Stepping outside your home or office in New Jersey this summer is like walking into an oven. You’re instantly met with dangerously oppressive heat. With high temperatures hitting 104 degrees Fahrenheit and multiple days well over 90 degrees, Burlington County, New Jersey residents aren’t the only ones being affected.

Rodents and wildlife feel the effects of the heat as well.

Hotter grounds, scarce water supplies, and a lack of food has stirred up an abundance of rodent and wildlife activity throughout Burlington County. New Jersey has seen roughly a 36 percent increase in days over 90 degrees since 1949, according to NJDEP climate trend data, and those longer stretches of heat change animal behavior. Always in tune with the migration of nuisance wildlife in the Jersey area, here’s what we know:

• Rodent Migration: Rats, mice, and other rodents cannot tolerate this summer’s extreme heat. Seeking cooler shelter, they are targeting crawl spaces, basements, garages, and attics. Mice and rats only need a dime-sized opening to intrude your home, which is why rodent control and exclusion work starts with a full inspection of the structure.
• Wildlife Intrusion: Wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, foxes, and skunks need far more water than small rodents. Therefore, this nuisance wildlife is attracted to any outdoor water sources, trash cans, and air-conditioned living spaces. They have no problem entering your Burlington County home as a means for survival, and most of the wildlife removal calls we take in July and August trace back to exactly that.
• Greater Breeding Cycles: Longer and hotter summers in cities like Evesham Township, Mount Laurel Township, and Willingboro Township allow wildlife populations to breed more frequently. Increased breeding activity multiplies the problems. The Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist tracks these seasonal temperature patterns month by month, and the trend line has been moving in one direction for years.

Which Wildlife and Rodents Call Burlington County Home

One of the most remarkable qualities about living in Burlington County, New Jersey, is its diverse landscape. While the eastern half of the county is deeply rural and dominated by the dense and forested New Jersey Pinelands, the western half is very developed. Both areas are known for an abundance of both wildlife and rodents, which is why we built out a dedicated page for wildlife removal services in Burlington County.

Here are the common rodents and nuisance wildlife found throughout areas, such as Medford Township, Burlington Township, and Moorestown Township.

Norway Rats & Roof Rats: Often found in urban areas, these rats thrive during summer months and will chew through building materials and wiring to get inside your home. Roof rats have a distinguished pointed nose, while a Norway rat has a blunt nose. But both can wreak havoc inside your home.

House Mice: House mice are far too common throughout Burlington County. The ROSS Environmental team gets a lot of calls regarding house mice in basements, garages, attics, and even inside living areas.

Squirrels: Yes, squirrels are considered rodents. Both gray squirrels and flying squirrels (they actually glide) are common throughout New Jersey. During warm months, they frequently nest in attics, raid bird feeders, and chew through electrical cables.

Raccoons: Notorious for rummaging through your trash, raccoons seek water, food, and shelter at night. This nuisance wildlife will invade your attic or chimney to raise their young. Raccoons are also one of the primary rabies carriers in New Jersey, so never approach one directly. The New Jersey Department of Health asks residents to report any bite or saliva contact to their local health department right away.

Bats: Besides the immense fear that these flying critters cause, bats can create significant waste and health hazards. Often found in attics and wall voids, bats can quickly turn your home into their haven. Bats are protected in New Jersey and there are specific windows of the year when exclusion work can legally be performed, which is one more reason this is not a do-it-yourself project.

Skunks: Nothing turns your day into an emergency like a skunk that invaded your living area. Burrowing under porches and decks, skunks make their presence known with an unforgettable pungent odor. Even in your yard, skunks pose a threat to your pets and children.

Groundhogs (Woodchucks): While the groundhog is celebrated on February 2nd, this nuisance wildlife is cursed throughout the summer in Burlington County. They can quickly damage yards, landscaping, and building foundations due to their need to burrow.

Canada Geese: Beautiful birds when they’re flying in formation, they aren’t as attractive when they’re on the ground. Frequently found around waterfronts, these troublesome geese leave slippery, nasty droppings behind.

Every one of these animals is covered under the ROSS Wildlife Control Program, from trapping and removal through full exclusion of the entry points that let them in.

How to Best Protect Your Home and Yard from Wildlife and Rodents

It’s your sanctuary. It’s probably where you and your family feel safest. Yet, when your Burlington County home is invaded by rats, mice, bats, skunks, raccoons or other wildlife, suddenly it’s not just your home any longer. It’s now their home, too.

Here are a few of our professional recommendations when you have a rodent problem in your home or yard:

• First, block entry points: If your home has been invaded by mice or rats, they got in somehow. You need to find that entry point and block it. Mice don’t need a cartoon-style mousehole to enter. All they need is a dime-sized crack. So, inspect your foundation, rooflines, soffits, and areas where pipes enter your home. Then, use chew-proof materials to block the entryway. Steel wool, caulk, or expandable foam should do the trick. The CDC’s rodent control guidance walks through every spot worth checking inside and outside the house.
• Set traps: Mice and rats have been invading homes, from Medford Township to Moorestown Township. We recommend setting traps rather than poisoning rodents, so they don’t die inside your walls and create foul odors. Make sure you set your traps in dark, quiet areas where you notice droppings or gnaw marks. Baits like peanut butter or bacon work great to attract both mice and rats.
• Keep it clean: The real threat with both mice and rats is the harmful diseases found in their urine and feces. If you see visible areas of droppings, spray the affected areas with a mixture of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Then wipe up the waste and dispose of it in sealed plastic bags. If any waste gets on bedding or clothing, wash the affected articles on high heat with a heavy-duty detergent. When droppings are widespread or you are dealing with a heavy infestation, call for professional rodent service instead of handling it yourself.

Of course a small mouse seems like a small problem compared to an infestation of bats, raccoons, or a skunk. When it comes to wildlife removal, deter them from their three main goals: food, water, and shelter.

Here is our advice if you know your Burlington County home or yard has been invaded by wildlife.

• Remove food sources: Most wildlife invasions start with exposed food in the yard or near the home. Make sure your trash cans are secured with lockable lids. Feed your pets indoors. And remove any bird feeders from your yard.
• Eliminate possible shelter options: Start by sealing any entry points into your home. Next, pay attention to your yard and surroundings. Clear brush piles, remove wood piles, keep grass mowed short, and trim tree branches so squirrels can’t leap onto your house. Our wildlife exclusion work covers screening, wood repair, gutter guards, and bird spike installation.
• Use creative deterrents: Motion-activated lights or even sprinklers can gently scare away wildlife vermin.

Your Best Course of Action: Call ROSS Environmental Solutions

In the sweltering heat of Burlington County, New Jersey, the ROSS Environmental Solutions team gets a lot of calls about wildlife and rodents. Many of them have tried everything and are at their wit’s end. Then, we come to their home or place of business and address the wildlife or rodent problem like professionals. We have been doing this across South Jersey since 1992, and we are one of fewer than 500 companies nationwide to earn the Quality Pro designation from the National Pest Management Association.

Whether you have rats, mice, squirrels, bats, skunks or any type of wildlife either in or around your home, we have just the right wildlife removal solution you need. We serve Burlington County and the surrounding areas, and you can find the location nearest you on our service area page.

Get a 100% guaranteed wildlife removal solution. Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate.

The post Record Summer Heat Brings Record Rodent and Wildlife Activity appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

Have you ever heard anyone talk about mosquitoes in the south?

Floridians will exaggerate, “As big as a bird!”

People from South Carolina will say, “You can’t go out at night.”

Georgians will tell you, “They attack you the second you come outside.”

It all sounds like hyperbole… until this year.

Now, the residents of Burlington County, New Jersey are seeing it firsthand. The mosquitoes in this part of the country are absolutely relentless. Whether you’re watching your kids play in the sprinklers in the backyard, grilling up steaks, or simply taking the dog for a walk, it seems like we’re losing the war and mosquitoes have taken over.

At ROSS Environmental Solutions, we’ve had a much higher volume of mosquito control calls this summer. Here’s why mosquitoes are thriving all throughout Burlington County. From Moorestown to Mount Laurel to Evesham Township, we are experiencing one of our worst mosquito seasons ever.

Why Mosquitoes Are Swarming in Burlington County This Summer

Mosquitoes thrive when 3 things are present:

• Water
• Extreme heat
• Humidity

That’s why mosquitoes flourish in the south. The south gets a ton of rain, have lots of waterfront areas, and have crazy hot summers that are 80 to 90% humidity.

Well, this summer, New Jersey has become a carbon copy of the south. Here’s what’s happening here:

• Heavy Rain — Every rainstorm leaves more standing water. Puddles. Clogged gutters. Bird baths. Kiddie pools. Standing water becomes the breeding grounds for mosquitoes to lay hundreds of eggs.
• Extreme Heat — It’s been a scorcher in Pemberton Township, Willingboro Township, and other areas of Burlington County. Hitting 104 degrees, the heat has been more than most residents can handle. But mosquitoes love it! As the temp rises, adult mosquitoes can reproduce more frequently. Entire mosquito generations can develop in just days.
• High Humidity — Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions. If it feels sticky outside, just know that mosquitoes are having a field day.

The Burlington County Division of Mosquito Control runs a countywide program targeting these same breeding conditions, but county spraying is built to knock down population-wide pressure, not to protect one specific property.

More Than An Itchy Bite, Mosquitoes Pose A Serious Threat

When asked the world’s deadliest animal, most people answer: sharks, rhinos, snakes, or spiders.

Not even close. Every year, the lowly mosquito is responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide, which is why the CDC calls the mosquito the world’s deadliest animal. That makes mosquitoes one of the most dangerous pests in Burlington and all of New Jersey.

Mosquitoes can carry diseases that affect both humans and pets. Beyond Malaria, which is controlled in the U.S., here are the potential health risks:

• West Nile Virus — This is one of the most common mosquito-borne illnesses in New Jersey. Though most cases are mild, severe cases can lead to serious neurological complications.
• Heartworms in Dogs — Heartworms can be deadly for your canine friends. Every month, especially in the summer, make sure your dogs are on preventatives.
• Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) — Don’t be fooled by the name. EEE can affect a multitude of animals, as well as humans. Though rare, it’s a potentially life-threatening affliction.

Aside from the risk of disease, mosquitoes have a particularly painful bite. While you may not notice the initial bite, it can lead to severe itching, redness, and swelling. Breaking the skin of the mosquito bite can lead to a secondary bacterial infection.

How to Reduce Mosquitoes And Take Your Yard Back

If you’ve tried the candles, the mosquito repellent, the fans, and everything shy of wearing a turtleneck and slacks every time you go outside, it may be time to try some preventative measures.

Here are a few steps we recommend homeowners take to keep the mosquitoes out:

• Eliminate Standing Water — After every rainfall, empty outside containers. Keep bird baths cleaned regularly. Unclog gutters every couple of weeks. And correct any drainage issues.
• Maintain Your Landscaping — Mosquitoes tend to hide in tall grass, overgrown landscaping, and shaded areas. Therefore, do your best to keep your lawn mowed and remove any piles of brush.
• Know Their Busy Hours — Mosquitoes are most active around dawn and dusk. If spending time outdoors during those times, use an EPA-approved insect repellent or long-sleeved shirts.

Mosquitoes are only one piece of a bigger seasonal picture. Our year-round South Jersey pest control checklist walks through what to watch for month by month, and our post on what wakes up in your yard each spring covers the pests that show up right before mosquito season peaks.

Call ROSS Environmental Solutions for Your Most Effective Treatments

Don’t let mosquitoes trap you indoors all summer. ROSS Environmental Solutions provides effective mosquito control services throughout Burlington County, including Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Medford, Willingboro, and surrounding South Jersey communities.

Of course, our team will come out to spray your yard. But that’s only the start. We identify mosquito breeding areas, target shaded areas where mosquitoes thrive, and apply professional treatments designed to dramatically reduce mosquito populations. If you prefer an all-natural approach, ask about our Green Earth Program.

Call ROSS Environmental Solutions today at 1-866-981-1322 for a free mosquito control estimate. Then discover why so many Burlington County homeowners trust ROSS to keep their properties mosquito-free all season long.

The post Why Burlington County, NJ Is Having A Mosquito Summer appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

Whether it’s raccoons and squirrels or coyotes and deer, your new unexpected guests are wreaking havoc on your daily life. Perhaps this wildlife is causing widespread destruction. Maybe they pose a risk to yourself or your kids. Whatever the threat, ROSS Environmental Solutions takes it seriously.

You can bet that when you call the ROSS team for wildlife removal services, we quickly take action so you can get your Burlington County residence back to normal.

Common Nuisance Wildlife Found Throughout Burlington County, New Jersey

The vast wildlife roaming across The Garden State is one of the more appealing qualities of this area. Between the variety of birdlife to small mammals to larger animals, such as deer, sometimes it seems like you’re on a safari.

However, while much of the wildlife keeps to the woods and offers little harm, there are a number of animals, rodents, and birds that make their presence known in unappealing ways. According to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, many of the species commonly found in Burlington County are protected and must be handled by a licensed professional. Providing wildlife removal services in the Burlington County area, these are the most common calls ROSS Environmental Solutions gets.

Raccoons — Don’t be fooled by their cute face. Posing a danger to humans and destructive to property, raccoons are among our most common calls. These grey, black, and brown critters are known to raid garbage cans, take up residence in attics, and tear apart roof vents. Armed with both sharp teeth and claws, raccoons are prone to attack. One raccoon bite could mean a rabies infection, which is a serious public health concern.

Skunks — It’s not hard to know if you have a skunk or two living in or around your home. Their stench is unmistakable. These black and white mammals are known to burrow and nest under decks, porches, and foundations. And if your pets are sprayed by a skunk, your home will stink for days. Among our most requested wildlife removal services, skunk removals are always a priority.

Opossums — You may think opossums are only found on the side of the road. Fact is, Burlington County has its share of nighttime opossum sightings. Just like raccoons, opossums find shelter in crawl spaces, garages, and under sheds. Not only are they disruptive and destructive, they often carry parasites. And if an opossum gets into your home, you’ll hear scratching all the time.

Moles and Voles — In the Burlington County area, moles and voles are major nuisances. Their tunnels ruin lawns and kill expensive landscaping. Fortunately, the ROSS team can jump into action for the removal of your moles and voles.

Squirrels — Squirrels are everywhere in New Jersey. Often keeping to themselves and hanging out in parks and the woods, they rarely interfere with our lives. However, ROSS Environmental Solutions has unfortunately been called for squirrel removal services several times. Because squirrels frequently gnaw on exterior wood, electrical wiring, and urinate on attic insulation, these small mammals must be controlled and removed.

White-Tailed Deer — Extremely prevalent in the area, the white-tailed deer can cause quite a lot of damage to gardens and landscaping. Beyond the destruction they can do to your property, they also pose a serious traffic collision risk. The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife estimates the state’s white-tailed deer population in the hundreds of thousands, making effective management an ongoing priority across Burlington County.

Coyotes — Some of the wildlife removal calls we get are less about a nuisance and more about a real danger. Coyotes in Burlington County, NJ fit that bill. Not only are they a real threat to your outdoor pets, including cats and small dogs, they pose risks to small children. Coyotes can prey on livestock and transmit diseases like rabies and mange. The USDA Wildlife Services recommends professional intervention whenever coyotes become habituated to residential areas.

Canadian Geese — Spotting Canadian Geese flying overhead can be a thing of beauty. What’s not a thing of beauty is the massive amounts of droppings they leave all over your driveway, sidewalks, lawn, and ponds. Just one call to ROSS Environmental Solutions will send these wild birds back to Canada.

Why Are Wildlife Invading Your Home, Yard, or Business?

No animal, bird, or critter has a vendetta against you. They didn’t seek out your home or business just to annoy you. They are simply following their animal instincts. In most cases, that means your property offers the food, water, and shelter that they crave.

Oftentimes, food is the main reason wildlife are attracted to your place. Outdoor grills, easy-access trashcans, and food leftovers throughout your home may be like ringing the dinner bell.

Just like us, these wildlife critters need water to survive. Therefore, they are very attracted to moving and dripping water, which they locate by sound. If you have birdbaths, water bowls for pets, backyard ponds, leaky hose spigots, or even puddles around gutters, your home or business will be attractive to wildlife.

Even if you have no exposed food or water source, your home or business is still a prime spot for wildlife. Most homes and businesses do a pretty good job of keeping critters out. But there can often be access through attic vents, crawl spaces, sheds, or under decks. To best keep your home free of wildlife, block off these easy-entry points. Our team can also help with a full wildlife exclusion inspection to identify and seal every vulnerable area on your property.

Take Advantage of Our Wildlife Removal or Wildlife Control Program That Gets Rid of Unwanted Intruders

You’ve worked hard to keep your family home or your business safe and clean. Then, one or more animals or rodents invade your space and start wreaking havoc on your personal space.

Maybe you’ve tried removing the wildlife yourself with no success. Perhaps you’ve tried DIY remedies which only brought about frustration and no solution. Now it’s time to let ROSS Environmental Solutions design the necessary wildlife control and exclusion program that’s perfect for your problem.

We have decades of experience in wildlife removal. To deal with nuisance wildlife, we use any and all resources available. It may be as simple as a trap and release. Perhaps we install a chimney cap. In other cases, a long-term commitment to removing the wildlife is necessary.

Of course, the first step in the safe removal of any wildlife is a professional evaluation by one of our wildlife experts. For this professional evaluation, call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey today at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate and 100% guaranteed pest solution.

The post Need Wildlife Removal Services for Your Burlington County Home or Business? appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

While it seems the majority of the country is dismissing this virus in hopes that it just runs its course, there are reasons to be aware and stay vigilant. Fact is, hantavirus is extremely dangerous and should be taken seriously. This virus carries a mortality rate of up to 50% because it can cause severe, rapidly progressing respiratory failure with the lungs filling with fluid.

What’s worse, there are no specific antiviral treatments or widely available vaccine to treat or cure Hantavirus. And while it may take a while for symptoms to appear (generally 1-8 weeks after exposure), the symptoms advance rapidly. It begins with flu-like symptoms, including fever and muscle aches, but can quickly progress to severe illness. The CDC’s Hantavirus resource page is a reliable place to stay informed as this situation develops.

Yes, Hantavirus is certainly a virus you want to avoid at all costs. The good news is that the primary cause of the virus can be nearly 100% preventable, especially with Ross Environmental Solutions in your corner.

The Epicenter of Hantavirus Outbreaks? Rats and Mice

If you’ve lived in New Jersey for a while, you’ve probably seen your share of rats and mice. While these unsightly rodents may be a nuisance, they are also the primary carriers of Hantavirus.

The main culprits of Hantavirus are deer mice, white-footed mice, rice rats and cotton rats. As a resident of New Jersey, you may be wondering which of those rodent species are common to your area. It’s not pretty. Deer mice, white-footed mice, and rice rats are all common in the state. Fortunately, cotton rats are not common up north. The New Jersey Department of Health provides additional guidance on zoonotic disease risks for state residents.

Hantavirus is a zoonotic disease. This means it transmits from animals to humans. How? Cleaning, sweeping, or working in enclosed spaces where rodent waste has accumulated is the primary means of rodent-to-human transmission.

Here are the key Hantavirus transmission methods:

• Inhalation — The most common cause for infection is inhaling aerosolized virus particles from dried rodent waste.
• Direct Contact — Touching urine, droppings, or saliva from infected mice or rats and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Bites — Direct bites from an infected rodent can cause Hantavirus infection.
• Contaminated Food — Eating food that’s been in direct contact with rodents can cause an infection.

No matter what social media may have you believe, human-to-human spread of Hantavirus is quite rare. However, certain Hantavirus strains have shown limited person-to-person transmission, as reported in a recent cruise ship incident.

Eliminate Your Rodent Problem and You Practically Eliminate Hantavirus Exposure

Nobody wants rats or mice in or around their homes. They are filthy, leave nasty droppings, and can cause damage inside your attic and walls. But now that they are known to carry a potentially deadly virus, exposure to these rodents becomes a far more dangerous threat.

If you’ve seen droppings, have foul smells, or seen tracks or other signs of mice or rats, your best course of action is to contact your ROSS Professional Technician. In fact, just to be on the safe side to ensure your home, shed, and yard are free of a Hantavirus threat, we recommend calling Ross Environmental Solutions for a comprehensive rodent inspection.

During the inspection, our experienced team will look for:

• Rodent droppings
• Urine stains
• Track marks
• Gnaw marks
• Rodent sounds and odors
• Signs of burrowing
• Runways
• Grease or rub marks
• Nesting areas
• And more

After conducting a thorough inspection, we will know with confidence if you have a rat or mice problem. We will also know the size and population of the routes taken by the rodents. From there, we activate our Integrated Pest Management rodent elimination program.

Take Action Now to Keep Hantavirus Away

We don’t expect news of Hantavirus exposures to go away. However, you can do something now to actively prevent exposure to Hantavirus and other diseases that rats and mice can cause. Learn more about the full range of pest control services ROSS offers to keep your home and family protected year-round.

The team at ROSS Environmental Solutions is ready to seek out any rodents in and around your home to provide you with peace of mind. With decades of rodent elimination experience, we have the proven approach that keeps your home safe and healthy.

Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey today at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate and 100% guaranteed pest solution.

The post Significantly Reduce Hantavirus Exposure with ROSS Rodent Elimination Program appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

While pests may seem like a seasonal problem, the reality is that residential pest control in South Jersey is a year-round necessity. Many insects and rodents are active in every season. The only thing that changes is which pests are trying to get into your home and why.

In the colder months, rodents and some insects search for warmth and shelter. As temperatures rise in South Jersey, ants, termites, mosquitoes, and stinging insects become more aggressive and more visible.

If your residential pest control plan begins with simply treating the problem, you may never stay on top of it. The best way to prevent insects and rodents from making your home their home is to be proactive.

With the right approach and a simple year-round pest control checklist, you can prevent most infestations before they ever begin.

Why Pests Are Attracted to Your Home

If your home seems like the breeding grounds for a variety of insects, rodents, or other pests, it’s not just bad luck. Whether you have ants, termites, roaches, mice, or even bats, these pests are attracted to the same thing us humans are attracted to: food, water, and shelter.

It’s not rocket science. Any pests you see inside your home are there because they need food, they need water, and/or they need shelter. Naturally, your home provides all of these. But, you don’t have to make it easy for them.

By cutting access to food, water, and proper shelter in your home, your home no longer becomes a target. Instead, those pests will be on the hunt for the next home that offers these luxuries.

Ready to keep insects, rodents, and other pests out of your South Jersey home? Your front line pest control solution begins by eliminating the following problems:

• Easy Access Points — Small cracks in your foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and openings around utility lines make it easy for pests to get inside.
• Moisture Problems — Leaky pipes, clogged gutters, and standing water create the perfect environment for insects and rodents.
• Food Sources — Trash bins, pet food, unsealed pantry items, and crumbs from food invite pests to stick around. Rodents can smell food from 50 feet away while many insects can detect your food sources from a great distance.
• Clutter & Hiding Spots — Basements, attics, garages, and storage areas provide ideal nesting areas for pests to live undetected.

Your Year-Round Pest Prevention Checklist

Spring: Stop Pest Infestations Before They Start

As the ground thaws in South Jersey, pest activity ramps up quickly. In fact, this is the time of year when termites and ants thrive. A few spring tips for effective pest control:

• Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks and seal any openings that may invite pests
  • Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup since water brings insects
  • Eliminate standing water around your property. Mosquitoes thrive in standing water.
  • Trim back trees and shrubs that may be touching your home
  • Schedule a professional termite inspection from ROSS Environmental Solutions

Summer: Control Peak Pest Activity

Hot summer days throughout New Jersey become the perfect breeding conditions for pests of all kinds. Pest control in the summertime starts with these tips:

• Keep food sealed and clean up crumbs immediately. Try not to eat outside of your kitchen and dining room.
  • Take trash out regularly and use tightly sealed bins. This is where many rodent problems start.
  • Repair damaged window screens to keep tiny insects out
  • Reduce moisture in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
  • Treat outdoor areas where pests gather

Fall: Shut the Door on Invading Insects and Rodents

As temperatures begin to drop, pests start searching for a warm place to spend the winter. Pay particular attention to these effective pest control guidelines:

• Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility entry points
  • Install door sweeps and weather stripping
  • Store firewood away from your home since wood attracts termites, spiders, and other insects
  • Clean and declutter garages and storage areas to rid pests of hiding spaces
  • Inspect attics and crawl spaces for signs of entry

Winter: Monitor and Maintain

Even during winter, pests like rodents and cockroaches remain active indoors. Freeze pests out with these pest control winter tips:

• Look for droppings or gnaw marks
  • Fix leaks and eliminate water sources
  • Keep storage areas clean and organized
  • Vacuum regularly, especially hidden areas
  • Check insulation and attic spaces

This Residential Pest Control Checklist Is A Start.
Calling Professional Pest Control Services Finishes the Job.

Even with the best pest control plan, some insect and rodent problems can’t be handled with DIY solutions alone.

Here are a few signs it’s time to call the ROSS Environmental Solutions pest control team:

• Recurring infestations that won’t go away
  • Signs of termites (mud tubes, hollow wood, discarded wings)
  • Rodent activity like droppings, scratching, or chewed wires
  • Wasp nests or aggressive stinging insects
  • Any pest issue that seems to be getting worse over time

The reality is that most over-the-counter treatments and do-it-yourself actions only address what you can see. Attacking the real heart of your pest problem involves an experienced pest control company with decades of experience.

ROSS Environmental Solutions: Your Residential Pest Control South Jersey Partner.

A pest-free home doesn’t happen by chance. It only happens with a plan.

At ROSS Environmental Solutions, we don’t just treat pest infestations. We help homeowners across South Jersey stay protected all year long with proactive inspections, targeted treatments, and long-term prevention strategies.

Instead of waiting until pests become a problem, our team works with you to stop them before they ever get inside.

Keep your home YOUR home. Stay ahead of your pest problem with a proven pest control plan.

Call ROSS Environmental Solutions today for a free residential pest control estimate and get a 100% guaranteed pest solution.

The post Residential Pest Control South Jersey | Year-Round Checklist | ROSS appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

Of course, we naturally think of bats hiding in caves and under interstate overpasses. While those dark and damp places are ideal living places for bats, they are also often found in yards and trees in residential areas, as well as inside homes and attics. Because bats are social creatures that live in colonies, if you see one bat, chances are there’s a whole family of bats lurking nearby. And if you choose to ignore the problem, a couple of bats could quickly become an infestation.

Common Bat Species Found Throughout New Jersey

When you think of bats, most people imagine the standard black bat. Think vampire movies. Think Batman. You get the picture. Fact is, there are multiple species of bats found throughout the United States. But these are the most common bats found throughout the South Jersey area.

Little Brown Bat — Its name perfectly describes this bat. These brown fur bats have a wingspan of 8-11 inches. One of the most common species, they are often found roosting in attics and barns.

Big Brown Bat — A cousin of the Little Brown Bat, the Big Brown Bat is noticeably larger with a wingspan of 13 inches. These bats thrive on beetles and hide out in buildings and homes year-round.

Eastern Red Bat — Easily recognized by its striking reddish fur, the Eastern Red Bat typically roosts in trees and camouflages itself among the leaves.

Hoary Bat — This migratory bat is among the largest species in North America. It has frosted, gray-tipped fur and passes through New Jersey seasonally.

Dispelling Popular Myths and Misconceptions About Bats

Through all of the movies, tales, and folklore about bats, people have adopted some pretty wild misconceptions about these mammals. While bats can carry diseases, drop bacteria-ladened droppings (guano), and can be a frightful nuisance in your home or business, they aren’t all the blood-sucking, hair-attacking, flying rodents you may have imagined.

Here are the top myths and misconceptions about bats:

“Bats are blind” — While you know the phrase “blind as a bat,” it’s far from the truth. Some species can see quite well. In addition to good eyesight, they use built-in sonar to hunt at night.

“Bats are bloodsuckers” — Far less than 1% of bat species feed on blood. And those species, called vampire bats, live in Latin America. Bats in the South Jersey area feed on insects, fruit, or nectar… not your blood.

“Bats get tangled in your hair” — Naturally, you’ve seen TV shows with a lady covering her hair when a bat is on the loose. First, bats are shy and avoid people whenever possible. Second, bats are incredibly precise flyers. They won’t accidentally get tangled in your hair.

Why These Nighttime Invaders Can Cause Big Problems for You and Your Home

While bats may not attack your hair or bite your neck, bats do pose a significant threat to your health, safety, and property. That’s why it’s so important to trust an experienced pest control operation like ROSS Environmental Solutions for safe and swift bat removal services.

Here’s what can happen when a bat infestation goes unchecked:

Health Risks — Bats are known carriers of multiple diseases, including rabies. Additionally, their droppings can harbor fungal spores that cause respiratory issues.

Property Damage — Bat droppings (guano) can accumulate quickly to damage insulation, drywall, and wood. Unless you take care of the source, this hazardous guano can lead to costly repairs.

Odor Problems — Bat guano and urine produce strong, persistent odors that can spread throughout your home, especially in warmer months. While your attic may be out of sight, the unforgivable odor will be prevalent.

Hidden Infestations — Bats often roost in attics, wall voids, chimneys, and other hard-to-see areas. By the time you notice them, a colony may already be well established. Bat removal services for an entire colony is a more involved procedure.

Noise Disturbances — Scratching, squeaking, and fluttering sounds throughout the day and night are common signs of bats in your attic or walls. Most people assume they have mice, rats, a squirrel or another rodent when they should be employing bat removal services.

Using Your Senses to Know If You Have A Bat Infestation

Because ants and mice are attracted to food, their presence is pretty obvious. However, bats can be difficult to detect at first. However, determining if your New Jersey home or business may have a bat problem starts by using your keen senses.

• Your hearing — Do you often hear high-pitched squeaking or scratching sounds at dusk or dawn? If those sounds are coming from within your walls, chimney, or attic, bats could be the culprit.
• Your sense of smell — Are you often smelling a strong odor in your home or business? A musty, ammonia-like smell caused by accumulating guano and urine could mean a bat infestation.
• Your sight — Keep your eyes open. Some telltale signs of bats at your residence are:
  • Dark, oily stains near small openings where bats enter or exit your home
  • Sightings around trees at dusk prove of a nearby bat colony
  • Small, dark pellets that resemble mouse droppings are evidence of bat guano
  • Check entry points, such as your attic, roofline, chimney, soffits, and even behind siding.

Does any of this sound too familiar? If your senses are constantly being reminded that you have bats, call ROSS Environmental Solutions at 1-866-981-1322 for a free bat removal estimate.

Enjoy Peace-of-Mind That Your Bat Infestation Is No Longer A Problem

Bats are not your everyday pests. Setting a trap or poisoning them may in fact be illegal. Therefore improper removal, while it may be swift and effective, can make the problem even worse.

At ROSS Environmental Solutions, we use safe, humane, and effective exclusion methods to remove bats and keep them from returning to your home, yard, or place of business. As the only NWCOA (National Wildlife Control Operators Association) certified bat exclusion company in New Jersey and the recognized national standard for exclusion work across the U.S., our team is uniquely qualified to handle your bat problem properly. Here are the steps we take in our proven bat removal process.

Thorough Inspection — We identify where bats are entering, where they are roosting, and the size of the infestation.

Exclusion Techniques — We install specialized one-way devices. Bats can leave but not re-enter your residence.

Sealing Entry Points — Once all bats have exited, we seal off all potential access points to prevent future infestations.

Cleanup & Sanitation — We safely remove guano and contaminated materials, helping restore your home and eliminate health risks.

Take Action Now to Prevent A Bat Infestation. Call ROSS.

Bat activity throughout South Jersey is expected to increase as the weather grows hotter. Waiting until bats have already settled into your home can lead to bigger problems, higher costs, and greater health risks.

If you’re ready to prevent bats in your home or wish to safely clear your home of bats, the team at ROSS Environmental Solutions is here to help. As New Jersey’s only NWCOA-certified bat exclusion company, we bring the highest level of professional credentialing in the industry to every job. With decades of bat removal experience, we have the proven approach that confidently keeps your home safe and healthy.

Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey today at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate and 100% guaranteed pest solution.

The post Don’t Let Your New Jersey Home or Yard Turn Into A Bat Infestation appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

Meet The Pests You’ll Be Sharing Your Yard With

The New Jersey area is unique because it has insects that are typically common in warmer climates, as well as the pests that are drawn to the north.

More than a nuisance during your family cookout, these insects and pests can be a danger to your family, your pets, your landscaping, and even your home. Yes, left untreated, these insects will emerge this spring and make their presence known in the most destructive ways possible. Here are the culprits:

Ticks — Active early in spring, these small but dangerous pests are often found in grassy or wooded areas. Ticks can carry Lyme disease and other illnesses, threatening you, your family, and even your pets.

Termites — As soil warms, subterranean termites swarm to start new colonies. Once you have a termite infestation in your home, you risk foundation issues and costly repairs. Don’t miss our recent blog post about termites.

Carpenter Bees — Another insect that brings about structural damage are carpenter bees. Emerging around April in the South Jersey area, carpenter bees drill holes into decks, siding, and wood structures.

Mosquitoes — With more than 63 species of mosquitoes, including the Asian Tiger mosquito, they feast on human and pet blood while carrying disease, including the West Nile Virus. Plus, they can completely take over a yard and force the humans back inside.

Crickets — While crickets are not dangerous to humans, they can pose significant damage to your property. Beyond destroying lawns and garden plants, they feast on fabrics and can be quite loud at night.

Ants — Pavement and carpenter ants emerge to forage, contaminating food and sometimes causing damage.

Stinging Insects — Yellow jackets, hornets, paper wasps and other stinging insects will soon be building nests in eaves and even underground. Get too close, and they will give you a painful reminder that they are defending their property.

Tips to Protect Your Home and Your Loved Ones

Now that you know these insects are emerging and lurking near your home, what can you do to prepare for their arrival?

• To prevent mosquito breeding, try to eliminate standing water around your home.
• To deter carpenter bees, we suggest painting or staining wooden areas.
• To reduce tick habitats, clear your yard of debris and brush. Also, make sure your pets are following a tick treatment plan.
• Stop ants and termites by sealing cracks in your foundations.
• Finally, on a weekly basis, inspect your outdoor structures for wasp nests.

Of course, even if you are meticulous about inspecting for and preventing these pests, nothing beats a proven pest control plan from ROSS Environmental Solutions.

ROSS Environmental Solutions’ Pest Control and Termite Exterminating Program Saves Your Peace of Mind

How many insects and pests will emerge in your yard and swarm your home this spring? Rather than try that ineffective over-the-counter spray or trying those homemade concoctions that your Facebook friends whipped up, consider the experts with 50+ years of combined pest control experience. That’s ROSS Environmental Solutions.

Whether you have health-jeopardizing ticks, painful stinging insects, or termites that put your property at risk, we have just the right (and safe) pest control solution you need. Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate.

The post Spring Thaw = Spring Pests: What’s Waking Up In Your South Jersey Yard and What to Do About It appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

But, as the ground thaws and we march closer to springtime, the destructive termite will begin to appear. And if you see one, or spot evidence of their arrival, you can bet there exists a whole colony.

Why This Silent Destroyer Wreaks Havoc on Your Home

At ROSS Environmental Solutions, we get regular calls to take care of pests in and around homes in the South Jersey area. From insects, such as ants, cockroaches, and spiders, to critters like mice, rats, raccoons, and even bats, our team acts quickly to free your home of these invaders.

Sure, you’ll rest easy at night knowing you no longer have roaches or ants crawling around inside your cabinets. While it’s true these rodents and bugs can be a hazard to your health, in most cases, they do little harm.

That’s not true for the lowly termite. Here’s how a termite infestation left untreated can turn your world upside-down.

Extensive Structural Damage — Because termites consume cellulose-based materials, including wood, paper, and insulation, it weakens the structure of any home or business. Sagged floors, weakened beams, and complete structural collapse can be the results.

Hidden Damage — Since termites work silently and burrow within your walls, damage often goes undetected until it’s a significant problem.

Supplemental Damage — Termites don’t stop at destroying your wood, insulation, and flooring. They can also attack your furniture, books, clothing, and household items.

Health Risks — No, termites don’t carry disease. However, they are known to create humid, damp conditions that promote mold growth.

Significant Financial Loss — Repairing termite damage is costly. And avoiding repairing that damage may prove to be even more costly if your home’s structure is in jeopardy.

Does Your Home Have Termites or Not? Follow These Clues

It’s pretty easy to tell if you have ants. They’re everywhere. If you have mice, you notice droppings and their destructive eating habits. But, identifying if your home is infested by termites is far more difficult.

While the ROSS Environmental Solutions team will be happy to do a thorough termite inspection to give you peace of mind, here are a few ways you can check for termites.

First, look to the following places within your home, shed, or other structure: foundation and sills; woodwork and trim; inside and outside walls. Within these locations, here is what you keep an eye out for:

• Hollow or damaged wood? Any hollow, sagging, or buckling wood is a telltale sign of termites.
• Mud tubes = bad news. Narrow, pencil-sized mud-like tunnels in your foundation, walls, or wood means you have termites.
• Wingless pests? Have you seen piles of wings around windowsills or doors? Those may be left behind by swarmers.
• Flying insects? In many cases, those flying bugs aren’t flies or gnats. They’re flying termites called swarmers.

ROSS Environmental Solutions Can Perform a Termite Inspection and Offer a Trusted Termite Treatment Program

Yes, we are finally escaping one of New Jersey’s worst winters on record. And as we all rejoice for warmer weather this Spring, the termites are licking their chops. You’ve probably heard how dangerous a termite infestation can be for your home. But these facts paint the picture of just how destructive they can be without a termite treatment plan:

• Termites cause over $5 billion in U.S. property damage every year.
• A single termite colony can contain more than 1 million termites.
• Queen termites can lay an egg every 15-20 seconds. They can produce 5,000 to 10,000 termites every year!
• Termites can live 15-20 years if not treated.
• The combined weight of all termites on Earth is greater than the combined weight of all humans.

We’ve seen it before. Once termites infest a home, the damage is most likely already done. Don’t let it get to that point. The ROSS Environmental Solutions team of South Jersey brings 50+ years of combined experience to first perform a thorough termite inspection and then provide a proven termite treatment plan to handle any infestation.

ROSS has just the solution that will solve your termite problem. Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate.

The post Termite Prevention South Jersey | Signs, Risks & Treatment appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

If you’ve ever smelled the odor that a stink bug emits, you’ll realize why they were given that appropriate name. If these stink bugs are disturbed or crushed, their defense mechanism is activated. Right from their glands on the underside of their body, stink bugs release a pungent odor that’s unmistakable.

If You See One Stink Bug, Chances Are Your Home Is Infested

Stink bugs naturally congregate in large numbers. Therefore, if you spot one stink bug in your kitchen or bathroom, chances are there are a host of them. Maybe a dozen. Maybe a hundred or more. And if you think their stench is bad from one stink bug, just wait until you have an army of them. It’s unbearable. Plus, their pungent smell lingers, and even stains.

Unlike several species of insects, such as ants, that can roam around several visible parts of your home, this smelly bug prefers to hide. Stink bugs hide in the walls of your home or your attic, and typically in large numbers. And unlike other insects with a short lifespan, stink bugs can thrive for six to eight months. Just imagine dozens or hundreds of these stinky critters creeping around inside your home! It’s enough to make your skin crawl!

Why Stink Bugs Are Attracted to Your Home

Well, here in Southern New Jersey, our winters come early and can be pretty harsh. Like many pests, stink bugs don’t like the cold. In fact, stink bugs hibernate throughout the winter. And your heated and well-lit home makes for the perfect place for these pungent pests to sleep tight all winter long.

Initially attracted by the lights in your home, stink bugs enter through small openings like unscreened vents, cracks in the foundation, or gaps around windows and doors. At only about half an inch in size, the stink bug can easily find openings to infiltrate your home. Once inside your warm home, they’ll make their way inside your walls or inside your attic.

Don’t worry, the stink bug, even in packs of large numbers, won’t damage your home. Besides secreting a small stain once they’re squished, they won’t cause visible damage to your house. But unfortunately, once they’re inside your home in the fall or winter, they’re not leaving until springtime. Yes, you could have a foul smell in your home for months.

Don’t Wait — ROSS Environmental Solutions Can Protect Your Home From Being Infiltrated By Stink Bugs

As the days get shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, you’ll begin to see (and possibly smell) stink bugs. Stink bugs are prevalent throughout New Jersey. The most common species of stink bug found in The Garden State is the brown marmorated stink bug.

These pests are a common nuisance in South Jersey, especially in the fall months. Preparing their hunt for winter hibernating areas — such as your home — stink bugs can be seen outside as they seek shelter. But, before long, these stinky insects will set up shop inside your home. In your attic, in your walls, even in your pantries and closets.

That is, unless you call South Jersey’s fastest growing pest control service — ROSS Environmental Solutions. You may have never seen or smelled the first stink bug. But that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Hiding in your attic or walls, it takes a trained pest control professional to track them down.

With a combined 50+ years of experience, ROSS Environmental Solutions provides safe, effective pest control service that gets rid of any stink bug problem. Why wait to let these horrible smelling critters infest your home?

ROSS has just the solution that will solve your stink bug problem. Get a 100% guaranteed pest solution. Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate.

The post Why Now Is The Perfect Time to Prevent a Stink Bug Infestation In Your Home or Attic appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.

While you may think that your seasonal selection of fall decorations will attract all the neighbors’ eyes and put you in the running for Yard of the Month, just be aware that you’re also inadvertently attracting something else. You’re attracting a bunch of rodents and snakes from miles away!

It’s true. Hay, corn stalks, pumpkins, and gourds are magnets for mice, rats, squirrels, and voles. And the moment you have a rodent problem, you can bet you have a snake problem, too.

Hay, Corn Stalks, and Gourds Are a Thanksgiving Feast for Rodents

As the weather turns cool in the Southern New Jersey areas, mice, rats, squirrels, and voles are actively seeking food sources. And when your front yard or porch are complete with displays of corn stalks, pumpkins, and hay bales, it’s like ringing the dinner bell.

Hay contains dried grasses, leaves, and seeds that provide both necessary food for rodents and also nesting material. Both corn stalks and dried corn used for decorations are a great food source for mice, rats, and squirrels. The kernels on a corn cob are a high-energy food that rodents love. Plus, corn stalks provide a perfect nesting spot for small rodents, such as mice. To mice and rats, pumpkins and gourds are a delicious food source.

Signs You Have a Rodent Problem

Sure, you may notice a couple mice scurrying about. You may even see a squirrel come and go. But, if you never lay eyes on the rodents that are feeding off of and nesting in your fall decorations, there are still some telltale signs of a rodent infestation. These signs include:

• Bite marks on pumpkins or gourds — While mice, voles, and rats have small mouths, you won’t be able to miss these bites and teeth marks on your gourds and pumpkins. 
• Rodent droppings around your decorations — This is where it gets unsanitary and even a health hazard. Small dark brown or black pellets on your porch or in your yard is all the evidence you need that you have a family of pests. 
• Rustling sounds day and night — If they’re using the hay, corn stalks, or straw for nesting, you may hear noises outside. 
• Burrows or nests in hay bales — Look for little tunnels throughout your autumn decorations. Multiple burrows is a sign of multiple rodents.

Why Straw May Be a Better Alternative Than Hay and Corn Stalks

If you are committed to your fall decorations, there’s a better way to do it. Rather than stacking the hay bales, instead of filling your porch with pumpkins and gourds, rather than tying the corn stalks to your home, consider straw.

While mice, rats, squirrels, and voles may still use straw as bedding and building material, it’s not a good food source. Therefore, they won’t be attracted to its smell or taste. Because straw is simply the dry, hollow stalk of a grain plant, rodents don’t seek it out like they would hay or corn stalks.

ROSS Environmental Solutions Protects Southern New Jersey from Rodents

With more than 33 years in the pest control business, the ROSS Environmental Solutions technicians have seen and disposed of many rodents. And lots of them were discovered as a result of a homeowner simply trying to beautify their yard with Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations, such as hay, corn stalks, and pumpkins.

Because we have so many years of eradicating rodents in Southern New Jersey, we know the most prevalent species. This area gets its share of Roof Rats. These are outstanding climbers that will certainly be attracted to your fall decorations. We also see Norway Rats, also known as the unflattering term “sewer rats”. These rodents are known to gnaw and burrow, so hay bales, corn stalks, and straw are their favorites. Finally, mice are among the most prevalent creatures in Southern New Jersey. If you have pumpkins, gourds, and hay, you’ll probably see their droppings.

Whether it’s rats, mice, or other rodents, these are wild creatures that can spread a number of dangerous and life-threatening diseases. Hepatitis, dysentery, hantavirus, Lyme disease, and plague are just a few diseases that could be harmful to your family, your children, and even your pets.

Not to cause a panic, but if these disease-spreading rodents are in your yard or on your porch, chances are they WILL find a way inside your home.

ROSS Environmental Solutions’ Rodent Elimination Program to The Rescue!

Whether your autumn decorations attracted mice, rats, squirrels, snakes or other rodents or pests, take comfort in knowing that ROSS Environmental Solutions is just a phone call away. The technicians at ROSS will solve your rodent problem safely, quickly, and affordably!

What sets ROSS apart from other pest control services in Southern New Jersey is our Integrated Pest Management rodent elimination program. We use the latest strategies, technologies, and materials in this environmentally responsible program to eradicate all rodents and keep them from coming back.

Even better, when you take advantage of one of ROSS Environmental Solutions’ ongoing rodent programs, rest assured that if the rodents return, so do we. That’s right, for no charge, we will come back to make sure your property is free of pests.

Worried you may have a mice, rat, or rodent problem? Get a 100% guaranteed pest control solution. Call ROSS Environmental Solutions of South Jersey at 1-866-981-1322 for a free estimate.

The post Are Your Autumn Decorations Ringing the Dinner Bell for Mice, Rats, and Snakes? appeared first on Ross Pest Control & Mold Removal.