All about pest control products

Better than a .22

Humane alternatives are always ideal when protecting a lawn from vermin. At least this goes for vermin with hair and somewhat familiar reproductive processes. Nobody suggests relocating a population of larvae to a more appropriate habitat. So assuming you've got a mammal pest living in your yard which, for some reason or another, appeals to your species solidarity and deserves not to be obliterated by superior intelligence and opposable thumbs.

What, then are the ways we can compromise our distaste for pests and the sympathies we feel towards our genus? The following humane pest control methods may aid a non-violent resolution.

Havahart wire traps

This is a live-catch trap that works much more effectively than the traditional box-suspended-by-a-stick. Place it wherever you suspect the pests do their commuting. Vole runways and droppings indicate a heavily trafficked area. Peanut butter or something tasty will lure in the mole, vole, or possum, then a wire door snaps behind it. How you relocate your pest will depend on laws and your own agenda. Unfortunately, these require repeated use and a lot of luck to eradicate several pests. They are, however, completely safe.

Electronic pest control

The data supporting electronic, ultrasonic, and electromagnetic pest control convince few scientists. While they claim to be an effective, environment-friendly, and safe alternative to chemical pest control, the FCC warns producers not to make any unfounded declarations. They supposedly function by emitting frequencies well out of range of human hearing, thereby silently discouraging pests like grasshoppers, locusts, moths, and rodents. Be wary, and always have a contingency plan.

Harmless organic pest control

For those most averse to causing any discomfort to vermin looking to decimate your garden, the Spray Away water jet does it. An infrared motion sensor operates on a nine volt battery which launches a jet of water up to 35 feet. Connects to a simple garden hose. I wouldn't rely on hungry animals being too concerned about getting wet, though.

Bird pest control

This is certainly an area that has experienced some success as a pest deterrent. If silence isn't an issue, you can purchase any number of sonic pest control devices that keep the birds at bay. Silent devices exist with success on most species. And, if there are simply certain areas that cannot be pestered by perching birds, get some anti-perching pigeon spikes. They make your property look like a fortress, but one not covered in bird doo.

Unfortunately, nature is a persistent force. This means that regardless of all your humane and organic methods, sometimes a manufactured, vile chemical is the only way to get the job done. They may be dangerous to your plants, family and pets, but those vegetables deserve it. Just be sure to get familiar with pest control safety, first.