Animals such as cats, barn owls, and dogs can be used to help control common indoor pests. Lisa Jo Lupo, a pest control expert with more than 25 years of experience in the industry, explains that the importance of biological control is often evident when broad-spectrum residual pesticides (those that persist for days or weeks) cause secondary outbreaks of pests or their re-occurrence. As a pest comes under biological control, the population density of the pest and the biological control agent decreases because the host-specific natural enemies cannot hunt or reproduce in other species. Creating a backyard environment that attracts birds and other natural enemies of insects and other pests helps control these pests on desirable plants. Hosts/Scale insects are common pests of many indoor, greenhouse and ornamental plants, as well as many trees and shrubs.
The most common type of leafminer in indoor plants is the agromicidal fly worm of the genus Liriomyza. In order to effectively use natural predators to control common indoor pests, it is important to understand the types of predators that can be used. Cats are one of the most popular natural predators for controlling indoor pests. They are effective at catching mice, rats, and other small rodents. Barn owls are also effective at controlling rodents, as well as insects such as moths and beetles.
Dogs can also be used to help control fleas and ticks. In addition to understanding the types of predators that can be used to control common indoor pests, it is also important to understand how to attract these predators to your home. Providing food sources such as bird feeders and water sources can help attract birds and other natural predators. Planting native plants that attract beneficial insects can also help attract natural predators. Finally, providing shelter for these predators can help them stay in your yard longer. Using natural predators to control common indoor pests is an effective way to reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
By understanding the types of predators that can be used and how to attract them, you can create a backyard environment that is both safe for your family and beneficial for controlling common indoor pests.
