PESTAWARE

Female Red Spider Mites can invade homes in large numbers during the autumn as they seek out places to hibernate, say experts at a national trade body.

British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is urging householders in Hull to check for the mites, which will climb walls to find nooks and crannies where they can settle down for the winter.

Swift action is needed to tackle an infestation of Red Spider Mites; while they are only 1mm in size and do no direct harm, they can cause staining to walls and decorations if they are squashed.

For the majority of the year, Red Spider Mites are pale green with two dark spots on their back and turn an orange-red colour in autumn and winter.

Natalie Bungay, Technical Manager at BPCA said: “A few Red Spider Mites around the home is not unusual in the autumn, but occasionally, they can move indoors in very large numbers which can be both distressing and cause issues with staining.

“DIY treatment of a mite infestation is unlikely to be successful as there are two species in the UK and correct identification is key.

“The two species have very different habits and understanding this is essential to effective control.

“If you discover unusually large numbers of Red Spider Mites in your property, we recommend you get in touch with a BPCA member.”

A BPCA member company have the technical knowledge and experience to apply products in an efficient manner while minimising risk to the environment and non-target species.

BPCA members:

• Are endorsed by the Government via the TrustMark quality scheme
• Carry the correct insurances
• Are trained and qualified technicians
• Are assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636
• Follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice.

To find a BPCA member visit: bpca.org.uk/find.