Mosquito Prevention: The Do’s and the Don’ts

Zoomed in picture of a mosquito sitting on a container of water.

Much like a sunburn, mosquito bites are one of tell-tale indications of the spring and summer. Also like at a sunburn, there are some steps you can take to prevent mosquitoes before they cause a full-blown infestation. 

In Wisconsin along the shores of Lake Michigan, mosquitoes have a natural breeding ground right in your backyard. Though these pests may just seem like a mild annoyance, they can also pose significant health risks. Taking steps to prevent mosquitoes will help to protect you and your family while making outdoor time even more enjoyable. 

Dangers of the Mosquito

Most of us are familiar with the itchy red bumps caused by mosquito bites. But, did you know that these tiny insects are one of the most dangerous on the planet? Mosquito bites can have many serious health consequences, including:

  • Disease Transmission: Mosquitoes are known to transmit several diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, Zika Virus, and West Nile Virus. These diseases can be mild to severe, and in some cases, life-threatening. 
  • Allergic Reactions: Some people develop allergic reactions to mosquito bites which can cause an already annoying bite to carry more dangers. Symptoms can include swelling, redness, and itching. If the allergy is severe enough, anaphylaxis can even occur.
  • Secondary Infection: When you have an itchy bite, the natural reaction is to scratch it. When you scratch a mosquito bite you can break the skin, which increases the risk of developing a secondary bacterial infection.

Mosquito Prevention: The Don’ts

There are countless home remedies that claim to solve all of your mosquito problems, but not all of them are effective. To avoid wasting your time and money on methods that don’t work, steer clear of these unsuccessful techniques:

  1. Bug Zappers: While these ultraviolet lights attract many insects, mosquitoes are not one of them. Mosquitoes are drawn to the carbon dioxide we exhale and body heat, things a bug zapper does not produce.
  2. Citronella Candles: While these candles are helpful to an extent, they are not effective at covering large areas. They lose their potency quickly and need to be replaced frequently.
  3. Essential Oils: While essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus oil have been found to have some repellent properties, they don’t last long enough to be effective. Moreover, concentration of active ingredients vary wildly between different manufacturers. 

Mosquito Prevention: The Do’s

So what can you do to prevent mosquitoes if even the citronella candles don’t work well? Fortunately, you have several good options to choose from Take these steps to stay ahead of the problem and prevent a mosquito infestation:

  1. Remove Standing Water: Since mosquitoes reproduce in the water, one of the best prevention steps is to remove the breeding ground. Drain all standing water from buckets, flower pots, or other containers that may collect rainwater. Also make sure to fix any leaky outdoor faucets, overflowing gutters, or broken pipes.
  2. Use Mosquito Netting: By placing mosquito netting around your doors or outdoor seating area, you’re able to take advantage of the wonderful weather conditions spring and summer bring without worrying about mosquitoes coming in. If you are camping or sleeping in an outdoor area, mosquito netting around your bed helps prevent bites. 
  3. Mosquito Traps: Mosquito traps are very effective at killing a large number of these pests. The traps use a combination of attractants, such as carbon dioxide or heat, and keep the insects inside once they are attracted. 
  4. Keep Grass Short: Mosquitoes like tall grass and overgrown vegetation. Keep your lawn tidy and well-trimmed to discourage them from settling into your property.

Professional Help is Here

Though it’s possible to deter mosquitoes from infesting your yard, these pests are incredibly persistent and may still cause you trouble. If you find your home invaded with these buzzing pests, call Batzner Pest Control. With over 75 years of experience, our professionals know the best ways to exterminate mosquitoes and provide prevention tips to avoid further infestations. Call today for a free quote! 

Get Rid of Late Summer Pests

A mosquito

You might think that you’re in the clear for pest problems when the summer heat starts to dwindle, but certain types of pests actually thrive around this time. With an ample amount of warmth and plenty of people participating in outdoor activities, the pests of late summer have an easy time finding what they need, whether it be a blood meal, a food supply, or a place to build their nest. In order to ensure that pests don’t steal the last of your summer, you have to take preventative measures against them. Read on to learn what pests to watch for and what you can do about them with the experts at Batzner Pest Control in Wisconsin!

Common Pests in Late Summer

Every season has its own pest problems. The pests that bug us in the late summer are typically the ones that have the most to gain from warm conditions. They are as follows:

  • Bees and wasps: Bees and wasps stay active into the late summer pollinating plants and taking advantage of the food that humans leave outside during barbecues, get-togethers, and whatnot.
  • Ticks: Ticks breed during the early summer, producing a yield of offspring that will climb to the tops of tall grass in search of hosts a month later. They thrive in the overgrowth during warm weather.
  • Wildlife: Wild animals that usually hibernate during the cold winter months spend their summers outside and too often in our business. Wild animals like raccoons, opossums, and squirrels that wander into your yard could tear through your trash or garden and cause serious damage.
  • Mosquitoes: If mosquitoes establish a successful breeding population, their numbers will be so high by the late summer that it will be almost impossible to deal with them. Mosquitoes remain active as long as temperatures don’t drop below 50°F consistently.

Pest-Proof Your Property for Late Summer

Drastic infestations of any of these kinds of pests call for the intervention of a professional exterminator, but there are some general housekeeping strategies you can try to prevent pest problems on your property before they start. We recommend the following:

  1. Keep your yard tidy: Make sure that all of your trees and shrubs are trimmed back, promptly dispose of piles of grass clippings or other vegetation, and make sure you aren’t leaving out any items that could lead to a small, temporary pest shelter.
  2. Seal your home: Regularly monitor the outside of your property to make sure that your home doesn’t have any cracks or gaps in roofing, foundation, or siding.
  3. Be careful with trash: Using bins that seal and regularly taking out your garbage to the outside bins will go a long way in preventing wildlife infestations.
  4. Get rid of standing water: Mosquitoes breed in pools of standing water, no matter how small. Covering up pools, spas, and birdbaths and regularly checking for rainwater pools will help keep mosquitoes away.

Help with Summer Pests

If you’ve tried everything you can to prevent pest infestations to no avail, it’s time to team up with your local pest control company. Our team at Batzner Pest Control is entirely licensed, certified, and thoroughly trained on all of the types of pests that we regularly see here in Wisconsin. We can determine the cause of your infestation, put it to a stop, and teach you how to identify and correct vulnerabilities on your own going forward. Reach out today for a free quote!

Mosquito Prevention: 4 Signals Mosquitoes Use to Locate Humans

A mosquito in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

It does take a while for mosquitoes to come back into prominence after our long Wisconsin winters, but these pests are well-equipped to feed and thrive every summer here. Even though it might seem like there’s nothing you can do to avoid them during the warmer months, this isn’t true. If you learn about the signals they look for and what you can do to limit these signals, you can enjoy more mosquito-free time outside. Read on for mosquito prevention advice from the mosquito exterminators at Batzner Pest Control.

4 Signals Mosquitoes Use to Locate Hosts

It seems to be the case that mosquitoes prefer certain people over others, but scientists have yet to come to a consensus on the unwavering genetic or biological qualities that make people more attractive to them. However, we do know that there are 4 main signs that mosquitoes look out for to find hosts to feed on:

  1. Breath: When we exhale, we release carbon dioxide into the air that mosquitoes pick up on. An increased level of CO2 tells mosquitoes that potential hosts are nearby.
  2. Body odor: Our body odor is attractive to mosquitoes, and this natural scent is amplified when we perspire. This means that working out around mosquito breeding grounds will result in more bites than usual.
  3. Body temperature: Mosquitoes gravitate toward higher body temperatures. Wearing dark clothing can trap heat close to your body and create a target for mosquitoes.
  4. Color: Human skin, regardless of pigmentation, gives off longer light wavelengths that mosquitoes use to find hosts.

Stopping Mosquito Bites in Wisconsin

Although these signals are impossible to cut out completely, there are ways that you can limit the signals that you give off, and extra efforts you can take to discourage mosquitoes from living and breeding around your property. We recommend that you take this mosquito prevention advice:

  • Get rid of standing water: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in pools of standing water as big as ponds and as small as tiny puddles. If you find that rainwater is collecting in your buckets, planters, gutters, or elsewhere in your yard, cover it up or pour it out.
  • Use bug spray: EPA-approved insect repellent products containing either DEET or picaridin are the most effective options for spray-on mosquito control. If you would rather use an all-natural alternative, try lemon eucalyptus oil or citronella candles.
  • Wear covering clothing: Limiting exposed skin will block signals to mosquitoes that you’re available and decrease their viable biting real estate. Light-colored clothing can also help to keep your body temperature down.

Why Professional Mosquito Control Works

It’s easy to allow a mosquito problem to grow rapidly out of sight because mosquitoes are capable of breeding in inconspicuous areas where you wouldn’t think to look. If you don’t know what to do to avoid constant mosquito bites, reach out to your local pest control company. Our mosquito exterminators at Batzner Pest Control can conduct a property-wide inspection to figure out where these pests are coming from and how we can keep them out all summer long. Reach out today for a free quote!

10 Tips for Backyard Pest Control

A backyard to be serviced in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

Relief sets in across Wisconsin every year as the frigid winter recedes into spring. We’re all excited about spending more time outside, but unfortunately, so are the many bugs and wild animals living in our region. Looking to learn how to keep your backyard pest-free this spring and summer? Read on for 10 top tips we’ve gathered from our expert technicians here at Batzner Pest Control!

10 Ways to Keep Pests Out of Your Backyard

Even when it’s still cold and dreary out, it’s important to start pest-proofing your backyard to make sure it isn’t overrun with pests come spring and summer. We’ve put together our 10 best pest control tips for you to consider when getting your backyard ready for the warmer seasons:

  1. Trim your plants: When you let your trees, bushes, and shrubs grow out of control, you allow shaded hiding places to host pests like ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. Take care of your plants to prevent unnecessary pest shelters.
  2. Look out for standing water: Pools of standing water often build up in our gutters, planters, divots in our landscapes, and more. If you find still water pooling anywhere in your yard, pour it out or cover it to prevent mosquito breeding grounds.
  3. Mow your lawn weekly: Lawn overgrowth can trap moisture and provide shelter, creating a bug haven below the blades. Mow regularly to keep lawn pests out.
  4. Dethatch your lawn: While a thin layer of thatch helps insulate your lawn, too much of it will choke out your grass and lead to pest infestations.
  5. Use garden netting: Your garden may be attracting more pests to your yard than you realize. Garden netting can protect plants and keep away bugs and wildlife looking for a free meal.
  6. Clear out yard waste: From heaps of leaves to stray sticks and branches, yard waste on the ground can create temporary shelters for pests. Make sure to clean up your yard regularly to prevent hiding places.
  7. Keep firewood elevated and distanced: Termite infestations often start when someone leaves their woodpile leaned against their home or back deck. Use a firewood rack or a makeshift platform to keep your firewood off of the ground and away from your wooden structures.
  8. Close your bins: From wasps to raccoons, all sorts of pests try their luck looking for food in our trash cans. Make sure your bins are closed and keep them away from your yard if possible.
  9. Water your lawn properly: Because both overwatering and underwatering your lawn can lead to pest infestations, it can be very helpful to rely on an irrigation or sprinkler system to keep your lawn healthy and pest-free.
  10. Hire an exterminator: An experienced exterminator can figure out why you’re dealing with pest problems and create a plan to put a stop to them.

Pest Control for your Backyard in Wisconsin

If you’ve tried everything you can think of and are still dealing with pests, tell your local pest control company about your problems. Our team at Batzner Pest Control can come out to assess your property for vulnerabilities and problem areas, putting together a plan to get rid of all active pests and keep them away for good. Reach out today for a free quote!

How a Dehumidifier Can Prevent Silverfish, Centipedes, and Cockroaches

A silverfish in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

There are many reasons why a pest infestation might develop inside your home, but one of the main contributors to bug outbreaks is excess humidity. Some of the main culprits that hang around in humid environments are silverfish, millipedes, centipedes, and cockroaches. In extremely humid cases, mosquitoes and fleas could also start to breed in your bathroom, crawl spaces, or other places where standing water pools up. In addition to setting up a dehumidifier, having a pest control company come and treat your property is the best way to attack a humid pest breeding ground. Read on to learn more with the expert technicians at Batzner Pest Control!

How Does a Dehumidifier Help with Pests?

Humidity levels and excess moisture may increase the number of pests you see crawling around your house. This could come in the humid summers or the rainy winters. If you’re currently experiencing pest problems stemming from unknown causes, one thing you can consider is investing in a dehumidifier to keep the humidity level down in your house. Here are four things a dehumidifier will do for your home:

  1. Prevent mold growth inside your home
  2. Minimize condensation contributing to pest infestations
  3. Deter bugs that breed in standing water pools
  4. Alleviate allergies triggered by pests that moisture attracts

Professional Advice: Do Dehumidifiers Really Work?

Karl Rowell, Quality Assurance and Safety Manager, explains, “Moisture, in general, can be a very conducive environment for bugs. Running a dehumidifier reduces the favorable conditions in your home.” Placing a dehumidifier within your home can alleviate pest activity, especially in your basement, bathroom, and even crawl spaces. Dehumidifiers work to remove moisture from the air, creating a drier environment that is less conducive to pest survival. This will keep out pests like silverfish, roaches, and more that are attracted to moisture, and it will also prevent these pests’ predators from developing a presence in your home.

Moisture Pest Control in Wisconsin

If you’re dealing with pests and can’t figure out where they’re coming from, a likely cause of your outbreak is moisture buildup. If you can’t find your infestation’s source or your dehumidifier is failing to protect your home from pests, reach out to your local exterminators. At Batzner Pest Control, we train our technicians to conduct exhaustive inspections, checking for every possible contribution to your pest problem. For a free quote, reach out to our team today!

How Rain Affects Mosquitoes and How to Protect Yourself

A mosquito found in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

We’ve had some rain this spring here in Wisconsin, and while we patiently wait for the warm days of summer to arrive, we will probably have to deal with a few more rainy days. Most of us do not enjoy this damp weather, but this spring rainfall helps set mosquitoes up to thrive all summer long.

Wet weather conditions give mosquitoes bountiful opportunities to find standing water to lay their eggs on. When warm weather follows the rain, mosquitoes are able to proliferate even more rapidly. Although there’s nothing we can do about the rainfall, there are some preventative measures that you can take to prevent your yard from being overrun by mosquitoes this spring.

Where Do Mosquitoes Live?

One of the most important steps to avoiding a mosquito outbreak on your property is to make your hard less hospitable to them. Since mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water and have a quick reproductive cycle, populations of mosquitoes will hang around their breeding grounds, quickly increasing their numbers. Be sure to pour out any still water that has collected in your yard. Look for it all over your yard, including:

  • Gutters
  • Buckets
  • Playsets
  • Planters
  • Puddles, and anywhere else you can think of

You should also keep your landscape maintained. Mosquitoes like to find shaded areas to rest during midday and at night, so trimming your trees, shrubs, and bushes will reduce the number of hiding places that they can find in your yard.

How to Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes

There are bound to be mosquitoes out and about anywhere you go this summer, especially after a rainy spring. Here are a few strategies to protect yourself from mosquitoes wherever you are:

  1. Use insect repellent. Look for an EPA-approved bug spray at a local store. You can apply it to your skin and clothes, but make sure you read the label on the bottle for additional instructions and safety tips.
  2. Wear protective clothing. Limit the amount of skin that you expose by wearing long sleeves and pants. This can be a bother in the hot summer weather, but it is much harder for mosquitoes to bite through most fabrics.
  3. Limit your exposure. Because direct sunlight and dry heat can dehydrate mosquitoes, they are usually most active around dusk and dawn. Stay away from untreated areas around nightfall and limit your time in the shade during the day to avoid mosquitoes.

Professional Mosquito Control in Wisconsin

If you need help keeping mosquitoes out of your yard this spring, it’s better to call a professional mosquito exterminator sooner than later. Our technicians at Batzner Pest Control can use a variety of strategies tailored to your yard to ensure that your spring and summer are mosquito-free. Reach out today for a free quote!

Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

Batzner pest control in Wisconsin - Serving New Berlin, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Madison, Racine and surrounding areas

Entomologists from Batzner’s parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

Pest Seasonality in Wisconsin

Stink bugs are a seasonal pest problem in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

Here in Wisconsin, pests are a problem all year-long. Different weather conditions and seasonality plays a large role in what pests are most active during certain parts of the year. Some pests that prefer warmer weather nearly disappear in the winter, while other pests in the fall will overwinter in your home until spring rolls around. To better prepare yourself for a possible infestation, it’s important to know which pests are common during certain parts of the year. With information from the NPMA, we are here to share all you need to know about pest seasonality in Wisconsin.

Fall & Winter Pests

Colder weather and snow will always drive more pests indoors in the fall and winter months. In 2020, it has been predicted that a milder winter than usual will result in prolonged Asian lady beetle and stink bug activity. Tick problems may also be active for longer this season. Other pests to be wary of during the colder months of the year in Wisconsin include rodents, boxelder bugs, carpenter ants, and more.

Winter pests in the Great Lakes United States map
 
Beetles
 
Stink Bugs
 
Ticks

Spring Pest Problems

Pest activity springs back into action once winter comes to an end. Blooming flowers, warming temperatures, and heavy rainfall encourages pests of all kinds to resume activity and reproduce. The common spring pests in Wisconsin include:

  • Ants. Certain ant species will forage for food in the warmer months. Rainy weather also drives ants out of their colonies and into homes for shelter.
  • Termites Every spring, termites leave their nests to mate and start new colonies. This is called “swarming”.
  • Mosquitoes. When we experience heavy rainfall, mosquito season will burst into life. With their peak season in the months following, they start to be more active in the spring.
  • Bed Bugs. While these are a year-round problem, increased traveling in the springtime always leads to an increase in bed bug activity.

Summer Pest Threats

Summertime in Wisconsin is the busiest pest season. Summer temperatures cause many types of pest colonies to mature and grow in size. Here are the ones to look out for in Wisconsin:

  • Mosquitoes. These parasitic insects lay more eggs in the summer and tend to be our biggest pest problem this time of year.
  • Stinging insects. Wasps, bees, and hornets are at full force in the summertime. They can build nests near residential areas.
  • Flies. Summer is the peak breeding season for flies. They are infamous for being a nuisance at outdoor summer events.
  • Termites. Warm weather is when termites are able to thrive and cause the most damage.

Year-Round Pests in Wisconsin

To better prepare yourself for an infestation, it’s important to understand the pest seasonality here in Wisconsin. Our colder winters may deter some pests, but they also can drive certain pests right into our homes. To protect your property from pests year-round, contact the pest control experts at Batzner.

6 Ways to Keep Your Outdoor Space Pest-Free

Tips to stay pest-free in your Wisconsin yard - Batzner Pest Control

Are you spending more time in your backyard than ever this year? If so, you’ve likely noticed just how many insects are sharing that space with you! Mosquitoes in your pond, flies around your barbecue, or wasps building a nest on your deck can all quickly ruin your time enjoying your outdoor living space. It can be hard to avoid insects altogether outside, but there are a few things you can do to make your yard less appealing to pests. The experts at Batzner have gathered their top tips to keep your outdoor space pest-free. Read on to learn more!

Tips to Keep Your Outdoor Space Pest-Free

There are likely a number of things in your backyard that, unbeknownst to you, are attracting all types of pests. Each year, it’s important to implement a number of pest prevention methods to reduce the chances of an infestation inside or outside your property. These methods include:

  1. Getting rid of any standing water. Stagnant water is one of the biggest attractants for mosquitoes.
  2. Regularly trimming your lawn and shrubs. Ticks and mosquitoes will shelter in overgrown vegetation or tall grass.
  3. Keeping an eye out for ant hills. Even a tiny mound can contain thousands of ants inside.
  4. Inspecting all wood structures. Wood-destroying pests (carpenter ants and mosquitoes) will damage your wooden decks or porches.
  5. Applying an insect repellent. Most store-bought repellent containing DEET will help repel mosquitoes and ticks.
  6. Cleaning your patio or space regularly. Spills or leftover food will surely bring ants around.

What Pests Infest Your Yard?

Here in Wisconsin, we deal with many types of pests all year long. They are especially active this time of year, and may end up right in your backyard. Some can be dangerous, which is why it’s so important to learn how to keep them away. A few of the most common pests we get calls about this time of year include:

Need Outdoor Pest Removal?

If you’ve done all you can to prevent outdoor pests and still find yourself with an infestation, it’s important to act quickly. A professional pest control company can help get rid of pests in your yard and help you prevent future infestations from happening. Contact the residential exterminators at Batzner today to get started!

How to Prevent Mosquitoes This Summer

How to prevent mosquitoes in Wisconsin summers - Batzner Pest Control

Summer is just around the corner in Wisconsin, and everyone is looking forward to warmer temperatures and more opportunities to spend time outdoors. Unfortunately, mosquitoes love the warm weather as much as you do! In the coming months, mosquitoes are bound to put a damper on your outdoor events. To avoid that, now is the time to learn how to prevent mosquitoes. The team at Batzner Pest Control is here to share their top tips and tricks for mosquito prevention.

5 Ways to Prevent Mosquitoes

To avoid dealing with a mosquito problem in your yard this year, it’s best to get rid of the things that make your yard attractive to them in the first place. By following these tips, you should be able to reduce the amount of mosquitoes on your property:

  1. Eliminate all standing water. Get rid of standing water in buckets, flower pots, bird baths, tarps, and more. Mosquitoes use standing water to breed!
  2. Install screens on windows and doors. Installing screens on your doors and windows can keep mosquitoes from getting indoors every time you try to get some fresh air.
  3. Place fish in ponds and agitate the water. Certain types of fish will feed on mosquito larvae. In addition, adding an agitator will stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in the water.
  4. Keep a tidy yard. Regularly maintain your garden and lawn to keep the grass short. Also keep plants and bushes trimmed to prevent mosquito resting spots.
  5. Use fans in your outdoor area. Mosquitoes hate wind and are not strong fliers. Use fans to help force them away from your outdoor areas.

Preventing Mosquito Bites in the Summer

If you plan on spending time outside in the coming months, it’s important to know how to protect yourself against mosquito bites. In general, it’s best to avoid going outdoors at dusk and dawn, as this is when mosquitoes are most active. When you do venture outside, wear long-sleeved pants and shirts. It’s also best to wear light-colored clothing. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, consider applying insect repellent that contains DEET. If you plan on using it on your children, always consult your pediatrician before use.

Summertime Mosquito Control

Mosquitoes can be a huge nuisance in the summertime. They’re also dangerous. It’s important to do all you can to prevent mosquitoes–if the above tips don’t seem to help, it’s time to call the experts at Batzner. Our mosquito exterminators will work with you to determine the best course of action in keeping mosquitoes away. Contact us today!