Worried About Carpenter Ants? Call Us for Ant Control in Victoria

Most people think that ants are just a problem during the summer months, but they can actually pose a threat year-round. If you notice an upsurge in ants from October to March, you have a carpenter ant problem.

If you see a large trail of ants that enters under your siding or along entry points for utility lines, call for prompt ant control in your Victoria home.

Learn How to Spot Carpenter Ants

Before you can eliminate the enemy, you need to understand its appearance and behaviour. Here are a few ways to recognize carpenter ants:

• Modoc and Vicinus are the most common carp ant species in British Columbia. The former is all black, while the latter has a red thorax but a black head and abdomen. Most between .635 cm and 1.9 cm in size.
• Carpenter ants actively forage for their food; in this case, their food is the wood inside your home.
• Carpenter ants are winged ants that often reproduce inside your home.
• In most cases, carpenter ants enter via utility entrance points and under your home’s siding. Watch the ants’ comings and goings before you report this information to your pest control technician.
• Carpenter ants do not respond to regular household insecticide (such a treatment may make ants disperse and cause further problems later). Likewise, drops and ant traps don’t eliminate the problem.

Eliminate Carpenter Ants Now

You can call a pest control expert now for several hundred dollars or wait until damages reach thousands of dollars. Don’t let carpenter ants wreck your home’s structure. Let us take care of the problem now.

And remember: although we specialize in carpenter ant control in Victoria, we can eliminate all ant species that invade your ho me. Call us at 250-920-6267 today for peace of mind tomorrow.

Choose Old Island for Complete Cockroach Extermination in Victoria

There’s nothing quite as discouraging as finding cockroaches in your home. Not only are they unpleasant to look at, but they also carry bacteria and diseases.

Eliminate roach problems completely by calling Old Island Pest Control. We offer guaranteed cockroach extermination to Victoria homeowners, condo or apartment dwellers, and area businesses.

Know What Attracts Roaches

The German cockroach is the most common roach in British Columbia. Like most roach species, German cockroaches are a familiar brown colour and are approximately 1.27 cm when fully grown.

Regardless of species, all cockroaches are motivated by the same things. The biggest attraction is food. Roaches can eat anything humans eat. They also eat pet food and cardboard.

As to preferred habitat, cockroaches like warm, damp areas. While most prefer dark areas, some are not afraid of light. Roaches may hide in a pantry, underneath the refrigerator-or even inside your pipes and dishwasher. Moreover, common cockroaches can go for up to three months without food at all. This makes them especially resilient.

Cockroaches occasionally infest cargo crates or even used furniture from the consignment store. Once inside your apartment building or business, they may travel to your premises within a shared wall or plumbing opening.

Make a Plan and Call Your Exterminator

Although it’s tempting to spray insecticide when you see a cockroach, this tactic only makes your roach problem worse than before. Roaches only scatter further throughout your home or business, making eradication difficult.

Instead, call an Old Island exterminator for prompt, same-day treatment. We use non-toxic bait that eliminates cockroaches safely while protecting humans and pets.

Avoid ineffective home remedies that offer no guarantee of success. At Old Island, we guarantee excellent service-and no more roaches.

Give us a call today at 250-920-6267 for speedy, effective cockroach extermination in Victoria. We guarantee it in writing!

Fleas are most commonly brought in to your home by your pet dog or cat. The animals will pick up fleas from the lawn in the summer or from interaction with other infested animals.

Contact Us or call us at 250-920-6267 for a free estimate.

How do I get rid of fleas?

• Fleas are difficult to eradicate on your own, in most cases you will require the help of a pest control professional.
• We recommend that you put your pet on a flea control program (there are several different products available through your local veterinarian)
• Use a flea shampoo on your pet
• Regular vacuuming will help eliminate adult fleas, larvae and eggs
• Your pets bedding should be laundered in hot water or disposed of to eliminate flea harborage

Pantry bugs and pests that flutter around in your cupboards can be easily managed, but it takes a little bit of maintenance and preparedness. Below are a few of the most common pantry bugs that you’ll come across and some simple ways to manage them.

Grain Beetles (pantry beetles) – There are several different species of these insects (merchant grain beetle, red flour beetle, confused flour beetle) to name a few. These insects are usually brown or black in color and are quite small, ranging in size from 1-5 mm. These insects are commonly brought home from products purchased at your local grocery store. Some of the products these insects will infest are: cereals, flour, cake mixes, grains, pet foods, and a variety of items found in the bulk food bins. Treatment of these insects includes disposal of their food source. You must thoroughly inspect all of your food products and dispose of anything that looks suspicious.

Indian Meal Moths – These insects are found in the exact same types of food products as mentioned above. They start out as eggs, turn into worms in their larval stage and finally into moths. The moths are brownish in color and are about ½ inch long.

Contact Us or call us at 250-920-6267 for a free estimate.

What do I do if i find these Pantry Bugs?

The first thing you should do is go through your food products. Inspect and dispose of any open food products that these insects may be living and breeding in. It is a good practise to put all open grain, nut and seed products into sealed jars or tupper ware containers. This will prevent the spread of these insects.

If the problem persists you may need our help eradicating these pests. You will have to remove all food and dishes from the cupboards to prepare for a pesticide treatment. We also have pheremone traps available to help control indian meal moths.

Preparation for grain beetle/indian meal moth treatment

Should I be concerned about Pigeons? 

Pigeons tend to breed and roost in groups. The biggest problem they cause is the amount of feces (droppings) they produce. The build-up of pigeon feces on buildings and other structures is visually unappealing and is made worse by the fact that pigeon droppings are acidic and erode metal and stonework.

More importantly, pigeon droppings may pose a health hazard to the general public. Pigeons have been associated with a variety of diseases, including histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis.

Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by a fungus that grows in pigeon droppings. The fungus can also be found in bat droppings or in the soil, and is carried by the wind. When removing droppings, people may breathe in some of the fungus. When exposure is high, the fungus can cause infection.

Symptoms of histoplasmosis begin to appear about 10 days after initial infection and can include fatigue, fever, and chest pains. Most infections have no symptoms or appear as a mild respiratory illness. People with weakened immune systems (like cancer patients or people living with HIV/AIDS) are generally more at risk of developing histoplasmosis. The disease cannot be transmitted from person to person.

Cryptococcosis is another fungal disease related to pigeon droppings and grows in soils throughout the world. It is very unlikely that healthy people will become infected even at high levels of exposure. A major risk factor for infection is a compromised immune system.

How can I get rid of pigeons?

Once they’ve established themselves, pigeons are not easy to get rid of. After years of dealing with this challenging bird pest, we have found physical removal is the best method of dealing with pigeons. We are talking about using live traps to remove the birds from the area they are habituating. The next step is to set up physical barriers such as netting or bird spikes. If you try the physical barrier method first, you will find in most cases that an established flock will find a way to nest and roost in a different spot on your home or building. We offer trapping programs, and we can consult with you on the best physical barriers for your unique situation. We also have traps and bird spike available for purchase for the do it yourself.

Let’s chat about what to do about your pigeons.

Powder Post Beetles are very small wood boring beetles. The larval stage of this insect can cause significant damage to wooden structures. The larvae will bore their way out and create pin size exit holes in the wood.

Our company can provide an application of a borate product to help eliminate these wood destroying insects. Please contact us for a free estimate or call 250-920-6267

How do I know if I have Powder Post beetles?

The tell tale signs are groupings of small pin size holes within wood. In an active infestation this is also accompanied by very fine saw dust piles.

How do I get rid of powder post beetles?

Powder post beetles are commonly found in damp dirt floor crawl spaces. One of the things that can be done is laying down a 6mm or greater poly vapor barrier. This will greatly reduce moisture coming up through the ground. The other thing that can help is putting a dehumidifier or heater in the crawl space.

Raccoons may seem cute, but you don’t want them around your home. They cause structural damage, destroy lawns, and carry disease. They nest in chimneys, crawlspaces, sheds, decks, and attics, making removal difficult without the help of a professional.

Since 2002, Old Island Pest Control has facilitated raccoon removal in Victoria, BC. We begin by determining the pest control services and products you need. We use green, environmentally conscious alternatives. Our professionals are also trained to repair damage caused by wildlife.

Damage

Common problems occur when raccoons look for nesting sites in buildings or residential properties. Raccoons can tear shingles, boards, and rooftops to get into your home. Once inside, they may displace and destroy insulation. Raccoons also pose additional danger to your household. They carry a number of diseases and internal parasites.

Infectious Diseases of Raccoons

Raccoon droppings pose another threat. Raccoon roundworm produces microscopic eggs that develop in raccoon feces. If swallowed or inhaled, the eggs move throughout your body and can have severe consequences. Roundworm infection can cause serious problems including eye disease, brain damage, or death. Young children are most susceptible. Raccoons also carry rabies and distemper.

Raccoons in BC are known to carry infectious diseases that can be transmitted to humans and animals that have contact with raccoons or their waste. Both young and mature raccoons can shed viruses, bacteria and parasites that when exposed to humans and animals can result in infections and disease.

People should not handle raccoons or their waste without protection and appropriate training.

Raccoons expose humans to disease when handled or if there is exposure to bodily secretions or feces. Saliva, urine, feces and bites or scratches are the most common routes of exposure. Contamination of the environment and any materials used by the raccoons can also be a source. People who handle raccoons, who are bitten, scratched or exposed to their waste, should be aware of the potential health hazards.

Any person who has handled a raccoon of any age should consult a physician immediately. Individuals who have participated in the handling, care, feeding and cleaning of any raccoons should be evaluated for exposure to the following diseases and be informed of all the potential human health risks caused by wildlife and raccoons.

• Rabies: Rabies is a virus that is spread by contact with the saliva of a rabid animal or by being scratched or bitten by a rabid animal. Raccoons are one of the most common species to carry rabies.
• Baylisascaris procyonis: (Bay-lis-asc-aris) The Raccoon Ascarid or roundworm is a parasite of the intestines of raccoons that sheds large numbers of eggs in the feces. Feces contaminated with eggs can become infective to humans after 2-4 weeks of incubation. Exposure to feces during handling, feeding and cleaning can cause a serious disease known as Visceral Larval Migrans and infection of the central nervous system. Oral ingestion of infective stages of eggs is the primary route of exposure.
• Giardiasis: Giardia species is a microscopic protazoal infection that can be transmitted by a wide variety of animals. Raccoons can carry this organism in their feces and contaminate water, soil and surfaces. Humans can contract Giardia by ingestion of infective cysts from contaminated animals and sources. Patients can develop severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Leptospirosis: Leptospira species is a bacterial infection that many animals and humans can contract and transmit. There are several different species of Leptospira that are found in wildlife, which is the primary source of contamination of the environment with these bacteria. Raccoons can
shed Leptospirosis in their urine and secretions. Exposure of these excretions to open wounds or orally can cause infection to humans.
• Other Diseases: Other bacterial diseases (such as Salmonella or E. Coli), fungus and rare parasites can also be a risk for illness in humans. People who handle, feed and clean up waste should be aware of the potential health hazards and practice aggressive hygiene and sanitation to prevent
exposure of skin, eyes, mouth and body to infection. Physicians can assess individuals who may have been exposed and recommend appropriate actions to prevent disease.

For more information on raccoons and their diseases please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov

Safety

At Old Island Pest Control, our team stays familiar with the latest techniques for raccoon removal in Victoria, BC. These techniques enable us to customize effective treatment plans for each situation. We have licensed trappers on staff to humanely catch and remove raccoons from your property. We take special precautions cleaning up raccoon latrines. These safety measures reduce the likelihood that you or other animals will get sick from roundworms.

Trust the Experts

Whether you have a raccoon taking up residence in your chimney, attic, or other places on your property, Old Island Pest Control provides effective raccoon removal in Victoria, BC. We’ll get rid of your pest problem safely, quickly, and humanely. We are available seven days a week. Call us today at 250-920-6267.

Take Charge of Rat Control on Your Victoria, BC Property

When you live and work in British Columbia, you enjoy the mild climate and beautiful, lush surroundings. However, many other creatures also enjoy nature’s greenery. Rats and mice are just two examples.

Even urban areas attract rodents. Like any other pest, mice and rats want food and warmth. Property owners have to be particularly vigilant to keep these pests at bay.

If you have a rat or mouse problem, be proactive by calling Old Island Pest Control. We provide guaranteed rat control to Victoria, BC home and business owners-and we always operate in an eco-friendly manner.

Common Rodent Types

To understand your infestation problem, it helps to understand what rodent type has entered your property:

• Roof rats – This species is the most common in Vancouver. As their name indicates, roof rats are climbers that prefer roof spaces and attics. They may be grey or black, and they can grow to over 25 cm.
• Norway rats – Unlike roof rats, this larger species likes burrowing in crawl spaces and basements. Norway rats can grow to more than 30 cm in length and have brown fur instead of black or grey.
• Mice – While house mice are the most common species in the Victoria area, deer mice are not uncommon. Although deer mice prefer rural locations, they can find their way to urban dwellings and businesses. Deer mice may also carry the dangerous hantavirus. Both mouse types can easily squeeze through dime-sized openings in your building’s exterior.

Treatment Dos and Don’ts

Rats and mice are often attracted to wood piles, composters, overgrown greenery, garbage piles, and ornamental ponds. To make your property less tempting, trim green areas and contain garbage properly.

Once you notice mice or rats, call for rat control. Your Victoria, BC property needs professional attention early-before rodent infestations lead to further problems. Don’t use poison, which may lead a rodent to die slowly within your home’s walls.

For guaranteed results, call us now at 250-920-6267.

Are you concerned about Rats and Mice in and around your home?
Call Us Today: 250-753-6267

When you live and work in British Columbia, you enjoy the mild climate and beautiful, lush surroundings. However, many other creatures also enjoy nature’s greenery. Rats and mice are just two examples.

Even urban areas attract rodents. Like any other pest, mice and rats want food and warmth. Property owners have to be particularly vigilant to keep these pests at bay.

Contact us Today for a Free Quote

If you have a rat or mouse problem, be proactive by calling Old Island Pest Control. We provide guaranteed rat control to Vancouver Island home and business owners-and we always operate in an eco-friendly manner.

Common Rodent Types

To understand your infestation problem, it helps to understand what rodent type has entered your property:

• Roof rats – This species is the most common in Vancouver. As their name indicates, roof rats are climbers that prefer roof spaces and attics. They may be grey or black, and they can grow to over 25 cm.
• Norway rats – Unlike roof rats, this larger species likes burrowing in crawl spaces and basements. Norway rats can grow to more than 30 cm in length and have brown fur instead of black or grey.
• Mice – While house mice are the most common species in the Victoria area, deer mice are not uncommon. Although deer mice prefer rural locations, they can find their way to urban dwellings and businesses. Deer mice may also carry the dangerous hantavirus. Both mouse types can easily squeeze through dime-sized openings in your building’s exterior.

Treatment Dos and Don’ts

Rats and mice are often attracted to wood piles, composters, overgrown greenery, garbage piles, and ornamental ponds. To make your property less tempting, trim green areas and contain garbage properly.

Once you notice mice or rats, call for rat control. Your Nanaimo, BC property needs professional attention early-before rodent infestations lead to further problems. Don’t use poison, which may lead a rodent to die slowly within your home’s walls.

Or call us right away here: 250-753-6267

Seagulls are intelligent birds existing in great numbers along coastal areas, as well as inland lakes and rivers. Gulls can drink either salt or freshwater and their scavenger diets allow them great adaptability. Seagulls eat anything from dead fish and garbage to field mice and insects. The typical gull is somewhere between 18 to 24 inches tall, weighing about 2 to 3 pounds. Their generally light colored in body with black wing tips and a deep black to light gray mantle. Coloring can change between season depending on the species. Gulls enjoy protection at the federal level, mandating humane control practices. In our area seagull’s remain resident birds year round.

Why are Seagull’s a Problem?

Seagulls have become a major problem in our urban areas. Seagulls will roost and nest on both residential and commercial buildings. They like being up high so they can maintain a vantage point to avoid predators and to protect their nests. One of the biggest issues with these birds is the amount of droppings they leave behind. These droppings down the side of your building are obviously unsightly, but they are also corrosive. The acid level in seagull droppings is extremely high and it will eat through asphalt roofs, and cause paint to diminish much more quickly than normal. This costs building and home owners money to constantly clean up the mess left behind and to replace roofs much sooner than regular life expectancy.

The other major problem is seagulls nest on roofs. Nesting season in our region is June through Sept. Seagulls become very aggressive when they are protecting their nests. They have been known to dive bomb humans that get too close. Being a protective species it is illegal to remove or tamper with a seagull nest once eggs have been laid.

We can provide solutions for solutions for setting up seagull deterrents and dealing with seagull nests before they start laying their eggs.

Silverfish are very common in Victoria. Silverfish and firebrats are quick moving, wingless insects. They can be white, grey, silver, or brown in color. Adult insects can grow to over ¾ inch in length. Silverfish prefer to live in dark moist environments, and are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basement areas of homes and apartments. These insects feed on starch’s, gums, glues, wall paper, etc. They are also commonly found in corrugated cardboard boxes, files, paper, and books. Reducing these items will greatly help in controlling these insects.

Contact Us or call us at 250-920-6267 for a free estimate.

For information on what needs done prior to treatment, see silverfish preparation.

There are hundreds of species of spiders that are native to Vancouver Island. Most of these species are of great benefit and play major roles in our eco system. Almost all spiders are capable of inflicting a bite on a human. This being said spiders are not predatory towards humans, and only bite when they feel trapped or threatened.

There are some spiders shown in the photos that are common in our area, and who also like to enter our homes. The key time of year for these spiders to enter is mating season, this is at the end of August through to October. Theses spiders will follow the pheromone trail of a female and can enter you home in great numbers. We offer treatments for this issue.

This would include an interior/exterior treatment of your home. This treatment will greatly reduce the number of these spiders from getting into your home. We also offer Home Protection Plans which would include regular exterior treatments around your home to prevent infestations of these spiders.

The Eastern grey squirrel is fast becoming a real nuisance pest on southern Vancouver Island. These aggressive animals have all but wiped out the much smaller native red squirrel. These squirrels have no real predators to speak of. In our climate, these animals do not hibernate and are capable of breeding multiple times in a season. These animals can be very destructive, tearing off shingles from your roof or damaging soffet areas to gain access to your attic space. They also love to knaw and thus are a major fire hazard when they decide to chew on electrical wires in your home.

Our company offers a live trapping service for these animals.