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

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

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

Having 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.

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

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

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

Got Wasps? We’ve Got it Covered! Last week we had a lovely brief heat wave across Herefordshire and, as we start to head into the Summer months, wasps have already started to become a problem. The Queen wasps have been emerging from hibernation, the warm weather activating them to start to populate new colonies. Did you know that a wasp nest can produce around one hundred Queen wasps each season? That gives you an idea of how rapidly wasps can become a problem in your home or business in Herefordshire. Wasps can become very aggressive and, whilst a wasp won’t go out of their way to sting you, they can and do sting with very little provocation. If you get too close to a wasp nest or agitate them, you may expect to be on the end of a wasp sting. Have you been stung by a wasp? A wasp sting can be very painful. Wasp sting symptoms may include swelling around the wasp sting site for around 24 hours or more, itchiness, a sharp burning pain and a visible mark or welt where the wasp’s stinger punctured the skin. Ouch! Advice for treating a wasp sting Always thoroughly clean the area with soap and water to remove the venom. You can also apply an ice pack or cold compress to reduce swelling and take an over-the-counter antihistamine. Raising the affected area can also help as elevation can help to reduce swelling. Try not to scratch the affected area as this can lead to infections and cause more issues. If you’ve been stung by a wasp and your symptoms don’t improve over the next few days or you’re worried about a wasp sting or the wound becomes infected (for example pus, increased pain / swelling / redness) then contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice. When wasps are a threat to public health Where someone’s body reacts adversely to a wasp sting, they can experience an allergic reaction. In some cases, an allergy can become quite serious; in rare cases fatal. If you or someone you’re with is stung by a wasp or wasps and experience any of the following symptoms you should seek immediate medical assistance: Swelling of the face, lips or throat (anaphylaxis), difficulty swallowing Dizziness Hives or itchiness in areas of the body not directly affected by the sting Feeling lightheaded and nauseous or vomiting Loss of consciousness Stomach cramps Sudden drop in blood pressure, weak or racing pulse or fast heart rate Wheezing, breathing difficulties Dial 999 for an ambulance if you or someone else displays signs of a severe reaction. At PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford we will always do our best to prioritise call outs where there is a clear and immediate threat to public health. Please let us know when you call if you, or a member of your family, has an allergy to wasp stings so that we can do our best to get to you as soon as possible. If you are a business or public service across Herefordshire and you have a problem with wasps, call us at PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford as we can treat any wasp nest that may present a risk to your customers or the public. If you have a wasp problem, give PGM and Son Hereford a call – we offer a fast, reliable, local service across Herefordshire, 01981 540088 or 07964 370480 today to help with all your pest needs. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

Worried about Wasps? With already a sharp incline in the wasp calls, this week we’re looking at some interesting facts about wasps and why wasps aren’t all bad. 6 Interesting Wasp facts you probably don't know There are over 7,000 species of wasp in the UK? A spider wasp will paralyse their prey and their larvae then eat their spider victim alive! They are the insect version of Hannibal Lecter! The UK weather helps to manage our wasps - the biggest wasp nests are generally found in Australia where the winter climate is milder – there can be up to two million workers in those nests – imagine! In the UK we don’t generally see our wasp nests getting that big as the winter tends to stop them growing to their full potential. Honey bees die when they sting but if a wasp loses its sting, it will just make more venom – this makes them a formidable insect warrior! A social wasp that is upset will emit a pheromone which is like a call for help from other wasps. A entire upset wasp colony means big trouble! Even though a wasp nest can typically hold thousands of wasps, there is only ever one Queen – Girl Power! Wasp Benefits to Nature Wasps are an important contributor to the eco-system – they are early pollinators Wasps are a natural predator – they help keep the insect and spider population down Wasps are a gardeners’ friend – they keep catch insect prey such as caterpillars and green fly If you are a business or public service across Herefordshire and you have a problem with wasps, call us at PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford as we can treat any wasp nest that may present a risk to your customers or the public. Call us today for wasp help, support and guidance on 01981 540088. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or us the live chat facility on our website.

The wasp season is well and truly underway and set to continue with throughout the next few months. The Hereford Times reported last week the very sad news of the death of a Tenbury Wells resident who suffered anaphylactic shock following a wasp sting. This story, whilst thankfully rare, highlights how dangerous wasps can be. And just this week, we received a call from a customer who attempted to treat a wasp nest himself and was pursued by an extremely angry swarm of wasps! He told us he won’t be making that mistake twice! It’s important not to panic or worry though because the stories we’ve reported on above are rare. In fact, wasps will only usually attack people if they feel they are threatened. So, if you leave a wasp alone, chances are that they will also give you a wide berth too! But if you do scare a wasp be aware that it might call for backup – wasps in distress emit a pheromone that colony members nearby will pick up and defensive wasps start a stinging frenzy. Treating a wasp nest can be extremely dangerous and that’s why you need to call in the professional pest controllers. Pest controllers have access to solutions not available to the general public. Plus, we’re fully trained and qualified. We wear protective clothing and we know our pests! What to do if you find a Wasp Nest? Wasps aren’t all bad though. They can be beneficial in gardens as they feed their grubs on caterpillars and other insects. They act as a natural predator. Wasp nests come in all shapes and sizes and in all places – we’ve seen some in some surprising places, for example, in a BBQ – not a great place to have a wasp nest. They’ve also been found in toilet cisterns and brass instruments. Wasp nests start off quite small but can grow to very large sizes during summer and they can contain thousands of wasps. The earlier a wasp nest is treated, the less aggressive the colony will be. DIY products rarely work on wasp nests, particularly large established nests. Worried about Wasps? If you have a problem with Wasps call us today for help, support and guidance on 01981 540088 or use our live chat facility to talk to a pest expert now. Learn more about wasps and our removal process. Call PGM & Son Pest Control – pest control solutions across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or check us out on social medial @pgmpestcontrol #MakePestControlGreenAgain