Pests like rodents can look cute and cuddly sometimes. Need an example? Stuart Little and Ratatouille are prime examples of how those little pests can look cute. But, don’t be fooled. These pests and many others pose a huge threat when it comes to the safety of our food.
Three main pests cause contamination issues:
- Rodents (rats, mice, etc.)
- Birds (pigeons, sparrows, starlings, etc.)
- Insects (mites, flies, cockroaches, ants, etc.)
Pests are often found where food is because they need to eat just as much as humans do. They are just looking to survive like the rest of us, but unfortunately, they are plagued with diseases that can harm and even kill humans.
Stores, restaurants, commercial buildings, and residents are all places that pests are found frequently. Insects are known for their ability to make their way into stored produce and dry goods. Insects like mites and weevils can make holes so small, you won’t even be able to define them right away. This can not only lead to unsavory food conditions but when this happens in the food industry, it can cause a decline in business.
Ants, flies, and cockroaches are the biggest concerns when it comes to pests because it seems they are everywhere. Ants are a dime a dozen, so if you see one, just know you’re about to find a lot more. Cockroaches, on the other hand, don’t usually travel in packs (but can). They are loaners but come with a large potential of carrying diseases. Signs of cockroaches can be defined by skin casts, egg cases, and droppings. Flies, much like ants are everywhere and tend to travel in groups. They can and do fly solo, but chances are high that if an area has a lot of fresh food and is hot, flies will be abundant. They contaminate everything they touch, so it is important to remove them as soon as possible.
Rodents and birds are generally defined by their droppings, gnawing, or even squawking. Both can and do carry disease. Rodents carry hantavirus, salmonella, tularemia, leptospirosis, etc. Birds carry histoplasmosis, psittacosis, chlamydia psittaci, etc. Both pests are efficient about getting into small spaces, so it’s important to make sure all small areas are sealed up.
Does your business have pests? If so, it’s time to call in the professionals. some tricks can be used to remove pests themselves, but they are not always successful. Wildout Animal and Pest Removal offer a free thorough inspection where a professional can set up a plan to remove the pest(s) hassle-free. Just give them a call today! 844-945-3688