How Do Professional Pest Exterminators Determine The Severity Of A Pest Infestation?

As soon as you suspect a pest infestation in your home or business, it is essential to contact a professional pest exterminator immediately. The quicker you take action, the easier it will be to eliminate the infestation. One of the first steps that a professional pest exterminator will take is to determine the severity of the pest problem.

(Searching for “Family-safe pest treatments“? Contact us today!)

Determining the severity of a pest infestation is essential to develop an effective pest control plan. Every pest infestation is different, and the level of severity will depend on several factors such as the type of pest, the size of the infestation, and the location. Here are some of the ways professional pest exterminators determine the severity of a pest infestation:

Visual Inspection

The first step to determining the severity of a pest infestation is to conduct a visual inspection of the affected area. The exterminator will look for signs of pest activity, such as fecal matter, skin shedding, nests, and damage to furniture or other items. During the inspection, the exterminator will also identify the type of pest present in the area. For instance, if the pest problem is caused by rodents, the exterminator will look for droppings, gnaw marks, and signs of nesting.

Traps

After the initial visual inspection, the pest exterminator may set up traps to capture any live pests that may be present. The traps can also help determine the size and location of the infestation. For instance, if the exterminator sets up several rodent traps and catches several rats or mice, it is an indication that there is a large infestation.

Monitoring Devices

In some cases, the pest exterminator may install monitoring devices to determine the severity of the infestation. These devices include insect pheromone traps, glue boards, and moisture meters. The pheromone traps attract insects by mimicking the scent of a female insect, while glue boards trap pests that are attracted to light. Moisture meters measure the humidity levels in areas where pests are commonly found. High humidity levels can create an environment that is favorable for pests to thrive.

Exterior Inspection

An exterior inspection of your home or business is also essential to determine the severity of a pest infestation. The pest exterminator will inspect the exterior of your property for entry points, such as cracks or holes, that pests can use to gain access to your property. By identifying and sealing these entry points, the exterminator can prevent pests from entering your property in the future.

Assessing Damage

The pest exterminator will also assess the damage caused by the pests to determine the severity of the infestation. The damage can vary depending on the type of pest. For instance, rodents can cause damage to the insulation, electrical wiring, and plumbing in your home or business. Termites can cause significant damage to wooden structures, while bed bugs can leave itchy bites on your skin.

Once the pest exterminator has assessed the severity of the infestation, they can develop an effective pest control plan tailored to your specific needs. The plan may include a combination of treatments, such as baiting, spraying, trapping, or fumigation.

In conclusion, determining the severity of a pest infestation is crucial in developing an effective pest control plan. A professional pest exterminator has the knowledge, expertise, and tools required to assess the severity of the infestation accurately. Contact Shield Pest Defense, a professional pest extermination company in Missoula, Montana, if you suspect a pest infestation in your home or business. Their team of skilled and experienced pest exterminators will determine the severity of the infestation and develop a customized pest control plan that will eliminate the infestation and prevent future occurrences.