wider impact of our work. Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with a mouse problem or a business needing a comprehensive pest management plan, you can trust that we’ll treat your property — and the environment — with the respect it deserves .  Get in touch with PGM Pest Control Services today to find out how our award-winning , professionally qualified team can help protect your home or business the responsible way.

This week we’re looking at the differences between these buzzing insects. Bees, Wasps and Hornets. Bees, wasps, and hornets differ primarily in appearance, diet, and aggression: bees are fuzzy pollinators that rarely sting, wasps are sleek, carnivorous, and aggressive, and hornets are larger, more venomous, and highly defensive. While all can sting, only honeybees die after stinging, whereas wasps and hornets can sting multiple times Side-by-side simple comparison diagram of bees vs wasps vs hornets Bees There’s a lot of different species of bee but the most common, and loved ones, in the UK are the bumble bee and the honey bee. Bees are massively important to our ecosystem. They are pollinators which essentially helps our food supplies in the UK. Bees pollinate around a third of what we eat. Bees are fascinating creatures, storing their honey in complex hives made from wax which you might better know as honeycomb. These bees are golden in colour with tiny hairs all over that give them a fuzzy look. Bees are happy to go about their business undisturbed. They won’t normally bother you if you don’t bother them. If a bee is threatened it may sting but this is rare because once a bee has stung you, it’s sting comes away from its body and it dies. Sometimes feral swarms can set up home in chimneys and wall cavities which can present problems so if you do have a swarm it’s best to contact a bee keeper or a qualified pest controller > Wasps Whilst wasps are early pollinators they main function is to act as a natural predator. There are many thousands of wasp species so it can be difficult to differentiate between them. Wasps are often considered a pest because they build nests close to places which the public frequent such as restaurants and cafes and also in gardens. Some people are allergic to wasp stings which makes them even more of a public health issue. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. If not treated quickly it can be fatal. If you see someone with symptoms you should call for an ambulance immediately – dial 999. Unlike bees, wasps don’t die when they sting. Like bees, they won’t normally attack unless they feel threatened however, if they do they can (and will) sting multiple times – ouch! And wasps will also call for back up by sending out a pheromone which signals to other wasps they need help. Getting stung by multiple wasps can be very serious which is why we recommend you don’t try to treat or remove a wasp nest yourself. Pest controllers use special equipment to protect themselves. Always call a professional pest controller who is trained to deal with wasps > Hornets It is unlikely you will see a hornet as they are not a common sight. However, hornets are the heavyweight of the wasp world – coming in at twice the size of a wasp they can look very frightening! Our native hornet is the European Hornet which has brown and yellow markings Asian hornets are slightly smaller and have black or dark brown markings with a distinct yellow band at the rear, a bright yellow belt at the waist and a black head with an orange or yellow face. It is crucial that any potential sightings are reported so experts can take quick and effective action to eradicate Yellow-Legged Asian Hornets. The best way is to use the 'Asian Hornet Watch' app to record and report any sightings. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices. Photos and videos can also be sent by email to: alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk Yellow-Legged Asian Hornet Sightings and Incursion Map > They are not native to the UK and are an invasive predatory species which could have a destructive impact on our wildlife. Hornet stings are often more painful due to the level of venom in their sting. If you think you have a hornet nest or if you spot a hornet give PGM Pest Control Services a call on 01981 540088 who remove hornets safetly and report sightings. It is important to be aware of the differences between bees, wasps, and hornets. This will help you to avoid being stung and to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from these insects. As there are so many different types of wasp and bee, the best thing to do if you are concerned about a buzzing insect is to give PGM & Son Pest Control a call. We’ll identify the species and determine what risk it poses. We’ll give advice and solutions on handling all your wasp, bee and hornet problems. For further information on bees, wasps and hornets use our AI Pest Assist on the right bottom of your screen for free help support and guidance. Or check out our frequently asked questions page. If you’ve a problem with wasps, hornets, bees or any other pest control issues across Herefordshire, or Worcestershire, give PGM Pest Control a call on 01981 540088 for a free no-obligation quote. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk for help, support and guidance.