Best pest control specialists near Diana, NY

Because scorpions are active during the night, it can be hard to spot them—they are often hiding while you’re up and about. They could be hiding in holes in your walls, behind large appliances, under your bed, in your closet, or even inside your shoes. But, if you’ve seen one scorpion in your home, chances are there are more waiting in the darkness. If you’re on the hunt for scorpions in your home, invest in a UV light, as all scorpions will glow under UV rays.

While many pests like rats, mice, ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and bed bugs can damage your home, termites are among the most destructive. By sheer dollar amount, the damage from a bad termite infestation is unparalleled, as they can ruin walls, floors, roofs, and wooden support materials, potentially requiring massive reconstruction. Other highly destructive pests include rodents, carpenter ants, and bees that build hives within walls. If you spot signs of termites or other pests, you should hire an exterminator immediately.

It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:

• Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.

• Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.

When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.

For routine pest control maintenance, most specialists recommend treatments every three months (quarterly). However, the ideal frequency can range from monthly to yearly depending on several factors. If you have a severe infestation, more frequent treatments will likely be necessary. Your location also plays a role; for example, homes near water may experience more pests in spring and summer. It's best to discuss your specific situation with a pest control professional to determine a suitable schedule. If you notice any pests between scheduled visits, inform your provider so they can address the issue promptly.