Latest News from BPCA

27 November 2024

Red Spider Mites on the hunt for spaces to hibernate

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.

pest-aware-red-spider-mites-hibernate-hero

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.

Source: Online

Highlights View all news

11 June 2025

Latest news

Spending Review 2025: Key announcements at a glance and how it might affect pest management

BPCA has been closely monitoring the announcements, and although pest management wasn’t directly addressed, several changes may have implications for the sector.

Read more

06 June 2025

Latest news

Results are in: meet your new BPCA Board representatives 2025

Six new Member Directors have been chosen to help lead the Association and represent the interests of BPCA members at the highest level.

Read more

29 May 2025

Latest news

VOTING OPENS in BPCA member elections - 13 candidates stand for SIX places on BPCA Board

Voting has officially opened in the BPCA Member Elections 2025, with 13 nominees standing for SIX open seats on the Executive Board.

Read more
Latest View all news

30 July 2025

Latest news

Free disease training day for live bee removers

BPCA members are invited to join the UK Bee Removers (UKBR) for a free disease recognition training day this August.

Read more

29 July 2025

Latest news

New sustainability guidelines help pest control companies stay competitive in a carbon-conscious market

BUGS releases second edition of industry roadmap aligning pest management with business demands for carbon neutrality.

Read more

28 July 2025

Latest news

Air gun safety reminder after media reports of pigeon incident

You may have been made aware that the BBC reported an incident where a pigeon was found seriously injured in Glenfield, Leicestershire, having been shot with an air gun.

Read more