Guest Post: The Dangers of Having Pests in Your Home
Nature abounds with an enormous variety of fauna, ranging from mammals to birds to all the insects that seem to be inescapably anywhere. Some of these creatures are a benefit to human beings, while others are potentially harmful. A pest, by definition, is any animal that lives alongside human beings and either irritates or harms people. This can range from rodents and cockroaches that feed on our scraps to larger mammals such as stray dogs and possums.
Theoretically, many these critters do little harm to humans, and some like ants simply clean up the mess that we ourselves were too lazy to sweep and mop. They come in looking for nourishment, and remove particles that might otherwise rot into mold and bacteria. While ants are highly sterile creatures, they can still bite and some can even sting. Other scavenging creatures, such as mice and cockroaches, might remove some problems but bring in others such as outside bacteria. Mice are more dangerous than cockroaches; actually, and as mammals have a broader range of diseases that are communicable to humans.
Small pests can spread disease and give us a fright, but are easily dealt with using traps and poison. New challenges arise; however, when the critters get heavier than a few pounds. They can climb over fences, chew through screening, and sometimes even break thin glass. They might come after crumbs, but might also have the muscle to get into the main stuff. The most frequent pests of this sort are stray cats and dogs; but creatures such as raccoons, skunks, and possums are also very common. The more nature there is around you, expect a broader assortment of neighbours in the animal kingdom.
Larger mammals are dangerous because they can bite and scratch and transmit dangerous diseases. Most mammals have an abundance of bacteria in their mouths, and any puncture wound can breed tetanus. While it is a rarity, some mammals can transmit rabies through biting and scratching with the paws that they licked. Mice, by comparison, mostly spread germs by pooping on the carpet and by touching food. Getting bitten by a mouse or even a rat is unlikely.
Controlling larger pests is a unique challenge that must be addressed by more means than poison. Indeed, night-time scavengers can benefit the homeowner by eating insects and other pests. It is best to avoid tempting them by not leaving out food scraps. A tight and high fence can keep out climbing animals, and remove overhanging branches that give critters a way in. Since many animals dig to get under fences, consider laying down a lining of brick. Fill in dig holes with concrete. For creatures already accustomed to trying to get into your property, a trap might be in order. By careful consideration, it is possible to possum proof your home.
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