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The Christian holiday is celebrated every year and commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is also a sign of better weather to come. The clocks have gone forward meaning lighter nights and with the recent sunshine and weather warming up, unfortunately pests are also starting to come out of hiding. So, what pests might you encounter this Easter? Wasps, Bees, Hornets are all out and about looking for a place to build their nests. Early wasp signs are the Queen wasps emerging from hibernation ready to start their nest building. Bees buzzing around starting to pollinate. Speaking of Bees remember the PGM & Son Pest Control mantra #LeaveThemBee Bees are a vital part of our ever fragile eco system and it’s critical that we ensure their survival so leave them bee unless there is a clear and present danger to public health. Ants – as the earth starts to warm up so do the ants! It’s also the time of year to start seeing flying ants. Ants are attracted to sugary foods and with all the Easter Egg hunts planned across the country there’s plenty of the sweet stuff hiding outside for them. Learn more about our Ant Control Service. Bed bugs - with schools out for Easter, many families will be starting out on a long Easter break away. The pest you are most likely to experience on your travels is the hardy bedbug. Bedbugs are notorious hitch hikers and will travel from room to room and country to country so keep your eyes peeled. Learn more about our bed bug control service. Having a problem with pests at Easter? Looking forward to a long weekend break with the family? Signs of insect eggs around your Herefordshire home or business could mean that you have a serious pest infestation on your hands. Being able to correctly identify a pests egg can help you manage your pest infestation properly, but if you are unsure you should always call in a pest professional, such as ourselves, to help you. Signs of pest eggs around your home or business usually means you have an infestation to deal with. To save you time and money, it’s best to have a pest management plan in place, and to also try to prevent pests entering your home in the first place. Don’t let pests spoil your Easter break - Keep the Sweets from Attracting Insects Easter involves a lot of eating, from sweets to family barbecues. All this al fresco food makes your garden a bug magnet. A few simple precautionary steps will go a long way to keep the pests at bay. Whether it be rats, mice, cockroaches, fleas, bedbugs, cluster flies or some other pest don’t worry about a pest problem this Easter. Call in the professionals at PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford and Worcester for all your pest problems. If pests are spoiling your Easter break, call PGM & Son Pest Control to deal with the pest problem for you. Call us on 01981 540088 or visit our website at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or drop us an email to contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk PGM & SON - Easter Bank Holiday Opening Hours Good Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday 8th April 8am - 8pm Easter Sunday 8am - 8pm Bank Holiday Monday 8am - 8pm From all the team at PGM & Son Pest Control - Have a Happy Pest Free Easter!

What fantastic weather we’ve been having recently! With the sun shining and the BBQs out, the wasps are on the way! This week we’re looking at “TOP 3s” information items related to the summer pest most commonly experienced by the Herefordshire public. TOP 3…..REASONS WHY WE CONTROL WASPS Wasp stings can be painful and, at worst, fatal. For some people with sensitivities a wasp sting could result in a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and if someone has symptoms you should call 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance. Whilst wasps are not normally aggressive unless threatened, they often build nests in very inconvenient spaces meaning that they can become a public health issue, for example, if members of the general public have to access those areas. In particular, they could present a risk to young children, vulnerable adults and the elderly who may not be as aware of their presence. Household pets! Pets can be sensitive to wasp stings as well and a dog chasing a wasp can end up with a very nasty sting. TOP 3…..WAYS TO TREAT A WASP STING Wash the sting area with soap and water and apply a cold compress for 10 minutes. If you can, elevate the affected area. Don’t scratch! Above all it is very important to seek medical help if you become dizzy after a wasp stings you, you have a swollen face and / or difficulties breathing. TOP 3 REASONS WHY…..BUSINESSES SHOULD CARE ABOUT WASPS Wasps can put your customers off, particularly if you are a hospitality business. Who wants to eat dinner with wasps swarming around them? Wasps can cause reputational damage. Nuisance wasps could invite bad reviews online which puts off potential customers as well. Wasps can cause a public health issue which, as a business owner, you are responsible for addressing. TOP 3 REASONS WHY…..WASPS AREN’T ALL BAD Wasps are early pollinators so it’s not just bees that are good for the environment. Wasps are beneficial to gardeners as they feed their grubs on other insects that are destructive in the garden. Wasps are a natural predator which means they contribute to our eco-system. TOP 3….PLACES TO SPOT A WASP NEST In fact, wasps can, and do, make their nests anywhere and everywhere. They’ve been found in some very unusual places! However, the most common places wasps’ nests are spotted are: In sheds or garages. In wall cavities and under eaves. Under trees and in bushes. If you’re experiencing a problem with wasps, give us a call today! PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford & Worcester We offer fast call out and competitive prices on wasp nest treatment For all your pest control needs, give PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford a call on 01981 251116 or 07964 370480 for a free no-obligation chat. WE COVER HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or you can use the live chat facility on our website. We’re always on the end of the ‘phone for advice so don’t worry about your pest problems, give us a call now!

Do you have a smallholding with a rodent problem? If so, you’re not alone. Rodents are a common problem for smallholders and can cause a range of issues. In this blog post we’ll look at the causes of a rodent infestation, how to identify the signs of a rodent problem, and the best ways to deal with it. We’ll also examine the latest advice on rodents and give practical advice on reducing the risk of future infestation. Smallholders finding they are experiencing higher than normal levels of rat and mouse activity this Winter need to take steps to make sure they are taking a ‘prevention rather than cure’ approach. What smallholders can do to deter rats and mice. Phil Martin of PGM Pest Control says that "It is essential to take steps to make your property less attractive for rodents. Removing food and water sources, shelter and warmth is key to our ‘prevention is better than cure’ message”. 10 steps smallholders can take to keep their outbuildings rodent free this Winter. Store animal feed in sealed containers. Choose storage containers with tightly fitting lids. Check your yard and building daily for evidence of rodent activity. Bag and bin your waste. Make sure bin lids are tightly secure and dispose of rubbish regularly to avoid piles of rubbish building up. Rodents love piles of rubbish so make sure you use bins to store rubbish until it can be properly disposed of. Sweep your yard regularly and keep it clean from debris, spilled food, hay or straw and animal faeces. It is essential to remove all possible food sources. Cats and dogs are regular residents of yards so make sure their food is put away after eating. Food left out is an invitation for rodents and not only is a food source but could also be contaminated by rodents. Remove harbourage for rodents, for example, bushes, hedgerows, brambles and untended vegetation are ideal places for rats to shelter. Keep these regularly cut and tidy. Make sure you always trim back outside of nesting seasons. Check and maintain your drains and covers. Unused pipes should be capped off. Take an honest look over your yard and outbuildings to see whether you’ve made it easy for rodents to access your outbuildings. For example, if you’ve placed storage containers under windows this could be a clear route of entry for rodents. Proofing is essential. Look for holes and possible entry points and seal them up. Remember that mice particularly can squeeze through very small holes. Take time out to do all those essential maintenance tassks such as clearing gutters and fixing drain covers. Act quickly when you spot a problem. Rats and mice breed rapidly so if you spot the signs of rodents you need to act quickly. It is important to deal with a rodent problem early on for the following reasons: Rats and mice can carry diseases such as listeria and salmonella. These can be spread to humans through contact with their urine in food preparation areas. Rodents can also contaminate animal feed and cause distress to livestock and chickens. Both rats and mice will gnaw to keep their teeth in good condition, and have been known to gnaw wood, metal, cinderblock, pipes and cables. Structural damage, floods and fires have all been attributed to rodent activity. Rats and mice have rapid breeding cycles, which means a nesting pair moving onto your property can quickly become a major infestation. All these things can leave smallholders with a very large bill to resolve. If you have a rodent problem, it’s usually best to call in the professionals. For all your local rat and mouse problems give PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford and Worcester 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 our website and if we’re not available on the live chat for any reason then there’s a handy message service for you to leave your details so we can call you back. We’re always on the end of the ‘phone for advice so don’t worry about your Rodent problems, give us a call now! We are Herefordshire and Worcestershire Pest Control Experts.

Congratulations to the newest member of the PGM & SON Pest Control Hereford Team, Joe Martin, who has recently passed his RSPH Level 2 award in Pest Management. The highly-regarded RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management is a recognition that demonstrates his commitment to providing the highest quality pest management services to our customers. The RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management is a rigorous program that covers a range of topics related to pest management, including the biology and behavior of pests, the principles of integrated pest management, and the safe and effective use of pesticides. It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills required to work in the pest management industry, and is recognised by the industry as evidence of an individual's competence and commitment to their profession. Our pest technician's achievement of this prestigious award shows their dedication to their professional development, and to providing the best possible service to our customers. We are proud to have such a talented and committed member of our team, and we look forward to continuing to deliver the highest quality pest management services to our customers. Did you know? All our pest control technicians are qualified to the Royal Society for Public Health Level 2 in Pest Management. We also have Advanced Bird Management Technicians so if you are experiencing bird problems and need bird control or bird proofing works give PGM & Son Bird Control Hereford and Worcester a call. What is Advanced Bird Management? Advanced Bird Management (ABM) refers to a set of techniques used to manage bird populations, particularly in urban areas like Herefordshire and Worcestershire. The aim of ABM is to mitigate the negative impact of birds on human health, safety, and the environment, while also preserving the well-being of bird populations. This may involve a variety of methods, such as bird proofing buildings, habitat modification, relocation, and humane control measures. ABM also involves monitoring and researching bird populations and behavior, and using this information to develop and implement effective management strategies. The goal of ABM is to find a balance between the needs of people and the needs of birds in urban environments. What are the techniques involved in Advanced Bird Management? There are a number of techniques that we use as part of Advanced Bird Management (ABM). Some of the most common techniques include: Bird proofing: This involves modifying buildings and structures to make them less attractive to birds and prevent them from roosting or nesting. This may include the use of physical barriers, such as spikes, netting, or bird-resistant glass, as well as the use of visual deterrents, such as reflective tape or balloons. Habitat modification: This involves changing the environment to make it less attractive to birds. This may include removing food sources, such as bird feeders or waste food, or planting vegetation that is less attractive to birds. Relocation: This involves removing birds from one location and releasing them into a more suitable habitat. This is typically done in consultation with wildlife agencies to ensure that it is done in a humane and responsible manner. Humane control measures: This involves using non-lethal methods to control bird populations, such as egg and nest removal, or the use of bird scaring devices, such as audio deterrents or laser lights. Monitoring and research: This involves monitoring bird populations and their behavior, and using this information to develop and implement effective management strategies. This may involve conducting surveys, monitoring bird nesting and roosting sites, or studying the effectiveness of different control methods. These are some of the most common techniques used as part of ABM. The specific techniques used will depend on the type of bird, the location, and the specific issues being addressed. What is RSPH Level 2 award in Pest Management? The Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) Level 2 Award in Pest Management is a qualifications program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills required to work in the pest management industry. This program covers a range of topics related to pest management, including the biology and behavior of pests, the principles of integrated pest management, and the safe and effective use of pesticides. The RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management is designed for individuals who are either new to the pest management industry or who have limited experience in the field. It is intended to provide a foundation of knowledge and skills that can be built upon with further training and experience. The award is recognised by the pest management industry and can be used as evidence of an individual's competence and commitment to their profession. The program is delivered through a combination of classroom-based training and practical assessments, and is typically completed over a period of several weeks or months. Successful completion of the program results in the award of the RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management, which is recognised as evidence of an individual's competence in the field of pest management. The RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management is considered a prestigious qualification for several reasons: Recognition: The award is recognised by the pest management industry as evidence of an individual's competence and commitment to their profession. This recognition can help individuals to stand out from others in the field and can increase their employment prospects. Industry standards: The program is designed to cover the knowledge and skills required to work in the pest management industry, and is based on industry standards and best practices. This means that individuals who complete the program have a good understanding of what is expected of them in their professional role. Rigorous assessment: The program involves both classroom-based training and practical assessments, which are designed to test the individual's knowledge and skills. This rigorous assessment process helps to ensure that only individuals who have the necessary knowledge and skills receive the award. Reputation: The RSPH is a well-respected organisation with a long history of promoting public health and environmental sustainability. The association of the RSPH with the award helps to give it credibility and prestige, and can help to increase the standing of individuals who hold the award. Professional development: Completing the RSPH Level 2 Award in Pest Management demonstrates an individual's commitment to their professional development, and can help them to advance in their careers. It can also provide a foundation for further study and professional development in the field of pest management. If you are looking for a professional and experienced pest management commercial service or pest prevention service, look no further. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your property free from pests. PGM & SON are available 7 days a week to eradicate your pest problems. Rat and Rodent Pest Control Wasp Nest Removal Flea Control Cockroach Control Loft Clearance, Contaminated Waste Removal Woodworm Control Bedbug Control See more of our Pest Control Services throughout Hereford and Worcester For all your pest control needs, call PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford and Worcester on 01981 540088 or visit our website at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or drop us an email to contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

Protect your business with effective commercial pest control Are you starting a food or drinks business in Herefordshire or Worcestershire? In this blog post, we'll explore the key reasons why you should prioritise commercial pest control, the types of pests commonly found in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and the best strategies to keep them out of your commercial space. Legal Obligations for Employers Meet your requirements under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to provide a safe working environment for your staff – this means FREE OF PESTS! Under The Food Safety Act 1990 and The Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 you must ensure you have adequate procedures in place for pests. Why you need to comply with the law on managing pests in your hospitality business The penalties for failure to comply can be severe – complete and immediate closure of premises; fines of up to £20,000 or up to six months in prison! How to comply with the law The best way to comply with the law is to engage the services of a professional pest controller. This week we take a look at PGM & Son Pest Control’s Rodent Control Service for Hereford and Worcester hospitality businesses. Rodent Control Services for Businesses PGM adopts an integrated pest management approach which considers non-chemical, biological and cultural methods as well as customer education, habitat modification and physical methods. We offer advice and support in this regard. It is not PGM policy to simply kill pests with a pesticide and we will do our utmost to prevent unnecessary suffering and to protect non-target species. PGM support the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) We provide all our commercial customers with a pest control management manual which sets out: The history of PGM’s visits to your site; Copies of the reports we will provide you with at each visit; A copy of your site plan and the monitoring and control points; Reference material and other important information, which includes the availability of our: Professional qualifications. Membership of professional bodies. Our Terms of Business. Public Liability Insurance. Material hazards information. Risk Assessments. We will ask you to provide a plan of your site or we may arrange to visit your site to prepare a plan. We supply and install suitable bait boxes for your site, the number being dependent on the size and nature of your site and the existing pest activity. We carry out routine inspections of your site to identify rodent activity and / or issues and risks likely to attract or influence pests. Treatments are carried out where infestations are identified, in line with your contract for services. Routine visits will normally be scheduled at regular intervals, e.g. monthly and will consist of inspecting the site, checking bait stations and replacing bait, or re-setting traps as required. If you have any problems in between routine visits and your contract includes call outs, we’ll be straight out to check on any issues you may have. Otherwise, a call out service is also available. We provide guidance and advice to clients on staying pest free. As a business owner in the food or drinks industry, you know how important it is to maintain a clean and hygienic environment to keep your customers happy and your business running smoothly. However, even the best cleaning practices can fall short if pests find their way into your commercial space. Rodents, cockroaches, flies, and other pests can cause damage to your products, contaminate your work areas, and pose serious health risks to your customers and staff. That's why it's essential to have effective commercial pest control measures in place to protect your business from infestations. For information on our commercial pest control services, or if you would like us to quote for our rodent control service, please contact us on 01981 540088 or email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Frequently asked Questions about Commercial Pest Control Q: What is commercial pest control? A: Commercial pest control is the management and control of pests, such as insects, rodents, and birds, in commercial or business settings, such as office buildings, warehouses, food establishments, restaurants, and hotels. Q: Why is commercial pest control important? A: Commercial pest control is important for several reasons, including ensuring the health and safety of employees and customers, protecting the integrity of the business and its products, and complying with legal requirements. Q: What kind of pests can be found in commercial settings? A: Common pests found in commercial settings include mice, rats, cockroaches, bed bugs, wasps, and birds. Q: How do pests enter commercial buildings? A: Pests can enter commercial buildings through various means, such as open doors and windows, cracks and crevices in the building's structure, and through deliveries and shipments. Q: How can businesses prevent pest infestations? A: Businesses can prevent pest infestations by implementing good sanitation practices, maintaining a clean and clutter-free environment, sealing cracks and gaps in the building's structure, and using pest control products and professional services. Q: What should businesses look for when choosing a pest control service? A: When choosing a pest control service, businesses should look for a company that is licensed and insured, has experience in commercial pest control, uses environmentally friendly pest control products and practices, and offers ongoing pest control maintenance and support. Q: How often should businesses have pest control treatments done? A: The frequency of pest control treatments depends on the type and severity of the pest problem, as well as the type of business and industry. A pest control professional can recommend a treatment schedule based on these factors. Q: Is pest control safe for employees and customers? A: Yes, pest control is safe for employees and customers when it is carried out by a licensed and experienced pest control professional using safe and environmentally friendly products and practices. Q: What legal requirements are there for commercial pest control in the UK? A: The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 require businesses to ensure the health and safety of employees and others who may be affected by their work, including managing pests in the workplace.

Quick Navigation To help you find what matters most, we’ve added links below that jump straight to each section. What are Thunder Flies Thrips Biology & Lifecycle Monitoring & Identification of Thrips DIY Thrips Monitoring Checklist Climate Change & Environmental Considerations FAQs This week we’re taking a look at the commonly called “Thunder Fly”. These tiny insects are actually called Thrips and are black in colour and narrow with hairy wings measuring around 1.5mm. Thunder Flies Thrips are largely an agricultural pest which is why Herefordshire and Worcestershire residents often report problems with Thunder Flies as our rural county has vast amounts of fields and agricultural properties. So how do these insects cause problems in residential properties and business premises? Well, they have been known to collect in significant numbers inside smoke detectors and this can trigger fire alarms to go off. Thrips feed on plant sap and on hot and humid days they congregate on window sills in large numbers. With climatic changes, these insects become more of a problem and can get into clothing and hair. This is largely a nuisance pest however and a small thrip infestation can normally be dealt with easily by the householder simply removing them from the property. However, a significant infestation of thunder flies would better be solved by a professional pest controller who has access to professional treatments to solve pest problems. Thrips Biology & Lifecycle Thrips are tiny, slender insects from the order Thysanoptera, known for their fringed wings, uneven mouthparts, and reputation as destructive pests of crops and houseplants. Although more than 6,000 species have been identified worldwide, only a limited number are responsible for significant agricultural and horticultural harm. The term comes from ancient Greek, so “thrips” serves as both the singular and plural form—“thrip” is not a correct word. Understanding how thrips develop is key to stopping infestations before they bloom. Infographic showing the life cycle of a thrip, from egg to larva, prepupa, pupa, and winged adult. Egg-Laying Habits & Host Preference Thrips lay eggs inside leaf tissue or within flower buds, making detection tricky. Preferred hosts include tomatoes, cucumbers, chrysanthemums, and fuchsias, especially in warm, protected environments. Eggs hatch in 2–7 days, depending on temperature. Nymph Stages & Development Timeline Nymphs go through 2 instars (growth stages) before dropping into soil or leaf litter to pupate. They resemble adults but lack wings—often pale yellow or green. Total lifecycle from egg to adult takes 7–14 days in summer, faster in warm, dry conditions. Seasonal Activity in the UK Peak thrips activity typically spans May to September, with spikes during prolonged dry spells. Warm greenhouses, conservatories, and polytunnels can sustain populations year-round. Early symptoms (leaf silvering, flower damage) often appear mid-May. Thrips thrive when summer skies stay dry! Overwintering Behaviour & Survival Thrips overwinter in soil, mulch, leaf litter, or tucked within greenhouse structures. Some species can survive in unheated indoor environments, re-emerging with spring warmth. Cleaning up plant debris and controlling indoor conditions helps interrupt their cycle. Monitoring & Identification of Thrips Early detection is the key to managing thrips before damage spreads. Here's how to keep an eye on these elusive pests: Colour Traps & Visual Tools Sticky Traps: Hang yellow or blue traps near susceptible plants. Yellow is great for general attraction; blue is especially effective for Western Flower Thrips. Magnification Aids: Use a pocket magnifier or loupe (x10–x15) to inspect undersides of leaves, buds, and flower crevices where thrips often hide. Behavioural Cues Erratic Movement: Unlike aphids or mites, thrips twitch and scuttle rapidly when disturbed. Hiding in Blooms: Pay close attention to tightly packed petals—thrips love to burrow inside flowering heads. Silvering & Flecking: These visual symptoms often precede visible insect presence—consider them an early red flag. DIY Thrips Monitoring Checklist For weekly use during the growing season (May–Sept): Complete Task ☐ Check underside of leaves using magnifier ☐ Inspect flower buds and blooms for hidden thrips ☐ Note silvering, flecking, distorted growth ☐ Replace sticky traps every 1–2 weeks ☐ Record sightings and symptom locations ☐ Isolate any suspicious plants for further monitoring Pest Pro Tip: Turn this checklist into a laminated card or downloadable PDF for greenhouse or allotment use. Climate Change & Environmental Considerations Thrips may be tiny, but their behaviour is shaped by global shifts. Climate Impact on Thrips Populations Hotter summers and prolonged dry spells accelerate thrips breeding cycles and spread. Warmer winters mean fewer die-offs, allowing populations to rebound more aggressively in spring. Greenhouses and indoor plant areas are particularly vulnerable during extreme heat events. If you’ve noticed more thrips year-on-year…you’re not imagining it. How climate change will effect pests and diseases > Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Chemical Control Use biological predators like Orius insidiosus (minute pirate bug) or Amblyseius cucumeris (predatory mite). Spray neem oil, insecticidal soap, or homemade garlic-chilli sprays to deter feeding. Companion planting (e.g. basil near tomato) can confuse or repel thrips naturally. Growers are shifting toward IPM strategies that blend natural controls with observation. Neonicotinoid Risks to Pollinators Common thrips-targeting insecticides like acetamiprid and imidacloprid (neonics) pose risks to bees, hoverflies, and butterflies. Residues can accumulate in nectar and pollen, affecting non-target insects. The UK restricts some neonics under pollinator protection schemes—but vigilance is key. Be kind to pollinators—choose selective, low-toxicity treatments Reasons why people should hire a pest control company to get rid of thrips Expertise Pest control companies, like us, have trained professionals who have the knowledge and experience to effectively identify and control thrips infestations. A qualified pest controller will be able to determine the severity of the infestation, the type of thrips present and develop a plan to address the infestation. Safety Pest control companies use professional-grade pesticides and equipment that are not available to the general public. These products are specially formulated to target specific pests and are applied by trained professionals who know how to handle them safely. Efficiency Registered pest control companies have access to a wide range of tools and techniques to quickly and effectively eliminate thrips infestations. They may use different type of pesticides, integrate pest management techniques, and use equipment that is specifically designed for thrips control. Cost-effective Hiring a pest control company can save you money in the long run. They will be able to quickly and effectively eliminate the infestation, reducing the need for repeated treatments and minimising crop damage. Monitoring: A pest control company will also monitor the infestation and will advise further on how to prevent future infestations. They may also provide an ongoing preventative service to ensure that thrips populations do not reach damaging levels again. To find a verified professional through the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), you can use their official online search tools. Choosing a BPCA member ensures the technician is trained, insured, and audited against industry standard, find a local pest controller near me ↗ Frequently Asked Questions about Thrips What do thrips look like? Thrips are tiny, slender insects that can range in color from yellow to black. They have fringed wings and are usually less than 2 mm in length. What do thrips eat? Thrips feed on plant tissues, including leaves, flowers, and fruits. They use their sharp, needle-like mouthparts to pierce the surface of the plant and suck out the sap. How do thrips damage plants? Thrips can cause a variety of problems for plants, including discoloration, distorted growth, and reduced yields. They can also act as vectors for plant diseases. How do thrips reproduce? Thrips reproduce sexually, with females laying eggs on or in the plant tissue. The eggs hatch into tiny, wingless nymphs that resemble adults. Are thrips dangerous to humans or pets? Thrips are not dangerous to humans or pets, but they can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Summary Hiring a professional qualified pest control company to get rid of thrips can provide peace of mind and save time and money in the long run. They can help to protect your plants and crops, prevent damage, and ensure that your farm or garden remains productive. A trained commercial pest control professional will have the technical knowledge and access to a range of professional use products and equipment which are not available to the public. Looking for a Greener Solution? Combat thrips with confidence—and conscience. At PGM Pest Control, we champion Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that blend science, sustainability, and peace of mind. Eco-friendly pest control services target thrips without harming pollinators or delicate garden ecosystems. What We Offer: Use of natural predators like Orius insidiosus and Amblyseius cucumeris. Low-toxicity treatments and selective biopesticides. Tailored monitoring pest plans. Ongoing support to manage pests throughout the growing season. Whether you're a hobbyist or commercial grower, our green approach helps your plants thrive—while keeping ecosystems safe. Explore our Green IPM Services Call PGM & Son on 01981 540088 or email us, contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or use the AI pest support on our website for help and guidance.

Friday the 13th is a day steeped in superstition and fear, with bad luck, ghosts, ghouls and spooky goings on generally. But there's one thing you don't want to be unlucky with: pest control! Pests such as ants, rodents, and cockroaches can cause a lot of damage to your home, and it's important to take the proper precautions on this day to ensure that your home remains pest-free. In this blog, we will discuss the common pests and how to deal with them, as well as prevention tips to keep your home safe from pests on this day. The 10 Most Common Pests in UK Homes 1. Mice 2. Rats 3. Bedbugs 4. Cockroaches 5. Fleas 6. Wasps 7. Ants 8. Moths 9. Flies 10. Woodworm Pest Prevention Tips Inspect the home for entry points: Pests can enter a home through the smallest of cracks and crevices, so it is important to inspect your home carefully for any potential entry points. Check around windows and doors, as well as in any areas where plumbing or wiring enters the home. Seal cracks and crevices: Once you have identified any potential entry points, take steps to seal them up with caulk or other appropriate materials. This will help prevent pests from entering your home. Store food properly: To discourage pests from entering your home, make sure all food is stored properly. This means keeping all food items in tightly sealed containers, and making sure all surfaces are wiped down after cooking or eating. No one enjoys dealing with pests in their home, and by following these simple steps, you can ensure that your home is safe from any unlucky pests that may try to take up residence on this superstitious day. By taking the necessary steps to control pests, you can ensure that your home is safe on Friday the 13th and every day of the year. Friday the 13th is often considered an unlucky and superstitious day. While some may go out of their way to avoid any potential bad luck, it’s important to remember that it's also a day to take extra precautions when it comes to pest control. From ants to cockroaches and rodents, pests can wreak havoc in your home, and Friday the 13th presents an extra opportunity to take action. What pests are bothering you on Friday 13th?! Pest Control Services Pest problems we solve at PGM & SON Pest Control Services include RATS, MICE, FLEAS, BEDBUGS, COCKROACHES, CLUSTER FLIES, SQUIRRELS, PIGEONS, ANTS, WASPS, MOTH, BEETLES, LADYBIRDS, MOLES, WOODWORM and many more pest problems. For all your pest control needs call PGM & Son Pest Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire on 01981 540088 or drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Visit our website for more pest advice and information at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

Why are some animals associated with Halloween and pest control? Rats have been long feared. Known to infest abandoned, filthy, run-down places rats were associated with plagues and epidemics in times gone by. In fact, rats were blamed for the Black Death plague across Europe in the 14th and 17th centuries although more recent studies suggest that they might not have been responsible after all. Do Rats carry diseases? Rats carry diseases, some-times very serious and potentially fatal diseases so naturally people are fearful of the rat. Check out our popular Pest Top Trumps series, this month we’ve a Rat Trumps card for you! However, in modern times rats continue to cause problems and rats are up there with wasps as the UK’s most nuisance pest. Experiencing a rat problem in Hereford? Need rat control in Worcester? Get in touch with PGM & Son Rodent Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or call us on 01981 540088 or drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk for all your Rat Control needs. We’re always on the end of the ‘phone for advice so don’t worry about your Rat problems, give us a call!

As we ring in the new year of 2023, the team at PGM & SON would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers past, present and future for your continued trust and support. We are grateful to have the opportunity to serve you and help keep your homes and businesses free of pests. As we look ahead to the new year, we remain committed to providing the highest level of service and professionalism. We will continue to use the most effective and eco-friendly techniques to keep your spaces pest-free, and we will always go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction. We wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy new year. Here's to a happy, healthly and pest-free 2023! Happy New Year! Over the New Year we’re on hand to help with any pest problems you may have including Rat and rodent removal, bed bug control and flea control across the counties of Herefordshire and Worcestershire For all your pest control needs contact PGM & Son Pest Control Services Herefordshire and Worcestershire at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or call us on 01981 540088 or drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

What am I? I am a blood sucker My neighbours have included T-Rex I am nocturnal I can survive in most temperatures but I ideally thrive at around 21-32 degrees Celsius The Answer is... I am a bedbug! More Information on Bedbugs Bites may cause an allergic reaction but they are not a disease carrier. Bedbugs are commonly confused with a flea infestation. Correct identification is critical as treatment will vary from treatment for fleas. Depending on the level of infestation, 1-2 treatments may be required. Control Measures for Bedbugs Treatment of all harbourages must take place; bedding, wall joints, skirting boards, furniture, structure of building and possibly roof voids Removing clutter which makes it easier to spot bedbugs Washing and drying bed clothes and bed linen on the highest temperatures permitted Making sure you closely inspect any second hand furniture brought into the premises Inspecting premises after relevant events such as overnight guests in hotels Catching bedbugs early will reduce the possibility of a costly treatment. However, once bedbugs are in your home or premises they can be very difficult to control. To get rid of bedbugs you should seek professional pest control help in Hereford. GOT BEDBUGS? WE'VE GOT IT COVERED! We manage bed bug control for many leading hotel chains as well as individual premises throughout Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Our qualified team of professionals bring their experience and know-how with them on every job. But what really sets our services apart from the rest of the industry is our attention to detail and receptiveness to the unique needs of each client. PGM & SON Pest Control are specialists in hotel bed bug removal and control in Hereford & Worcester. For all your bedbug control needs contact PGM & Son Pest Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk/contact or call us on 01981 540088 or drop us an email at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk YOUR LOCAL AWARD WINNING PEST CONTROL SERVICES IN HEREFORD & WORCESTER INSPECT. DETECT. PROTECT.