Pests and Pest Control

February 5, 2026

Since the dawn of agriculture, humans have battled pests, and today the challenge continues both in farms and homes. While agricultural pests have long been a concern, domestic pests—especially termites—pose a serious threat. Termites, often called “white ants,” can feed on almost any organic material, bore through concrete, and survive for long periods without food.

Pest Control Methods

Pest control techniques differ depending on whether the problem is agricultural or domestic.

Agricultural Methods:

  • Traditional approaches include crop rotation, selective breeding, and companion planting.

  • Low-flying aircraft can spray chemical pesticides over large fields.

  • Chemical pest control has been in use for thousands of years, evolving from early natural products like pyrethrum and derris to modern synthetic pesticides such as DDT and other herbicides.

Domestic Methods:
Domestic pests primarily include termites, rodents, mosquitoes, and bed bugs. Termites alone—subterranean and dry wood species—belong to over 2,000 species and feed on cellulose-based materials.

Detecting Termites

Professional inspections of key areas can reveal whether your home is infested or at risk. Sometimes specialized tools are required, including:

  • Beagles trained to sniff out termites

  • Protimeter for mold detection

  • Acoustic and infrared sensors

  • Resistographs and fractometers

Treatment Options

Termite Control:

  • Fumigation and spot treatments

  • Removal of infested wood

  • Dry wood termites require wood-penetrating fumigants and certified applicators for safe treatment

  • Subterranean termites need pesticides applied according to manufacturer instructions into drilled holes

Other Pests:

  • Flies, mosquitoes, and other bugs are often controlled with chemicals like prallethrin

  • Rodents can be managed with available rat poisons (use only under expert guidance)

Choosing a Pest Control Expert

Hiring a professional is essential, especially for large infestations or real estate properties. Keep these tips in mind:

  1. Seek neighbor recommendations based on satisfaction.

  2. Avoid hasty decisions; review past client experiences.

  3. Verify credentials—registered with local authorities or members of the National Pest Management Association.

  4. Understand guarantees and get everything in writing.

  5. Check legal restrictions for commercial applicators via the Environmental Protection Agency.

  6. Be cautious of unusually large discounts—value and effectiveness matter more than price.