Pacific Northwest Pest Control Blog

Rodent Maintenance Program in Vancouver, WA As the General Manager of Aspen Pest, I've seen countless homeowners try to tackle a rodent problem with a one-time service or DIY methods. Here is the blunt truth: rodent-proofing a house is impossible. Rodents are going to find a way in—they can tunnel under the foundation or find tiny entry points. That’s why the most effective approach is a consistent, proactive one. The Problem with One-Time Rodent Services We simply do not offer one-time services for rodents because they will recur. You can remove an existing population, but if you don't...

Why Are Sugar Ants Appearing in My Home? If you’ve found sugar ants suddenly invading your space, it’s likely because they are looking for food or moisture. The question many homeowners ask is, "Why do I suddenly have sugar ants?" Often, the first step is identifying a sugar ant vs. a regular ant (like a pavement ant) to ensure you are using the correct treatment. While it’s common for ants to invade homes during the warmer months, certain factors can make your home especially attractive to them. These factors include: Food sources: Sugar ants are highly attracted to sugary or greasy...

Sugar ants, also known as odorous house ants, are one of the most common pests in homes today. But why do they seem to appear out of nowhere? Understanding why sugar ants invade your space can help you prevent future infestations. Why Are Sugar Ants in My House? Sugar ants are attracted to food and moisture, which is why kitchens and bathrooms are their primary target areas. However, other environmental conditions can also draw them in. For example, if you have a fruit tree or a garden nearby, these could be providing the perfect home for ants. It's crucial to inspect your yard and remove...

How to Find a Sugar Ant Nest: A Step-by-Step Guide If you're dealing with a sugar ant infestation in your home, pinpointing their nest is crucial for effective elimination. Sugar ants, also known as odorous house ants, are small, black ants that emit a distinctive coconut-like odor when crushed. Their nests can be elusive, but with patience and the right approach, you can locate and address the source of the problem. 1. Observe the Ant Trails Sugar ants typically follow consistent paths to and from their food sources. Begin by observing where you see ants in your home. They often appear...

Obvious Signs of Fleas in the Home Fleas are tiny, wingless parasites that live off the blood of animals and humans. Measuring at just a few millimeters in length, these pests can be difficult to spot in your home or on your pets, especially if you don't know what to look for. Knowing the common signs you have fleas on dogs and in your home can make the extermination process faster and more effective, saving you both time and money.  You might notice bug bites on the dogs, yourself, or the kids!  Give us a call to learn how we can help!At Aspen Pest Control, we're here to help you not...

How Long Does it Take to Get Rid of Rats and Mice? Once you call an expert, one of the first questions people ask is, "How long until they're gone?" The timeline for removing an initial rodent population varies, but homeowners need to have realistic expectations. The Removal Timeline Removing an initial rodent population can take up to six weeks or sometimes longer, depending on the severity of the issue. In one extreme case, a single mouse took five weeks to catch. For a relatively small problem, like two mice, the service process is detailed and methodical: We start with setting...