RELATIONSHIPS between URBAN LANDSCAPES and HOUSEHOLD PESTS

Abstract:
The primary sources of pests that affect humans and invade their buildings are usually found in the surrounding landscapes. Pest management professionals and landscape managers need to be more aware of the sources of these pests and develop standard practices that reduce these sources. Of primary concern, for a multitude of pests, are human activities, usually aesthetic concerns and interests that increase availability of water in the landscape, such as irrigation and water features; that create nesting and shelter sites, such as mulch, landscape timbers, or stone and brick work; that provide food sources, such as honeydew producers; and that attract insects at night, such as lights.