This October, it’s not just spooky ghouls and ghosts that are frightening people. The increasing number of ladybirds being spotted in homes has also become a cause for concern.
Typically, as summer draws to a close, these spotted insects tend to seek shelter in people’s homes to hibernate and stay safe from the cold and wet weather.
Normally, this period would be over by now, but due to the unseasonal weather, ladybirds have had more time to find their sleeping spot.
An expert has now shared how to prevent ladybirds from entering your home. They often manage to enter through tiny gaps, as one woman in Cambridgeshire discovered when thousands of ladybirds forced their way in.
Stephen Wales, a pest control expert, has provided four tips to keep ladybirds out of your home.
Pest control expert, Stephen Wales has shared with Femail four tips on how to keep ladybirds out of your home, as sightings of the red and black insect rise this October (stock image)
1. Fill in gaps:
Ladybugs are tiny creatures that have no problem finding their way through crevices, allowing them to easily enter your warm home through small gaps.
According to Stephen from Bespoke Pest Control, the insects often crawl through holes in window frames, especially in older sash windows.
He advises filling gaps between window frames and walls to reduce their entry points. Fly screens for windows can also be effective in preventing them from entering.
2. Use mint, citronella, and citrus:
Another tip from Mr Wales is to use natural sprays with scents that ladybirds dislike. The insects are known to detest the smell of plants from the citrus and mint families.
Spreading the scent of these plants, as well as those from the citronella family, can be a natural way to deter ladybirds. Other scents such as chrysanthemums, cloves, and bay leaves may also be effective.
3. Remove intruders quickly:
While prevention is key, Stephen Wales advises promptly removing any ladybirds that enter your home. This prevents them from leaving pheromones that can attract more ladybirds.
The easiest way to get rid of the insects is to vacuum them up and dispose of them in a sealed bag. Simply throwing them outside may result in their return.
Cleaning the infested area with a safe cleaning product is also recommended to remove any pheromones left behind.
4. Contact pest control:
If you have a large number of ladybirds in your home, it’s advisable to seek help from a pest control service. They can spray the window frames or fog areas where the insects are hiding.
It’s important to note that ladybirds are relatively harmless and beneficial to gardens. They consume plant-eating insects, particularly aphids, which helps protect crops and promote growth.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
