From creepy crawlies to pesky rodents, new research by pest control company Catch A Pest has discovered Ireland’s most prevalent pests.
Legend says you’re never more than six feet from a rat, and yet it’s often the sight of a slithering silverfish that sends shivers down your spine. But if rats are apparently always nearby, does that make them Ireland’s most prevalent pest?
According to Catch A Pest, the most searched for pest isn’t the rat, but a cousin of the critter.
Through their research, Catch A Pest can reveal that the Irish public most often searched for ‘mice’, with Stephen Prout, Managing Director of Catch A Pest, saying "rodents like mice and rats are really resourceful, especially when food and shelter are easy to access. The key isn’t just removing these pests, it’s understanding how they’re getting in and cutting that off properly. Small gaps, cluttered storage areas and unsecured food can all invite problems. Acting early makes a big difference and prevents a minor issue from becoming a much larger infestation.”
Commonly searched for pests include those harder to see, such as fleas, silverfish and bed bugs, all of which Stephen says require a certain type of pest control.
"Pests like fleas, silverfish and bed bugs can be harder to spot, which is often why they become such a nuisance. They hide in soft furnishings, cracks and fabrics, so treatment needs to be thorough and targeted. Quick DIY fixes rarely solve the root problem, unfortunately. A proper inspection and tailored approach ensures they’re fully eliminated and less likely to return.”
Five expert tips to deter pests
As a leading pest control expert, Stephen has offered his 5 top tips for deterring pests that any homeowner can use:
Use essential-oil cotton balls: Peppermint, eucalyptus or clove oil on cotton balls can deter mice by overwhelming their noses. Place them along skirting boards and quiet corners, and refresh them every few weeks.
Keep food stored securely: Seal all dry foods in rigid containers and wipe up your crumbs. Removing easy food sources is essential to deterring pests.
Store fabrics in airtight containers: Use tough plastic tubs instead of cardboard, which rodents chew easily. This removes nesting material and keeps storage areas secure.
Seal gaps: Check around pipes, doors, skirting boards and utility areas. Fill any cracks with rodent-proof materials, as even small gaps let mice in.
Cut down household clutter: Reduce piles of paper, soft fabrics and boxes as these attract nesting rodents. Clearer areas are less inviting and easier to inspect.
