Cockroaches in Canada – Identification & Control

About Cockroaches in Canada

Cockroaches are one of the most unwelcome household pests in Canada. These resilient insects thrive in warm, humid environments and can spread quickly once established. They are not only unpleasant to see but also a serious health concern, contaminating food and surfaces with bacteria, allergens, and pathogens.

Common Cockroach Species in Canada

· German Cockroach: The most common species in Canadian homes and businesses; small, light brown with two dark stripes on the back.

· American Cockroach: Larger species, reddish-brown in colour, often found in sewers, basements, and boiler rooms.

· Oriental Cockroach: Dark brown to black, prefers cool, damp areas such as basements and crawl spaces.

Why Cockroaches Are a Problem

· Health Risk: Known carriers of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.

· Allergens: Shed skins and droppings can trigger asthma and allergies, especially in children.

· Rapid Breeders: A single female can produce hundreds of offspring in her lifetime.

· Difficult to Eliminate: Cockroaches hide in cracks, behind appliances, and in wall voids, making DIY treatments ineffective.

Signs of a Cockroach Infestation

· Seeing live cockroaches, especially at night.

· Small, dark droppings that resemble ground coffee.

· Musty, unpleasant odour in infested areas.

· Egg cases (oothecae) hidden in cracks or crevices.

Professional Cockroach Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use proven methods to get rid of cockroaches and prevent them from coming back:

1. Inspection: We identify the species and locate hiding spots.

2. Targeted Treatment: Application of professional-grade baits, insect growth regulators, and residual treatments approved for use in Canada.

3. Sanitation Guidance: Advice on eliminating food and water sources that attract cockroaches.

4. Follow-up Treatments: Multiple visits may be required to ensure complete eradication.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Store food in sealed containers.

o Clean crumbs and spills immediately.

o Seal cracks, crevices, and entry points.

o Empty garbage regularly and keep bins clean.

Our Guarantee

Cockroaches are tough—but so are we. With Evicta Pest Control, you get professional, effective treatments backed by our re-treatment guarantee. If cockroaches come back, so do we.

Ants in Canada – Identification & Control

About Ants in Canada

Ants are one of the most common household pests in Canada. While many species are harmless, they become a problem when they invade homes in search of food, water, or nesting sites. Some species, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage, while others create nuisance trails in kitchens, pantries, and outdoor spaces.

Common Ant Species in Canada

· Carpenter Ants: Large black ants that excavate wood to build nests, potentially weakening structures over time.

· Pavement Ants: Small brown or black ants that build nests in driveways, sidewalks, and foundations; often invade kitchens.

· Pharaoh Ants: Tiny yellow ants that spread quickly and can be difficult to control; often found in multi-unit buildings.

· Odorous House Ants: Small brown ants that emit a foul smell when crushed; known for forming large colonies indoors.

Why Ants Are a Problem

· Property Damage: Carpenter ants can hollow out wood, weakening homes and buildings.

· Food Contamination: Ants invade pantries, contaminating food with bacteria.

· Difficult to Control: Colonies can contain thousands of ants, with multiple queens, making DIY methods often ineffective.

· Nuisance: Continuous trails of ants can be frustrating and hard to eliminate without professional help.

Signs of an Ant Infestation

· Trails of ants indoors or outdoors.

· Sawdust-like material (frass) indicating carpenter ant activity.

· Ant nests or mounds in soil, cracks, or near foundations.

· Winged ants (swarmers), which may indicate a mature colony.

Professional Ant Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we provide customized ant control solutions designed for Canadian conditions:

1. Inspection: We identify the ant species and locate nests.

2. Targeted Treatment: Use of professional-grade baits, dusts, and liquid treatments approved for use in Canada.

3. Colony Elimination: Treatments designed to reach the entire colony, including hidden queens.

4. Nest Removal (if applicable): Safe removal of accessible nests.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations.

o Keep food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs or spills quickly.

o Trim vegetation and remove wood debris around the property.

o Fix leaks and eliminate moisture sources that attract ants.

Our Guarantee

Ant infestations can spread quickly, but with Evicta Pest Control you get fast, reliable solutions. We back our services with a re-treatment guarantee—if ants return, so do we.

Bed Bugs in Canada – Identification & Control

About Bed Bugs in Canada

Bed bugs are one of the most stressful pests Canadian homeowners and businesses face. These tiny, blood-feeding insects are experts at hiding in cracks, crevices, and furniture, making them difficult to detect and even harder to eliminate without professional help. Bed bugs are not known to spread disease, but their bites can cause itchy welts, stress, and sleepless nights.

Identifying Bed Bugs

· Appearance: Small, oval, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed.

· Hiding Spots: Mattresses, box springs, bed frames, headboards, couches, baseboards, and even behind electrical outlets.

· Activity: Bed bugs are nocturnal, feeding at night and hiding during the day.

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

· Small, itchy red bites (often in clusters or lines) on skin.

· Tiny dark spots (droppings) or blood stains on sheets and bedding.

· Shed skins or live bed bugs found around sleeping areas.

· Musty, sweet odour in heavy infestations.

Why Bed Bugs Are a Problem

· Bites & Discomfort: Cause itching, skin irritation, and allergic reactions in some people.

· Rapid Spread: Easily move between rooms, apartments, or even luggage when traveling.

· Hard to Eliminate: Bed bugs are resistant to many DIY products and can survive months without feeding.

· Emotional Stress: Infestations often cause anxiety, loss of sleep, and embarrassment.

Professional Bed Bug Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use proven methods to eliminate bed bugs safely and effectively:

1. Inspection: Thorough examination of sleeping areas and furniture to confirm bed bug activity.

2. Targeted Treatment: Application of heat treatments and/or professional-grade insecticides approved for use in Canada.

3. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combining physical removal (vacuuming, steaming) with chemical treatments for best results.

4. Follow-Up Visits: Bed bugs are persistent, so multiple treatments may be necessary to ensure full elimination.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Inspect luggage and clothing after travel.

o Wash and dry bedding on high heat regularly.

o Reduce clutter to minimize hiding spots.

o Be cautious when buying second-hand furniture.

Our Guarantee

Bed bugs can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face them alone. With Evicta Pest Control, you get discreet service, proven treatments, and a re-treatment guarantee—if bed bugs return, so do we.

Spiders in Canada – Identification & Control

About Spiders in Canada

Spiders are a common sight in Canadian homes and businesses. While most species are harmless and even helpful by feeding on other insects, they can still become a nuisance when they move indoors. Some people also experience strong fear or anxiety around spiders, making infestations particularly stressful.

Common Spider Species in Canada

· House Spider: Commonly found indoors; builds tangled webs in basements, garages, and corners of rooms.

· Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs): Long, thin legs; prefers damp areas like basements and crawl spaces.

· Wolf Spider: Large, fast-moving, ground-dwelling spider; often mistaken for more dangerous species.

· Fishing Spider: Found near water; one of the largest spiders in Canada.

· Black Widow (rare in Canada): Found in parts of southern Canada (British Columbia, Ontario); recognizable by the red hourglass marking on its abdomen.

Why Spiders Are a Problem

· Fear & Discomfort: Many people have arachnophobia, making even harmless spiders unwelcome indoors.

· Messy Webs: Webs accumulate in corners, basements, and ceilings.

· Bites (rare): Most Canadian spiders are not dangerous, but bites can occur if they feel threatened.

· Indication of Other Pests: A high number of spiders often means there are insects around for them to feed on.

Signs of a Spider Infestation

· Visible webs in corners, ceilings, or window frames.

· Frequent sightings of spiders indoors.

· Egg sacs hidden in webs or secluded spots.

· Large numbers of insects indoors (which attract spiders).

Professional Spider Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use effective methods to reduce spider populations and prevent them from returning:

1. Inspection: Identifying spider species and the conditions attracting them.

2. Targeted Treatment: Use of professional-grade insecticides and dusts in cracks, crevices, and webbing areas (approved for use in Canada).

3. Web Removal: Clearing webs and egg sacs to reduce populations.

4. Insect Control: Addressing the underlying insect problem that attracts spiders.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundations.

o Reduce clutter in basements, garages, and storage areas.

o Keep outdoor lighting to a minimum (lights attract insects, which attract spiders).

o Regularly vacuum corners, ceilings, and behind furniture.

Our Guarantee

At Evicta Pest Control, we help you take back your home from unwanted eight-legged guests. With our re-treatment guarantee, if spiders return, so do we.

Mice in Canada – Identification & Control

About Mice in Canada

Mice are among the most common household pests in Canada. Small, fast, and highly adaptable, they can enter homes through tiny gaps as small as a dime. Once inside, they contaminate food, chew through wires, and spread disease. Mice breed quickly, which means a small problem can turn into a large infestation in a short time.

Common Mice Species in Canada

· House Mouse: The most common species; small, grey-brown body with a pointed nose and large ears.

· Deer Mouse: Found in rural and suburban areas; brown with a white belly and feet, known carriers of hantavirus.

· White-Footed Mouse: Similar to deer mice, often found in wooded or rural areas.

Why Mice Are a Problem

· Health Risks: Spread harmful diseases such as hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis through droppings, urine, and saliva.

· Property Damage: Chew through wires, insulation, and even structural materials, creating fire hazards and costly repairs.

· Food Contamination: Gnaw into food packaging, leaving behind droppings and contamination.

· Rapid Reproduction: A single female can produce up to 10 litters per year, with 5–12 pups each time.

Signs of a Mouse Infestation

· Droppings (small, dark, pellet-shaped) found in cupboards, drawers, or along walls.

· Gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture, or wires.

· Scratching or scurrying noises in walls, ceilings, or at night.

· Nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation.

· Strong ammonia-like odour from urine.

Professional Mouse Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use proven strategies to eliminate mice and keep them from coming back:

1. Inspection: Identify entry points, nesting sites, and feeding areas.

2. Exclusion: Seal gaps, cracks, and holes around the foundation, walls, and roofline.

3. Targeted Treatment: Use of traps, bait stations, and rodenticides approved for use in Canada.

4. Sanitation Guidance: Advice on reducing food and water sources that attract mice.

5. Ongoing Monitoring: Regular checks to ensure populations are eliminated.

Prevention Tips

· Seal all cracks, holes, and gaps larger than 6 mm.

· Store food in airtight containers.

· Keep garbage bins sealed and clean.

· Reduce clutter in basements, garages, and storage areas.

· Maintain clean kitchens and eliminate easy food sources.

Our Guarantee

Mice may be small, but the problems they cause are big. With Evicta Pest Control, you’ll get fast, effective service backed by our re-treatment guarantee—if mice return, so do we.

Birds in Canada – Identification & Control

About Birds as Pests

While birds are an important part of Canada’s natural environment, some species become problematic when they nest or roost in and around homes, businesses, and industrial sites. Pest birds can cause property damage, spread disease, and create unsanitary conditions. They are especially problematic in urban areas, where they thrive on food waste and shelter provided by buildings.

Common Pest Birds in Canada

· Pigeons: The most common urban pest bird; known for roosting on buildings, ledges, and bridges.

· House Sparrows: Small birds that nest in vents, gutters, and eaves, causing blockages and mess.

· Starlings: Gather in large flocks, create noise, and leave behind large amounts of droppings.

· Seagulls: Found in coastal and inland cities; aggressive around food sources and garbage areas.

Why Birds Are a Problem

· Health Risks: Bird droppings can carry harmful pathogens such as Histoplasmosis, Cryptococcosis, and Salmonella.

· Property Damage: Droppings are acidic and can corrode metal, stone, and paint. Nesting materials can clog vents, gutters, and machinery.

· Fire Hazards: Dry nesting material in vents and electrical fixtures increases fire risk.

· Noise & Aggression: Some birds, such as seagulls, can be aggressive when defending nests or scavenging food.

· Aesthetic Issues: Large amounts of droppings leave buildings and outdoor spaces looking unsightly.

Signs of a Bird Problem

· Large amounts of droppings on roofs, sidewalks, or around buildings.

· Nests in vents, eaves, gutters, or ledges.

· Constant bird activity around garbage bins or outdoor eating areas.

· Damage to property from pecking or nesting.

Professional Bird Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use humane and effective methods to deter birds from your property while following Canadian wildlife regulations:

1. Inspection: Identify bird species, nesting sites, and activity levels.

2. Exclusion: Install netting, screens, or vent covers to block entry points.

3. Deterrents: Use of spikes, wires, and visual deterrents to prevent roosting.

4. Sanitation: Safe cleanup and disinfection of droppings to reduce health risks.

5. Ongoing Prevention: Long-term strategies to keep birds away from your property.

Prevention Tips

· Keep garbage bins sealed and away from public access.

· Limit outdoor food sources and clean up spills promptly.

· Install bird-proof covers on vents and chimneys.

· Trim trees and shrubs near buildings to reduce nesting opportunities.

Our Commitment

Bird problems can escalate quickly if left untreated. At Evicta Pest Control, we provide safe, humane, and effective bird control solutions backed by our satisfaction guarantee.

Skunks in Canada – Identification & Control

About Skunks in Canada

Skunks are medium-sized mammals easily recognized by their black fur and distinctive white stripes. They are common across Canada, especially in urban and suburban areas where food and shelter are abundant. While skunks play a role in controlling insects and small rodents, they become a problem when they den under decks, sheds, or porches—or when they spray near homes and pets.

Why Skunks Are a Problem

· Odour: Skunks are infamous for their defensive spray, which can cause lingering smells on pets, clothing, and property.

· Property Damage: Skunks dig under decks, sheds, and foundations to create dens. Their digging can damage lawns and gardens.

· Health Risks: Skunks are known carriers of rabies and can transmit diseases such as leptospirosis through urine and droppings.

· Pet Conflicts: Curious pets often get sprayed or injured in encounters with skunks.

· Nuisance: Noise, droppings, and denning habits make them an unwelcome guest.

Signs of a Skunk Problem

· Strong, lingering odour near your home or property.

· Small, cone-shaped holes in your lawn from digging for grubs.

· Tracks showing five toes and claw marks.

· Burrows under decks, sheds, porches, or woodpiles.

· Noises at night, as skunks are nocturnal.

Professional Skunk Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use humane and effective methods to manage skunk problems while respecting Canadian wildlife laws:

1. Inspection: Identify den sites and activity patterns.

2. Exclusion: Install barriers, screening, and one-way doors to prevent skunks from re-entering dens.

3. Humane Trapping (if necessary): Safe and regulated trapping methods for relocation where permitted.

4. Sanitation: Cleaning and deodorizing areas contaminated with skunk spray, droppings, or urine.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Seal entry points under decks, porches, and sheds with proper screening.

o Keep garbage bins tightly closed.

o Remove fallen fruit, bird seed, and outdoor pet food that attract skunks.

o Maintain lawns to reduce grubs, a primary food source for skunks.

Our Commitment

Skunks can cause big problems with their smell, digging, and disease risks. At Evicta Pest Control, we provide fast, humane, and reliable skunk control services, backed by our satisfaction guarantee.

Richardson’s Ground Squirrels in Canada – Identification & Control

About Richardson’s Ground Squirrels

Richardson’s Ground Squirrels (Urocitellus richardsonii), commonly called “gophers,” are burrowing rodents found across the Canadian Prairies, including Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. While they are a natural part of the prairie ecosystem, they become serious pests when populations explode in residential areas, farms, and golf courses. Their extensive tunneling damages landscapes, weakens soil, and creates hazards for people, pets, and livestock.

Why Richardson’s Ground Squirrels Are a Problem

· Property Damage: Burrows undermine lawns, gardens, driveways, and building foundations.

· Agricultural Impact: Cause significant crop loss by feeding on seeds and plants.

· Livestock Hazards: Burrows create holes that can injure livestock or damage equipment.

· Rapid Breeding: Populations can increase quickly, with females producing multiple litters each season.

· Aesthetic Issues: Large colonies leave yards and fields covered in unsightly mounds.

Signs of a Ground Squirrel Infestation

· Numerous burrow holes (5–10 cm wide) with fresh soil mounds nearby.

· Large groups of squirrels active during the day, especially in spring and summer.

· Damaged gardens, crops, or grass from feeding activity.

· Increased presence of predators (hawks, coyotes, etc.) attracted to colonies.

Professional Richardson’s Ground Squirrel Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we provide safe, effective, and environmentally responsible solutions for ground squirrel infestations:

1. Inspection: Identify burrow systems and estimate colony size.

2. Targeted Treatment: Use of professional-grade rodenticides and control methods approved for use in Canada.

3. Burrow Management: Strategic treatment to collapse or block tunnels where appropriate.

4. Exclusion & Habitat Modification: Recommendations to make your property less attractive to squirrels.

5. Ongoing Management: Seasonal monitoring and treatments, as populations often rebound if not controlled.

Prevention Tips

· Keep grass trimmed short to reduce cover.

· Remove spilled grain, pet food, or bird seed that can attract squirrels.

· Fill or cover abandoned burrows to discourage re-use.

· Schedule seasonal control in early spring, before breeding season.

Our Commitment

Richardson’s Ground Squirrels may look small, but their damage can be costly. At Evicta Pest Control, we provide fast, professional, and reliable ground squirrel control services across Calgary and surrounding areas. Our treatments are safe, effective, and backed by our satisfaction guarantee.

Porcupines in Canada – Identification & Control

About Porcupines in Canada

The North American Porcupine is Canada’s second-largest rodent, found in forests, wooded areas, and rural communities across the country. Recognizable by their sharp quills, porcupines are solitary, nocturnal animals that feed primarily on bark, leaves, fruit, and plants. While they are not aggressive, they can cause significant property and vegetation damage when they settle near homes, farms, or cottages.

Why Porcupines Are a Problem

· Vegetation Damage: Porcupines chew tree bark, stems, and crops, often killing young trees and damaging ornamental plants.

· Property Damage: Attracted to salt and minerals, they gnaw on wooden structures, decks, siding, and even vehicle tires, brake lines, and tools.

· Quill Injuries: Pets that get too close can be injured by painful quills, which are difficult and costly to remove.

· Agricultural Impact: Damage to crops, orchards, and farm equipment can add up quickly.

Signs of a Porcupine Problem

· Bark stripped from trees, often leaving distinctive gnaw marks.

· Wooden decks, sheds, or tool handles chewed.

· Droppings and tracks near gardens or wooded edges.

· Pets returning with quills in their face, muzzle, or paws.

Professional Porcupine Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use humane and effective strategies to manage porcupine problems while following Canadian wildlife regulations:

1. Inspection: Identify feeding damage, den sites, and activity patterns.

2. Exclusion: Install fencing, screening, or barriers to protect trees, gardens, and structures.

3. Habitat Modification: Recommend changes to reduce attractants such as salt, compost, and unsecured garbage.

4. Humane Removal: Where necessary and permitted, porcupines are safely trapped and relocated in compliance with provincial regulations.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Wrap or cage valuable trees with wire mesh.

o Store tools, outdoor furniture, and equipment securely.

o Limit salt sources (e.g., road salt residue or mineral blocks) that attract porcupines.

o Keep pets supervised, especially at night.

Our Commitment

Porcupines may look harmless, but their chewing and quills can create serious problems for property owners. At Evicta Pest Control, we provide humane, effective, and guaranteed porcupine control solutions to protect your property, pets, and peace of mind.

Squirrels in Canada – Identification & Control

About Squirrels in Canada

Squirrels are common across Canada, particularly in urban, suburban, and wooded areas. While they are often considered cute, they can become serious pests when they invade homes, garages, or attics. Squirrels are active, curious, and persistent, and their chewing can cause significant property damage.

Common Squirrel Species in Canada

· Eastern Grey Squirrel: Most common in urban areas; grey fur with a bushy tail.

· Red Squirrel: Smaller, reddish fur; often found in forests and parklands.

· Northern Flying Squirrel: Nocturnal, primarily forest-dwelling; rarely seen indoors.

· American Red or Richardson’s Ground Squirrel (not tree squirrels): Ground-dwelling, often confused with “gophers.”

Why Squirrels Are a Problem

· Property Damage: Squirrels chew on wires, insulation, vents, and wooden structures, creating fire hazards and costly repairs.

· Nesting Indoors: They build nests in attics, chimneys, and wall voids, causing mess, odours, and structural issues.

· Noise: Scratching, scurrying, and squeaking can disturb residents, especially at night.

· Rapid Reproduction: Female squirrels can have multiple litters per year, making infestations grow quickly.

Signs of a Squirrel Infestation

· Scratching or scampering noises in attics or walls.

· Chewed wires, vents, or wooden beams.

· Nesting material (twigs, leaves, insulation) in attics or chimneys.

· Squirrels seen entering or leaving your roofline, chimney, or vents.

Professional Squirrel Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we provide humane and effective solutions to manage squirrel problems:

1. Inspection: Identify entry points, nesting sites, and activity patterns.

2. Exclusion: Seal gaps, vents, and roofline openings to prevent re-entry.

3. Humane Removal: Live trapping and relocation when permitted by provincial regulations.

4. Cleanup & Repair: Remove nests and contaminated insulation safely.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Trim tree branches away from roofs and gutters.

o Install chimney caps and vent covers.

o Store firewood and debris away from the house.

o Maintain screens on vents and attics.

Our Commitment

Squirrels may seem harmless, but they can cause serious damage if left unchecked. With Evicta Pest Control, you get humane, licensed, and effective squirrel control in Calgary and across Alberta, backed by our satisfaction guarantee.

Raccoons in Canada – Identification & Control

About Raccoons in Canada

Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are highly adaptable mammals found throughout urban, suburban, and rural areas in Canada. Known for their distinctive black “mask” and ringed tails, raccoons are nocturnal and often attracted to human food sources, such as garbage, pet food, and compost bins. While they are a natural part of the ecosystem, raccoons can become pests when they invade homes, attics, or gardens.

Why Raccoons Are a Problem

· Property Damage: Raccoons tear open roofs, vents, siding, and insulation to access attics, chimneys, or basements.

· Garbage Raiding: They overturn bins, scatter trash, and spread debris around yards.

· Health Risks: Raccoons can carry rabies, raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis), and other diseases dangerous to humans and pets.

· Noise: Scratching, thumping, and vocalizing at night can disturb homeowners.

· Pet Conflicts: Curious raccoons may confront or injure pets.

Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

· Scratching, thumping, or vocal noises in attics, walls, or crawl spaces at night.

· Torn garbage bins or scattered trash.

· Footprints near property entrances, gardens, or garbage areas.

· Damage to roofs, soffits, vents, or chimneys.

· Droppings near den sites or entry points.

Professional Raccoon Control in Canada

At Evicta Pest Control, we use humane and safe methods to manage raccoon issues while complying with Canadian wildlife regulations:

1. Inspection: Identify den locations, entry points, and activity patterns.

2. Exclusion: Seal roof openings, vents, and other entry points to prevent re-entry.

3. Humane Trapping & Relocation: When permitted, raccoons are safely trapped and relocated in accordance with provincial laws.

4. Cleanup & Decontamination: Remove droppings, nesting material, and sanitize affected areas to prevent disease.

5. Prevention Tips:

o Secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids or bungee straps.

o Remove pet food and bird seed at night.

o Close off access to attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces.

o Trim tree branches away from roofs to reduce access.

Our Commitment

Raccoons can be clever and persistent, but Evicta Pest Control provides fast, effective, and humane solutions to protect your property and family. Our services are backed by our re-treatment and satisfaction guarantee—if raccoons return, so do we.