Best pest control specialists near Alden, IA

As beautiful as vines on your home's exterior can be, they do like to attract many kinds of creepy crawlies. Bugs—including beetles, aphids, weevils, and others—like to make themselves at home in ivy. You can also bet if a wide selection of bugs is available, it will attract spiders, too.

The best termite treatment depends on your specific infestation, home, and budget. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the most common professional treatments are soil-applied barrier treatments, like liquid termiticides, and termite baits. Bait stations are placed in the soil and work by moving poison back into the colony to kill the queen. For infestations that haven't fully taken root, barriers and targeted termiticides are often the most effective options. Additionally, preventative measures such as moisture removal and installing physical barriers to protect vulnerable wood are important, particularly during construction or remodeling. It is best to work with a termite professional to determine the right treatment for your situation.

It's advisable to avoid using harmful methods to eliminate birds. Poisoning birds is inhumane and can have unintended ecological consequences, affecting other wildlife and pets. Similarly, using firearms or other lethal means poses safety risks and could be illegal in many areas. Sticky substances like adhesives can cause birds to become trapped and injured. Lastly, playing excessively loud or distressing noises can stress birds and humans. Focusing on humane and environmentally responsible strategies is essential when dealing with bird issues.

Summer is the best time of year to treat chinch bugs. Check the instructions on the treatment method or consult a pest control pro for timing recommendations. You want to wait for chinch bugs to have a chance at coming out of hibernation and move around, but not too long that they start doing damage. Aim for around mid to late spring for most chinch treatments.