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Here's how our trained pest controllers helped rescue wild bees! What should I do if I find a wild bee colony in my house, garden or property? Bees are a valuable pollinators and pest control companies will not destroy bee nests. If it is a honey bee hive then you should get in contact with your local bee keeper association and they will put you in contact with local beekeepers who may be able to remove the colony for you or advise you on what to do. There are over 200 types of Bees in the UK, including 25 types of bumblebees! Different types of bee may require different treatment methods. Note: pest controllers do not apply bee treatments unless there's a serious threat to human life, 25% of all bee types are endangered. Advice about Relocating Bees If a nest is outside or underground then there shouldn't be a reason to move it. In more conventional and accessible places such as bushes, trees and sheds, then contacting a local beekeeper or pest controller to relocate the nest is an option. If you suspect you have honeybees and they are causing you problems then we would recommend you use a swarm collector from the British Bee Keepers Association or getting in touch with the Tree Bee Society. In most cases, they will come and collect the swarm free of charge. Relocating a colony or a swarm of Bees in Hereford & Worcester When moving a beehive from one place to another a few things need to be taken into consideration, reducing stress on the bees and avoiding unpleasant surprises. If you follow some rules it can be quite simple. Not knowing the rules or not following them can have disastrous effects. Everything valid about relocating a beehive is also applicable when relocating a feral bee colony after the nest has been transferred into a hive. Relocating a captured bee swarm is much simpler. A bee swarm has "forgotten" were it came from and the bees of a swarm reset their navigation system's home location once they have found a new home. Therefore, having captured a swarm, no rules apply for the new location - provided the swarm is relocated within a day from the time of capture. A swarm can be placed close to the home it emerged from; the bees accept the new hive location as their home and will not get disoriented or confused being near to their original location, even if it is only a meter away. What should you do if a swarm of bees takes up residence in your home or garden? It's the time of year when bees are at their most active and numerous reports have been coming in of swarms in gardens and even getting into properties. Most beekeepers may make a charge for removal of a swarm from your garden depending on travelling distances to cover costs of petrol etc. Swarms of honey bees can usually be safely removed by a suitably qualified beekeeper if they are contacted in time. If the honey bees have left their post swarming clustering place and taken up residence in the fabric of a building, that can be more difficult (if not impossible) to be safely dealt with by a beekeeper. Professional pest control personnel will be required to undertake the work either solely or in conjunction with a beekeeper. If the honey bees are not causing a nuisance or a threat, they can be left alone. Some properties are known to have had honey bee colonies within their fabric for many years without causing any disturbance or problems to the property owner. Beekeepers are unable to help remove bumblebees, wasps, solitary bees or hornets so it is best to call in a pest control professional to help you solve the problem. Get in touch with PGM & SON today for bee nest removal help, support and guidance across Herefordshire and Worcestershire on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480.

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? 1. Bees are pollinators – they help plants to grow, breed and produce food. 2. The vast majority of plants we need for food rely on pollination, especially by bees. 3. 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.

Got Bees? Let them bee! The UK saw a lovely warm sunny weather over the weekend and with that weather set to continue, we have already enjoyed seeing the bee population starting their important job of pollinating. Why we should love and protect our bees • Bees are critical to the ecosystem across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. • Bees pollinate around a third of all our crops, including those we use to feed our livestock. • Around a quarter of all bee types are endangered Bees are the key workers of the insect kingdom. Bees are critical to our ecosystem and it is essential that they are protected. At PGM & Son Pest Control WE LOVE OUR BEES! #leavethebeesalone! Top 5 Tips for dealing with Bees 1. Topping the bee tip chart our key advice is, if you can, LEAVE THEM BEE! Our advice is always leave bees alone wherever possible and let the bees go about their very important ecological business. 2. Coming in at number 2 is to encourage children to watch the bees going about their work. Bees are fascinating insects, and it is a real education observing them. The good news is that bees are not usually aggressive but as with any insect or animal they must be respected. Remind children to socially distance with the bees whilst watching them pollinate. 3. As the weather starts to hot up, bees will become more active. This is entirely normally so no need to panic! Importantly, remember that bees will go away and not return to the nesting site after the summer. In fact, by the time most people notice a colony, the activity will be naturally declining. 4. If your bees are causing a problem because of their location then call in a local beekeeper to see whether they can relocate the nest for you (but only if it’s necessary and you are unable to leave it where it is). 5. If you are worried about bees, give us a call at PGM & Son Hereford as we can talk to you about why bees are important and set your mind at rest about the risk to you. In most cases, the risk of being stung will be extremely low. In rare situations bees can be hazardous and, where there is a threat to the public, you can contact a pest controller to address the problem. Examples are where someone in a household has a severe allergy or bees are in a location easily accessible to vulnerable children and adults who may not understand the importance of leaving them bee. If a pest controller doesn’t risk assess your situation – bee-ware! If you have a bee problem you need help with, 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. Check our our bee nest removal page for guidance. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or call us on 01981 540088 / 07964 370480 or use our our live chat facility at the bottom of your screen.

This week we’re looking at the subject of mice. Did you know each part of the mouse breeding cycle takes typically around 21 days? That’s around 3 weeks for gestation, around 3 weeks for weaning and a further 3 to 3 and a half weeks for developing to maturity. Mouse fact number 1: Mice typically survive for less than a year in the wild. How many babies do mice produce? On average between 5 and 7 pups but it can be up to 12. A female can become pregnant almost immediately after giving birth which is one reason why an infestation of mice can rapidly become out of control. That means females can produce between 5 and 10 litters a year. 120 mice from one female is a lot of mice! Mouse fact number 2: Mice are colour blind. Their other senses make up for this though – they have an acute sense of hearing and they use their whiskers to sense temperature changes and surface textures. Mouse fact number 3: Mice are nocturnal and are great at climbing, jumping and swimming – contenders for the rodent Olympics! Mouse fact number 4: Mice can squeeze through any gap into which they can fit their head – around 5mm . And the reason they can do this is that they have flexible ribs! Unlike rats, mice make multiple trips at night to various food sources which can make it difficult to control them with toxic bait. This differs from rats who will gobble up one food source. How can I prevent Mice? Proof, proof, proof! Seal your entry points. This can be quite difficult with mice – remember how we said they can squeeze through a hole 5mm in diameter? That’s equivalent to the end of a bic biro! Start with low level gaps first and then move to higher entry points. Take particular care around areas like pipes, windows, doors and cellars or basements as we often find these are common entry points for mice. If you gap under a door is larger than 4mm then install a door brush strip. Take a good look around the exterior of your property for potential nesting sites. This means cutting back any overgrown areas and clearing debris. Keep your garden clean and tidy. Do the same in your cellar, basement and loft! Check household waste is tidied away into sealed bins and that your rubbish is collected or removed regularly. Don’t forget about your compost heap either – make sure you have a suitable cover. Clear and wipe down surfaces in your house – don’t give mice a food source. Put unused food away into sealed containers. Encourage your teenagers to clean their rooms regularly and to empty their bins. A teenager’s room is often the place that used crockery and food crumbs are found so important to try to train your teenager! As the British Pest Control Association says, “Whilst good hygiene won’t eliminate a mouse problem, poor practices will attract them.” How to get rid of Mice If you do have a mouse problem, we recommend contacting a professional fully qualified pest controller. You can adopt some DIY mouse control methods but, in our experience, these rarely work effectively. If you do want to have a go at your DIY mouse control, then make sure you read the label on any amateur use poisons and traps you buy. And, when placing traps or poison make sure that you place them in a safe and secure place out of the reach of children and pets and any other non-target species. However, the best way to deal with a mouse problem is to find your local BPCA Pest Controller . PGM & Son Pest Control is fully trained in handling mice infestations . We have access to a range of professional mice control treatments that are not available to the general public. PGM & Son Pest Control technicians are trained to know how much, where and when to use mouse control treatments. And, we have access to monitoring equipment to enable us to determine possible entry points, size of infestation and to track mice to their nest. At PGM & Son Pest Control, we operate an Integrated Pest Management approach meaning that we will work with you to advise you on how to reduce your risk of attracting mice in future. For all your pest control needs, 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 or you can use the live chat facility on the right side of your screen.

Introducing The Rat! This week we are excited to carry on with our series of "Pest Trumps" at PGM & SON Pest Control Services with The Rat . Each file is available for free download , and you may use them at work to help identify pests for the protection of your workers and customers. The PGM "Pest Control Trumps" set of information cards were created to assist with pest-related issues in the UK and to ensure the public are armed with the correct information about each pest we highlight in our pest trump series. By proactively promoting an integrated pest management approach, we can protect people and food as well as wildlife and the environment. We all have an important part to play in educating the public and business that prevention is better than cure. At PGM & SON we know stewardship and sustainability are critical both to the survival of the pest control industry and to our planet. THE RAT - FACTS 101 FACT FILE Aside from the wasp, probably the most well-known pest in the UK – the Rat! There are two main rat species in the UK, the most common is Rattus Norvegicus also known as the brown rat. The other is Rattus Rattus which is commonly known as the black rat or ship rat although these are now rarely seen in the UK. Rats are disease carriers and spreaders and so considered a public health risk. DID YOU KNOW Historically, the harsh winter climate in the UK was a natural way of culling the rodent population but with milder climates the rat population in the UK has grown. There are an estimated 150 million rats in the UK so if you haven’t seen one, you’re in the minority. If you own a property, you have a legal obligation to keep premises rodent free, or if there is a threat to health or property, to report it to the local authority. A RATS STRENGTH - 9 The rat’s greatest strength is in their teeth. They can gnaw through just about anything – wood, glass, metal, bone – you name it they can chew it! This means they can cause significant damage to property with their gnawing which can result in structural damage and other significant issues such as fire and flood risk when they chew through electrical cables and pipes. BREEDING OF RATS - 10 Rats score very highly in the breeding category. In fact, the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) awards them a gold medal when it comes to breeding! A female rat can reproduce every 6 weeks and her litters can produce 6-8 babies. Each part of the cycle takes an average of 21 days. A rat can become pregnant very quickly after giving birth so a rat infestation can very rapidly grow out of control. New-borns sexually mature after just 5 weeks when they can also start to produce babies. This means that a pair of brown rats could produce up to 200 babies and 2,000 descendants in just one year or more! NUISANCE FACTOR OF RATS - 10 Rats are a major nuisance both in the house, business premises and garden. They burrow, gnaw, urinate, defecate, nest and generally make a mess. Their urine also produces a very nasty strong, distinctive smell which isn’t easy to get rid of. More than being a nuisance, rats carry and spread serious disease to humans such as Weil’s disease, Salmonella and Listeria. They can also cause significant structural damage to property. All things considered; the rat is up there as one of the UK’s most problematic pests. AGILITY OF RATS - 9 Rats are also agile. Gardeners and allotment holders often report sightings of rats climbing nimbly up bird tables to reach food. They also shimmy up drainpipes and scurry through sewers and squeeze through small holes to get into places. They are good swimmers too. If the rat was entering the Olympics, it would be up for a silver medal in the triathlon! ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS OF THE RAT POPULATION - 2 Although not as essential as other pests we’ve reviewed in this series, nevertheless rats are an important part of balancing our ecosystem. They provide a food source for other predatory animals. Also, they are opportunistic scavengers and will happily clear up the food we throw away. RATS SUPERPOWER - Highly Advanced Rats are highly adaptable and developed. They have a well-developed sense of smell and touch and an acute sense of hearing, frequently using ultrasound to communicate. They are neophobic meaning that they are wary of new objects, and they are highly mobile. All these traits how shown that rats are also capable of being trained. So, all in all, the rat is a highly developed creature. Overall PGM Rating 2/10 The rat scores impressively in pretty much every category and we must give them credit for that. But we’ve given them an overall low rating due to their risk to public health. The rat is widely regarded as the UK’s most problematic pest, most often described as vermin and has been seen as this throughout history. Even going back to the 14th and 17th centuries rats were blamed for the Black Death plague that swept Europe although recent studies suggest that they might not have been responsible.

Introducing The Mouse! This week we are excited to carry on with our series of "Pest Trumps" at PGM & SON Pest Control Services with The Mouse 101. Each pest trump file is available to download for free so you may use them at your business to help identify pests for the protection of your workers and customers. The PGM "Pest Control Trump" set of information cards is created to assist with pest-related issues in the UK. The Mouse 101 FACT FILE Coming alongside the Wasp and the Rat, another of the UK’s most common pests includes mice. Mice are a part of British wildlife and are active all year round. Field mice mainly live outdoors so are not normally a cause for concern. The house mouse on the other hand is a public health issue and can cause serious harm and damage. Mice are disease carriers and have been known to spread nasty diseases such as Listeria and Salmonella to humans through droppings, urine and bedding. They mark their territory with urine and build nests near to food sources putting humans at risk of food poisoning. Did you know this about Mice? Mice are sporadic feeders; on average they eat between 15-20 times a day despite their tiny size. Researchers have found that mice populations are increasing due to milder climates. The Mouse Strength Mice are small but their teeth are sharp. They are voracious gnawers and chew through wood, metal, pipes and cables to keep their teeth sharp. In fact, their gnawing through cables and pipework can cause electrical fires and flooding so the tiny mouse has super strength teeth. The Breeding of Mice Mice breed super quickly so they score highly in this category. On average, there are usually six pups in a litter, so 12 young in two months with the original breeding pair. Those first six young will take a while to become sexually mature, maybe six weeks. They could all then have a litter themselves, then the numbers really start adding up. One female can have five to ten litters per year. So, by the end of a year, it’s easy to end up with 2,000 mice, scurrying around transmitting dirt and bacteria over work surfaces. Mice, Nuisance Factor Due to the fact they can cause damage to property such as electrical fires and flooding along with their ability to spread disease and their rapid breeding cycle, the mouse is up there with wasps and rats for their nuisance factor. Mice Agility Mice are pretty agile, they can squeeze through a gap of only 5mm to gain entry – that’s roughly the size of the end of a pencil! That makes proofing extremely difficult. They are also great jumpers, climbers and swimmers. All round athletes! Their Environmental Impact Mice are an essential part of our ecosystem. Mice are a food source to large numbers of predators such as foxes, weasels, hawks, owls, shrews and more. Superpower: Nifty Ninjas These tiny mice can cause significant damage to property and to public health. Their ability to gain access through the smallest of gaps and their sharp teeth make them nifty ninjas! Overall Mouse Rating 4/10 Along with the rat, mice score highly most categories. However, similarly, we’ve given them an overall low rating due to their risk to public health and property. Mice are particularly problematic because of their ability to breed rapidly meaning you can have a large mice infestation in a relatively short period of time. To aid with pest-related issues in the UK, PGM & SON are creating a complete variety of "Pest Trump" documents that are available for the pest management industry and the general public to download for free . Please subscribe to our blog if you want to stay up to date with all of our current developments on the Pest Trump line. If you have a mouse or any pest problem, it’s usually best to call in the professionals. Find your local trusted BPCA pest controller here. For all your pest problems throughout Herefordshire and Worcestershire give PGM & Son Pest Control 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 use the live chat facility on the right hand side of your screen, 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.

This week we’re giving a heads up on wasps as the wasp season looms. We want people to know that wasps aren’t all bad despite their reputation as a fierce pest! Wasps are early pollinators which means that they are good for the environment. Wasps are particularly beneficial in gardens, they feed their grubs on caterpillars and other insects and this reduces other pest populations. The wasp is therefore a predator which plays a vital ecological role controlling the numbers of pests such as greenfly. Our shout out in the month of May is to leave the wasps to continue to do their work where at all possible. If you can’t live with a wasp nest, it’s in an inconvenient location or is a public health issue (for example, because someone in your home suffers from allergic reactions) then call PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford for help. We can treat wasps’ nests for you. Queen wasps emerge from hibernation from March through to May normally so you may be seeing them in your garden at this time of year. Queen wasps get their sweet sugary liquids as nectar from flowers making them valuable pollinators. Lots of people mistakenly assume that they must have a nest when queens emerge in spring and sadly many of the queens are killed off. Two simple things you can do if you have queen wasps: Open windows and allow the queens to escape Seal up entry points into your property from the outside effectively “wasp proofing” your property Once the wasp season is well underway, wasps’ nests tend to increase in size, and this is when wasps may become an issue. Apart from being a nuisance they often present a serious risk to public health. However, there’s some simple things you can do though to prevent wasps invading your home or business, such as: Securing your home – keeping windows and doors shut or installing fly screens Keeping your bins away from the house or your business and making sure they are regularly emptied, cleaned and have tight fitting lids Check your property or business for wasps’ nests – if you arm yourself with the knowledge of where your problem is and how big a problem you have, you’ll find it easier to live with or to deal with. Checking for nests early can often stop a problem getting worse – once you think you have a wasp nest, call PGM & SON Hereford for advice or help. If you do have a wasps’ nest, it’s best not to treat it yourself. Treating wasps’ nests can be very dangerous as wasps can become extremely aggressive if threatened. Unlike bees, wasps don’t die after one sting and multiple stings from multiple wasps can be extremely painful and, in severe cases, fatal. To keep yourself and your family and customers from harm, always call in the professionals. We have access to a range of solutions not available to the general public. We also wear protective clothing to avoid being stung ourselves and we’re trained to deal with wasps’ nests. So let your wasps, especially the Queens, do their early pollination work and keep an eye out for nests in your home or business.If you do have a problem, give PGM & Son Hereford a call – we offer a fast, reliable, local wasp nest removal service across Herefordshire and Worcestershire .

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

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.

Navigate the Page Content Introduction Understanding Ant Behaviour Signs of an Ant Infestation Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Ant Infestations Ant Prevention Tips Effective Treatment Solutions for Ant Infestations Fun Facts about Ants The Ant 101 Introduction As April unfolds across the UK, it's crucial to turn our attention to a tiny yet persistent nuisance, but equally fascinating Ants! At PGM Pest Control, we understand the importance of ant awareness, especially during this time of the year when ant activity tends to peak. As spring temperatures start to rise, problematic ants will inevitably start to make a nuisance for food businesses and residential homes. Ants may seem innocuous at first glance, but their behaviour and presence can pose significant challenges for homeowners and businesses. From raiding food cupboards to establishing colonies within structures, ants are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities and establishing their presence where they're least welcome. That's why, as a leading pest control company recognised by the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), we're committed to equipping our customers with the knowledge and tools they need to effectively manage ant infestations. In this article, we'll delve into essential facts and tips about ants, tailored specifically to the unique context of April in the UK. From understanding ant behaviour to implementing proactive prevention strategies, let's safeguard our homes and businesses together. Understanding Ant Behaviour To effectively manage ant infestations, it's essential to gain insight into their behaviour patterns, especially as they manifest in the UK. Here are some key aspects of ant behaviour to consider: Foraging Patterns: Ants are highly organised social insects that operate in well-defined foraging trails. In the UK, particularly during April, ants become more active as they seek out food sources to sustain their colonies. These foraging trails can often be observed indoors, particularly in kitchens and other areas where food crumbs are present. Colony Structure: Ant colonies typically consist of a queen, worker ants, and male ants. The queen is responsible for laying eggs, while worker ants are tasked with foraging for food, caring for the young, and maintaining the nest. Male ants, on the other hand, play a role in mating with the queen to ensure the colony's survival. Common Species: In the UK, the most common ant species encountered in homes and businesses include the black garden ant (Lasius niger) and the pharaoh ant (Monomorium pharaonis). While black garden ants are typically outdoor nesters, they often enter buildings in search of food. Pharaoh ants, on the other hand, are notorious for establishing nests within structures, making them particularly challenging to eradicate. Factors Attracting Ants: Ants are attracted to environments that offer readily available food, water, and shelter. Factors such as improper food storage, unsealed garbage bins, and moisture-rich environments can contribute to ant infestations. Understanding these attractants is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies. By familiarising yourself with the behaviour of ants, we can better anticipate their movements and implement targeted pest management strategies. In the following sections, we'll explore signs of ant infestations, potential risks, prevention tips, and effective treatment solutions.   Signs of an Ant Infestation Identifying the early signs of an ant infestation is crucial for prompt intervention and effective pest management. Here are some common indicators to watch out for: Ant Trails: One of the most visible signs of an ant infestation is the presence of foraging trails, especially in areas where food is accessible. These trails may be observed indoors, along skirting boards, countertops, or near food storage areas. Outdoor trails can often be spotted along pathways, garden edges, or cracks in pavements. Nests and Mounds: Depending on the ant species, nests may be located indoors or outdoors. Indoor nests are typically found in concealed areas such as wall voids, under floorboards, in kitchen cupboards or behind appliances. Outdoor nests may appear as small mounds of soil or debris, particularly in gardens, lawns, or near building foundations. Visible Ants: Spotting individual ants, particularly in large numbers, is a clear indication of an ant infestation. In the UK, common ant species like the black garden ant and pharaoh ant may be observed indoors or outdoors, especially during April when their activity increases. Frass or Debris: Ants may leave behind frass, which consists of fecal matter and discarded debris, near their nests or foraging areas. This can appear as small piles of granular material or tiny wood shavings, depending on the ant species and nesting habits. Unexplained Damage: Ant infestations can lead to damage to property, particularly if they're nesting within structures. Look out for signs of wood damage, particularly in areas where moisture is present, as certain ant species may excavate galleries in wood to establish their nests. Unusual Odours: In some cases, ant infestations may be accompanied by unpleasant odours, particularly if the ants are nesting indoors. Pharaoh ants, for example, emit a musty odour that may be noticeable in infested areas. By being vigilant and attentive to these signs, homeowners and businesses can take proactive measures to address ant infestations before they escalate. In the next section, we'll explore the potential risks and concerns associated with ant infestations, shedding light on why early detection is crucial for effective pest management.   Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Ant Infestations Ant infestations pose various risks and concerns for homeowners and businesses in the UK. Understanding these risks is essential for implementing timely and effective pest management strategies. Here are some key considerations: Food Contamination: Ants are opportunistic feeders and can contaminate food supplies by crawling over them or depositing fecal matter and saliva. This can lead to foodborne illnesses and compromise food safety standards, especially in residential kitchens, restaurants, and food processing facilities. If you own a commercial kitchen call us to discuss your pest control contract. Property Damage: Certain ant species, such as carpenter ants, are known to excavate wood to build their nests. Over time, this can result in structural damage to buildings, furniture, and wooden fixtures. In the UK, damp conditions prevalent during April can exacerbate the risk of wood decay and structural compromise. Health Concerns: While most ant species are not directly harmful to humans, some can deliver painful stings or bites if provoked or threatened. For individuals with allergies or sensitivities, ant stings can trigger severe reactions, including anaphylaxis. Pharaoh ants, in particular, are known to transmit pathogens and bacteria, posing a risk to public health. Property Value: Severe or recurring ant infestations can negatively impact property values and deter potential buyers or tenants. Infested homes or businesses may be perceived as unsanitary or poorly maintained, affecting their marketability and resale value. Interference with Daily Activities: Dealing with an ant infestation can disrupt daily activities and undermine the comfort and functionality of living or working spaces. Ants crawling on surfaces, invading food storage areas, or causing unpleasant odors can create a sense of discomfort and inconvenience for occupants. Risk of Secondary Pest Infestations: In some cases, ant infestations can attract other pests, such as cockroaches or rodents, which may exploit the same food sources or nesting sites. This can lead to compound pest problems and increase the complexity of pest management efforts. By recognising these risks and concerns associated with ant infestations, homeowners and businesses can prioritise proactive pest prevention and seek professional assistance when needed. In the following section, we'll explore practical tips for preventing ant infestations and safeguarding your property.   Ant Prevention Tips Preventing ant infestations requires a proactive approach that addresses potential entry points, food sources, and conducive conditions. Here are some practical prevention tips: Maintain Cleanliness: Keep indoor and outdoor areas clean and free of food debris, crumbs, and spills. Regularly sweep floors, wipe down countertops, and clean up food preparation areas to eliminate potential food sources for ants. Seal Entry Points: Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around windows, doors, and utility penetrations to prevent ants from entering buildings. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal gaps and consider installing door sweeps to block entry points. Store Food Properly: Store food items in airtight containers, especially dry goods like cereal, flour, and pet food. Avoid leaving food out on countertops or in open packaging, as this can attract foraging ants looking for easy meals, as well as flies and wasps ! Dispose of Refuse Properly: Use sealed rubbish bins with tight-fitting lids to prevent ants from accessing food waste. Empty waste bins regularly and clean them to remove food residues and odors that may attract ants. Eliminate Standing Water: Address moisture issues in and around the home, as damp environments can attract ants seeking water sources. Fix leaky outlets, repair plumbing leaks, and ensure proper drainage to eliminate standing water. Trim Vegetation: Keep vegetation, shrubs, and trees trimmed away from the exterior of buildings to prevent ant trails from forming and provide less shelter for foraging ants. Remove overhanging branches that may provide access to upper floors. Inspect Outdoor Structures: Regularly inspect outdoor structures such as decks, patios, and fences for signs of ant activity or nesting. Remove debris, leaf litter, and organic matter that may provide nesting sites for ants, especially around buildings. Monitor Indoor Plants: Check indoor plants for signs of ant activity, as ants may establish nests in potted plants or use them as bridges to access indoor spaces. Place plant pots on saucers with water to create a barrier against crawling ants. Seek Professional Assistance: If ant infestations persist despite preventive measures, consider seeking professional pest control services from reputable companies like PGM & Son Pest Control. Our experienced pest technicians can assess the situation, implement targeted treatments, and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure effective ant control . By incorporating these prevention tips into your routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of ant infestations and maintain a pest-free environment in your home or business. In the next section, we'll explore effective treatment solutions for addressing ant infestations, with a focus on the unique needs of properties.   Effective Treatment Solutions for Ant Infestations When faced with persistent ant infestations, it's essential to implement effective treatment solutions tailored to the unique needs of properties. Call your Local Pest Controller when dealing with stubborn ant infestations, it's important to consult a professional for tailored and effective solutions. Your local pest controller can offer specialised services to eliminate ants and prevent future infestations, ensuring your property is protected and pest-free. Here are some of the treatment methods they might employ: Identification of Ant Species: The first step is to accurately identify the ant species causing the infestation. Different ant species may require different treatment approaches, so understanding the species involved is crucial for targeted pest management. Indoor Treatments: For indoor ant infestations, a pest controller may utilise a combination of baiting and residual insecticides to eliminate ants at their source. Baits are strategically placed in areas of ant activity to attract foraging ants, which then carry the bait back to the nest, effectively eliminating the colony. Outdoor Treatments: Outdoor ant infestations may require perimeter treatments to create a barrier against invading ants. Pest controllers use specialised insecticides applied around the exterior of buildings to prevent ants from entering and nesting indoors. Crack and Crevice Treatments: Pest controllers meticulously inspect and treat cracks, crevices, and entry points where ants may gain access to buildings. By targeting these vulnerable areas, we can disrupt ant trails and prevent further intrusion. Nest Elimination: In cases where ant nests are located indoors or outdoors, pest controllers employ techniques to directly eliminate the nests. This may involve dust or aerosol treatments applied directly to the nest site to eradicate ants and prevent reinfestation. Follow-Up Monitoring: After initial treatments, pest controllers conduct follow-up inspections and monitoring to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and address any residual ant activity. Ongoing monitoring allows us to ensure long-term ant control and provide additional treatments if necessary. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach: Most reputable pest controllers approach to ant control is grounded in Integrated Pest Management principles, which prioritise environmentally responsible solutions and minimise pesticide use. We focus on addressing underlying conditions conducive to ant infestations, such as food sources and moisture, to prevent future problems. By utilising these effective treatment solutions and adopting a proactive approach to ant control, you can effectively eradicate ant infestations and provide long-term protection for homes and businesses in the UK. If you're dealing with ant problems, don't hesitate to contact PGM & Son Pest Control for expert help, support and guidance. Fun Facts about Ants They’re super strong – an ant can carry 20 times its own body weight! Have you seen the ant man? Queen ants can have millions of babies – wow! imagine that! A colony will only usually survive a few months without a Queen . Worker ants cannot reproduce and a Queen is rarely replaced. Ants don’t have ears! What? Instead they hear by feeling vibrations with their feet Want to learn more about ants? Read our blog post The Ant 101   To summarise our blog post on ants As April unfolds in the UK, it's important to remain vigilant and proactive in managing ant infestations and other pest-related challenges. At PGM & Son Pest Control, we understand the significance of ant awareness and the impact that pests can have on homes, businesses, and communities. Through our expertise, dedication, and commitment to excellence, we strive to provide reliable pest control services tailored to the unique needs of our clients. By understanding ant behaviour, recognising signs of infestations, and implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies, we can mitigate the risks posed by ants and safeguard our properties against future problems. From sealing entry points to eliminating food sources and employing targeted treatments, there are numerous steps we can take to achieve long-term pest control solutions. We believe that pest management is not just about eliminating pests but also about promoting health, safety, and quality of life for our clients and the community at large. Through community engagement, partnerships, and environmental stewardship, we aim to create healthier, safer, and more resilient communities where pest-related challenges are effectively addressed and managed.

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!

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.