THE hot summer weather has its down-side: A plague of unwelcome pests.
Britain is bracing itself for an infiltration of Asian hornets after the bee-eating bugs, whose stings can cause painful allergic reactions, were seen in Kent and Dorset.
But hornets are not the only unwanted visitors you are likely to encounter at this time of year.
If your insect invasion becomes serious, your might need professional help.
But here Adam Juson, co-founder of commercial pest control company Merlin Environmental, gives Laura Scott a few basic tips on how to cope with those pesky warm-weather insects.
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Hornets and wasps
BETWEEN May and September, these stingers are prevalent in the UK, ruining many BBQs.
Hornets are the largest species of the wasp family and deliver a nasty sting and a possible allergic reaction.
They love to build nests high up in trees and roofs, or in cracks such as in paving stones.
Always seek professional help if you find a hornet’s nest.
Tip: Hornets hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
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Bluebottles
BUZZING black bluebottle flies are harmless, but it’s never pleasant to have them zooming around inside.
Females are often found in kitchens where they are searching for food sources, especially anything decaying, so hygiene is vital to avoid attracting them in the first place.
Keep surfaces clean, and indoor and outdoor rubbish bins away from doors and windows and ensure lids are tight.
Tip: Deterrents situated near windows and doors can help, such as sticky strips.
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Moths
MOTHS cause havoc by chomping holes through our much-loved clothes, rugs and carpets.
Look out for tiny cream-coloured flutterers loitering on walls.
Females cannot fly so you will often see them just hopping around.
Their larvae eat your keratin-rich materials such as wool or silk.
To get rid, pack away all woollen and silk clothes into airtight bags and ensure you vacuum wool carpets regularly and thoroughly.
Tip: Acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths.
Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Black ants
ANTS multiply fast so if you spot an army in your home then act swiftly.
Remove clutter to eliminate hiding places and find the mound or entry point.
Don’t leave food out, ensure you clean worktops and keep edibles in air-tight containers, as they will attract insects otherwise.
Tip: Try sprinkling powdered charcoal regularly over ant-ridden areas.
This may make it difficult for them to navigate and communicate.
Fruit flies
MORE ripening or fermenting edibles in warm weather means this is prime time for tiny fruit flies.
Try to cut waste by only buying food you need.
Empty bins daily, and wash or rinse fresh produce when it enters your kitchen to help prevent them taking hold.
A mixture of apple cider vinegar and liquid soap in a dish on the side can trap fruit flies.
Tip: Use fans positioned to create a consistent airflow towards the infested spot such as the fruit bowl.
This makes it harder for the bugs to fly near the area.
Flying ants
WE see swarms of these winged bugs on one day annually, usually in July or August.
Flying ants aren’t dangerous and don’t bite but can be unpleasant.
If you keep your windows shut, or use insect screens, they are unlikely to find their way inside.
If they do get in, try to locate their nest.
You can then use insecticidal powder or try placing a large plant pot over the nest.
In a few weeks, the ants will move their nest into the plant pot, and you can safely relocate it.
Tip: Place deterrents by doors and windows.
Try herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic.
Cockroaches
ROACHES harbour a range of harmful bacteria including salmonella.
They typically come in search of food, water and shelter, attracted by moist areas, food droppings and pet bedding.
Signs you’ve been invaded include seeing dead bugs, egg casings, and a musky smell.
Seal entry cracks and if you have a pet keep their bedding and feed sealed.
Tip: One of the most effective elimination methods is natural.
Combine one cup of borax, one cup of cornmeal, half a cup of flour and ¼ cup of sugar and sprinkle where you’ve seen cockroaches.
Mosquitoes
FLESH-eating mossies aren’t just an irritant abroad, there are 30 native species in the UK.
They are typically found near water sources such as marshland, rivers, streams and ponds, or even stagnant drains and puddles.
Luckily our homegrown nibblers don’t carry diseases but they can still be a nuisance.
They prefer to bite at dawn and dusk, with warm, sweaty skin a favourite for feasting upon.
Tip: Plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mossies inside and out.
Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.