Apart from Cowboys, Championship Basketball Teams and Longhorns, Texas has built a reputation for being a bit on the rough side. It also has its fair share of pests to add to its roughness. This post will help homeowners in Texas understand the creepy-crawlies they see every day and also help to eradicate them.
A Brief History of Pest Control
Pests have tormented humans forever. Crazily enough, even fossils confirm the presence of flies predating humankind. The earliest instance of pest control dates back to the beginning of agriculture in 8000 (B.C.). Pests of which mainly insects destroyed crops where no preventive measures were taken. However, the first record of the use of sulfur compounds to ward off and control insects was found in 2500 B.C, which was employed by the Sumerians. On the other hand, the Chinese have prehistoric records dating back to 500BC, about using arsenic and mercury on human skin to control lice. Chemical pesticides were only used after the World War II and became a significant part of modern agriculture.
Which are the most common and Problematic Pests in Texas?
Bedbugs, scorpion, termites, cockroaches, ants, spiders, flies, wasps, rodents and birds are just some of the pests that are common and can plague a farm or an apartment environment in Texas. Pests have posed a huge threat in the agricultural sector. Agriculture in countries like the United States has proven to be a huge economic boost. Consequently, effective measures to control pests should be employed.
The United States is working to promote the use of biological methods to control pests that prey on agricultural exports and also harmful biting insects. This shows that the pest problem is becoming a threat to the modern society both in the local and international level.
Pests and their Negative Effects
Pests are one of the biggest nuisances and destructive force in the modern-day as they have not only infested our farms but also our homes. There is a huge urge to control these intruders because when they’re left alone, they can reek havoc both to an individual and a nation. Problems likely to be encountered by people and farmers when pests are uncontrolled include:
- Reduced quality – which affects commercial growers who spent time and money growing, plants and then have their efforts ruined.
- Reduced yields – Pest attack can reduce the yields of fruits, vegetables, and flower crops.
- Diseases – Some pests such as mosquitoes or bedbugs can transmit diseases if not controlled.
Better and efficient methods of controlling pest have been developed to cater for different types of pests. The most common being pesticides which when used correctly can be the most effective way.
In most countries such as the United States, agriculture is one of the leading exports; thus, it profits the country with huge income.
Pest Control Methods
There are many ways to prevent or eradicate pests. Some of them do not require much skill or literacy but prove to be quite efficient to farmers who want to prevent or eliminate pests. They include:
- Use of pest killing animals – for example cats being used to catch mice and keeping mongooses to control rodents and snakes.
- Field burning – Conventionally, after harvest, the fields were all burned, to eradicate any insects eggs or rodents that might be hiding in the ground.
- General Pest Proofing – Tenants can also participate in general pest proofing around their apartment by disposing of garbage regularly, wipe down kitchen counter tops and sweep floors to remove crumbs and residue from spills.
- Use of Pesticides
- Use of Repellents
- Space fumigation
- Setting up traps
- Using poisoned bait
Chemical Pest Control
Chemical pest control is by far the quickest way of killing pests. By using these chemicals, farmers can eliminate the entire pest population instantaneously by simply administering the chemical around the area infested by the pests.
There are many ways to counter pest infestation varying from natural methods to biological methods depending on the type of pests you want to illuminate. Pest control has been practiced over the years to prevent its subsequent recurrence or increase.
Evidently, there are various ways to prevent or rid ourselves of pests. Using some of the methods stated above, it is easy to remove pests from our homes. In Texas, we have many companies that have specialized in pest control. Contact them for professional services in case things get out of hand.
Pest infestation in Texas is quite high. As seen, there are different methods used to control these pests. Pest-proofing might not be the first thing that comes to your mind, but it can save you a lot of frustration and money.
Due to damages caused by pests in Texas, it is of great importance that pest control measures are taken. Otherwise, they can cause extensive damage to gardens, businesses and even households.