Pest Control & Exterminator Services
in the Wilmington, DE Area

Residential & Commercial Pest Control Issues in Delaware

With around 70,000 residents, Wilmington is the largest city in the state. Located near three rivers, a train station, and the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the region serves as a hub of commerce and transportation. Between the booming population, abundant waterways, and bustling traffic, pests are a big issue for citizens and businesses alike.

Infestations can result in costly property damage, illness, and a loss in profits for companies. Pests such as mosquitoes, bed bugs, mice, and wasps can cause big issues for Wilmington locals if left unchecked, so it's important to recognize the signs and know how to deal with them.

How the Climate Effects Pests

The hot and humid summers in Wilmington and Middletown provide the ideal environment for pests that prefer warm, moist places. On the other hand, the cold, windy winters drive many of these nuisances into homes and businesses as they search for food and shelter.

For example, mosquito populations grow during the hotter months, and ticks, which live in grasses, become more active. Stinging insects, such as hornets and wasps, build nests as the weather heats up in Wilmington, posing risks to people, pets, and structures. Ant colonies are also more likely to invade homes and businesses in warmer conditions.

When the temperatures drop, you might see an uptick in indoor infestations. For instance, mice and rats may move into buildings to overwinter. Pantries in homes and well-stocked restaurant kitchens offer an easy food source for these unwanted guests.

Pests in Businesses

In Wilmington, healthcare facilities are among the top employers. Unfortunately, hospitals are also prime locations for infestations. Beds, cafeterias, and potential hiding spots like storage rooms can all draw insects and rodents. It's vital that these businesses uncover pests quickly to maintain medical licensing, funding, and patient safety.

Another top trade in the Middletown area is retail. The promise of accessible meals and nesting sites can attract pests to these locations. In stores that sell apparel, home goods, and groceries, it's crucial for business owners to protect their inventory to prevent loss of profits.

Lastly, the manufacturing industry in Wilmington, DE, provides plenty of essential items and jobs to people in the region. Pests can easily enter and exit on or in the revolving cargo, as well as through open delivery doors. The presence of rodents or insects can result in damaged products and risks to workers' and customers' health.

Common Pests in Wilmington

Though there are several species of rodents and insects found in Wilmington, Delaware, here are a few of the pests that infest businesses and homes most often:

• Termites: These tiny insects are difficult to detect because they hide in soil and wood. If left untreated, a termite infestation can do major harm to the framework of your home or business, requiring expensive repairs.
• Rodents: Rats and mice come inside when searching for something to eat or a place to take shelter. Rodents can carry dangerous diseases such as hantavirus and salmonellosis and may contaminate surfaces and food with their waste.
• Bed Bugs: Although these pests are an annoyance, they don't transmit diseases. However, their bites leave irritating, itchy red bumps. Bed bugs can hitchhike inside by clinging to clothing, bedding, and upholstery. Due to this, Wilmington hotels and secondhand stores are especially vulnerable.
• Carpenter Ants: These insects are a troublesome pest in Wilmington. They can do a large amount of damage to structures. Carpenter ants gain entry through open vents, foundation cracks, and wires that connect to buildings. Once inside, they burrow into wood to nest and establish colonies.

How to Tell If You Have a Pest Problem

Indoors, pests commonly hole up in dark, protected spots. You should look in closets and cupboards, especially those that contain food. Crumbs might attract hungry insects or rodents. Refrigerators can also appeal to pests searching for sustenance. Check out damp areas, such as under sinks and around pipes, as well.

Other warning signs include small openings in exterior walls that rodents or insects may use as entryways. Smudges along the baseboards or floor also indicate where pests may be traveling. Holes and chew markings on furniture or food packaging are also red flags. Finally, be sure to examine piles of clutter for mouse or rat nests.

If you suspect you have an infestation, contact Western Pest Services for pest control in Wilmington, Delaware. Our experts can come out, assess the situation, and create a plan to keep your home or business safe and pest-free.