booklice guide singapore

The Ultimate Guide to Booklice

Pest Guides

booklice guide singapore

Table Of Contents

What are Booklice?

Booklice are tiny insects only about 1 to 2 mm in length. They are soft-bodied insects classified in the insect family Psocidae. Booklice in Singapore can be a nuisance as they are often found indoors in peoples’ houses or offices. 

Further booklice facts are that they are also called psocids and are not actually lice. Booklice are white or brown in colour and may or may not have wings depending on the particular species. Most of the time booklice you find inside will be the wingless species.

booklice fact

Life Cycle

There is no pupal stage in the development of booklice because they are one of the more primitive types of insects. They pass through an egg, larval, and adult stage during their life. The larval stage looks like a miniature adult and molts as it grows. 

They can lay up to 50 eggs and can complete development in 4 weeks. However, in colder temperatures, this insect takes about three times as long to finish development.  

In suitable conditions, booklice can produce multiple generations a year and can grow to large numbers without you even realizing it.

Where Do Booklice Come From?

Booklice are found in humid areas, and in nature, you often find them under bark or in leaf litter. They can get into the home through the tiniest of gaps or spaces.  

Another one of the causes of booklice getting inside is when people carry in firewood from outdoors or bring home books or other items from a second-hand shop or from long-term storage where mould and mildew have developed.  

They like moist conditions so you can expect to find more booklice if the conditions in your home are on the humid side. They will often inhabit moist and dark areas where they may not be noticed.

Pro Tip: The best way to prevent booklice is to eliminate the moisture in your home and seal the cracks and gaps where booklice may be entering.

Do Booklice Bite?

Booklice do not bite and are small insects that may not be easy to detect. They feed on starchy substances and also mould and mildew. They are considered pests because they like to chew up the glue used in book bindings and they do sometimes get into stored food items. 

The presence of booklice may also mean that conditions are favourable for other pest insects like silverfish and cockroaches.

Damage Caused by Booklice

Psocids are not as damaging to property as some other pest insects are but they are nonetheless a nuisance. They do chew up the glue in books, meaning that the book pages may come undone. Over time this weakens the books and pages may fall out. 

Occasionally you may find booklice inside food like your cereal and other grain products. This is annoying and a person usually won’t want to eat food that has living insects crawling in it.

booklice damage

How to Prevent Booklice?

Booklice enjoy humid and warm conditions, which is why a good strategy is to make sure your home is not overly humid. Below we have included some useful booklice prevention tips to help you stop an infestation from occurring. 

  • Using a dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture in the air and you should also check that there are not any leaking faucets or pipes in the bathroom or kitchen area. 
  • Vacuum and dust often and avoid accumulating clutter which makes it hard to notice when there is a pest problem. This is true for all pest insects that can invade your home. 
  • Another good strategy is to increase the ventilation of air throughout the home. Open doors and windows during the day on dry and warm days. This can help moisture to evaporate. 
  • Use airtight containers to store your food in to prevent pests like booklice from gaining access.

Get more DIY pest control methods

When it comes to pest control, addressing booklice should be part of a broader pest management strategy. Combining insecticides with professional treatments can not only help eliminate the booklice but also prevent other pests from infesting your home.

Signs of a Booklice Infestation

You may wonder how to spot booklice? There are some signs that you can look for that may indicate a booklice problem. You may notice tiny insects moving in your flour or cereal. These could be booklice. You may also notice a tiny insect scurry out from between the pages of a book.  

It is wise to frequently check for any signs of insect damage or the presence of insects. When checking for booklice, you should look in closed drawers and humid areas, and also open a few books up to see if there are any booklice running around. 

In general, booklice are difficult to detect because they are so small. The darker-coloured booklice usually are easier to spot because they are darker and will show up against light surfaces.

The Ultimate Guide to Bed Bugs Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

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bed bugs vs booklice identification

How to Get Rid of Booklice?

Getting rid of booklice involves a few methods. One of the most effective is to decrease the humidity in the home. We have already mentioned that dehumidifiers are a smart idea when you live in a very humid climate. If you have any water leakage, it is also worth to get it fixed. There are some essential oils that may prove to be helpful, such as peppermint and lavender oil.

It will not be feasible or even practical to search for and individually find booklice and kill them. They are far too small and the booklice nymphs are even smaller and will likely not be noticed, the same for the eggs. 

If you do have a booklice problem then consulting with insect pest experts is a good decision to make. They can use hot steam and pesticides to kill booklice.  

Even though booklice are not major pests, you should still take an infestation seriously because they are a nuisance that can damage your books and infest your food.

Booklice versus Bed Bugs: Why Is It Important to Know the Difference Between the Two?

Each type of pest infestation is aggravating to home and business owners. Understanding the type and size of an infestation is critical to determine the right treatment method. When it comes to booklice and bed bugs, both types of pests behave differently.

While booklice are generally harmless, bed bugs bites can be painful to humans. Booklice and bed bugs are also active in different areas. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two.

booklice vs bed bugs comparison infographic

What Are the Main Characteristics of Booklice and Bed Bugs?

  1. Booklice are smaller than bed bugs. They are skinnier, in other words, the body is not round and oval the way a bed bug is.
  2. Booklice has a large head relative to the size of the body.
  3. Bed bugs feed on blood, booklice feed on mould or mildew.
  4. Booklice will be found in books and on stored products while bed bugs occur on beds and furniture like sofas.
  5. If you have a bed bug infestation you will quickly know it because bed bugs leave painful and itchy bites on humans and stains on the bed. This is not the case with booklice.

Signs of Bed Bugs and Booklice

We now know that bed bugs and booklice behave differently. Are you concerned that you may have an infestation of bed bugs or booklice? Let’s sum up the main signs.

The main signs of a bed bugs infestation include:

  • Reddish stains on bed sheets
  • Dark spots on the mattress
  • Dark spots on other furniture
  • A sweet, musty smell
  • Bites and itches on your skin (red spots)

The main signs of a booklice infestation include:

  • Powdery or small black spots near cardboard materials and books
  • Crawling insects near windows, doors, bookcases and areas with high humidity

Bed Bugs versus Booklice: What Damage Can They Cause?

The most important creature to cause damage is a bed bug. They leave painful, itchy bites on the human flesh. Booklice are not that interested in human beings.

Both bed bugs and booklice can cause material damage. In the case of bed bugs, they can turn your bedroom into a living hell. Stains of blood from bed bugs is the most common damage caused by the little insects.

Booklice spend most of their time around products made of paper and cardboard. Hence, one of the most common types of damage caused by booklice is the destruction of books. You may also want to protect your most important paper documents to prevent booklice from destroying them.

Pro Tip: To get rid of any infestation, you need to identify what type of pests you are dealing with and where they come from.

How to Remove Bed Bugs and Booklice?

Let’s move to the most important part of our comparison of bed bugs versus booklice. There are various approaches to removing pest infestations.

If you think you have a booklice infestation, you can take some action yourself to try to remove them. One of the things you can do is reduce humidity by using dehumidifiers. If you have any water leakage, it is also worth to get it fixed. There are some essential oils that may prove to be helpful, such as peppermint and lavender oil.

A bed bugs infestations is much more serious and requires the intervention of a professional. Contact your nearest pest control company for an inspection and removal treatment. If you do want to take some action yourself in the meantime, it is a good practice to wash your bedding frequently in hot water. This will help prevent further aggravation in the short term. To get rid of the bed bugs infestation for good, a pest control technician needs to come in and go to the source of the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, they are harmless to humans and pets. They don’t bite, spread disease, or damage your home. If you’ve noticed bites or stains on the bed, you might have a bed bug infestation.

Although not harmful to humans, booklice can sometimes be causing allergies. Removing the infestation can help to reduce the symptoms and feel better.

Booklice are attracted to areas with high humidity. They feed on starchy substances and also mould and mildew.

Hot steam and pesticides are effective solutions to kill booklice. To get rid of booklice, you will also need to decrease the humidity in the home.

Booklice can be easily mistaken for bed bugs, especially bed bug nymphs. Both are light-colored but bed bug nymphs have less elongated bodies.

Booklice can be found anywhere with moisture, including upholstered furniture, damp papers or books, and old mattresses.

Booklice are less harmful to people and animals as they don’t bite, however, both bed bugs and booklice can cause some disruption and stress.

Bed bugs can be mistaken for bat bugs, spider beetles, baby cockroaches, carpet beetles, ticks, fleas, booklice, or headlice.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

silverfish guide singapore

The Ultimate Guide to Silverfish

Pest Guides

silverfish guide singapore

Table Of Contents

What Are Silverfish?

Silverfish are small, primitive insects that have a tapered body with three “tails” at the end of the abdomen. The body is silvery gray in color and they have a scaly fish-like appearance. The body size of these insects is only up to 2,5 cm in length. 

Further silverfish facts include that there are at least 120 types of silverfish found worldwide and they are believed to have evolved over 400 million years ago. The silverfish cannot fly and are most active at night when you may see them running about behind a book or in a drawer that you open.

silverfish fact

Life Cycle of Silverfish

The silverfish mate and lay eggs in areas like cracks and crevices where they are protected. They can lay up to 20 eggs and complete total development in 4 months. Silverfish females can lay eggs all year which means you can end up with a big problem.  

The young silverfish look like the adults when hatching but are small in size. They grow and moult until reaching adult size.

silverfish under logs

Where Do Silverfish Come From?

These insects are found living in moist and dark places such as under logs, bark, or leaf litter. They can enter houses and other dwellings where they will move into similarly dark and humid places.  Silverfish often enter a home through gaps and cracks.  

You may accidentally introduce silverfish into your home when you bring home books and other items from a second-hand bookshop or from a storage facility.  Silverfish in Singapore occur in homes and other dwellings, where they can cause damage.

Do Silverfish Bite?

Silverfish do not bite but they do cause damage, especially to books and fabrics. Although these insects do not bite, they can cause an allergic reaction in some people. In fact, children with asthma may be sensitive in some cases to allergens released by these insects. The allergens may be the proteins associated with the shed skin of the silverfish or even their faeces.

Damage caused by Silverfish

Silverfish don’t chew up wood like termites do but they nonetheless are a pest because they like to eat starchy substances.  

They have tiny mouths but the silverfish over time causes damage to a variety of surfaces including clothes. Eventually, you will start to find some clothes with little holes in them or that appear to have deteriorated.  

The silverfish is a particularly big problem when you store items for a long time.  These insects will reproduce and soon you will have dozens of silverfish eating away at all your fabrics, clothes, and paper items. 

Silverfish often chew up the pages of books and other paper-based materials. You may find important documents and pages of your favourite text with little holes in them because of these insects. 

The silverfish also like to eat sugar and bits of dried food so any food that is not properly stored may be targeted for a meal.

How to Prevent Silverfish?

Since silverfish like moist conditions, it is helpful to fix any leaking faucets or other damp areas of the home. A dehumidifier can also help to remove excess moisture and dampness from a dwelling and from cupboards.  

Check the weatherstripping and make sure to fix any cracks or gaps you find around the house.  Check that any area of caulk has not deteriorated leaving small holes that silverfish and other insects can crawl through. This can help prevent silverfish from getting into the house. 

Cleaning the house regularly is important. Vacuum and dust often and keep all food stored in proper containers. Clothing and books should also be checked often for any signs of damage.

Pro Tip: Ensuring a low level of humidity and keeping your home clean and organized will help to prevent silverfish.

Signs of Silverfish Infestation

There are some indications that you have a silverfish problem. We have listed these below: 

  1. Droppings. These may be hard to see because they are so small, but if you notice little black specks around books or in drawers; this could be a sign that silverfish or at least some pest insect is present.
  2. Live animals. You are very likely to disturb a silverfish when you move a book or clean out a drawer or move clothes around in the closet.
  3. Yellow staining on belongings. Book pages may show yellow-colored stains, which could be due to silverfish shedding their skins.
  4. Holes or chewed areas on belongings. Although small in size, silverfish do chew books and other items leaving fine, tiny holes, or damaged edges. These feeding marks are the main causes of silverfish damage. 

How to Get Rid of Silverfish

Once you discover you have a silverfish problem, the next steps are to begin control. Getting rid of silverfish is important to stop further damage from happening.  

While you can search for and try to kill silverfish on your own and it is unlikely you will find every single individual since they often hide in cracks and crevices. This is also tedious and time-consuming so it may be best to consult a pest control company to help with the problem.

How to Kill Silverfish?

There are traps you can use to catch silverfish, such as glue traps. You can also spray insecticide directly on the insect or fumigate. It is tricky to find and trap or even spray every silverfish in the house because they hide and are difficult to detect.  

This is why consulting a pest control specialist may be a good idea. Fumigation is an option if you have a big problem with silverfish and particularly if you have other pest insects like cockroaches that are present in large numbers. Always consult a professional if you are considering fumigation. 

Traps and even spraying insecticide may be dangerous if you have pets and small children in the house, this is another good reason to consult with a pest control specialist. 

Silverfish are ancient insects that are difficult to notice until they cause damage, which is why checking regularly for signs of a silverfish infestation is important in preventing future problems in the home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Silverfish don’t bite or sting, are not poisonous, and are considered harmless to humans. But they can damage your belongings and contaminate your food, and in some cases, cause an allergic reaction.

Silverfish can be found almost anywhere in the house, usually in dark and damp places. They come into the house through cracks and holes in the building exterior. Silverfish can also lay eggs in those cracks or contaminated belongings.

Silverfish are attracted to high humidity, moisture, and damp conditions. Homes with poor ventilation are prone to silverfish infestation.

Silverfish can eat almost anything, including money, books, clothes, grains, vegetables, fibers, cereals, sugars, and starches.

Washing your clothes at a high temperature can help kill silverfish and their eggs in your clothes. But pay attention to the highest temperature the material allows.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

wasp singapore

The Complete Guide to Wasp Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

Pest Guides

wasp singapore

Wasps, a group of flying insects in the order of Hymenoptera, are often confused with bees because of their similar shape. Both can build nests in trees, attics, balconies and at the corner of ceilings.

Wasps and hornets are from the same family, Vespidae. They are beneficial insects and play essential roles in the ecosystem. They help in pollination and prey on insect pests. Without wasps, we would be dealing with more insects, pests and spiders. Nevertheless, the presence of wasps may cause stress and disturbance to humans because of their painful and dangerous stings.

Table Of Contents

types of wasps in singapore

Types of Wasps in Singapore

Wasps can be distinguished between social wasps and solitary wasps. Social wasps share one nest, while solitary wasps nest alone. Hornets, yellow jackets, and paper wasps are examples of social wasps. On the other hand, thread-waisted wasps and mud daubers are characterized as solitary wasps.

Social wasps:

Paper wasps 

Paper wasps are said to be the most common type of wasp in Singapore. Paper wasps have reddish-brown to black colour bodies with yellow rings around their abdomen. They are also called “umbrella wasps” because their nests resemble an upside-down umbrella supported by a single stalk.

Yellowjackets 

Yellowjackets look quite similar to paper wasps. However, paper wasps have long and slender legs. The most common yellowjackets have bright yellow bodies with black lines, spots and triangles on their abdomen. Their body size is around 0.9 to 1.5cm. 

Unlike paper wasps, yellowjackets use wood fibre to construct their nests. Yellowjackets may build nests in wall voids and attics, but they rarely cause structural damage to premises. Besides, they also build nests below the ground (not active rodent burrows), hollow logs, timbers or trees.

Hornets 

People most often refer to yellowjackets as hornets. However, some hornets are much larger (can be up to 5cm) than yellowjackets. They can construct round or pear-shaped paper nests up to 90cm long. An entrance hole is always situated near the bottom of the nest. Hornet nests are most often built above ground, in high trees. However, they may attach their nests to the eaves of the buildings.

Solitary wasps:

Mud daubers 

Mud daubers have longer and slender waists compared to most of the other wasps. Their body sizes range from 2 to 2.5cm. Nests of mud daubers are much smaller. They build mud tubes under buildings, roofs or attics.

Thread-waisted wasps 

Thread-waisted wasps have incredibly narrow waists with a red or orange band between the waist and the abdomen. They also have long and skinny legs. The body size can be longer than 2.5cm, bigger than mud daubers. Thread-waisted wasps are ground nesters. They construct nests and seal them temporarily just before going out and searching for food.

What Common Pests Are Found in Your Garden?

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butterfly and wasps in the garden

Life Cycle and Biology

A wasp nest is generally started from a solitary queen/female wasp. She will first build a small nest and raise the first generation on her own.

Social wasps 

Social wasps have a caste system in their societies. One caste can have one or several queens. The workers are sterile females. A few drones (males) can also be found.

A mature paper wasp nest rarely has more than 200 cells and the nest usually contains 20-30 adults. Most social wasps have annual nests (survive a year). Social wasp workers typically have a lifespan of 12 to 22 days, while the queen usually can live up to a year.

Solitary wasps 

Solitary wasps are also predators. Adult wasps feed on nectar and prey on insects or spiders to feed their young, just like social wasps. Different species of solitary wasps attack different types of insects. They sting, paralyze, drag or pick prey back to their nest. The larvae of the solitary wasp will then feed on the immobilized prey for their development and growth.

Hazards of Wasps

The ability of wasps to sting is the primary reason that people are worried. Wasps sting and inject venom from the rear part of their abdomen. Social wasps will vigorously attack humans when their nest is disturbed.

Nonetheless, they rarely sting away from their nest unless they are trapped or pressed against human skin. On the other hand, solitary wasps rarely sting unless threatened. The sting from solitary wasps usually causes a less severe reaction to humans than social wasps.

Wasp stings result in pain. Often, wasp stings are more painful than the sting of bees. The stings from wasps are usually not life-threatening but can last for a longer period. Allergic reactions may occur in some people. In severe cases, they may suffer an anaphylactic (hypersensitive) reaction if they are stung by the wasps. However, most deaths from wasp stings are because by allergic reactions to venom protein and enzymes from the wasps.

After being stung by a wasp, most people will only experience minor pain and swelling on the skin, while there are still many other symptoms that can be resulted from the sting of a wasp: 

  • Pain 
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Itching
  • Flushing

Victims should seek medical care immediately if severe allergic reactions start to develop. Symptoms in more severe cases can be: 

  • Widespread rash 
  • Anaphylaxis  
  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Rapid pulse 
  • Low blood pressure
  • Shock/respiratory distress

The best thing to do is to run to a protected area to prevent social wasps from stinging continuously and avoid danger.

What are the natural remedies for insect bites?

Secondary effects from wasp stings

There is another problem resulting from getting stung by a wasp. Many people panic if there is a wasp around. Secondary hazards can occur if a person sees a wasp and suddenly starts running without noticing their surroundings. For example, this may happen while crossing a road.

signs of a wasp infestation

Signs of a Wasp Infestation

1. Sighting of wasps 

This is quite an obvious sign that can tell you if a wasp nest is somewhere near you. You might need to follow and trace wasp nests if you wasps flying around your premises. What you can do is follow their flight path and check for the nest location.

2. Buzzing wasps 

Buzzing happens especially when social wasps are around. This is because of their large number. The buzzing sound may give you a cue to locate their nest. 

 3. Sighting of wasp nests 

You may do a thorough check around your house after noticing the first and second signs. Wasp nests can be found in trees, inside lofts, edges of roofs, in the corner of a quiet room, or even inside a wardrobe.

prevent and get rid of wasps

Tips to Prevent and Get Rid of Wasps

How to prevent wasps? It is almost impossible to eliminate wasps from us entirely as they are part of our ecosystem. Nonetheless, we can try to reduce their access to our living environment and make it less suitable for them to breed.

1. Eliminate new nests before they become a threat

It is usually safe to destroy a wasp nest when it is still in the earliest stage of development. However, if you are worried about the possible hazards, you may call a pest management professional to handle them.

2. Seal any openings that can be potential entry points for wasps 

You can inspect and check around your house’s exterior. Use durable materials like caulk-based silicone, metal screen or similar sealant to repair or seal any openings, cracks or gaps that might harbour a wasp colony. 

3. Reduce clutter 

It is essential to reduce clutter in and outside of the house. Unused items such as lawn equipment, appliances or unwanted receptacles can attract and provide shelter for wasps to build their nest, especially when food and flowers are around.

4. Do not leave any food outside 

After enjoying your dinner or barbecue in the backyard, always make sure to clean up immediately.

5. Make sure garbage bins are covered completely

Garbage bins can be one of the popular nesting sites for wasps because of the moisture and food. Make sure the bin lids are clamped down securely and inspect for any crack or hole on the surface of the bins.

6. Avoid overripe fruit in your garden area 

If you are planting fruit trees in your garden, make sure to check to avoid overripe fruit frequently, as these attract wasps. You may also seal the fruit in a plastic bag or container to not attract wasps to come over.

Pro Tip: Because of the hazards and challenges, it's better to leave wasp management to pest control professionals.

DIY Methods to Get Rid of Wasps

There are a few DIY methods that might help to deter wasps from nesting around your house. These methods make use of the smell released from natural oil blends or plants.

1. Use of essential oils 

Research has found that a combination of lemongrass, clove and geranium essential oils can successfully repel wasps. Mix several drops and apply the oils on potential nesting sites such as edges, roofs, cracks, and crevices. Furthermore, you may also target those areas that were previously occupied by a wasp nest.

2. Place/plant wasp-repelling plants around your house 

You may plant some wasp-repelling plants around your house instead of those flowering plants that may attract wasps from coming in. Mint, eucalyptus, citronella, marigold, basil and geranium are some examples of plants that wasps find distasteful. You may also cultivate those plants indoors if you spotted wasps in the area before.

wasp facts

Professional Wasp Elimination Treatment in Singapore

Wasp management is best left for professionals because of its hazards and challenges in applying chemicals to the wasp nest. Pest management professionals are always equipped with the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) when dealing with bee or wasp nests. The PPE prevents them from getting stung.

Our trained pest management professionals use an effective chemical delivery system to reach wasp nests with an aerosol generator. The chemical or insecticide acts on the entire wasp colony and the nest is then removed from the infested area. 

If you have wasp issues in your house or premises, please do not hesitate to contact Killem’s team. Our trained pest management professionals can help you get rid of your worries and make you feel safe again.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is not recommended to try to get rid of wasps by yourself. Wasp removal requires a lot of caution and is therefore best left to pest control professionals.

We can usually perform a wasp removal service within 2 working days.

In most cases, our pest professionals require up to an hour to perform the wasp treatment.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

rodent guide singapore

The Complete Guide to Rodent Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

Pest Guides

rodent guide singapore

Rodents are mammals with a high degree of intelligence. Rodents belong to the family Rodentia which houses many other animals such as squirrels, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Among all rodents, rats and mice cause the most problem to our living environment. They can infest food, damage houses and buildings, and threaten public health. A rodent infestation is said to be a real headache in the pest management industry. The skills of rodents make the controlling efforts a challenging task.

Table Of Contents

What’s the Difference Between a Rat vs a Mouse?

Though rats and mice have similar food preferences and may look similar, they are not the same. One of the key differences between a rat and a mouse is their size: rats are usually larger than mice and can grow up to 26 cm in length, while mice are typically around 5 to 10 cm. Their tails also differ, as rats have thicker tails compared to the slenderer tails of mice. Furthermore, rats and mice have different behavior and habitat preferences, as rats are generally more cautious, while mice are known for their adaptability and making nests close to people.

To tackle rodent infestations, individuals use various methods like rat and mouse baits, traps, repellents, and poisons designed specifically for rats or mice. It is important to identify whether you have a rat or a mouse in your house to choose the right pest control methods.

rat vs mouse difference

Types of Rodents in Singapore

There are 3 common rats and mice in Singapore, which are Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), roof rats (Rattus rattus) and house mice (Mus musculus).

Norway rats are the biggest (body length range from 22 to 26 cm) among the three common species. They are also known as sewer rats, as we can always find them in the drainage system. Thus, that is one of their main travel pathways. Norway rats can be distinguished by their size, heads, ears, and tails. They have a robust body appearance, with a blunt muzzle and a shorter tail than the body.

Roof rats are famous for their climbing abilities. They are so-called agile climbers and are primarily found in elevated spaces. They have a smaller size (about 16 to 20 cm of body length), a head with a pointed nose, larger eyes, and ears similar to that of Norway rats.

The size of a house mouse is about 5 to 8 cm. Thus, they are smaller in size compared to rats. Like roof rats, mice also possess large ears and small black eyes.

facts about mice and rats

Life Cycle and Biology

Rodents are excellent in hearing, tasting, smelling and touching. However, they have poor eyesight. They are nocturnal animals, meaning that they are primarily active at night. As mentioned, rodents are smart. They explore and constantly learn, memorize food, water, pathways, nests, and the features of their environment. In addition, they have neophobia behaviour. Rodents usually avoid new objects such as traps and baits for a few days or more following their initial placement.

Norway rats are usually found at building foundations or lower levels of the buildings, especially in the basement. They are the main burrow builders and excellent swimmers. Norway rats can reach sexual maturity in about 2 to 3 months. They can reproduce and breed throughout the year in favourable conditions. One female can give birth to about 5 to 14 litters per year.

Roof rats are agile climbers who usually nest at a higher elevation, such as false ceilings, attics, cabinets, trees and dense vegetation. When roof rats invade buildings, nesting materials such as shredded paper, newspapers, and dried plant materials are used. You can always see them running along utility pipelines and overhead fence tops. One female roof rat can produce 3 to 5 litters per year.

House mice are also excellent climbers. They can even squeeze through holes of less than 1 cm in diameter because of their tiny size. House mice can have 5 to 10 litters in a single year. They can also easily enter buildings. As a result, house mice infestations are more common and severe than rat infestations.

Interesting fact: House mice infestations are more common and severe than rat infestations.

Medical Importance

Rats and mice are capable of causing structural damage and transmitting diseases (to human beings) such as:

  • Rat-bite fever
  • Salmonellosis (food poisoning)
  • Leptospirosis

Diseases are transmitted through bite wounds, food, waste products, or indirectly by fleas, ticks and mites via close contact.

Here are some of the symptoms of rodent-borne diseases: 

  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Muscle aches 
  • Headaches 
  • Cough
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite

In severe cases, some symptoms may show, such as: 

  • Weight loss 
  • Fatigue 
  • Swollen ankles, feet, or hands 
  • Decreased urination 
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Jaundice
  • Confused mental state
  • Aggressive behaviour
  • Seizures
  • Inability to control your movements
  • Inability to speak
  • Aversion to lights

signs of a rodent infestation

Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Rodents are nocturnal animals. We often do not notice their presence until the infestation becomes severe. Here, we will share the tell-tale signs of a rodent infestation.

1. Gnaw marks

As mentioned, the incisors of rodents never stop growing. This is one of their survival behaviours! They gnaw their incisors to gain food, and resources, invade buildings, build nests, assist in climbing and use them as weapons to fight the enemy. Rodents are seemingly attracted most to electrical wires and wooden structures.

2. Bite signs on food packaging

Rodents can bite through many food packages such as plastics, paper sacks and cardboard. Their teeth are strong and sharp enough to bite through those materials to obtain food.

3. Rodent droppings

Rodents can produce 20 and 30 droppings in a single day. In short, droppings are a good indicator to inspect for rodent activities. Furthermore, the shape and size of droppings can help in checking for rodent species.

4. Rub marks

Rub marks refer to the dark grease left by rodents when they follow a trail or pathway between their nest and available food source. The dark grease or dirt marks are caused by the oily fur of rodents.

5. Urine stain and odour

In heavily infested rodent areas, we can sense stale smells coming from hidden places. Rodents use scent to mark their territory, and convey information and social dominance.

6. Burrows

Norway rats’ burrows are always found along with building foundations, especially in the external garden area. When they invade the building, they usually nest at lower elevations.

7. Live/dead rodents

Seeing a live or dead rat or mouse on your premises is a potential sign that you have a rodent infestation. Also, if you find rodents during the daytime, this may indicate that you have a heavy infestation on your premises.

tips to prevent rodents

How to Prevent Rodents from Invading Your Home

You may have probably been disturbed and heard rodents squeaking at night or see them running in the kitchen area or backyard. This is because they always live near humans, searching for food that people leave behind.

As mentioned, rodents are excellent swimmers or agile climbers. For them, it is not a difficult task to find a way to invade our premises. Hence, how do we prevent them from coming in?

1. Make sure rubbish bins are always covered properly

Rodents, especially house mice, can squeeze through tiny spaces. It is advisable to always keep rubbish bins closed. As such, they are denied access and cannot gain food from bins.

2. Empty your bins before night falls

The smell of food waste in kitchen bins can attract rodents and other pests to thrive. Rodents are nocturnal pests. So, make sure food waste is always disposed of daily before night.

3. Seal up potential entry points

Both rats and house mice are capable of climbing. Therefore, make sure to inspect buildings, especially rooflines. Also, be aware of the potential rodent entry points and take necessary sealing and repairing works on the entry points found.

4. Trim bushes and trees

Rodents use thick foliage to protect and cover themselves from predators. Roof rats and house mice can climb up to buildings or premises from shrubs and trees near the exterior foundation. Hence, always make sure to trim bushes and trees around your premises to prevent giving them a favourable environment to thrive.

5. Store food in the right way

As rodents can bite through food packages, storing food in tightly sealed containers or placing food in the refrigerator is essential. The same goes for pet food, which should not be left out all day long or overnight as it will attract rodents and other pests.

6. Reduce water sources

Leaking pipes need to be fixed to reduce available water sources for rodents and other pests. The drainage system also needs to be improved if standing water is sighted and the drains are blocked. Besides, floor traps need to be covered at all times to prevent rodents from coming in through the drainage system.

7 Tips for Keeping Our Bins and Bin Chutes Free of Rodents

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DIY Methods to Get Rid of Rodents

Set your own rat/mousetrap:

  1. Buy traps in the market (it is recommended to buy traps that can prevent them from suffering).
  2. Make your own traps by referring to online tutorials (avoid catching the live one as you may need to kill or starve them afterwards).
  3. Choose peanut butter as the bait rather than cheese (they prefer high protein and oil-based food).
  4. Place traps perpendicular to walls (as that is their pathway).
  5. Wear removable gloves.
  6. Dispose of them by using tightly sealed black plastic bags.

Professional Rodent Treatment

In the case of a severe rodent infestation, treatment methods can become complicated. It is usually the combination of at least 2 to 3 methods to identify and solve a heavy rodent infestation. Help from a professional pest control company is strongly advised.

Exclusion

Identifying rodent entry points can be challenging to untrained eyes as mice can squeeze through dime-sized holes. These tiny holes can be easy to miss out on. Our pest management technicians are trained to inspect and identify the potential holes rodents or mice might use to gain food in your premises.

Rodenticides

When the rodent infestation is severe, we might need to place rodent baits outside the premise to achieve adequate control. Rodenticides are placed in a tamper-proof rodent bait station to avoid non-target animals from feeding.

Trapping

Pre-baiting 

As rodents have a neophobia (bait shy) effect, pre-baiting is usually the initial stage to ensure they feed on the baits placed in the traps. The baits that we use are non-toxic and formulated with more than 15 human foods to gain attraction.

Trap with baits 

After pre-baiting (usually about a few days or weeks), traps with the same baits will be activated. This stage usually proceeds until no more rodents are trapped and signs of infestation are not sighted anymore. 

Our trap can send an alert to us once the rodent is caught. Then, immediate removal of the carcass can be done.

Rodents live in close association with humans and feed on whatever humans eat. Hence, you might have been providing them food without even knowing it! Therefore, maintaining the best housekeeping practice is the most reliable method to keep your premises clear from pest invasions.

However, controlling and catching rodents on your own is not a good idea when it comes to heavily infested areas. Instead, seek help from professionals now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact us now. Our team of experts are ready to eliminate your rat or mice problem.

Food is one of the primary reasons why rodents enter your home or office. Make sure to seal food properly and to clean areas where food is processed and eaten.

In some cases, traps for mice and rats are useful, but only if your home or office is not yet infested heavily.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

Midges in Singapore

The Complete Guide to the Prevention, Treatment and Control of Midges in Singapore

Pest Guides

Midges in Singapore

Midges are common insects in urban environments. In Singapore, it is not unusual to see swarms of midges near reservoirs. They can cause a lot of problems. These areas provide favorable conditions such as ample food in the water and optimal temperature during certain times of the year. A patron of an eatery in Teban Gardens recounted her experience with midges in Singapore:

“It was a fine afternoon and I was sitting at the corner of a bustling eatery, trying to fill my stomach after a morning of hard work. Set lunch was the perfect choice for a hungry soul. However, when I was about to start the lunch break with a sip of soup, I found that a bug was taking a nice warm dip in the soup. ‘Maybe I’ll skip the soup and let you have it.’ I told myself, and the bug. I was about to dig in when a swarm of bugs invaded my personal space and turned my peaceful lunch break into a horrifying experience that I will never forget.”

You may hear similar stories from people who live or work near Pandan Reservoir where tiny insects known as midges give the residents and local authorities serious headaches.

Table Of Contents

common types of midges in singapore

Types of Midges

Midges can be categorized into two main groups, namely: 

Biting midges found in Singapore are in the family of Ceratopogonidae, while non-biting midges are in the family of Chironomidae. In Singapore, biting midges are also known as sand flies, but some may call them “No-See-Ums”. As the name implies, biting midges are bloodsuckers, leaving painful bites on human and animal skins. On the other hand, non-biting midges do not bite and feed like biting midges. Non-biting midges do not cause and transmit diseases to humans as mosquitoes do. However, they are defined as nuisance pests to humans.

Midges in Singapore can be found in stagnant or slow-flowing water bodies such as drains, ponds, lakes and water reservoir.

Life Cycle and Biology

The life cycle of midges is similar to that of mosquitoes. The life cycle of both biting and non-biting midges involves four development stages, namely: 

  • Egg 
  • Larval
  • Pupal
  • Adult

Biting midges

The complete life cycle of biting midges takes about 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the species and environmental factors. Both male and female biting midges feed on nectar. However, females require human or animal blood for their eggs to mature. Females usually fly into the male swarms for mating. This occurs when females finish feeding on blood.

Larvae development requires a moisture source. They need water, air and food for survival. Larvae develop in ponds, streams or muddy substrates, and they feed on organisms around them. The pupae stage can last from 2 to 3 days. The lifespan for an adult biting midge is usually up to a few weeks.

Did you know facts about midges

Non-Biting Midges

Non-Biting midges do not possess proboscis. The proboscis is a needle-like mouthpart found on insects such as mosquitoes and biting midges. It is an important feature used to suck blood.

The breeding habitats of non-biting midges are similar to mosquitoes, namely in stagnant water and slow-flowing water. Common places where you can find them are drains, water reservoirs, water tanks, ponds and lakes.

The complete life cycle takes about three weeks to complete. Non-biting midges have a better reproductive capability than biting midges. Female midges lay eggs on the water surfaces, in masses that contain up to 3000 eggs. After 2 to 3 days, the eggs sink to the bottom of the water where they hatch into larvae. They feed on sediments and organic matters that are found at the bottom of the water.

The larvae of certain species are well-known as “bloodworms” which are used as bait or fish food. After 2 weeks of larval development, the midges spend 3 more days in the pupal stage before they emerge as adults. Adult midges do not feed and they spend only 2 days of their lives entirely for mating and continuing the family line.

The high reproductive capability of midges causes a large number of eggs to be laid, and adults will emerge at the same time forming large swarms. Favorable conditions such as optimal temperature and the presence of ample food and breeding sites facilitate the emergence of a large number of midges in Singapore during certain times of the year.

Mosquitoes vs Midges in Singapore

Midges are often mistaken for mosquitoes for their similar appearance. However, their differences can be recognized upon close examination. Firstly, as adult midges do not eat or drink, they do not possess proboscis. The proboscis is a needle-like mouthpart found on insects such as mosquitoes and butterflies that are used to suck liquids such as nectar and blood.

Another distinct physical appearance of midges is that their bodies are usually longer and more slender than that of mosquitoes.

One of the most commonly found midges in Singapore has a distinct green colored body.

Unlike mosquitoes, midges do not transmit diseases and they are classified as nuisance pests.

signs of a midge infestation

Signs of Midge Infestations

The swarming of midges is the most obvious sign of a midge infestation. You can notice the swarms, especially during dawn and dusk. Non-biting midges are harmless but are a nuisance to people. However, biting midges or sand flies can deliver painful bites, leaving red bumps that cause an itch.

Interesting fact: Some adult midges look similar to mosquitoes, but unlike mosquitoes, they do not eat or drink, and their bodies are usually longer and more slender.

Medical Importance of Biting Midges

Biting midges can cause a disease called leishmaniasis. Not to worry, there is no endemic transmission record of this disease in Singapore. Besides, the species that cause this disease are Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia spp., which do not appear active in Singapore.

tips to get rid of midges

How to Prevent Midges In and Around your Home

1. Keep your doors and windows screened or tightly closed

To screen your windows, the wire mesh size must be small enough to exclude all species. Ensure always to remind yourself to close doors and windows, especially during dusk and dawn, as these are midges’ most active hours. Prevention during this time prevents Aedes mosquitoes as well. If you are not planning to screen your windows, you may install curtains to lower the chances of denying their access.

2. Always inspect stagnant water and slow-flowing water in and around your home

As previously mentioned, the developmental stages of the midges are similar to mosquitoes. They need to go through larval and pupal stages before emerging as adults. Midge larvae are most likely to be found in reservoirs, lakes and ponds. Other than that, they can be found in stagnant and slow-moving water.

The greenery and plants around the home are the most susceptible areas to become their breeding habitats. Stagnant water found on soil, in planter plates, or in boxes can become potential breeding places. Besides, the soil nutrients further contribute to the growth of their larvae, giving them access to ample food and enough water to survive through their developmental stages

3. Use fertiliser 

Midge larvae prefer to develop in nutrient-rich habitats. Always remember to fertilise your plants properly by checking and following the guidelines of the fertiliser used. This is to prevent excessive use of fertiliser, resulting in fertiliser runoff in the soil to the surrounding ponds, drains, and streams. The excessive use of fertiliser can promote their growth of development as nutrients are drained from the soil to their breeding habitats.

Tips to Prevent and Get Rid of Midges (DIY Methods)

1. Use insect repellents

Insect repellents aim to repel midges away from you without killing them. Some people may have sensitive or allergy skin towards chemical-laden repellents. To protect sensitive skin from chemicals, you may apply natural insect repellents that contain substances such as citronella and tea tree oil from the market.

Although non-biting midges do not bite and transmit diseases, they can be a nuisance. Application of insect repellents is the easiest and most environmentally friendly method to protect you from midges‘ disturbance.

2. Use dim or yellow lights

Midges are highly attracted to bright light. Hence, yellow or dim light bulbs are advised, especially at doors and windows. In addition, you can always switch off the lights that are not in use in the exterior part of your home. This method is not aimed at eliminating midges but can help to reduce the presence around your living environment.

3. Make the environment less conducive (eliminate their habitats)

The reasons for midges to breed around your home are always the presence of stagnant and slow-moving water bodies. This includes over-watering of plants, hardened soil and insufficient drain gradient. Overwatering of plants and hardened soil in the planter boxes often cause the formation of stagnant water on the soil.

Always make sure to loosen the soil regularly and avoid over-watering plants to prevent the formation of ponding water. On the other hand, you may need to remove blockages such as stones, dry leaves, debris and algae formed in the drains regularly to improve the flow of drain water. You may also re-grade your drain if a poor gradient was found as midge larvae can withstand the weak water current in the drain.

4. Use Bti or mosquito dunk  

Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) or mosquito dunks can easily be bought in stores. These can be placed safely in and around your home if the formation of stagnant water bodies is difficult or troublesome to be cleared.

Bti is a bacterium that can infect the guts of mosquitoes and midge larvae. It is environmentally friendly as it does not affect or kill beneficial insects, aquatic animals and plants. Bti can be introduced into ponds, poorly maintained water fountains and gutters.

7 Tips on How to Get Rid of Midges

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Professional Midge Treatment

It is quite a simple task to deal with a small number of midges present at your premises. However, it can become challenging to control midges when their numbers increase and start affecting your daily life.

Although non-biting midges are harmless and do not bite humans, a large number of them are a nuisance and can interfere with outdoor activities. It is almost impossible to eliminate them completely as they are part of nutrient-rich aquatic habitats. However, tackling them using drastic measures is sufficient to control them under the threshold level.

The treatment methods used in Singapore for midges can be divided into the following methods: 

  • Physical 
  • Biological 
  • Insecticidal

The most basic physical method is the removal of their breeding sources. Inspection plays a vital part in reducing the midge population. Remove midges‘ breeding source via S&D (search and destroy), i.e. remove midge eggs floating on the surface of the reservoir.

Some other methods have been used in Singapore. For example, a 3 metres high netting was introduced at the reservoirs to prevent the adult midges from flying or being blown to the residential areas (midges are weak fliers, easily blown by wind). Furthermore, to attract adult midges from keeping within the reservoirs, strong spotlights at pumping stations of reservoirs remain on from 7 am to 7 pm.

The application of Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) is one of the biological methods that the government and pest control industries use.

Biological approach of using Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) larvicide is one of the environmentally friendly practices used to kill midge larvae.

This is because it is safe (no risk to humans, animals and aquatic life), target specific and does not affect the water quality. Bti is a naturally occurring bacterium in soil that is capable of producing toxins that are only specified in targeting the larva of aquatic insects.

Hence, it is safe as it does not pose any risk and toxicity to humans and animals. More importantly, water quality is not affected by Bti application. PUB of Singapore is doing well in applying and increasing the dosage of Bti to the bottom of the reservoir to prevent the larvae from hatching into the adult stage.

Another biological method that the government uses is the release of predators to hunt for midge pupae (the prey), reducing the population of adult midges. In Singapore, thousands of predatory fish (guppies, mollies and swordtails) were released into the reservoirs as they are the predators of midge pupae. The strategy is to target the pupae of midge, which act as the prey of those released fish.

Pro Tip: To help control this pesky pest, you may want to consult professional pest management companies.

Furthermore, insecticidal approaches are commonly used in pest control industries in Singapore, namely:

  • Thermal fogging
  • Misting
  • Larviciding

Thermal fogging and misting are two treatment methods to target adult flying insects, especially mosquitoes and midges. Thermal fogging targets flying insects present during the treatment period. Misting creates a residual effect on the treated surface and kills them upon contact. In short, thermal fogging acts as a “quick fix” solution to provide fast control to reduce the population of targeted insects while misting protects over a more extended period.

On the other hand, larviciding is the application of larvicide into stagnant water. It is used to target larvae before they can grow to adults.

The substantial number of non-biting midges present in Bedok and Pandan reservoirs of Singapore has led to the increase of fogging frequency to twice daily by PUB (Public Utilities Board). The reason for this is to target the most active time of non-biting midges in Singapore so that they will interfere with the treated zone during their swarming activities.

Fogging is carried out as a “quick fix” solution to those flying adult non-biting midges. The chemical used is permethrin, which is certified and recognized by both WHO (World Health Organization) and NEA (National Environment Agency). Reservoir dykes, drains, and surrounding vegetation at Bedok and Pandan are the focal point for treatment as those are the breeding sources of midges in Singapore.

How do we Control Midges in Singapore?

Licensed and certified companies in Singapore strictly carry out all the methods discussed here. At Killem Pest, we provide a physical approach by carrying out S&D (search and destroy). Inspection is not an easy challenge. Our pest control professionals are trained to have the required knowledge and ability to search for midges breeding places.

Besides, environmental health is always our concern. Hence, we also offer a biological approach by providing or applying Bti upon request or in sensitive areas. In addition, all the chemicals used in insecticidal methods are approved by NEA (National Environment Agency). The chemicals do not pose harmful effects to humans and animals.

Controlling the population of midges in Singapore is not an easy challenge but we are certainly taking it on. With more research and knowledge about the insects, we will be able to come up with new innovative measures to keep their populations under check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Midges don’t transmit any human diseases, however, it’s known that their bites can be painful and can cause a severe allergic reaction.

Midges can cause discomfort for people, but they are not considered dangerous. On the other hand, midges can spread diseases to animals, like livestock, and can be considered deadly.

The best way to protect yourself from biting is to cover up your skin. Choosing light-coloured clothing can also help, as midges are attracted to dark colors.

Yes, midges can appear in your house, and once they do, you may find it difficult to get rid of them.

Midges look similar to mosquitoes, they have the brown colouring of their bodies and wings, long wings, skinny legs, and bodies that extend the length of their wings.

Midges usually live near water and moist places, like ponds, rivers, damp soil, and others. Since there are so many of them, they can clog up the air filtration systems.

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by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

snake guide singapore

The Complete Guide to Snake Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

Pest Guides

snake guide singapore

Snakes are one of the most common reptiles that we may encounter in our daily lives. Despite having no limbs, snakes can slither with smooth and agile movements. In Singapore, encounters with snakes are not rare. There are frequent news reports on snake presence in Singapore. Singapore is filled with green plants and colourful flowers; this landscape not only fascinates the public but also attracts a wide range of wildlife around the area.

As a tropical country, it is not uncommon to encounter snakes in Singapore and urbanisation has forced them to live in close proximity to houses and buildings.

Snakes are kept as pets by people in other parts of the world, but it is illegal to keep snakes in Singapore. Although snake enthusiasts may find their pets alluring, snakes can be fearsome to some people, especially those who have had bad experiences with snakes. One of the reasons that cause people to be afraid of snakes is their ability to deliver fatal bites. However, not all snake bites are dangerous. There are plenty of non-venomous snake species.

The encounter with a snake can be a surprise, hence, it is important to be educated and to understand the basics of how to handle snakes. It is easy for us to differentiate snakes from other wildlife, but most of us have little knowledge of their species, biology, behaviour and most importantly, whether they are venomous or not.

Table Of Contents

Venomous vs Non-venomous Species

Many people struggle to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes. Clarifying the key differences in behaviours, appearance, and ecological roles of these two groups can help reduce unnecessary fear. Non-venomous species, for instance, are beneficial because they help control pests without posing significant danger to humans, while venomous species tend to have specific prey and usually avoid human interaction unless threatened.

The 6 Common Snakes in Singapore

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snakes ultimate guide

Snake Ecology and Pest Control

Snakes play an essential role in controlling pest populations, particularly rodents, which are a common issue in urban areas. By feeding on these pests, snakes act as natural pest control agents. This ecological service can be highlighted to mitigate people’s fears about snakes and promote their importance in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Even non-venomous snakes, like pythons, contribute significantly to reducing rodent populations.

Environmental Factors Influencing Snake Behaviour

Tropical environments, like that of Singapore, have weather patterns that affect snake activity. For example, snakes are more likely to be encountered during the rainy season, as they come out of hiding due to increase prey availability and changes in temperature and humidity. Understanding how environmental conditions affect snake behaviour can help people predict and prevent encounters.

Reticulated Python Singapore

Reticulated Python (Malayopython Reticulatus)

The reticulated python is the longest snake in the world. It can reach over 8 meters. Reticulated pythons have a distinct, alternating, consistent zigzag pattern of black, yellow, brown, and white scales. It is non-venomous and feeds mainly on small mammals, rodents, and birds.

Although the reticulated python is non-venomous, it has the strength and length to constrict its prey before feeding on it. It is nocturnal, meaning that the reticulated python is primarily active at night. In addition, it can be found in a wide range of habitats from low land to highland, forests, mangroves, and drain canals. In Singapore, pythons are commonly found inhabiting urban areas such as drains and canals.

King Cobra Singapore

King Cobra (Ophiophagus Hannah)

The king cobra is notoriously known as the world’s largest venomous snake with an average of 3 meters in length. King cobras can be found in varying colours but are mainly in shades of light brown to dark brown and even black with a pale-yellow tint. They can be seen in forests or lowland areas to areas of high elevation.

King Cobras are diurnal as they usually hunt during the day. Their diet consists of other snakes, rodents, and lizards. King Cobras are shy and retreating. However, they can be aggressive when provoked or cornered. Thus, one should never try to confront King Cobras to avoid getting fatal bites. If encountered, it is best to stay clear of its path and move away quickly.

Black Spitting Cobra Singapore

Black Spitting Cobra (Naja Sumatrana)

The Black Spitting Cobra is also known as the Equatorial Spitting Cobra. As the name suggests, the black spitting cobra can contract its venom gland to spit venom onto its target, mainly aiming for the eyes. The venom can cause severe damage to the eyes and their surrounding areas, and may cause blindness if left untreated. The Black Spitting Cobra diet consists of rodents and amphibians. It is active at night, and prefers cooler places like shelters, drains, and garden walls.

Oriental Whip Snake Singapore

Oriental Whip Snake (Ahaetulla Prasina)

The oriental whip snake is a fairly small and lanky snake. Its appearance can range from light brown to bright green, and its coloration allows it to blend in with vegetation. Oriental whip snakes can grow up to approximately 2 meters in length. They feed on birds, lizards, and frogs with the help of their venom.

Not all oriental whip snakes are venomous and the venomous ones will not result in death. As the venom is usually relatively weak, oriental whip snakes are not problematic to humans. Oriental whip snakes are active during the day and are typically seen amongst low-hanging trees or tangled between vines in forested areas.

Banded Krait Singapore

Banded Krait (Bungarus Fasciatus)

The banded krait is one of the more prominently patterned snakes with black and white stripes from head to tail. It feeds mainly on other snakes as well as animals such as rodents, lizards, cats, and fish. Banded krait is nocturnal and can be found in forested areas near rodent holes, termite mounds, and places close to water. This species should always only be spotted from afar and not approached, as it is venomous and may bite if threatened.

Banded Malayan Coral Snake Singapore

Banded Malayan Coral Snake (Calliophis Intestinalis)

The banded Malayan coral snake has an average size of 40 to 60cm in length. It can be distinguished by its bright red tail and reddish stripe along the length on the top side of the body. Banded Malayan coral snakes feed on other snakes and are active at night, commonly found in forests, parks, and gardens. Although a banded Malayan coral snake may look small and attractive, its venom is potent, so one should never try to approach it.

Did you know facts about snakes

Life Cycle and Biology

Depending on the species, snakes can live more than 20 years, with the larger ones having a longer lifespan than the smaller ones. Snakes are born in eggs. There are two types of egg births known: 

  • Oviparity
  • Ovoviviparity 

Most snakes are oviparous, meaning that they lay their eggs outside their bodies, and young snakes will hatch from the eggs. Ovoviviparous snakes also produce eggs, but they keep the eggs inside their bodies during incubation. The newly hatched snakes will look like they were born directly from the mothers’ body.

Although snakes are legless reptiles, not all legless reptiles are snakes. For example, lizards only have front or back limbs or are completely legless. All snakes are predators, but only a portion of them are venomous. Even a smaller fraction of snakes are capable of inflicting lethal bites.

Interesting fact: Snakes can't chew their food, so they have to swallow it whole (even items up to 10 times bigger than the size of their head).

Medical Importance

One reason that causes the fear of snakes is a snakes’ ability to inflict lethal bites. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO): 

  • There are over 3000 species of snakes in the world 
  • 600 snake species are venomous 
  • Over 200 species of venomous snakes are considered to be medically important 

These medically important venomous snakes can cause injury, disability, and even death. The symptoms associated with snake bites vary depending on the type of snake. 

Symptoms include:  

  • Puncture wounds or bite marks on the skin  
  • Redness, swelling, bruising, blistering, or bleeding around the bite
  • Severe pain and tenderness
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, headaches, and blurred vision
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heart rate, weak pulse, low blood pressure
  • Metallic, mint, or rubber taste in the mouth
  • Increased salivation and sweating
  • Numbness or tingling around the face and/or limbs
  • Muscle twitching

signs of snake infestations

Signs of Snake Infestations

1. Shed skin

Snakes shed their skin as they grow. The discarded skins may be found in places where snakes rest. This is one of the most apparent signs of snake infestations. While it may be fine to spot one around your house, you should be concerned if you see snakes frequently.

2. Slither tracks

Snakes have a unique movement known as slithering. As they slither, they leave behind distinct tracks on the dusty or sandy ground.

3. Droppings

The faeces of snakes are another important sign of a snake infestation. Snakes’ faeces may resemble birds’ droppings as they are liquid and contain urine, or they may be in a solid form that contains undigested pieces of their food, such as bones and hairs.

4. Strange noises

Although snakes are silent and do not vocalise, they may make noises as they move through cluttered areas and touch other objects. The sounds of slithering and falling objects may be a sign of a snake infestation.

tips to get rid of snakes

How to Prevent Snakes from Invading Your Home

1. Remove piles of rocks, wood, and debris

Piles of rocks, wood and debris serve as the hiding places of snakes and their prey. Maintain good housekeeping and keep your house free from debris to help prevent infestations of snakes.

Clutters and piles of debris provide ideal hiding and breeding sites for animals such as rodents, which serve as a food source for snakes. Snakes can also seek shelter among the clutter as they provide protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.

2. Clear trash and food waste

Although snakes are predators and do not feed on human food waste, food waste attracts pests like rodents. Rodents, in turn, are food sources of snakes. Waste bins should be covered. Food waste should be properly disposed of to prevent rodents from gaining access to the food, as this can cause rodent infestations, and subsequently, snake infestations.

3. Keep the grass short

Not only does grass attract mosquitoes, but it also attracts snakes. Long grass provides the perfect cover for snakes to hide from their predators and sneak up to their prey. Snakes are found in a variety of colours and patterns that they use as camouflage. The presence of long grass further facilitates snakes to blend in with the surroundings.

4. Seal cracks and crevices

Cracks and crevices are the hiding spots for pests, including snakes. Cracks and crevices provide shelter for snakes and protect them from threats present in the surrounding environment. Snakes can also enter your house from the surroundings through cracks or holes. Do look out for all potential entry points, cracks and crevices around your home. Make sure to seal them to avoid harbouring snakes and other pests in your house.

DIY Methods to Prevent Snakes in Singapore

Instead of trying out various methods to repel snakes, you can try to maintain good housekeeping around your house to keep snakes away from you. Sealing all the potential entry points and hiding sites mentioned above will help to prevent snakes from entering your home.

What to do When You Encounter a Snake?

Snakes are not as terrifying as they seem. By knowing what to do when you encounter them, no harm will be done to you or the snakes. Always remind yourself to remain calm and not panic when seeing a snake. Panicking may cause you to make the wrong decisions. The snake may be startled or provoked by your actions thus causing them to attack you. It is likely for snakes to flee when they see humans, so you should also walk away from them if possible.

Pro Tip: Snakes usually have no interest in humans as they usually prey on other small animals.

Professional Snake Removal in Singapore

Handling snakes on your own is not a good idea. Seeking help from professionals will be the right way. Avoid confronting or attacking a snake with a stick or broom as it may still be able to injure you.

If you ever get bitten by a snake, it is important to try to stay calm and seek immediate medical attention. You might have probably seen someone sucking out snake venom from a victim in a movie scene. However, in reality, it is almost impossible to suck the venom out as it spreads quickly and efficiently in the lymphatic system. The best thing to do if you ever get bitten by snakes is to minimise movement and call a doctor or an ambulance immediately.

Handling Snakes by Killem Pest

Many agencies like Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) and Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) are dedicated to protecting and educating the community about wildlife. Killem is no stranger to wildlife and handling snakes, working closely with these agencies to ensure that these animals are handled with care and handed over to them.

With the recent enforcement of the Wildlife Act in Singapore, special courses and training were prepared for people involved who deal with wildlife removal activities. Our PCOs are kept updated on any changes and continually attend seminars like the Wildlife Handling Seminar organised by the Singapore Pest Management Association (SPMA).

Our PMPs are trained in using a variety of equipment to trap and handle snakes safely and humanely. Snake tongs are a piece of equipment with a long pole that ensures a safe distance from the head of the snake. The controllable jaws at the end of the grabber help to lift or drag the snake away firmly and gently. Besides snake tongs, other ways snakes can be captured include using towels, bags, pillowcases and dustbins.

Venomous snakes require more caution when handling compared to non-venomous snakes as they differ in terms of movement and behaviour where the former moves its head before moving its body.

From our experience, snakes should never be restrained at the head or by their tail. This is because these are their sensitive regions, restraining their head and tail can provoke their aggressive behaviour as they feel threatened. Restrained or temporarily captured venomous snakes should always be labelled, as some can spit venom up to 2m and even chew through the bags they are contained in.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are 7 species native to Singapore that are considered highly poisonous: the King Cobra, Black Spitting Cobra, the Banded Krait, Banded Coral Snake, the Malayan Blue Coral Snake, and the Wagler’s Pit Viper.

Venomous snakes can be identified by the shape of their head: a triangular head is a sign that a snake is venomous. If its tail is rattling, it’s venomous. In any case, it’s best to stay away from any snakes.

Snakes are often attracted to yards and houses when there’s food or shelter for them. This can include leaf piles, gaps or cracks in your house, composting near the house, or else. Feeding pets outside, birdfeeders, or mulch can also draw snakes to your yard.

Although snakes mostly live in forested areas, you can encounter them in city areas as well. Gardens and lawns or parks can be hot spots for snakes.

Snakes can enter your house through holes and cracks in the building, or they can also squeeze into gaps between doors or water pipes, or climb into the attic.

It is advised not to try to get rid of snakes on your own, so better call the wildlife control company. While you are waiting for help, you can try to create a barrier around the snake and open doors and windows for it to escape.

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by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

Types of Flies in Singapore

The Complete Guide to Flies Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

Flies are present around us. Their presence can cause severe problems to some people, such as the owners of food and beverage outlets. Besides food, flies are attracted to other materials such as rubbish, faeces, and decaying materials.

types of flies in singapore

Types of Flies in Singapore

Housefly (Musca domestica)

The houseflies are probably the most notorious species of flies. They can be recognized by the presence of four vertical stripes on their back and their grey colour body. Houseflies are usually found near the waste collection area, such as waste bins and bin centres, as they feed on food waste as well as excretory waste. Their presence at homes is a nuisance to many homeowners.

Fruit fly (Drosophila spp.)

The fruit fly is another species of fly that is found around us. They are around 3mm in size, yellowish-brown, and most of them have red eyes which makes it easy to distinguish them. Fruit flies are attracted to 

  • Ripened fruits 
  • Vegetables 
  • Wine
  • Liquor

Bluebottle fly (Calliphoridae)

The bluebottle flies have a distinct metallic-blue body and red eyes, with a body size ranging from 10mm to 14mm. They are often found flying around waste bins searching for food. Bluebottle flies are also attracted to the faeces and decomposing dead bodies of animals.

Most Common Types of Flies in Singapore

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types of flies

Flesh fly (Sarcophagidae)

Flesh flies are similar in size to bluebottle flies, but they have a grey body and can be distinguished by the three vertical stripes at the back of the thorax. Flesh flies breed on feces, dead bodies, and even open wounds (which their name implies).

Drain fly (Psychodidae)

The drain flies or sewer flies are also known as moth flies, as they have a fuzzy body that resembles moths. They are usually around 2mm and can be found around the sewage system, such as drains and floor traps which serve as their breeding sites. Drain flies feed on organic matter that is found in the sewers.

Phorid fly (Megaselia)

The phorid flies are another important fly species commonly found in Singapore. Due to their appearance, they are often mistaken to be fruit flies. Phorid flies breed in the drainage system as well as decaying materials, including plants.

facts about flies

Life Cycle and Biology

Flies undergo complete metamorphosis, and their life stages consist of the egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The eggs differ in size and shape depending on the species. Generally speaking, they are laid on or near the larvae’s food sources, such as food waste in the case of house flies. The eggs hatch into larvae that resemble a worm. Some are commonly known as maggots. The larvae feed, store nutrients and gain energy. Then they turn into pupae before emerging as adults.

Did you know: The life cycle of a house fly only lasts for around 30 days, but in their short lifetime, they manage to lay up to 500 eggs.

Medical Importance

Flies are associated with poor sanitation and hygiene as well as the ability to transmit diseases. People dislike flies for these reasons.

Flies are mechanical vectors of diseases and conditions such as: 

  • Dysentery 
  • Diarrhoea 
  • Cholera 
  • Typhoid
  • Salmonellosis 

Flies pick up pathogens as they crawl and feed on infected surfaces with poor sanitation. They then transmit the pathogens to another object that they rest on, or through direct contact with humans. As flies feed, they regurgitate food, and this process facilitates the transmission of pathogens. The transmission of diseases can be prevented by avoiding unsanitised or contaminated cooking utensils and by making sure that food is not contaminated. It is important to keep flies away from food and utensils through proper storage and good housekeeping practices.

What Attracts Flies?

Flies have an excellent sense of smell. Studies have shown that certain flies can detect odours from up to 7km away. They can also detect odour from stains that are not visible to the naked eyes, making them highly efficient in searching for food. The presence of the following items may be the reason why flies are found around your house or premises:  

  • Food waste or decaying food  
  • Food stains  
  • Ripen fruits  
  • Sewer or drains  
  • Faeces or dead bodies of animals

signs of fly infestations

Signs of Fly Infestations

1. Sightings of flies around your house

It may be normal to occasionally spot flies around your house, as they may enter your home from the external while foraging for food. However, if you have seen flies around your house frequently or if you are noticing an increase in the number of flies, you may want to start looking for breeding sites for flies.

2. Presence of maggots around the house

Besides seeing flies flying around, the sighting of maggots usually signals a fly infestation nearby, as they usually will not venture far from their breeding sites. Follow the trails of the maggots or search the nearby areas. You should then be able to locate the breeding sites of flies.

how to get rid of flies

Tips to Prevent Flies From Invading Your Home

1. Maintain good sanitation and housekeeping

One of the most effective ways to keep pests out is by maintaining good housekeeping practices. Bad housekeeping and sanitation provide pests with sources of food, water and shelter, thus attracting them. Here are some important actions to take note of to keep flies away from home.  

  • Cover food. Flies have excellent olfactory senses, so the smell of food can attract them from afar. Properly covering food will prevent you from sharing food with flies and avoid contamination of food.  
  • Cover bins and empty them regularly. The kitchen bins and dustbins are where the food waste and leftovers end up. Flies are not as picky as humans, so the bins are great places for them to look for food. Covering the bins with lids will prevent flies from gaining access to food. Regularly emptying the bins will help avoid the accumulation of rotten food that attracts flies.
  • Wipe and clean properly. Flies can feed on human food stains and grease. Thus it is important to keep the surfaces of food preparation areas and dining areas clean. Flies can detect stains or chemicals that are not visible to the human eye. Therefore, it is important to clean and wipe the kitchen. Cleaning properly will remove any materials that may attract flies. Do not let the dishes sit in the sink for too long, as the stains can also attract flies. Cutlery and utensils should be cleaned as soon as possible after use to avoid attracting flies.
  • Keep drains clear. The accumulation of organic materials in drains form the ideal breeding sites of drain flies and even phorid flies. To prevent the breeding of drain flies, it is essential to make sure the drains are not clogged. Drains can be cleaned using drain cleaners or even hot water to remove the build-up of organic materials.

2. Keep the doors and windows closed

You can keep flies out by keeping the door and windows of the kitchen closed. Installing insect screens is another feasible alternative as it can keep flies out without making your kitchen and your home stuffy. Air curtains use fast-moving air to create a barrier that prohibits flies from passing through.

3. Improve air circulation

The movement of air disrupts the flight of flies, especially the smaller species, as they are weak fliers. Keep air circulating inside the kitchen by switching on the fan. This helps keep flies away.

4. Use fly traps

Flytraps are effective tools that are widely used in the control of flies. However, the use of fly traps with zappers is not recommended in the kitchen or dining area as they tend to break flies into pieces. Those body parts may fall into the food.

5. Inspect for potential breeding sites

Carry out regular inspections around your house or pay extra attention to the surroundings to spot the breeding sites of flies. Fix any cracks or building defects to prevent the breeding of pests, including flies. Early detection of fly activities will prevent the situation from escalating.

DIY Methods to Prevent Flies in Singapore

There are many types of homemade fly traps that are effective against flies. One of the easiest ways to make a fly trap involves using a bottle or jar and a cover or lid, apple cider vinegar, and dishwasher liquid. The trap is prepared by mixing one tablespoon of dishwasher liquid with apple cider vinegar in a bottle or jar. The bottle or jar is then covered correctly. A small hole is made on the cover as an entrance for the flies. This trap is effective against house flies and fruit flies as its scent will attract them. 

Professional Flies Treatment

If you ever feel that the infestation is getting out of control, or if you wish to have peace of mind without worrying about flies infesting your properties, seek assistance from pest management professionals. Pest management professionals will design a management programme that is best suited for you to combat flies.

The first step of professional flies treatment involves thorough inspection to obtain information such as the severity of the infestation and identifying the source of the infestation. At Killem Pest, our pest management professionals (PMP) are professionally trained and updated with knowledge of pests. The PMPs will be able to determine suitable management programmes based on their evaluation. They can also identify breeding sources that may not be discoverable to ordinary people based on their experience in the field.

As mentioned earlier, fly traps are essential tools in fly management. The fly traps used by Pest Management Professionals are the insect light traps that attract flies using ultraviolet (UV) light. The UV light traps used by the professionals emit rays of a specific wavelength which, in turn, attracts flies. The flies are then trapped by the glue boards placed near the light source. The placement and position of the light traps play an important part in determining the effectiveness of the flies control programme. Poorly positioned insect light traps are ineffective and may cause other hazards if not installed correctly. Our PMPs will determine the ideal locations for the deployment of traps based on the inspection carried out.

Another treatment method for flies involves residual spraying. Residual spraying should only be carried out at locations without food to prevent contamination of food with chemicals. Residual spraying can be carried out in areas where flies rest, such as on the walls. Residual spraying should be carried out while paying attention to the surroundings to limit human and pets’ exposure to the chemicals.

Are you having problems with flies in your properties? Contact Killem Pest now.

Frequently Asked Questions

The common house fly doesn’t bite, however, some species do bite people. In most cases, it’s just irritating and somewhat painful, but flies can also carry diseases, which can be transmitted to humans through bites.

The short answer: all flies are somewhat dangerous. Flies are known for spreading different pathogens and diseases, as they crawl and feed on infected surfaces with poor sanitation.

Flies get attracted to the smell of food waste or decaying food, food stains, ripen fruits, sewer or drains, and faeces or dead bodies of animals.

Prevent fly infestation by maintaining good sanitation at your home. To get rid of flies, you can use fly traps or consult pest management professionals about using chemical pesticides.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

Fully fed tick on a leaf

The Complete Guide to the Prevention, Treatment and Control of Fleas and Ticks in Singapore

Fleas and ticks are tiny pests that are capable of causing great problems to humans. They leave itchy bites with distinct bite marks on human skin.

Fleas and ticks are two different pests that are often mistaken with one another. Fleas have long and powerful hind legs that allow them to perform high jumps. Ticks, on the other hand, do not jump. They have four pairs of legs which make them part of the spider family (arachnids).

common types of fleas and ticks in singapore

Types of Fleas and Ticks in Singapore

What are some of the common species of fleas and ticks found in Singapore? 

Cat Flea (Ctenocephalides felis) and Dog Flea (Ctenocephalides canis) 

Cat and dog fleas are the most common type of fleas found in Singapore. They can be found on pets, stray dogs and cats. However, despite their names, neither type of flea is exclusive to only cats or dogs. These fleas are usually 1-4mm in size. It isn’t easy to differentiate between the two species with the naked eye. Cat and dog fleas are excellent jumpers with the ability to reach 18cm vertically and 33cm horizontally, which is about 100 times their body length!

Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) 

The brown dog tick is the species of ticks commonly found in Singapore. A dog can pick up ticks from the surroundings as ticks infest more than one host during their lifetime. The ticks can be found on the skin of the pets’ head, neck, ear and feet. In heavy infestations, the ticks can be found in nearby parts such as kennels or cages.

Oriental Rat Flea (Xenopsylla cheopsis) 

Although the Oriental rat flea is not commonly found in Singapore, it is worth mentioning it. The Oriental rat flea is the vector for the bacterium that caused more than one of the deadliest pandemics in history. This flea type was responsible for spreading the bubonic plague, leading to the Black Death in the 14th century and killing over 25 million people.

fleas and ticks facts

Life Cycle and Biology

Fleas undergo a complete metamorphosis. They go through the following stages of life: 

  • Egg 
  • Larvae 
  • Pupae 
  • Adulthood

Fleas have an average lifespan of 2 to 3 months. The fleas found on animals are always adults. Eggs are laid on the animal host’s body but will fall to places where the host rest, such as cages and cat baskets. The adults ingest blood from the host and produce faecal matters that become the food for the larvae.

Before turning into adults, the larvae form cocoons. The adults then emerge when stimulated by vibration, movement, or increased carbon dioxide (which indicates animal hosts’ presence).

The dog tick is a 3-host tick that encounters three hosts throughout its entire life span. The larva takes a blood meal and turns into a nymph. Then, the nymph feeds once before developing into an adult. An adult takes a blood meal before it lays eggs.

A female tick can lay an average of 4000 eggs. The number fluctuates with the amount of blood ingested. The host-seeking behaviour of a tick causes it to be seen in the open as it actively searches for a new host to latch on to. Ticks have a long life span and they can survive without feeding for 3 to 5 months.

How to carry out safe pest control with pets in your home?

Medical Importance

There are three common diseases associated with flea and tick bites: 

  1. Murine Typhus
  2. Plague
  3. Lyme Disease

Murine Typhus

Murine typhus is a zoonotic disease caused by a bacterium known as Rickettsia typhii. There have been several reports of murine typhus in Singapore. Humans become infected when the site of a flea bite is exposed to the flea’s faeces, or by inhaling the bacterium from an environment contaminated with fleas’ faeces. Murine typhus is primarily transmitted by the rat flea, but cat fleas may also be one of the vectors.

Symptoms of murine typhus include: 

  • Fever 
  • Headache
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

The disease can deteriorate to cause severe illness and damage to other organs, including the lungs, liver, kidney, heart and brain.

Plague

A plague is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium known as Yersinia pestis. Transmission of this disease is similar to that of murine typhus: through the bite of the infected fleas or by inhalation.

The plague is transmitted by oriental rat fleas and is most prevalent in Africa. Although the plague has claimed the lives of millions of people throughout history, today it can be treated with antibiotics and prevented with standard preventive measures.

The Ultimate Guide to Preventing Lyme Disease

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lyme disease prevention

Lyme Disease

One of the major tick-borne diseases is Lyme disease. It is caused by the deer tick, which is not found in Singapore. Lyme disease’s most common sign is an expanding rash at the bite that may form a bulls-eye pattern.

If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause pain to the joints as well as cause neurological problems such as: 

  • Meningitis
  • Temporary paralysis of one side of the face (Bell’s palsy)
  • Numbness or weakness in limbs
  • Impaired muscle movement

flea and tick infestation signs

Signs of Flea and Tick Infestations

It might not be easy to detect fleas and ticks at home because of their small size and cryptic behaviour. Here are some signs that may indicate a flea or tick infestation.

1. Itching or infected skin 

Even though they can feed on human blood, animals are the primary hosts of fleas and ticks. Your pets may have itching skin. Hence, they might scratch their skin or bite their skin more frequently than usual. Besides, symptoms such as hair loss and rashes may develop on your pets as the fleas or ticks bite and cause infections on their skin.

2. Finding them on or around your pets 

Although fleas and ticks are difficult to spot, it is not impossible. They can be detected on your pets’ body when you comb their hair. Ticks and fleas can also be found around the cage or bedding where the pets rest. It is possible to see them moving around as they venture out away from their nests seeking a new host.

3. Bites 

Fleas leave itchy bites on humans. Those bites are one of the most obvious signs of flea infestation. Flea bites are itchier compared to mosquito bites. The reactions that the skin develops from them are usually more severe and include: 

  • Rashes 
  • Hives 
  • Blisters

On the other hand, tick bites are usually not painful or itchy. However, they do leave red spots or bumps on the affected skin. 

how to get rid of fleas and ticks

Tips to Prevent Fleas and Ticks From Invading Your Home

1. Vacuuming frequently 

Vacuuming is not only a way to clean your house and remove unwanted dirt and dust. It also helps you prevent infestations of fleas and ticks. Vacuuming can physically remove the pests, their eggs and larvae. If you suspect that you have fleas or ticks at home, you should seal the vacuum bag and dispose of it properly after vacuuming. This ensures that the pests cannot make their way back into your home.

2. Wash bedding regularly 

As mentioned earlier, fleas and ticks do not spend their entire lifespan on their hosts. They can sometimes be found nearby. Fleas and ticks can infest (pet) bedding. Bedding should be washed in hot, soapy water every two to three weeks to eliminate the pests.

3. Treat your pets with anti-flea medication 

Flea medications can not only be used to treat an existing infestation of fleas. It can also be used for prevention. There are medications taken orally by the pets and those that are applied topically onto the pets’ skin. Flea medications can be administered once a month to protect you and your pets from fleas.

4. Keep vegetation short 

Ticks often climb onto grasses to increase their success rate of finding a new host. By keeping the vegetation short, you can prevent this from happening and reduce the hiding options. 

DIY Methods to Prevent Fleas and Ticks in Singapore

Essential oils are known to have many benefits, including insect-repelling effects. Cedarwood essential oil can be diluted and applied to the pets’ skin to kill and prevent fleas. It can also be added to a diffuser to protect your house against fleas. Some essential oils, such as rosemary, can be added to the pets’ bath to provide long-acting flea repelling effects.

Pro Tip: Since it is impossible to know whether a parasite is potentially carrying any diseases, it is important to protect pets against all ticks and fleas.

Professional Fleas and Ticks Treatment

Chemical Treatment

Chemical treatment is the fastest and most effective method to eliminate an existing infestation. The insecticides that we use are safe for pets. All our PMPs are trained to carry out the treatment by following proper procedures.

Habitat Modification

Based on the inspection carried out at the infested premises, our PMP will provide house owners with recommendations to prevent flea and tick infestations in the future. Building defects such as cracks and crevices may be discovered during the inspection. Hence, our PMP will provide advice on how to solve the deficiencies.

Advice

After identifying the problem, our PMP can provide you with more information (if needed) so that you can seek advice from medical professionals and veterinary experts.

Inspection and identification

Inspection is an essential step in any pest management approach. It helps Pest Management Professionals (PMP) identify the cause and level of infestations. By identifying the pest species causing the issue, PMPs in Singapore can plan suitable control measures to handle the situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Both fleas and ticks can spread diseases and cause harm to humans, however, ticks are more dangerous as they can spread deadly diseases.

Yes, fleas and ticks can transmit diseases to humans, the most common of which are murine typhus, plague and Lyme disease.

Vacuuming, steam cleaning and washing beddings in hot water can help to prevent fleas and tick infestations. Flea medications can be used to treat and prevent flea infestations in pets.

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by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

cockroach guide singapore

The Ultimate Guide to Cockroach Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

Cockroaches have been around on earth for more than 300 million years. They are one of the most common insects infesting households. There are more than 4500 cockroach species in the world, but less than 1% of them are known as pests.

Most cockroach species are in the wild. The ones that are associated with human habitats are classified as pests. Cockroaches play essential roles in the natural ecosystem. Some people even regard them as pets.

But mostly, cockroaches are described or depicted as disgusting creatures. Their existence often gives an indication of dirt or decay. The presence of it in food and beverage outlets poses health issues. In fact, it is very rare to encounter someone who sees a cockroach as an adorable or lovable insect.

Most people who live in urban or city areas cannot withstand the existence of a cockroach infestation in their house. Some may even get depressed. Indeed, controlling cockroaches requires knowledge and technique. Here we will look at the signs of a cockroach infestation before making a treatment decision.

common types of cockroaches in singapore

Types of Cockroaches in Singapore

As mentioned earlier, only less than 1% of cockroach species are pests. Here are three species commonly found in Singapore:

American cockroach

The American cockroach may be the most commonly seen cockroach in Singapore. It has a reddish-brown body and a yellow band at its pronotum (plate-like structure behind the head). The size of an American cockroach can reach up to 40 to 50mm in length. American cockroaches are active both indoors and outdoors as they infest the sewer system.

cockroach facts

German cockroach

German cockroaches are around 20mm big. They have a light brown or tanned colour. Adult German cockroaches can be recognised by the two dark stripes on their back.

These are some places where you’ll commonly find German cockroaches:

  • Indoors
  • Kitchen
  • Food preparation areas

Large German cockroach infestations cause nightmares to owners of restaurants and F&B outlets. The control strategies for this species is more challenging compared to the other species. This is due to the development of insecticide resistance and its high reproductive rate.

Brown-banded cockroach

The body size of brown-banded cockroaches is similar to that of German cockroaches. The males are light yellowish or brown, while the females have a darker colour. The brown-banded cockroach gets its name from the transverse stripes that are present on its body. This species is also responsible for cockroach infestations in homes and offices.

Life Cycle and Biology

Cockroaches undergo incomplete metamorphosis. They develop from egg and a few instar stages to adulthood. Newly emerged nymphs are miniature wingless adults. They will need to moult several times to reach the adult stage. Different species of cockroaches will have varying development periods and amounts of moults.

In common areas, they prefer to move or venture along the side of the wall. An interesting thing about cockroaches is that they feed on almost every organic material, preferably starchy food. They can feed on moist cardboard and even a piece of paper! Cockroaches are often reluctant to forage food far from their nesting area unless being deprived.

cockroaches hide in cracks

Medical Importance

Mechanical vectors of diseases

The living and feeding habits of cockroaches are commonly associated with poor hygiene and sanitation. This exposes them to a wide range of pathogens. They pick up the pathogens with their body and legs and transmit them to food, kitchen utensils and food preparation areas as they crawl past the surfaces.

Cockroaches are known to carry pathogens that cause diseases such as:

  • Food poisoning
  • Salmonellosis
  • Cholera

The pathogens are invisible to the naked eyes so we must eliminate their vectors to avoid being infected by them.

Asthma and allergy

The body parts, excretory waste and even saliva contain allergens that may trigger allergic reactions. Typical allergy symptoms include:

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Nasal congestion
  • Wheezing
  • Skin rash

Cockroach allergies are a common cause of asthma in both adults and children. If you have a cockroach infestation at home, you are at risk of developing prolonged allergic reactions that may lead to other medical problems.

facts about cockroaches

Katsaridaphobia

Katsaridaphobia, more commonly known as cockroach phobia, is the irrational and extreme fear of cockroaches.

Katsaridaphobia is not the same as being disgusted after seeing a cockroach. People with katsaridaphobia have unwarranted fear towards cockroaches that may cause them to:

  • Stay frozen
  • Have an elevated heart rate
  • Have difficulty breathing
  • Get panic attacks

One of the causes of katsaridaphobia is a bad or traumatic experience with cockroaches in the past. Katsaridaphobia is a mental disorder that can be overcome via psychotherapy, such as exposure therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy.

signs of a cockroach infestation

Signs of Cockroach Infestations

Cockroaches are nocturnal insects, most active at night. During the daytime, they hide in dark and moist areas. Hence, we often don’t notice their presence until the infestation becomes severe. Here, we’ll describe the tell-tale signs of a cockroach infestation.

1. Droppings

You may wonder how cockroach droppings look like? Cockroach droppings look something like black pepper with a dark colour and cylindrical shape. Their droppings are usually scattered along the wall or at the corners and edges of the cabinets. These are their main pathways and hiding areas.

Cockroach droppings and egg cases

2. Shed skins

Cockroaches molt just like other insects. Molting is a step in their growing process to reach the mature stage. Therefore, they will need to shed their skins periodically, around 5 to 8 times. If you see brownish shed skins at the potential areas mentioned above, that’s probably the evidence of a cockroach infestation.

In such case, you must start taking controlled action against them. The best way to prevent them from harboring is by keeping your house clean. Other aspects such as techniques of storing food and structural defects inside a property cannot be neglected.

3. Oothecae (cockroach eggs)

Oothecae are oval-shaped casings (inside full of multiple eggs), which are bigger and much more evident than cockroach droppings. It is vital to remove the ootheca before it hatched. The hatching of one cockroach ootheca can worsen a cockroach infestation.

A scary fact is that one ootheca can incubate more than 20 cockroaches inside!

Therefore, if you find an empty ootheca in your house, you may have to accept the fact that cockroaches have already built its family inside your home.

4. Unpleasant smell

Do cockroaches carry a smell? Yes! The scent released by a cockroach is usually undetectable by human beings. However, when it comes to a major cockroach infestation, a musty odour can be present. The smell is considered stinky for most people but when it comes to cockroaches, it carries important means!

tips to prevent and get rid of cockroaches

How to Prevent Cockroaches from Invading Your Home

1. Identify their entry points and hiding places

Inspection is a key activity in identifying the entry points and hiding places of cockroaches. Since cockroaches are nocturnal insects, it would be best if the inspection is carried out at night. Get yourself a torchlight and search for signs of their activities as mentioned above.

Cracks, crevices or gaps formed around the utility line and pipes are their potential entry points. Silicone-based caulk can be used to seal those entry points found. Besides, remember to inspect, clean and ventilate areas underneath the kitchen sink and refrigerator as these are the humid places that can become cockroach harbourages.

2. Make the Infested Area Less Conducive

After the inspection, keep in mind to remove, vacuum or wipe areas where cockroach eggs (ootheca), droppings and their carcasses were found. Remember one egg case can harbor 20 cockroaches inside, so remove it before it hatches to prevent a cockroach infestation.

You might not believe that cockroaches eat their own or nestmates’ droppings. Female cockroach droppings were seen highly attractive to nymph. The droppings also release pheromone (a chemical substance used to affect cockroach behavior and physiology).

3. Eliminate food and water sources

Food and water are the primary necessities of cockroaches. One of the best ways to prevent cockroaches from entering your property is to remove all available water sources.

Maintaining the housekeeping of the house is vital. We cannot forget to clean stains, grease and food scraps left in the kitchen as these can act as the food and water sources for cockroaches. Furthermore, make sure all stored food is sealed correctly to deny access.

Cockroaches can squeeze their bodies through a gap as small as 2mm wide.

In addition, some humid areas such as underneath the kitchen sink or refrigerator are potential nesting areas for cockroaches. So remember to inspect, clean and ventilate these areas to prevent a cockroach infestation.

4. Clean and organise your home

Messy and cluttered areas, especially those with paper and cardboards, are ideal harbourage and nesting sites of cockroaches. The paper products do not only serve as their hiding place. They also serve as food in case other food sources are not available.

It is essential to keep your home tidy and remove clutters regularly. The use of carton boxes for storage may allow cockroaches to hide in them. Thus, other alternatives, such as plastic boxes, can be used to prevent cockroach infestations.

5. Seek Professional Help

It would be an exhausting task to deal with a major cockroach infestation. Fear of cockroaches is the first barrier that most people will face. To deal with them, you may need to have plenty of time to fight. However, this is almost impossible for most people.

The short life cycle and high reproductive potential of cockroaches even make the control effort difficult. Hence, it would be easier to hand over this task to pest control professionals as they are more familiar with your enemy and has the best technique to manage the pest.

DIY Methods

Traps can capture and remove cockroaches from your home. The most common method is a sticky trap. These traps can be purchased from regular stores.

You may wonder about the effectiveness of using pandan leaves to prevent cockroach entry. Here, we tell you the truth. Pandan leaves release some pleasant smells which may serve as a weak natural repelling agent to deter cockroaches from coming near. However, when the leaves dried out, it can actually turn into a harbouring place for cockroaches! Hence, the use of pandan leaves is not a permanent solution for a cockroach infestation.

cockroach treatment review

Professional Cockroach Treatment

Treating a cockroach infestation is more than just hitting them with your slippers or spraying insecticide aerosols on the cockroaches.

Insect monitoring stations are useful tools to detect the presence of cockroach infestations in Singapore. In premises with cockroach infestations, these stations can provide trained pest management professionals (PMP) with information such as the:

  • Level of infestation
  • Type of cockroach species
  • Location of the nests or breeding sites

This information is important in determining a suitable treatment method. It has a tremendous impact on the effectiveness of the control programme.

Pro Tip: It is important to determine a suitable and effective treatment method depending on the type of cockroach infestation.

Residual spraying is the most common method used to eliminate crawling insects, including cockroaches.

The insecticides used in professional cockroach treatments are different from those available to the general public. Residual insecticides offer long-lasting protection against cockroaches. Its effect can last for months after application. Trained PMPs carry out residual spraying at locations where cockroaches are usually found, such as cracks and crevices.

Mirakn cockroach treatment
A Killem Pest Professional in action to treat cockroaches

Cockroach baits combine insecticides with food attractants to kill cockroaches. The bait does not kill cockroaches immediately, but it intoxicates the cockroaches once they feed on the bait. The intoxicated cockroaches may leave behind their toxic vomitus, faeces or even their own dead bodies.

Cockroaches feed on the faeces and vomitus of their nestmates.

This behaviour, together with the cannibalising behaviour of cockroaches, makes the transfer of toxic bait effective and efficient as cockroaches move back to their nesting site and die off after foraging and feeding on the bait.

Innovation is important in the pest management industry to keep up with increasingly challenging pest issues. Pests, including cockroaches, are continually evolving and developing resistance to the control methods and insecticides that are used to eliminate them.

One of the latest cockroach treatment methods used in Singapore is dry treatment using Mirakn, a gas cylinder filled with a mixture of carbon dioxide and an active ingredient. There are three types of Mirakn treatments, each with different active ingredients that are suitable for targeting different pests.

The dry treatment has various characteristics. They are:

  • Stainless
  • Residue-less
  • Non-flammable
  • Odourless

Furthermore, the gaseous chemical provides excellent penetration over the other treatments. Dry treatment is a popular cockroach treatment in cars. Cockroaches thrive in cars, but it isn’t easy to control them due to the complex internal structures of the car.

Mirakn provides the ideal solution for hard-to-access areas as it can penetrate all parts of the treated area and leaves no stains. Thus, home and car owners need not worry about the cleaning process.

Killem’s team of pest management professionals are trained and experienced in cockroach treatment programmes. Our professional knowledge and experience enable us to formulate a suitable solution to protect your property from cockroaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cockroaches can contaminate your food and carry pathogens that can cause allergies, asthma, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera and other diseases.

Cockroaches can get into your house through open doors and windows, cracks and holes in your building, or through shared pipes and holes in the walls.

Cockroaches prefer dark, warm and moist places, so they usually hide in narrow cracks, behind refrigerators, near plumbing fixtures, in dark drawers or in and around running electrical appliances.

Make sure to close all possible entries for cockroaches, such as cracks and crevices in the walls. Another thing you need to seal and store food properly.

We have been dealing with cockroach infestations in Singapore since 1993. You can count on us to treat your pest problem effectively and swiftly.

You can get a free quote by submitting a quote request (click the GET A QUOTE button on top of the page).

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

bees in singapore

The Ultimate Guide to Bee Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

Bees are one of the most important pollinators. Without bees and other pollinators such as flies, butterflies and beetles, we would not be able to produce enough crops to feed the global population. Having said that, the presence of bees on some occasions may cause inconvenience and disturbance to humans.

common types of bees in singapore

Types of Bees in Singapore

There are more than 20,000 species of bees in the world. The honey bees might be the most famous type of bee. Other species are important to the ecosystem too.

What are some of the common species of bees found in Singapore?

Giant Honey Bees

The giant honey bees (Apis dorsata), also known as Malayan honey bees, get their name from their large size. Giant honey bees can become 17 – 20mm in length. This species usually has their nests built in an exposed area far off the ground.

Giant honey bee nests are commonly spotted on tall trees and building structures. The nests consist of large single combs that can reach up to 1.5m in length and 1m deep. The combs can be seen hanging down tree branches or other structures.

Dwarf Honey Bees

The dwarf honey bees (Apis florea) are small-sized (7 – 10mm long) honey bees. They are commonly found in the tropical region. The dwarf honey bees build single combs as their nests. The combs can be found around small tree branches instead of hanging down the branches as in the case of giant honey bees.

Asian Honey Bees

The Asian honey bees (Apis cerana) are approximately 10mm in length. They are known to nest in empty spaces and cavities so they can be found in attics and roof cavities. Some of the cavities or enclosed openings are unreachable for humans. Thus, it is more difficult to get rid of their nests compared to the nest of outdoor species.

Stingless Bees

The stingless bees (Trigona spp.) are very small sized, measuring around 3 – 5mm. They also build their nests in cavities. Sometimes they can be seen entering or exiting the nests through an entrance tube. As their name suggests, a stingless bee cannot sting, but it can still bite when it feels threatened.

Carpenter Bees

The carpenter bees (Xylocopa spp.) are the largest in Singapore. They are about 20 – 30mm in length and are usually dark-coloured. The carpenter bees form their nests by creating burrows in solid wood which branch out into parallel passageways. Carpenter bees are solitary bees which live singly or in small groups and they do not form colonies. Although the sight of these bees can be intimidating due to their large size, they are relatively harmless unless disturbed.

Mason Bees

Mason bees are unusual in that they collect mud to construct bee nest. These types of bees are relatively small, ranging from 6 – 10mm, and have a black or metallic blue colour. You may find these pollinators in urban gardens around Singapore.

Leafcutter Bees

Leafcutter bees use pieces of leaves to build nests. They are also tiny creatures with a black and metallic green colour. You will find leafcutter bees in Singapore’s parks, gardens and other green outdoor environments.

Sweat Bees

As their name implies, sweat bees ar attracted to sweat. Human sweat to be precises. Sweat bees have a metallic, green colour and they spend their time in gardens and parks around Singapore.

signs of a bee infestation

Signs of Bee Infestations

1. Sighting of Live Bees

Sighting of bees is one of the most obvious signs that indicate an infestation. Seeing bees flying in or around your house may indicate that their hive is nearby. Follow the path of their flight and you might be able to trace their nests.

2. Sighting of Beehives

The presence of a beehive indicates that your house is infested with bees. The hive is located on the branches of the plants in your home. In some cases, the hive is concealed in empty spaces in the building. A large number of bees surrounds a beehive. Thus, it is not difficult to identify a hive once you have spotted it.

3. Buzzing Bees

In some cases, house owners may not be able to spot bees. This is because bees build their nest high up from the ground. However, due to their large number, the buzzing sound that they produce may lead you to their nests.

4. Presence of Holes on Wooden Structures

Carpenter bees create burrows in wooden structures and leave a hole on the surface of the wood. If you have been noticing holes on your furniture or wooden decorations, you might be having carpenter bees in your house.

What Common Pests Are Found in Your Garden?

Visit Guide
bees and garden pests

Life Cycle and Biology

Most bees are social insects that live in colonies and practice division of labour. The three functional castes in a bee colony are the:

  • Queen
  • Workers
  • Drones

The queen’s primary function is to reproduce and maintain the unity of the colony.

The workers are responsible for maintaining the nest, tending to the young ones and the queen, protecting the nest as well as foraging for food.

Drones are males whose primary function is to mate with an unfertilised queen. They die shortly after mating.

If the queen dies, a new queen gets selected. The new queen is fed with royal jelly (a nutrient-dense substance that is essential for the development of a queen bee) by the workers.

Bees undergo complete metamorphosis. Their life-cycle consists of four stages:

  • Eggs
  • Larvae
  • Pupae
  • Adulthood

In a honey bee colony, a queen bee can produce thousands of eggs per day in the hexagonal cells that form the honeycomb. Fertilised eggs will hatch into female workers. Unfertilised eggs will become males (drones).

The bee larvae are white, legless and require the workers to feed them. The larvae grow into pupae. During this stage, the wings, legs and eyes form, transforming the white coloured worms into the bee that we know. During the pupal stage, the bees do not eat so they depend on all the nutrients stored when they are in the larval stage.

Adult bees then emerge from the wax cells to fulfil their tasks as a member of the colony.

Did you know facts about bees

Hazards

Pain Caused by Bee Stings

One major reason that many people fear or detest bees is their ability to sting. Bee stings can be painful and annoying. Bees sting to protect the colony when they feel threatened, and for honeybees, they lose their lives doing so.

When a honey bee stings a human, it is not able to pull out its stinger, so when it tries to escape after stinging, it will break off the rear part of its body and damage its internal organ.

Other species of bees have a smooth stinger that can be removed from human skin after getting stung, causing them to be able to sting more than once in their lifetime.

Warning: Allergic Reaction to Bee Stings

To most people, bee stings cause pain that goes away after a few days or even hours. However, to people that are allergic to bee stings, the reaction can be lethal in severe conditions.

Severe allergic reactions do affect not only the skin but also cause swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness. In most cases, medical attention is not required for a bee sting. If severe allergic reactions develop, you should seek medical care immediately.

Structural Damage Caused by Carpenter Bees

The carpenter bees get their name from the fact that they affect wooden structures. They do not consume the wood, but they create burrows and nest inside the wood. Carpenter bees create passageways and tunnels to make space for their eggs and young ones. They cause damage to the aesthetics of the wooden structures by forming holes on the surface of the structures. In doing so, they cause risks to the stability of the structure.

tips to get rid of bees

Tips to Prevent and Get Rid of Bees

1. Seal off potential entry points

Bees can access a hole with only a quarter of an inch, approximately 0.6cm. We recommended inspecting your premise for any possible entry points for bees. The entry points found can be sealed up using durable materials such as caulk-based silicone, metal screen or hardware cloth. However, this method needs to be carried out before a bee swarm is present.

2. Reduce outdoor clutter

Remove or reduce clutter around the house can prevent bees from nesting in the yard. Unused items, appliances and lawn equipment around the house can attract bees to build their hive. What’s the reason for that? Unused materials and equipment can provide shelter for bees to thrive, especially when the house is surrounded with plants and flowers (presence of food source).

3. Remove honeycomb in and around your estate

Make sure there is no honeycomb left in and around your house. The presence of honeycomb left by previous beehives will release pheromone scent that can attract newcomers. Honeycombs are usually located inside inaccessible areas such as attics and roof eaves. Hence, sometimes we may need to repair a roof portion after removing the honeycomb.

4. Avoid planting colourful and high-scented flowers

Flowers that are blue, violet, purple, yellow and white can attract bees to come and thrive. Also, planting high-scented blooms will further lure them into coming over to your garden.

If you wish to have beautiful and colourful flowers in your yard but do not want them to become one of the bees’ favourites, you can opt to plant trumpet-shaped flowers such as morning glory and narcissus. These trumpet-shaped flowers do not look much appealing to bees as it is difficult for bees to reach for the nectar.

Get more DIY pest control methods

DIY Methods to Prevent and Get Rid of Bees

There are some methods to deter bees from nesting around your house without killing them. These methods make use of the strong smells released from substances or plants. For example, mothballs. Bees do not like the odour of mothballs.

You can hang mothballs around areas where bees are active. This will help keep bees away. You can also plant the following:

  • Mint
  • Citronella
  • Eucalyptus

These three act as strong bee repellents. Mint, citronella and eucalyptus are easy to grow and help enrich your garden.

If it is too late to deter bees (if they have already built their nest in your house), you can try to scatter some cinnamon around their nest. The strong smell released by cinnamon can make bees relocate to another place for nesting.

Natural Bee Repellents

Let’s take a closer look at how to repel bees the natural way. There are some safe and natural bee repellents. Note that we always prefer safe relocation of bees over any method that can potentially harm or disrupt bees. Only use the natural bee repellents if the need is urgent, but think about whether a bee relocation done by a professional is a better way to get rid of bees. Please also only use these repellents with care. For example, you should not spray onto bees or bee hives directly to ensure the ecosystem remains intact.

How to repel bees:

  • Essential oils: Various essential oils are both powerful and safe to use. These include tea tree, lemongrass, peppermint and eucalyptus oils. Mix the oils with water to create a strong natural bee repellent and spray it on the areas you want to protect.
  • Vinegar: Sour scents are not what bees like. It is one of the smells that bees repel heavily. Vinegar is natural sour scent that you can mix with water in a spray bottle.
  • Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a cheap, natural bee repellent. All you need to do is purchase cinnamon powder and place it in the areas where the bees are active.
  • Garlic: We all know about the healing properties of garlic, but did you know what it is also one of the plants that bees repel? Just crush up some garlic gloves and place them in the areas where bees are active.

Pro Tip: Pest management professionals can help you get rid of bees and relocate them in a safe and effective way.

Professional Bee Treatment

The preferred method for treating bees is relocation rather than extermination. After removing beehives from a property, they can be relocated to a safe environment.

Bees that we commonly encounter are generally non-aggressive. However, their presence may worry some people as they can sting when provoked. Killem’s team of trained pest management professionals has all the experience needed to handle bees in a safe way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bees are relatively harmless, except for their stings. Bee stings can be painful and in some cases can cause a severe allergic reaction.

For people who have an allergic reaction to bee venom, bee stings can be deadly as they can cause anaphylactic shock.

Yes, some bees (like bumble bees) can sting more than once as they can pull out their stinger without getting lodged.

Many people are unaware that bees can bite. Some of the types of biting bees include honeybees, stingless bees, and any bee with mandibles.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

bed bugs guide singapore

The Ultimate Guide to Bed Bugs Prevention and Treatment in Singapore

Have you been getting unbearably itchy bed bugs bites causing sleepless nights? Or have you been noticing skin rashes that pop up from nowhere when you wake up every morning? If the answer is yes, then you might be facing a bed bug infestation.

You might be wondering what the source of a bed bug infestation is? And where do the bugs come from? The answer may surprise you. In the past, bed bugs have been associated with poor living conditions but their infestations have spread like wildfire in cities around the globe. This phenomenon is contributed by the shift in pesticide usage globalisation. The thriving travel and tourism industry further promotes and increases the rate at which bed bugs are spread all over the world.

Humans bring in bed bug infestations, so we need to take some responsibility. Someone may pick up bed bugs from a hotel room, theatre, a plane or even from public transport. They climb onto your clothes or sneak into your luggage bags. Eventually, the beg bugs find a way into your home.

A bed bug infestation may be a headache to a lot of people. However, with some understanding, you can prevent or get rid of bed bugs infestations.

What You Need to Know About Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are some of the most difficult pests to remove once they have taken hold in your home. Unlike other pests like mosquitoes or rodents, bed bugs do not actually spread disease. However, they are a very big nuisance because bits from bed bugs cause itching, which can lead to excessive scratching and thereby skin infection.

Being bitten by beg bugs at night also causes a loss of sleep.

They can get into the linen on the beds, which is how they got their name. However, you should not be fooled into believing that they only infest beds. They can also get into the carpets, curtains, and even clothing.

common types of bed bugs in singapore

Types of Bed Bugs in Singapore

There are two commonly found species of bed bugs in Singapore:

Cimex lectularius has a worldwide distribution, especially in temperate regions. Cimex Hemipterus is a common species found in tropical and subtropical areas including Singapore. Both species feed on human blood and are important pests to the travel and hospitality industries.

What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?

  • Oval-shaped body
  • Reddish-brown colour

Bed bugs have a brownish color before they have fed. After feeding, on the blood of animals and people, they turn a red color. The baby bed bugs are very difficult to see, as they do not have much color to them at all.

These six-legged creatures can reach up to a quarter of an inch long when they are adults.

Life Cycle and Biology

A female bed bug can lay 200 to 250 eggs in her lifetime (one to five eggs each day) and the eggs hatch in 6 to 10 days – this is how they can spread and infest an area so quickly. The life cycle of a bed bug can be completed in as little as three weeks. They will mature in about 21 days, and they can live for several months without feeding.

Bed bug larva undergoes incomplete metamorphosis. It takes five stages before a larva matures into an adult bed bug. A blood meal is needed each time before a nymph moults into the next stage. Bed bugs are opportunistic feeders. They consume as much blood as possible from you until they are fully engorged.

A tropical bed bug can live for up to 100 days while a common bed bug can live for up to 1 year. As much as they need blood meals for growth, bed bugs were found to be able to survive a long period without blood meals.

Have you ever wondered how a tiny bed bug can find its way to you? Bed bugs are attracted to the carbon dioxide and body heat given off by human bodies. A higher concentration of carbon dioxide due to human presence stimulates bed bugs to feed. As they approach the human host, they are attracted by the body heat of the host.

bed bug tips

Hazards

Unlike many other pests, bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans nor cause structural damage to buildings. However, bed bugs feed on human blood. Their presence can still have severe impacts on humans.

1. Allergic reactions

Bed bug bites are not harmful to humans. Some people do not even develop reactions toward the bites. However, people that develop allergic reactions to bed bug bites may have painful swelling or intense itching around the bites. In this scenario, medical attention will be needed to ease the symptoms of allergy.

2. Effect on mental health

Bed bug bites can be extremely itchy to some people. The itch from the bites can cause insomnia and even anxiety in cases of heavy infestations. Bed bugs may cause an affected individual to have sleepless nights, and the lack of sleep can further affect mental health and the ability to carry out normal daily activities.

Can bed bugs cause post traumatic stress disorder?

3. Property damage

Bed bugs do not cause structural damage like termites and rats, but they can cause cosmetic damage to the property. In a heavily infested unit, blood speckles and the droppings of bed bugs can be found all over the unit including the mattresses, bed frames and walls. Owners need to replace the items if the stains are not removable. Also, repainting the walls can be costly.

4. Economic and reputation damage

Bed bugs are a serious threat to the hospitality industry as well as the transport industry. Hotels suffer a loss when the bed bug infestation decreases their capacity to accept guests. The cost to treat bed bug infestations is usually a significant amount that can badly affect a company.

Besides hotel rooms, bed bugs can also be found on planes, buses and trains, causing significant losses to the businesses. A business’s reputation can be badly affected by bed bugs. Numerous lawsuits may also come from bed bug infestations.

signs of a bed bugs infestation

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Here are some signs that tell you that you have a bed bug infestation.

1. Bites

One of the most apparent signs that indicate a bed bug infestation is the presence of bite signs. It might be difficult to differentiate between the bites caused by bed bugs and other insects such as mosquitoes.

A bed bug usually bites more than once, so it is likely to leave numerous bites that cluster around several exposed parts of the body such as the face, neck, arms and legs.

2. Blood speckles on bedding and wall

Bed bugs hide in the corners and edges of a mattress, as well as other locations with cracks and crevices, including the wall. During the night, as bed bugs leave their hiding place to forage, you might accidentally crush them during your sleep. Crushing them causes their bodies to rupture, leaving behind blood stains on the mattress or wall.

3. Dark spots on mattress and wall

The droppings of bed bugs consist of digested blood which resembles black pepper flakes. They are commonly found near the hiding sites of the bed bugs so be sure to check the corners and edges of your mattresses and bed frames if you suspect a bed bug infestation.

4. Sickly sweet odour in the room

In places heavily infested with bed bugs, a pungent smell can be detected. People can have a different perception of how the odour smells. The odour is caused by the pheromones released by the bed bugs. Thus, the odour intensifies as the number of bed bugs present increases.

5. Cast skins of bed bugs

As mentioned earlier, bed bugs need to moult (cast off their skin) to grow. The sighting of cast skins (also known as exoskeletons) indicates the presence of bed bug infestations. The sightings of live bed bugs are also possible.

6. Visible presence of bed bugs

You may even see the adults, even though they typically come out to feed on blood at night. Their presence during daylight hours often indicates a substantial population, as bed bugs usually prefer to remain concealed in darkness when not actively feeding. Therefore, if you spot adult bed bugs during the day you may need to take immediate actions to prevent the infestation from growing further.

What to Do When You Have a Bed Bug Infestation

Getting rid of bed bugs by yourself can result in many failed attempts. It is extremely difficult to do, and you would be much better served by having professionals in Singapore come in with the right equipment to take care of things.

There are several proven methods that can be used for treating an infestation and getting rid of bed bugs.

Spray and Gas Treatment

A very popular and effective option is to use spray and gas treatment. This utilises dual spraying action, and it makes it possible to cover a large area in a short period. It can eliminate the bed bugs, as well as the eggs they have already laid.

Steaming

Another option is steaming. One of the benefits of this method is that the steaming can occur even if there are people and pets in the home at the time. This makes it a fast and efficient option, and it also happens to be environmentally friendly.

If you have signs of a bed bug infestation, do not wait to get the help you need. Get effective and professional bed bug control from Killem as we can take care of the problem right away.

prevent and get rid of bed bugs

Tips to Prevent and Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Bed bug infestation is a growing concern around the world. If you have them, it is important to know how to get rid of bed bugs. It should be taken seriously as it can cause stress to the victims even though bed bugs do not transmit diseases. Since prevention is better than cure, being mindful in daily life can help to prevent a bed bugs infestation and keep them away from you.

1. Check your bed and sofa

While bed bugs are mostly found around your bed, they can hide around other locations such as the sofa too.

Bed bugs can bite you without you noticing them. They do so when you are sound asleep, or even when you are sitting on the sofa enjoying your favorite movie.  Check the gaps between cushions as well as the seams and zippers of the cushion covers to look for signs of bed bug infestation. Bed bugs can also infest the gaps between cushions as well as the frames of beds and sofas.

If you see black spots at the corners and edges of the cushions or mattresses, you probably have bed bugs lurking around you.

Inspecting the beds and sofas helps to detect bed bug infestations. This allows early action before the infestations worsen.

2. Check your luggage

Another major source of bed bug infestation is infested accommodation. As you are enjoying your vacation in resorts or hotels, bed bugs from an infested room may climb into your luggage and follow you back home. Inspect your luggage as you are unpacking them may help you prevent a bed bug infestation.

3. Be mindful when using shared laundry services

Launderettes and shared laundry services are convenient for people living far from home or people who do not do their laundry at home. However, the convenience does come with a risk of exposing yourself to bed bug infestations. Bed bugs may hide in the shared equipment, so do check your washed clothes for signs of bed bugs after using shared laundry services.

4. Check secondhand furniture and clothes

Buying pre-loved items are a great way to save costs and care for the environment. However, sometimes you are getting more than what you wish for as bed bugs may hide in items such as furniture, clothing and even stuffed toys.

Bed bugs can survive without a blood meal for up to 4 months, so they can even be found in items that have been left unattended. Make sure you check the items before you use them again to prevent bed bug infestations at home.

5. Seek Help From a Professional

Professional pest control managers are the best people you can look for to manage the bed bug infestation at your house. Professional pest control operators will conduct effective treatment after careful inspection.

Conventional treatment methods for bed bug infestations include gassing and residual spraying method. Gassing delivers fast knockdown to the bed bugs and residual spraying chemical kills bed bugs that come into contact with the chemical after the treatment. This is important as the eggs of the bed bugs can usually survive the treatment so the residual effect of the chemical kills the newly-hatched bed bugs.

DIY Methods to Prevent and Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Getting rid of bed bugs on your own is not an easy task. However, some methods can reduce their presence or even remove them entirely in cases of light infestations.

1. Wash and dry in high temperature

Bed bugs can be killed when exposed to temperatures higher than 60°C for 15 minutes. Washing or drying your mattress linen and clothes at high temperatures is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs. High temperatures have been known to kill bed bugs effectively, therefore steamers that produce high-temperature dry steam are used by professional pest control service providers as a greener and safer approach to eliminate bed bugs.

2. Vacuuming

Vacuuming can remove the adult bed bugs, the nymphs and even the eggs. Focus on the potential hiding spots of bed bugs such as wall joints, cracks and crevices. Thoroughly vacuum the bed, including mattresses and bed frames to remove bed bugs.

Vacuuming together with washing linens at high temperatures may help to eliminate the bed bugs. However, if the situation does not improve, professional pest treatment is required to help solve your problem.

3. Use bedbug-proof encasements for your matresses

Bed bug-proof encasements restrict the movements of bed bugs, thus preventing new infestations as well as trapping existing bed bugs. They are available in the market and work well to keep bed bugs off your bed as long as you install them correctly. With them, you will be able to sleep soundly without having to worry about bed bug bites.

Pro Tip: Don’t panic and don't throw out all of your belongings because most of them can be treated and saved.

Bed Bug Home Remedies

Let’s look at some natural remedies for dealing with bed bugs. A common bed bug home remedy is essential oil bed bug spray. Commonly used oils for creating a natural bed bug killer spray are:

  • Peppermint
  • Thyme
  • Clove

The bed bug home remedy not only effectively eliminates bed bugs, it also provides additional protection to various sensitive spots around your home. This includes bedding, carpets, fabrics of all kinds and any furniture.

To use the bed bug spray, all you need is a spray bottle with distilled water and 10-20 drops of essential oils. Spray it on all prone areas and reapply 2-3 days later. This bed bug home remedy is an effective and natural way to get rid of bed bugs without the use of chemicals.

Other natural products to help get rid of bed bugs include:

  • Tea tree oil
  • Lavender oil
  • Cinnamon
  • Powdered Pepper
  • Lemon
  • Peppermint
  • Neem oil

get rid of bed bugs naturally infographic

How to Get Rid of Bed Bug Bite Marks

Bed bug bite marks can be an annoying reminder of a bed bug infestation. It is important to resist the urge to scratch when treating bed bug bite marks, as it can lead to secondary infections or prolonged marks.

Some other steps involved in bed bug bite marks treatment and removal include:

  • Cleaning the affected area with mild soap and water to prevent any potential infections.
  • Using natural remedies like aloe vera or tea tree oil to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
  • Using creams containing hydrocortisone or antihistamines to reduce itching and help in the healing process.
  • For more severe cases, consulting a dermatologist is recommended

Remember, consistent care and patience are key in gradually fading and removing the bed bug marks.

Professional Bed Bug Treatment

Residual insecticidal treatment is one of the treatment methods to get rid of bed bugs. The chemicals and products used by pest management professionals are different from those that are available over the counter (less effective). The application of residual insecticides targets the areas where bed bugs are most likely to hide and reside, such as:

  • Seams of beds
  • Folds of sofas
  • Wall crevices

Pro tip: Bed bugs are best to be treated before they become much more severe problem.

Killem Pest has employed steaming treatment as an alternative solution for bed bug control.

It is an environmentally friendly solution as it resolves and eliminates bed bugs and their eggs without the use of any insecticide.

The superheated dry steam from the specially designed appliance can be steamed up to 180°C, which directly kills the bed bugs and eggs upon contact. The steam generated will not cause damage to any surface or fabric. Instead, it can help to eradicate viruses, bacteria, germs and fungi on the treated surface.

Bed bug problems should not be underestimated. They are best solved before they become much more severe. In the case of a serious bed bug infestation, treatment methods may vary and can become more challenging. It is vital to identify the root cause of bed bug problems, recognize the source to avoid continuously bringing them back from outside. Lastly, help from a professional pest control company is strongly advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, bed bugs are visible to the human eye. They typically have an oval-shaped body and reddish-brown colour.

Bed bugs are not considered dangerous, however, their bites may cause an allergic reaction which may require medical help.

Yes, bed bugs are common “guests” in Singapore homes and can be brought in on surfaces like clothes, furniture or bedding.

Bed bugs can come from various infested areas or surfaces, or used furniture. They can often be found in many forms of transportation or any public places and can travel with you from lounge areas, airports or airplanes.

Typically bed bugs hide in mattresses or couches, in the cracks in the bed frame, or near the bed. You can also find bed bugs in other furniture or on the walls (wallpapers, pictures, curtains, window frames, etc).

It is hard to get rid of bed bugs as they hide well and reproduce quickly: their number can grow exponentially in a couple of days.

Bed bugs are visible to the naked eye: adult bed bugs’ colour ranges from red to dark, they are oval in shape and look similar to the apple seed. Immature bed bugs are smaller in size and translucent whitish-yellow in color.

No, bed bugs cannot fly. They don’t have wings, so they can only crawl around. However, they are quite good at crawling and can move quickly over floors, walls, and ceilings to find their next meal.

To spot the presence of bed bugs, check for the bites on your skin, reddish stains or dark spots on bed sheets or mattresses, or the presence of live or dead bugs and their eggs.

Bed bug bites appear on the parts of your skin that are not covered during the night, and look similar to mosquito bites – swollen red spots that often itch.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh

How to Get Rid of Ants

The Ultimate Guide to Ant Prevention and Treatment in Singapore

Have you ever walked into the kitchen only to find ants feasting on the cakes that you forgot to place in the fridge? Or did you find the carcasses of ants in the drinks that you were just about to finish? These scenarios are familiar to most of us. The presence of ants may be a sign of a larger ant infestation. Ant infestations are relatively harmless in most cases. Severe ant infestations may cause problems and badly affect the quality of life.

types of ants in Singapore

Types of Ants in Singapore

Some of the most commonly found ants in Singapore are:

These ants may enter homes searching for food and shelter. Buildings appeal to ants since they offer protection from weather and predators.

Ghost ants

Ghost ants – also known as sugar ants – love moist environments. They are usually active in kitchens. For example, inside cabinets, under the sink or behind the fridge.

Characteristics of ghost ants:

  • 1.3 to 1.5mm big
  • Dark heads
  • Translucent bodies
  • They love sweet and sugar-rich foods as they contain carbs to feed the colonies

Pharaoh ants

Pharaoh ants are a real nuisance. They can be hard to handle. Pharaoh ants are relatively resistant to pesticides. If you spray pesticides, their colony will break and move into new territories. This makes it challenging to eliminate pharaoh ants. Also, pharaoh ants tend to bite when threatened.

The characteristics of pharaoh ants include:

  • 2mm big
  • Distinctive golden or brown colour
  • They enjoy oily and protein-rich foods
  • Queens can live anywhere from 4 to 12 years

Pro tip: It is important to identify the type of ant infestation to choose the right method to treat ants.

Carpenter ants

Carpenter ants, as their name implies, live in wooden structures. Though they do not eat wood, they will create an area for their colony with their mouths. Hence, carpenter ants are sometimes thought to be termites.

Characteristics of carpenter ants:

  • 15 to 17mm big
  • Black and reddish-brown
  • They love eating honeydew and dead insects
  • Often found in moist-rich areas such as bathrooms

Crazy ants

Last on this list is the crazy ants. Their name relates to their defence techniques. Once disturbed, crazy ants will swiftly move in all directions. This makes it challenging to eliminate them.

Characteristics of crazy ants:

  • 2 to 3mm big
  • Long legs
  • Black or dark red colour
  • Antennae
  • They love sugary foods (hence they will occupy similar places as ghost ants)

signs of an ant infestation in singapore

Signs of an Ant Infestation

Ants from the external surroundings may enter your house occasionally as they forage for food. Thus, you should not have to worry when you see one or two ants in the house. However, there are some tell-tale signs indicating that you might be having an ant infestation around your home.

1. Live ants

One of the most apparent signs indicating an ant infestation is the sightings of a large number of live ants. They are usually present around food and food preparation areas as they forage for food.

2. Ant trails

Ants leave a trail of pheromone as they forage. This allows other members of the colony can follow. An ant trail forms as ants travel on the same path with the pheromone. Following the ant trail may lead you to their nest.

3. Presence of sawdust

The presence of sawdust may indicate the presence of carpenter ants. Carpenter ants do not consume the wood that they infest. Instead, they expel the wood from the tunnels they make, leaving behind piles or trails of sawdust.

Life Cycle and Biology

Similar to insects like mosquitoes and butterflies, ants undergo a complete metamorphosis. Their life stages consist of:

  • Eggs
  • Larvae
  • Pupae
  • Adulthood

Ants are also social insects that practice a caste system. Thus, the normal function of a colony is maintained through the division of labour by different castes. An ant colony consists of a queen, alates, workers, pupae, larvae and eggs.

Reproducing

The queen is the largest individual in a colony. Her primary function is to reproduce and grow the colony. The queen only mates once but continues to reproduce throughout its entire lifespan.

A male’s sole function is to mate, and it dies after its task is accomplished.

The alates are the winged individuals that fly off to form new colonies. New colonies can also be created through a process known as budding, whereby the queen ant leaves the nest to start a new colony in another location.

Workers

The worker is the most common caste which encompasses the ants that we see in the surrounding. The tasks of the workers include:

  • Foraging for food
  • Feeding the workers
  • Guarding and tending to the nest

Some species of ants have workers that are dimorphic. This means that the workers are further classified into:

  • Major workers: larger
  • Minor workers: smaller

The larvae are fragile and legless, so they need nursing from the workers.

ant tips

Hazards

Ants are not important vectors of diseases, so they pose little medical concerns. However, the presence of ants still poses risks to homeowners.

1. Nuisance

The sight of ants around your house may be unpleasant. Ants are an eyesore to people who hate insects. They may also climb onto your body unnoticed and cause irritation.

2. Structural damage

Severe infestation by carpenter ants may hollow out wooden structures, causing the structures to weaken. In turn, this increases the risk of collapsing.

3. Occurrence of other pests

The presence of ants may cause other entomophagous pests such as spiders and geckos to thrive. Ants serve as a food source for these pests. Thus, the increase in the food supply would undoubtedly benefit their predators.

prevent and get rid of ants

Tips to Prevent and Get Rid of Ants

6 ways to prevent and get rid of ants in Singapore:

1. Identify and close entry points

How do ants find their way into your home? Understanding this will allow you to block ants from entering. Usually, ants enter through cracks in the walls, floors, ceilings, windows and pipelines. Even the tiniest of spaces is enough for ants to enter. Prevention is key, thus your first task is to find and seal all possible entry points.

2. Remove water leaks

Water is one of the sources that ants thrive on. Ants also nest in moist areas. Therefore, water leaks are an attraction for ants. If you see ants in your house, there may well be a water leak somewhere. We recommended you to inspect your home for leaking pipes.

3. Keep proper sanitation

All creatures need food to survive. It is important to keep your home clean at all times. By doing so, you will not attract ants. Make it a habit to clean your home thoroughly, including counters, tables, floors and especially all parts of the kitchen. Regularly throwing out the garbage also helps a lot in preventing ants.

4. Store food in airtight containers

Food storages are great attractions for ants. Their tiny bodies can usually squeeze through any narrow gaps in search for crumbs and other food rests. Thus, we recommend using airtight storage containers for your food. Also, consider storing fresh items such as fruit in the fridge.

5. Take good care of indoor potted plants

Even if you follow the first steps rigidly, there is still a chance of an ant infestation. Our next tip addresses plants. As plants need water, so do ants. Thus ants are often attracted to indoor potted plants. They may even build a colony inside a pot. Hence, carefully check around plant pots for signs of ants.

6. Trim trees and keep shrubbery away from home’s exteriors

Taking care of your garden is our final tip. Why take care of the outdoors? Because this where the ants are coming from. If you want to get rid of ants, start in the outdoors. Examples include trimming tree branches and keeping things neat and tidy.

7 Tips on How to Get Rid of Ants

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how to get rid of ants

DIY Methods to Prevent and Get Rid of Ants

Ants are sensitive creatures, not only able to sense sweet stuff but also capable to detect the smells they hate. Home remedies such as cinnamon, lemon juice and peppermint can act as natural ant deterrents to prevent their access to our homes. The home remedies can be sprayed at doorways, windowsills, and potential entry points to help in deterring them away.

Professional Ant Treatment

Residual spraying is the most common method used to treat ants. However, it does not always work for all species. It is usually used when we can detect and access the ant nest. Or, the ants will not be shaken by the insecticide, which can worsen the infestation. Residual chemical can also be sprayed at the entrance or potential entry point if we want to prevent garden species from coming into our premise.

Some species of ants are hard to handle. They are eliminated but then re-appear. Some ants cannot be eradicated with insecticide spray. Thus it is important to identify the type of ant infestation.

The baiting method is preferable, especially when dealing with ants indoors. The bait that we use is a mix of an insecticide and some food attractants. It is non-repellent and slow-acting, which does not kill ants quickly. The bait will be placed at multiple locations where their activity is identified. The slow-acting nature of the bait works when the workers carry the bait back to their nest and feed it to the brood, nest mates and queen. Subsequently, the nest is eliminated.

Notice any ants? Remain calm and contact a professional to prevent further spread of ants. Our staff are licensed and certified with the National Environment Agency (NEA). Our service technicians understand the habits of different types of ants and will provide the correct type of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ants bite when they feel threatened and try to defend themselves from people. During the bite, the ant can release a chemical called formic acid which some people may be allergic to. Some ants can also sting and inject the venom into your skin.

Ants come into your house in search of food and water. That’s why it is important to store your food properly, avoid water leaks and take good care of your house and garden.

Most types of ants can bite humans, however, not all of them are aggressive and some bites can be barely noticeable.

by Nicole Zycinski-Singh