When to DIY and When to Call Snake Removal Services in Missouri

When to DIY and When to Call Snake Removal Services in Missouri

If you come across a small, non-venomous snake and can confidently identify it, you might consider removing it yourself using tools like a broom or a snake hook. But if you’re unsure of the species or the snake is in a difficult or enclosed space, it’s always best to call professional snake removal services.  Experts […]

Missouri’s Must-Know Mosquito Prevention Tips

As the warm months roll around in Missouri, mosquitoes become a common nuisance, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. These pests are more than just a bother; they can also transmit diseases like West Nile Virus and Zika. To ensure your outdoor spaces are mosquito-free, it's essential to use a combination of prevention strategies. Here's how you can keep mosquitoes at bay in Missouri. Install and Maintain Proper Screens The simplest way to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home is by ensuring your windows and doors are properly fitted with screens. In Missouri, where mosquitoes are most active in the warmer months, it's crucial to check for any gaps, tears, or damage. Make sure the screens are taut and securely attached to the window or door frames, as mosquitoes can easily slip through even the smallest of holes. These mosquito prevention tips can help maintain a barrier that keeps pests out of your living space. Eliminate Standing Water Around Your Home Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so eliminate standing water sources around your property. Check areas like: Flowerpots Gutters Birdbaths Old tires Buckets or containers left outside Regularly drain standing water to eliminate potential breeding grounds. If you can’t drain it, consider using mosquito larvae control products like mosquito dunks. Keep your yard free from water buildup to reduce mosquito populations. Utilize Outdoor Fans Missouri’s summer evenings are often hot and humid, creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes. However, mosquitoes aren’t strong flyers and struggle in windy conditions. Outdoor fans can disrupt their flight patterns and keep them away from your gatherings. Position fans at seating areas or entrances to create a breeze. Oscillating fans work best to cover a larger area, helping to keep mosquitoes at bay. For larger spaces, use multiple fans for greater effectiveness. Invest in Mosquito Traps Mosquito traps can help reduce the mosquito population. Common types include: CO2 Traps: These release carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes. UV Light Traps: These attract mosquitoes using ultraviolet light. Sticky Traps: These capture mosquitoes on adhesive surfaces. Propane Traps: These emit carbon dioxide and heat, mimicking human presence. Place traps in shaded areas, where mosquitoes tend to rest, and set them 30 feet apart for optimal coverage. Regularly check and maintain the traps to ensure their efficiency. Apply Insect Repellent Even with preventive measures, applying insect repellent is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during peak mosquito activity periods. Choose a repellent containing at least 20% DEET or Picaridin. When applying repellent: Apply evenly to exposed skin, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Reapply as needed, especially after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to treat your clothing, as mosquitoes can bite through thin fabrics. Consider natural alternatives, such as oil of lemon eucalyptus, though chemical repellents tend to offer better protection. Host Outdoor Gatherings Wisely Hosting outdoor gatherings is a Missouri summer tradition, but mosquitoes can ruin the fun. Here are a few tips to keep mosquitoes away: Seating Location: Avoid seating near standing water or dense vegetation. Choose a breezy spot where mosquitoes are less active. Lighting: Use yellow or LED bulbs, as they are less attractive to mosquitoes. Citronella candles or torches can also help, though their effectiveness varies. Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Planting citronella, lavender, or marigolds around your outdoor space can help deter mosquitoes. By setting up your gathering area thoughtfully, you can minimize mosquito issues and enjoy a comfortable event. Educate Your Community Community-wide mosquito prevention efforts can make a big difference. Educating your neighbors in Missouri can help reduce mosquito breeding grounds and ensure everyone’s safety. Organize a neighborhood meeting to share tips on eliminating standing water and encourage yard maintenance. Key points to discuss include: Standing Water: Ensure everyone regularly checks their property for water buildup. Yard Maintenance: Trim bushes, mow lawns, and remove debris where mosquitoes can hide. Repellents: Remind neighbors to use repellents and wear protective clothing during peak mosquito hours. When everyone works together, it significantly reduces the mosquito population in your area. Protect Your Pets Mosquitoes affect more than just humans; pets can also suffer from mosquito bites. In some rare cases, pets can contract heartworm disease from infected mosquitoes. To protect your pets, consult with your veterinarian about mosquito-repellent products designed for animals, such as mosquito-repellent collars or topical treatments. Check your pets regularly for mosquito bites, especially during the warmer months, and keep them indoors during peak mosquito activity times, such as dusk and dawn. Regularly Check for Mosquito Activity Missouri’s mosquito populations can surge quickly after rain or humid weather. Regularly inspect your yard for mosquito activity, especially during peak mosquito seasons from late spring through fall. If you notice a significant increase in mosquitoes, take immediate action by refreshing repellents, setting up additional traps, or addressing any new water sources that have appeared. Buzz Off, Mosquitoes! Call Chilton’s Pest Control for a Mosquito-Free Zone! With Missouri’s humid summers, mosquitoes can be a persistent challenge. However, by taking simple, proactive steps like eliminating standing water, using fans and traps, applying repellent, and educating your community, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population and enjoy the outdoors without interruption. By implementing these mosquito prevention strategies, you’ll protect yourself, your family, and your neighborhood from mosquitoes, making your outdoor activities much more pleasant. Whether hosting a BBQ or just relaxing on your porch, these tips can help ensure that mosquitoes don’t spoil your time outdoors.

As the warm months roll around in Missouri, mosquitoes become a common nuisance, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. These pests are more than just a bother; they can also transmit diseases like West Nile Virus and Zika. To ensure your outdoor spaces are mosquito-free, it’s essential to use a combination of prevention strategies. Here’s how […]

Do Swarming Termites Mean Infestation?

Chiltons Pest in Nixa, Missouri specializes in springtime ant prevention with targeted

Swarming activity peaks in early spring, making early intervention crucial to prevent infestations in Missouri. Swarming termites don’t necessarily mean you have an active infestation, but they can signal nearby termite activity that needs your attention. Swarming is a natural part of their reproductive cycle, usually happening in warm, humid conditions. While swarming indicates potential […]

How Do You Control Stinging Insects?

Control Stinging Insects

As temperatures rise, early spring in Missouri marks the beginning of increased pest activity — especially from stinging insects like wasps, bees, and hornets. These insects become more active as they emerge from overwintering, begin building nests, and search for food. In Missouri, this typically starts in late March to early April, depending on how […]

How Do You Prevent Springtime Ants?

Chiltons Pest Ant Prevention

As the weather warms up in Missouri, early spring brings a surge in pest activity, particularly ants. With their colonies expanding, ants become more active and visible, seeking food and shelter inside homes. This is the perfect time to address potential infestations before they escalate into bigger problems. Combat early spring pest challenges by focusing […]

Rodents in Springfield, Nixa, and Ozark: Keep Your Home Safe with Chilton’s Pest Control

Rodents

As temperatures drop in Springfield, Nixa, and Ozark, Missouri, rodent activity increases indoors. These pests seek warmth and shelter, making effective management essential. Chilton’s Pest Control specializes in professional rodent control to keep homes and businesses rodent, free. Understanding rodent behavior, identifying infestations early, and implementing prevention strategies are critical to protecting your home. If […]

Spiders in Springfield & Nixa: Why You Need Professional Pest Control

Black Widow Spider

Spiders in Springfield & Nixa: Why You Need Professional Pest Control Why You Need Professional Pest Control For Spiders Spiders are active year-round inside homes, particularly in warm, hidden spaces like basements, attics, and garages. In Springfield and Nixa, Missouri, their presence can be more than just unsettling, it can also pose risks due to […]

Raccoons and Opossums Are Still Active Around Residential Areas

Wildlife Trapping Large Pests

Raccoons and Opossums Are Still Active Around Residential Areas  Large Pest Removal in Springfield & Nixa: Trust Chilton’s Pest Control In Springfield, Nixa, and surrounding areas, large pests like raccoons and opossums are becoming more active in residential areas. Their adaptability to urban environments poses significant challenges for homeowners, leading to property damage and potential […]

Winter Pest Solutions Springfield Missouri

Winter in Missouri, it’s the season for cozy blankets, hot cocoa, and unfortunately, a parade of pests trying to turn our homes into their winter wonderlands. At Chilton’s Environmental Termite & Pest Control, we’re not just here to help; we’re on a mission to make sure these critters find a one-way ticket out of your […]