Other Insects
Ants, flies, spiders, cockroaches, and fleas can all cause havoc in residential or commercial settings and need to be dealt with quickly.
SWAT Pest Control is fully equipped to deal with all insect infestations quickly and efficiently using toxic and non-toxic means of pest control.
Ants
While ants are not generally associated with carrying diseases, their activities can have unintended consequences.
Tunnelling and burrowing behaviours can lead to property damage, and their movement across various surfaces can potentially result in the cross-contamination of food, posing a concern for hygiene and safety.
Flies
The female housefly can lay a huge number of eggs in her lifetime averaging 75 to 150 eggs per batch. Over the course of her lifetime, she demonstrated impressive productivity by yielding 5 to 6 batches of eggs. This process unfolds within a relatively short time span of approximately 8 to 20 hours, subject to environmental conditions. Such rapid development underscores the adaptability of the house fly as it navigates its surroundings.
The implications of flies, particularly house flies, extend beyond mere annoyance. In various instances, people have tragically succumbed to diseases transmitted by these insects, encompassing ailments such as food poisoning, diarrhoea, and dysentery which is why it is paramount in hospitality businesses to anticipate these unwanted guests.
Fleas
A significant facet of fleas' existence revolves around their insatiable appetite for blood. Following each blood meal, the female flea embarks on a mission - to lay between 4 to 8 eggs either within the host's fur or the cosy confines of the bedding.
To provide a staggering perspective, a typical cat bedding infested with fleas might harbour a staggering 8000 eggs and house 2000 adult fleas. The remarkable reproductive capacity of a lone female flea deserves attention; over her lifespan, which can span up to 2 years, she can generate a staggering 1000 eggs.
While fleas have often been associated with the transmission of diseases, compelling evidence remains elusive regarding their significant role in disseminating serious illnesses. Instead, the most common aftermath of a flea encounter tends to be skin irritation stemming from their bites, however, alongside irritation, flea bites can also lead to infection if not dealt with correctly.
Cockroaches
The German cockroach is the most frequently encountered cockroach species in Ireland. It takes up residence in various settings, such as homes, flats, eateries, medical facilities, and other places where provisions are stored. The mature cockroaches have a pale brown hue. Although equipped with wings, adults rarely take to the air. Given optimal conditions, their lifespan can extend to 12 months.
Female cockroaches bear egg cases containing as many as 40 eggs each, and they can produce up to 8 cases annually. Consequently, in favourable environs, a single cockroach can give rise to as many as 400 offspring. These creatures are active during the night and will scuttle away from sources of light. If they emerge during the day, it indicates a severe infestation.
They can endure for up to a month without sustenance, and cracks and crevices are their preferred nesting and breeding sites. While scavenging, cockroaches spread diseases by depositing harmful germs on our food, and surfaces.
Other Insects FAQs
How do I know if I have an ant infestation?
Common signs of an ant infestation include visible ant trails, especially in kitchens or near food sources, tiny piles of dirt or debris near openings, and the presence of winged ants, especially in warmer months.
What attracts cockroaches to my home?
Cockroaches are attracted to food, moisture, and shelter. Crumbs, unsealed food containers, and damp areas provide ideal conditions. Proper sanitation and sealing cracks can help prevent infestations.
Why do I have a fly problem indoors?
Flies are attracted to decaying organic matter, garbage, and moisture. If your home has exposed trash, pet waste, or food debris, it can attract flies. Proper waste management and sealing entry points help prevent infestations.
Can fleas infest my home even if I don't have pets?
Yes, fleas can be brought into your home through other means, such as on clothing or rodents. They can bite humans and cause itching and discomfort.