
We’ve all grown up with preconceived notions about pests, such as mice loving cheese and the belief that clean houses don’t have infestations. Well, we are here to clear the air and dispel a few myths about pests. Make sure you have a reputable pest control company in Nashville on your side for if and when you experience an infestation.
1. Mice Love Cheese
This is a big myth. Mice actually don’t like cheese that much. Being omnivores, they prefer eating fruits, grains, and seeds. This is why they often invade gardens, causing damage to crops. They favor foods rich in carbohydrates, such as bread, cereal, canned fruits, chips, and donuts. Instead of baiting mice with cheese, try using chocolate or peanut butter for better results.
2. You Can Get Rid of Bed Bugs on Your Own
Bed bugs are among the most difficult pests to eliminate, second only to cockroaches. They are tiny, emerge at night to feed, and multiply rapidly. Though female bed bugs lay just one egg a day, their population grows quickly. Bed bugs hide well, making them hard to detect. Most infestations require professional treatment to eradicate them completely.
3. Bugs Aren’t There if You Don’t See Them
Just because you haven’t seen a bug or noticed damage doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Termites and carpenter ants can cause extensive damage long before signs become apparent. Infestations are often well-established before they are detected.
4. Clean Houses Are Pest-Free
Pests don’t discriminate when looking for a place to stay. Even clean houses can attract pests. While clutter provides more hiding spots, pests like mice, ants, fleas, and spiders mainly seek shelter, water, and food. Clean homes can offer these just as easily as messy ones. To prevent infestations, seal entry points, store food in airtight containers, and remove standing water. Even cockroaches can invade a clean home if they find food and dark places to hide.
5. Fleas Die Without a Host
The flea life cycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Though they can jump, fleas don’t usually travel far unless attached to a host. They prefer hitching rides on shoes, fabrics, and animals. Adult fleas may live for a few days to two weeks without a host, but they can survive up to three months in carpets.
6. Bug Zappers Kill Mosquitoes
Bug zappers are ineffective against mosquitoes. These devices use ultraviolet (UV) light to attract insects, but mosquitoes are not drawn to UV light. Even if mosquitoes approached, the zappers lack the power to kill them effectively.
7. Store-Bought Sprays Work Fine
While store-bought sprays may provide temporary relief, they are not powerful enough to prevent recurring infestations. Insects can continue entering homes through cracks and gaps, making it necessary to spray repeatedly. This can be costly and time-consuming. It’s more effective to contact a Nashville exterminator who can address the problem properly from the start.
Call PureGuard Pest Solutions in Nashville, TN
If you are dealing with infestations that you can’t eliminate on your own, schedule a free inspection and quote today. Contact us at 615-502-2855.