Q: Can you remove a wasp nest yourself?

• <div><p>You can remove a wasp nest yourself, but it isn&rsquo;t a good idea. Although it looks easy enough to hit down a nest with a broom, wasps may be inside or around the nest and are known for getting aggressive when their nest is threatened. If you follow our guidelines for removing wasps nests with pesticide spray, insecticidal dust, water and dish soap, or boiling water, you may be able to safely tackle the problem.</p></div>

Question 1

Can you remove a wasp nest yourself?

Accepted Answer

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You can remove a wasp nest yourself, but it isn’t a good idea. Although it looks easy enough to hit down a nest with a broom, wasps may be inside or around the nest and are known for getting aggressive when their nest is threatened. If you follow our guidelines for removing wasps nests with pesticide spray, insecticidal dust, water and dish soap, or boiling water, you may be able to safely tackle the problem.

Question 2

How can I tell if the infestation is rats or mice?

Accepted Answer

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The easiest way to determine whether you have rats or mice is to see the rodent. Mice are much smaller than any species of rats. It’s similar to comparing your thumb to your entire palm. As a result, rat nests are typically larger, too. But if you can’t see any pests or find their nests, telling them apart may be difficult without a professional inspection.

If you find droppings from the invading rodent, take a glance before you clean them up. Rat droppings are larger and rounder than mouse droppings (which are pointed).

Question 3

What do foxes hate the most?

Accepted Answer

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Foxes hate strong scents and sudden disturbances. They dislike the smell of ammonia, vinegar, garlic, chili peppers, and predator urine, which can make an area less appealing. Motion-activated lights and sprinklers also unsettle them, as foxes prefer to avoid sudden movements and bright lights. Additionally, they are wary of loud noises and unexpected sounds.

Question 4

Will pest-repellent plants kill animals?

Accepted Answer

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Some of the plants listed above, like daffodils, are poisonous to many animals if eaten. But wild animals instinctively avoid them, for the most part. Household pets don’t always have the same survival instinct, which is why it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with common plants that pose a danger to cats and dogs.

Question 5

What is a natural way to repel bears?

Accepted Answer

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Using chemicals with harsh odors is a natural way to repel bears. While the animal’s strong sense of smell is an asset in the animal kingdom, it’s a weakness here. Simply place bleach or ammonia in a bucket and leave it outside day or night. Ironically, bears also dislike the smell of pine, so you can use pine oil or a pine-based cleaning agent. Avoid using cleaning products with fruit or citrus smells, however.