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Leave a Review, Plant a Tree! Parker Eco Pest Control Donates to the Arbor Day Foundation

At Parker Eco Pest Control, we’ve always been committed to providing eco-friendly pest control solutions that prioritize the health of your home and our planet. Today, we’re excited to announce a new initiative that combines our dedication to sustainability with our appreciation for your feedback: starting this month, we will plant a tree for every customer who leaves an honest review!

Partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees and promoting environmental stewardship, we aim to make a positive impact on the environment while encouraging valuable feedback from our customers. Every review you leave helps us understand your needs better and improves our service, and now it will also contribute to a greener planet.

Why trees? Trees are not only beautiful and essential to biodiversity but also play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By planting trees through the Arbor Day Foundation, we ensure that our efforts contribute to reforestation projects across the country, benefiting local communities and wildlife habitats.

How does it work? It’s simple! After receiving our pest control service, you can leave a review detailing your experience. For every review we receive, whether it’s positive or constructive, we’ll donate to the Arbor Day Foundation to plant a tree in an area of need. The Arbor Day Foundation has earned a 98% accountability rating from Charity Navigator, an independent organization that assesses the impact and fiscal responsibility of nonprofit organizations.

Join us in our mission to protect the environment and provide exceptional pest control services. Your honest feedback not only helps us grow but also contributes to a greener, healthier planet for future generations. Together, we can make a significant impact—one tree and one review at a time.

Ready to plant a tree? Leave a review!

Follow this link to leave us a Google review: https://search.google.com/local/writereview?placeid=ChIJScwIXzkUkFQRAv2UAA7_S-A

Thank you for choosing Parker Eco Pest Control. Let’s grow green together!

Pest Tips From HUD For A Healthy Home

We found a PDF which came from HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) which produced a “Healthy Homes” 1-page flyer. It included some tips on pest control including:

All pests look for food, water and shelter. Seal cracks and openings throughout the home; store food in pest-resistant containers. If needed, use sticky-traps and baits in closed containers, along with least toxic pesticides such as boric acid powder.

Microsoft Word – HealthyHomes7Steps (tulaliptribes-nsn.gov)

We found that PDF on the Tulalip website.

Contact us if you need any help with pests such as rats, mice, other rodents, and more in our Service Area.

Call or email the office location closest to you from this page:

Contact Us | Parker Eco Pest Control

Thank you and we look forward to serving you soon.

News Story About Rats In Eastern Washington

In June of this year, a sad story came out of Eastern Washington on the Tri-City Herald’s website. It mentioned the unfortunate death of someone from the hantavirus, which is typically spread by rodents.

The article offered some tips and insights on this difficult topic:

People can be infected with hantavirus by breathing in dust contaminated from the urine, droppings or nests of infected rodents. They also can be infected by touching contaminated objects and then touching their nose or mouth. The greatest risk of infection is in enclosed spaces, such as sheds, cabins or vehicles, that have rodent infestations and little fresh air.

Symptoms appear one to eight weeks after exposure and may include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, chills and abdominal problems such as nausea or diarrhea. Later symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing and tightening of the chest as fluid fills the lungs require hospitalization.

If a cabin or shed is infested with mice, the building should be aired out for 30 minutes before entering. Rodents also may get inside vehicles through rust holes, vents and other openings. They may build nests in engine compartments, the air system, trunks, spare tire compartments or glove boxes.

Read the full article at: https://www.tri-cityherald.com/news/local/article289230964.html#storylink=cpy

Even though this took place in Eastern Washington, many areas in the Western part of the State risk illness due to rodents. If you need any help with residential or commercial rodent removal services in the areas we serve, then you are welcome to contact us here:

1-800-ECO-1698 or Send a Text

Info@ParkerEcoPestControl.com

You also may book your appointment online here:

What Can I Do If Wasps Are In My Walls?

Finding wasps in walls can be quite alarming. These buzzing visitors not only disrupt the peace of your home but also pose potential risks. Wasps are known for their painful stings, which can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Even if you’re not allergic, multiple stings can still be dangerous and lead to serious health issues.

Addressing wasp infestations promptly is crucial. Ignoring the problem can result in wasps building nests within your home, leading to structural damage as they chew through wallboard and insulation. This often makes eradication more challenging and costly. Additionally, the longer you wait, the higher the risk of encountering these aggressive insects inside your living spaces.

Taking swift action can help prevent these situations from escalating. Whether you choose DIY methods or call in professional pest control, dealing with wasps early on ensures a safer and more comfortable environment for you and your family.

Understanding Wasp Behavior

Understanding wasp behavior can help you tackle an infestation more effectively. Wasps and hornets are naturally inclined to build nests in protected areas, seeking out nooks and crannies that offer shelter from the elements.

The Natural Behavior of Wasps and Hornets

1. Social Structure

Many wasps, like yellow jackets and hornets, are social insects. Their colonies have a queen, workers, and males.

2. Nesting Sites

They prefer building nests in trees, under eaves, or inside wall voids. Inside homes, they might nest within attic spaces, wall cavities, or even behind siding.

3. Food Sources

Wasps are drawn to protein-rich foods for their larvae and sweet substances for themselves. This is why you’ll often find them buzzing around picnics or garbage cans.

Why They Enter Homes

Wasps typically enter homes in search of food or a suitable nesting site:

  • Food Search: Late summer and fall are peak times for wasp activity as they forage for food to sustain the colony.
  • Nesting: Seeking safe spaces to build nests or for newly mated queens to hibernate during colder months.

Seasonal Patterns in Wasp Activity

  • Spring: Queens emerge from hibernation and begin building new nests.
  • Summer: Colonies grow rapidly with increased worker activity.
  • Late Summer/Fall: Peak activity as they search for food; aggression can also increase.
  • Winter: Most workers die off; only young mated queens survive by finding sheltered spots to hibernate.

Recognizing these patterns can help you anticipate potential issues before they escalate into a full-blown infestation.

We can help you with wasps and hornets if you have a home or other property in the Washington areas we serve.


Washington Resources About Wasps And Hornets

Here are some resources from the State regarding wasps and hornets:


Identifying Wasp Nests Inside Your Home

Wasps can be sneaky invaders, often building nests in places where they’re not immediately visible. To identify wasp nests indoors, pay attention to the following signs of infestation:

Recognizing Signs of a Wasp Nest in Walls or Attics

  1. Increased Wasp Activity: If you notice wasps frequently entering and exiting a particular area of your home, it could indicate a nearby nest.
  2. Buzzing Sounds: A persistent buzzing noise coming from walls or ceilings is a telltale sign that wasps might be nesting inside.
  3. Visible Entry Points: Small holes or gaps in the walls, eaves, or attic spaces can serve as entry points for wasps.

Common Locations for Nests Within Homes

Wasps prefer secluded, sheltered spots to build their nests. Common indoor locations include:

  • Wall Voids: Spaces between the interior and exterior walls are prime nesting sites.
  • Attics and Loft Spaces: These areas offer protection and are less disturbed by human activity.
  • Gutters and Roof Overhangs: Wasps might start nests in these exterior locations that extend into your home’s structure.

Visual Indicators and Sounds That Suggest a Nest is Present

  • Paper-Like Material: Wasps create nests from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva, resulting in a paper-like texture. Spotting this material around entry points can be an indicator.
  • Wasp Droppings: Small black marks or streaks near entry points may indicate wasp activity.
  • Aggressive Behavior: Wasps become more defensive when their nest is threatened, so encountering aggressive behavior near specific locations may signal a nearby nest.

Keep an eye (and ear) out for these indicators to catch infestations early. By identifying the problem promptly, you can take effective steps to manage and remove the nest safely.

Risks Associated with Wasp Infestations

Wasps can pose significant health risks, especially when they decide to make your home their own. Their stinging behavior is not only painful but can also lead to severe reactions.

Potential Health Risks from Wasp Stings

  • Painful Stings: Wasp stings are known to be quite painful and can cause swelling, redness, and itching at the sting site.
  • Multiple Stings: Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times. This increases the potential for more pain and complications.

Information on Allergic Reactions to Stings

  • Mild Reactions: Some individuals might experience mild symptoms such as itching or slight swelling beyond the sting area.
  • Severe Allergic Reactions: For those allergic to wasp venom, a sting can trigger anaphylaxis—a life-threatening reaction. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rapid pulse, and dizziness. Immediate medical attention is crucial in such cases.

Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of addressing wasp infestations promptly to avoid potential harm.

When to Call Professional Pest Control Services?

Dealing with a significant wasp infestation can be daunting. Here are some situations when you should consider hiring professional pest control services for wasps:

  1. Large Nests: If the nest is particularly large or located in a hard-to-reach area like inside walls or high up in the attic, professionals have the tools and expertise to handle it safely.
  2. Frequent Stings: Experiencing frequent stings or seeing a high number of wasps around your home can indicate a serious infestation that needs professional attention.
  3. Allergic Reactions: If anyone in your household has severe allergies to wasp stings, it’s safer to let experts manage the removal to avoid any health risks.
  4. Structural Damage: Wasps can cause damage by chewing through wallboard. Professionals can address both the infestation and the resulting damage.
  5. Recurrent Infestations: If you’ve dealt with wasp problems repeatedly, professional pest control services can implement long-term solutions to prevent future infestations.

Professionals ensure the job is done thoroughly and safely, providing peace of mind and protecting your home from potential harm.

Preventing Future Wasp Infestations

Wasps can be quite the uninvited guests, but there are effective ways to keep them from making themselves at home in the first place.

Sealing Entry Points Around the House

One of the most effective strategies involves sealing openings in walls and roofs. Wasps often find their way inside through tiny gaps and holes, which might seem insignificant but can serve as perfect entry points for these persistent insects.

Steps to Seal Entry Points

  1. Inspect your home regularly: Check for cracks and crevices in walls, rooflines, and around windows and doors.
  2. Use caulk or foam sealant: Fill in any gaps you find. Pay special attention to areas where utility lines enter your home, as these are common access points.
  3. Repair damaged screens: Ensure that window and door screens are intact. A small tear can be an open invitation for wasps.

By combining practical measures like sealing entry points with natural deterrents such as fragrant plants, you can significantly reduce the chances of wasps setting up shop in your home again. These steps not only provide peace of mind but also contribute to a safer living environment for you and your family.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the risks associated with wasps in my home?

Wasps can pose potential health risks, particularly through their stinging behavior. Allergic reactions to wasp stings can be severe and may require immediate medical attention. It’s important to address any wasp infestations promptly to minimize these risks.

How can I identify a wasp nest inside my home?

You can recognize signs of a wasp nest indoors by looking for visual indicators such as small holes in walls or ceilings, and listening for buzzing sounds that suggest a nest is present. Common locations for nests include attics, wall cavities, and other hidden areas.

What should I do if I find wasps in my walls?

If you find wasps in your walls, it’s important to take initial steps safely. You may consider using DIY methods like sprays and traps to eliminate them. Always ensure safety precautions are taken before attempting removal.

When is it necessary to call professional pest control services for wasps?

You should consider hiring a professional pest control service when dealing with significant infestations that you cannot manage on your own. Professionals have the expertise and tools necessary to safely remove wasps and prevent future issues.

How can I prevent future wasp infestations in my home?

Preventing future wasp infestations involves sealing openings in walls and roofs to stop new nests from forming. Additionally, using fragrant plants such as peppermint and citronella around your home can act as natural deterrents to repel insects.

What are some effective DIY methods for removing wasps?

Effective DIY methods for removing wasps include using insect sprays specifically designed for wasps and setting up traps around the area where they are active. Always follow safety guidelines when using these products to ensure safe removal.

Washington State University Mention Of Which Pests To Remove From Your Property

A few weeks ago, the Tri-City Herald published an article titled “Here are the good and bad bugs to keep an eye out for this spring in eastern Washington“. In that article, it quoted an entomologist and professor at Washington State University regarding the kinds of insects which may or may not cause potential harm on your property.

The majority of insects you’ll encounter around Tri-Cities are harmless and nothing to be concerned about, according to Richard Zack with WSU’s entomology program. “Of the many, many, many types of insects out there, most either cause no problem or are beneficial,” Zack said in an interview. “I encourage people to look at them more as friends than as enemies.”

Most commonly, Zack says Tri-Citians can expect to see increased spider, ant, bee, yellow jacket and other wasp occurrences near homes. Generally, they’re looking for places to make a nest and are not intentionally wandering inside houses. Zack also noted gnat activity will usually go up around this time of year, and stink bugs have become more prevalent recently.

The only potential danger in that list is from yellow jackets and other wasps, as they are stinging bugs, should they set up camp near your home and grow a decent-sized colony. This just increases the possibility of a stinging incident, which can be especially concerning in homes where there are often children around.

https://www.tri-cityherald.com/news/local/article286410760.html#storylink=cpy

If you need any kind of pest control service, including wasp and hornet removal, in the areas of Washington which we serve then you are welcome to call us at 1-800-ECO-1698 or email us through the email addresses via the button below.

Bellingham’s Tips On Pesticides For Pest Control

The City of Bellingham published a website with some tips on the use of pesticides for pest control. Here are some portions of that page:

Pests are organisms that occur where they are not wanted and cause damage. Pests include some insects, mice and other animals, unwanted plants (weeds), fungi, and microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses

Pesticides…

  • Are substances that are intended to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate pests
  • Include insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides
  • Can be substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant

How do pesticides end up in our lakes and streams?

Pesticides can enter our waterways via stormwater runoff or outdoor water use. Runoff carrying pesticides into our storm drains or directly into lakes and streams may result in serious impacts to fish and wildlife.

What can I do to help?

  • Use environmentally-friendly alternatives to pesticides
  • Use pesticides responsibly and only if necessary
  • Accurately identify the pest
  • Select the most effective pesticide that poses the least risk to human health and the environment
  • Apply pesticides in dry weather, not right before big storm events
  • Never allow pesticides to enter storm drains or creeks
https://cob.org/services/environment/lake-whatcom/pesticides

If you want to schedule an appointment with us in Bellingham or any of the Washington areas we serve then you are welcome to choose your preferred way below:

1-800-ECO-1698

Send a Text

Info@ParkerEcoPestControl.com

Book Online

Safely Cleaning Up After Rodents

We found a helpful resource on the website of the Washington State Department of Health. It is a PDF about how to clean up safely after noticing rodent droppings in your home or building.

Here is the resource: https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2024-02/420569-SafelyCleaningAfterRodents-Hantavirus-Poster-English.pdf

These are just a handful of tips from the PDF, so click the link to see the entire set of suggestions:

In Washington, deer mice can carry hantavirus, which can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in humans. HPS is a severe, sometimes fatal respiratory disease. Deer mice can shed the virus in their urine, droppings, and saliva. Disturbing mouse nests, droppings, urine, or saliva, can create small particles that contain the virus in the air.

—-

Ventilate the space before cleaning by opening doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.

Avoid stirring up dust; don’t use a leaf blower, vacuum, sweep, or use
cleaning methods such as dry dusting.

https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2024-02/420569-SafelyCleaningAfterRodents-Hantavirus-Poster-English.pdf

If you need help with any rodent control in the areas we serve then you are welcome to contact us. We will serve your home or commercial property from the office nearest to you (Seattle, Everett, or Bellingham).

Phone: 1-800-ECO-1698
Email: Info@ParkerEcoPestControl.com

You also may book your appointment online at this link:

Recent News About Rats Affecting Seattle Commercial Properties

This past December, the DailyUW.com posted an article about the problem of rats affecting Seattle including the Northeast 43rd area. Here are some snippets from that article:

“Many rats had been living in this unmanaged planted strip that was installed by the city as a part of the bus and light rail improvements,” UDP executive director Don Blakeney wrote in an email.” 

“Containing the rodent population in the U-District requires cooperation on all fronts. Many historic buildings in the area are vulnerable to rodents because of holes in their exterior. Mice are able to fit into holes the width of a pencil and rats can chew and squeeze their way into a building with a hole as small as 1/4 inch in diameter.”

“The violation associated with insect, rodent, or animal presence is a blue violation, as opposed to a red critical violation with the highest risk of causing foodborne disease, and is worth 5 points. 120 or more red and blue points requires that the food establishment be shut down until they have fixed the issues, submitted a prevention plan to avoid future issues and received another inspection.

“Let’s say a rat runs across the kitchen floor when everything else they’ve done correctly, would that constitute a closure?” Bui said. “So that remains to be seen. You know it’s up to [an] individual, case to case basis. It’s up to us to make the final call.” 

https://www.dailyuw.com/news/rats-on-the-ave-how-businesses-government-and-community-members-are-maintaining-food-safety/article_785d3c1c-955b-11ee-87d6-3b4fdfffa13a.html

We offer commercial pest control, including rodent removal for rats, in Seattle and the other areas we serve.

We service:

When you are ready to contact us then you are welcome to call, text, email, or book online from the information found on this page:

Why Bellevue Rodent Control Is Important

In recent years there have been several impactful articles about rising rat populations in the Seattle area, including Bellevue. The first article was titled “Brief history of rats in the Puget Sound region – and the problem they present” from this link:

Brief history of rats in the Puget Sound region – and the problem they present | Bellevue Reporter

Some interesting parts from that article:

“We realized that control of rats was more intensive,” Trefts said. “It became the main thing. It was obvious that it was widespread.”

He said semi-rural communities, like Bellevue, in which suburban communities were built wall-to-wall next to one another, provided shelter and sustenance for the highly adaptable rodents.

Trefts said the newly built homes, with dark rat-cozy spaces in the walls and crawl spaces, provided “perfect” nests for families of rats. He said simple overlooked details like overfilled birdfeeders and grease from barbecues were just enough for rats to sustain themselves.

Rats have even been noted as having eaten dog droppings from a residential lawn.

Trefts and his peers began to notice they could work to keep the rats out of a home, but not the neighborhood, because they were “really well established.”

Trefts believes that the Puget Sound region has more rats per capita than New York City, mostly because New York has a higher population density and vertical skyrises that can shelter rats.

The next article was titled “Rats in Seattle: They’re creepy, clever and everywhere, but there is help”. Here are some parts from that article:

YES, RATS DO come up toilets. Yes, it’s a startling and scary image: those beady eyes, pointy front incisors, long scaly tails, their rhythmic sniffing. Sniffing for what?

Rats in Seattle: They’re creepy, clever and everywhere, but there is help | The Seattle Times

Another article was titled “Rising rat populations cost locals thousands in repairs”. Below are some sections of interest:

Rats have been a growing problem in Seattle and on the Eastside over the past decade. Their natural attraction to urban areas creates numerous problems for locals — some are simple inconveniences while some cost thousands of dollars.

“They eat from my antifreeze and transmission fluid,” said Igor Rozmarih. “Every morning I wake up and I don’t know if I [can] drive or not… I’m afraid.”

Rozmarih lives in a Bellevue condo complex near the Bellevue Aquatic Center. He and his neighbors recently and suddenly were infested with rats that were climbing into their cars and causing severe damage.

An engine compartment emulates a rat’s natural habitat as an enclosed, warm space with various tubes and wires they see as vines and branches. They’ll climb into the compartment during the night and by the time Rozmarih wakes up and starts his car, the damage is already done.


Diseases have become far less of a problem in modern urban areas with the advent of modern medicine and increase in overall health. So, while rats are inherently a large health problem, the most immediate problem for humans is the damage they cause.

Experts have numerous theories as to why rat populations are booming, according to Wikstrom.

“There are only theories, even the Ph.D. taxonomists, entomologists and rodentologists spend their lifetime studying these issues,” Wikstrom said.

He points to the overall rise in average temperature in the past 10 to 15 years as the one he believes to be most likely.

“Measurably speaking we know there’s been a change in the earth’s climate,” Wikstrom added. “How it got there is a whole different discussion of course.”

Rats reproduce very rapidly throughout the year, Wikstrom said. One rat can produce 20 to 40 rats in a year with four to six litters of six to 14 rats. However, rats will reproduce as long as the weather permits, so as it stays warmer later in the year, rats are able to produce one or two more litters each year.

Thus, the population increase becomes exponential as each of those rats can produce more rats each year.

Rising rat populations cost locals thousands in repairs | Bellevue Reporter

When you are ready to have us come inspect your pest control or rodent removal situation in the areas we serve, then you are welcome to contact us:

1-800-ECO-1698 or Send a Text

Email: Info@ParkerEcoPestControl.com

You also may book online at this link: Book Online

Problems Which People Experience With Fleas And Maggots

A few weeks ago in Everett, an article came out about an apartment with maggot infestation:

‘Nightmare’ infestation leaves Everett family in debt, battling landlord | HeraldNet.com

Here are some of the quotes from tenants about the problems they experienced:

It was “like death,” said (person), whose kids were 1½ and 3 years old at the time.

“There was dead maggots all over the floor. There was live maggots on the floor.”

The couple had to throw away their bed, kids’ cribs and many other belongings…… Of the financial burden, (person) said, “there’s no way I will ever be able to compute that.”

The couple filed a claim with their own insurance, but the policy didn’t cover infestations.

The couple’s 1-year-old son “wakes up screaming” because “he’s been in so many different places this past few weeks,” (Person) said at the end of September. The 3-year-old started talking less.

While this is an extreme example, it shows real-world emotions around pests such as maggots and fleas in recent weeks. In addition to the impact on adults and kids, maggots and fleas also impact one’s neighbors and even your own pets.

We look forward to helping you with your pest control and rodent removal needs in our service areas. You are welcome to call, text, or book your appointment online.

1-800-ECO-1698 or Send a Text

Info@ParkerEcoPestControl.com

Book Online

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