Pest control questions for Montpelier, IN

Purdue Extension guidance describes rodent control as three steps: proofing the structure, sanitation, and then control measures. Openings can be sealed with mortar, concrete, sheet metal or hardware cloth around augers, pipes and wires.

Sealing and exclusion are separate from treatment. Ask the technician on site what is included before any work starts.

Purdue guidance says nests in the ground or in wall voids are usually treated at night, when most of the colony is inside. Most above-ground and structural nests are best handled by a professional, and an entrance should never be plugged from the outside.

Boxelder bugs do not bite or sting, but they become a nuisance indoors. Cluster flies are handled as a general fly problem in older farmhouses, and the technician confirms the approach on site.

Cold, snowy winters push mice, rats and overwintering insects into heated buildings. Mice and rats are most active at night, and droppings and urine stains are the usual signs.

Purdue Extension says adults look for cracks to overwinter in and enter through foundation gaps, windows, doors and under siding. They become active again on warm, sunny days in late winter or early spring. Read the fall invaders guide for more.

Indiana DNR guidance generally allows a person to remove up to five bats in 24 hours from a dwelling without a permit. Larger removals need a permit or a wildlife control operator, and DNR suggests evicting bats in spring or autumn. See the bats guide.

The Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC), housed at Purdue University, issues pesticide business licenses and applicator certification. Ask any company for both, and confirm with OISC if in doubt. See the licensing guide.

Indiana Department of Health reporting places blacklegged ticks in nearly all Indiana counties. Nymphs are most active from May to July, and adults can be active on warm winter days. The ticks guide covers woodlots in more detail.