#first solution pest control

[howtofightwrite]

If someone is training to hunt monsters in a modern day setting (like an urban fantasy story), what might be a good starting point for learning how to use weapons? If they don't specialize in a specific type of entity, and it's one that can be brought down physically, what other things do you think it might be good for someone to be taught?

So, I've said this before as a bit, but monster hunting wouldn't really be about combat most of the time. There's probably some edge cases, like vampires, where you're fundamentally looking at a human with superpowers, but against the vast majority of critters, monster hunting would be more like, well, hunting, or pest control.

If the monster is exceedingly lethal, you don't want to be getting into fights with it. That means taking a more methodical approach to identify and exploit weaknesses, and then eliminating it like any other pest.

Ironically, while the book is a bit crude at times, one of the first examples that comes to mind is Vampire$ by John Steakley, (and the film adaptation by John Carpenter.) The priority there is to identify vampire nests during the day, then use specialized stake guns attached to winches to drag the vampires out into the sun, before collapsing the building entirely.

This means, you're probably better off looking at people with backgrounds in animal control, exterminators, park rangers, game wardens, and similar backgrounds, rather than military or law enforcement backgrounds. (Though, technically, rangers may fall under the header of LEOs.)

Effectively dealing with any animal (and most cryptids tend to fall into this category) involves learning about its behavior. Now, obviously, if you're dealing with some incredibly reclusive creature that's evaded detection by the modern world, it does strain credibility a bit when someone wanders in with a complete understanding of their behavior. (See: Every bigfoot expert ever.) But, the basic premise is foundational if your characters are going to go out hunting those creatures.

When you're dealing with more overtly supernatural foes, then the focus on information they'd need would change somewhat. But, in a lot of ways, the same template holds. It's critical for your hunters to understand the limits and favored behaviors of those creatures.

Now, obviously, you can have very different approaches. I was recently reminded of the old World of Darkness Demon Hunter X splat, where one of the groups detailed (in a modern urban fantasy setting) were using extensive cybernetic augmentations to directly fight monsters (with a very anime inspired aesthetic.) If you have the setup for it, you can go in really wild directions with your urban fantasy monster hunters, and the advice of a relatively low-power group that treat cryptids the same way you'd treat a rat infestation might not be applicable. Similarly, hunting vampires and werewolves may involved more conventional, military tactics, if that's what you're looking for.

It does depend on what your story calls for, and I'll readily admit, my main observation here has more to do with how modern horror writing tends to present these creatures, and then looking for a practical solution to the problem they pose. (Also the juxtaposition is funny. You start out expecting Blade, and instead get some random guys in jumpsuits with animal control poles, who are going to grab the horrific deathbeasts, stick them in crates, and ship them off to a preserve in Montana.

-Starke

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[efy727]

Role Swap AU: Susie and Taranza

Hey, hey, hey, new roleswap au!

Ok, ok. I finally decided to post this. This thing is being in the works since 2023. I originally kept it to myself as I perfected the designs and story (and got swept away by other projects...) but here it is: My Kirby Role Swap Au!

It started out with just the idea what if THESE TWO swapped roles. Triple Deluxe and Planet Robobot are some the most thematic heavy games, gardens and technology, fairytales and sci-fi, a kingdom and a company.

I kind of goes against my usual patterns, I usually show off main characters first, but I think this duo represents better my vision. I'll slowly showcase other characters whenever I get the chance.

Anyway, let me elaborate in my au versions of these characters.

Taranza:

A young inventor from a distant planet and a rather recent hire of Sectra Labs Inc., a company that specializes in biotechnology and bionics, that is genetic manipulation and mechanical enhancements. This company explores the universe to harvest new specimens for their experiments. In their travels, Taranza hopes of reuniting with an old friend.

When thinking about this au, I didn't want things to be just changing roles, but also a few story details and how they play out. So, I made SLI a bio tec company instead of a robotics one.

Taranza, then, doesn't use magic but his own inventions (he doesn't have any genetic alterations as he is new). I drew how electricity just bolts from his gloves, he also has invisibility and a sticky solution he can shoot. I also gave him these expressive goggles just because I like those.

In story, he is a bit peeved about having to deal with the interloper in his first planetary harvest trip; but we also get to see a dorkier side of him as he gushes about what he or the company has made to deal with the pink pest, I'm thinking Varian from Tangled.

But also, as the plot moves, he grows concerned about how intrusive the harvest process actually is as he joined for a legit interest of helping improving lives using processes of nature, like Joronia used to do. Oh, the pain he will find in the end.

Susie:

Through the islands of Crystalia descended a mysterious lady who captured Lord Meta Knight, but why? Whatever her mission is, she won't tell. Yet it's clear she will use any tricks to not let anyone get in her way. With her magic crystal, she can control the elements.

Oh Susie, Susie, Susie. I had this long conundrum. Ok, Tanzy has mechanical enhancements to replace magic, but in a way different to how Susie uses tech (it wasn't always like that); but how do I do something similar to Susie?

I came up with the wand, but that wasn't enough. This came up to me recently, but what if she could just create elemental armor around her? Something like how certain character does in Ninjago Dragons Rising; but is wind, is water, it can be anything! She does have other things too, like her crossbow.

She is a woman on a mission, but this time is Crystalia instead of Floralia. I wanted something natural and pretty, but that kinda aligns better with the characters involved. Kirby still has to climb the Dreamstalk using Sunstones, though.

Opossed to Taranza, Susie seems to have some sort of secret plan. She is less chatty, acts more somber. Could it be related to her being a wanted fugitive by the kingdom?

--

Ok, this winded up longer than intended. I hope you find my idea interesting. I'll get to more entries when I can, might drop at random days, I have other projects I want out. Could look up "EFY's Kirby role swap au" to find more entries... or just follow me (・・。)ゞ

Thanks for taking some interest!

[earthsparked]

Being held gently by a giant alien mech might not fix me, but - no, actually, it would. Because sometimes we are all just soft and scared mammals who want someone strange and powerful to be gentle with us. Or someone strange and powerful we can be gentle with.

•Sideblog for me to collect all my favorite humans vibing with Transformers posts, fics, headcanons! Personal blog is @darkwingduck. I can reply from here, but I have to like and follow from there.

•Platonic only out of my own preferences, but be aware blog owner is an adult. They/them pronouns are fine. <3

•Fair warning that I don’t care about canon! These are my fun little guys and I will do as I wish to them.

•I also don’t strictly follow any particular continuity - more a mishmash of G1, TFP, and MTMTE but with an occasional splash of other media. I steal concepts and characters from all over. You’re welcome to think of it as whatever version you prefer.

•All original posts are just my thoughts, if they’re not your thing that’s okay 💕 I don’t care about being right, I am just here to fantasize about Transformers. We live in a difficult world, take happiness where you can, to each their own.

•I crosspost here and on AO3 @ earthsparked!

Tag Organization

#humans are space (ship) cats A Transformers take on the scifi trope of humans being space cats. Loose, mostly unconnected 'verse where humans serve on Cybertronian spaceships more or less as ship's cats, providing pest control, emotional support, and organic solutions to mechanical problems. #GET PACK BONDED IDIOT Transformers (and sometimes others) falling victim to humans' pack bonding ways.

#human distribution system Woe, human be upon ye. Applies when there is talk of a human or humans being acquired, one way or another, by Cybertronians. Has some crossover with other categories. #Scrappy the scraplet Connected to the idea of humans as spaceship cats, Scrappy's your tamed/reprogrammed/partially domesticated and heavily modded personal assistant/pet/service scraplet. The last one you left alive after wiping out a swarm that tried to eat your mechs, he was mostly intact. Now he has a bunch of extra abilities to help you with all the things humans can't do. He's too well-trained and coded to attack at random, but he still makes most mechs uneasy. Loves humans. He's painted neon pink with bright yellow, green, and purple flowers. Looks like a demonic rooster. Comes up to about your knees, weighs about 25 pounds - much heavier than most scraplets, because of modified armor. Has a subspace pocket in his mouth where he carries things for you. Can "spit" items to you.

#self-insert sunday Every Sunday I celebrate the joys of self-inserts. Cringe is dead. Love yourself.

#transformers first contact au Any kind of scenario where humans and Cybertronians are meeting and interacting for the first time, and all the learning, confusion, and fun that comes with that.

#transformers x reader #transformers x human Don't let that x fool you, I use it because it's a more common tag than the &. My writing is platonic though sometimes quite intimate (but feel free to imagine as you will, I'm not a cop, gosh <3) #earthsparked asks Asks I've answered #earthsparked chatter General engagement

[sweeneydino]

*BIG INHALE* Hi! I’ve been rotating the Spikeangelo au in my brain for a while, and things might get incomprehensible real quick. Not all questions, some just comments... 90% of this is just musing as the train of thought jumps rails and causes massive casualties; no need to answer all if you chose to answer any.

1. The fact that Master Splinter lets Titan live with them BEFORE he knows that he’s a version of Mikey, even after the attempted murder… man will look at a mutated turtle, ask, “Is anyone going to adopt that?” and not wait for an answer.

2. In Turtle Temper, Splinter says, “Spike, chew on your leaf if you are in the mood for a story”. Ronin has a choice here: pest Raph by eating, or troll Splinter by not. What choice would he make?

3. It seems like during the Slash and Destroy episode, Titan already had his outfit. If so… where did he get the clothes? The little turtles don’t really wear anything (and their clothes would be much smaller), so unless Splinter has a secret goth wardrobe, the only thing I can think of is that Raph is Very Optimistic about how tall he’s going to get, and has stockpiled clothes accordingly.

4. A while back you mentioned Titan “chewing [Shredder] out” after Shredder kills Splinter during the Triceraton invasion. The image you drew made it look like a tirade, but the first thing that came to mind for me was… more along the lines of using Shredder as a dog toy.

5. You said that after Slash and Destroy, Titan hides for a while out of shame. When does he rejoin the others? Before the invasion, *during* the invasion, after? Does he join the farmhouse arc, or does he do as canon Slash does and defend NYC while the rest of the turtles are gone?

Ah... there's a very long part six that's just about the ghosts... I don't think I'll be bothering you with that today.

When I see these types of asks, I can never control the squeal that comes out of my mouth. I love detailed analyses about my aus

:D

I also love completing things, so let's do them all!

1) Yep! Idk whats with the Splinters, but if it's turtle-shaped and needs a home, well say no more!

When Spike turned to Titan, Splinter already sensed something off with him, something more familiar than a family pet, but he would never figure out why until their lair is attacked by the kraang at the start of the invasion.

It's hard not to realize that your son's former pet knows moves (and shows a strange amount of wisdom) that you're 90% sure you never taught or shown to any of your sons.

2)

I think he's still upset about the pizza. Or Raph's anger.

3)Dumpster diving?

I'll be honest, I forgot to write it down... So we will stick to this simple solution for now🗿

4)

Okay, well... Shredder ALMOST became a dog toy. Let's just say that (this will totally not be a future comic)

5) He reunites with them after the newtralizer arc! After a little convincing ofc

When the invasion begins, he's with Splinter and Leatherhead, having defended their home and now searching for the turtles. They find Shredder after they exit the sewer, and Titan isn't too pleased to see the old bastard, attacking him in a rage once he hears about Leo's possible "demise."

Unfortunately, when he gains the upper hand, Titan is the one caught off guard and knocked into the machine, crushed by the pipes.

Before Shredder could really begin his usual evil monologue, he becomes distracted with Leatherhead, allowing Splinter to check on Titan and help him out of the pile of metal. Despite the likelihood of having a huge bruise on his ribs, he'd be fine. Even better if he could get rid of all their issues right there in front of him.

The one wrestling an alligator. And somehow winning.

And when he sees that devil in that all too familiar armor toss leatherhead into the pit, he's all too ready to kill him.

Yet he can't. Because He's not the only one wanting to prevent the past from happening again.

Splinter sends him away to find his sons, Titan's brothers - well, sorta - and even if he wants to bring Oroku Saki, the worse pain imaginable, he's more concerned if they are okay.

...

Okay, well, if the rest of them are okay

COUGH COUGH.

He'd find them, with him.

And uh. I think Leo's perfectly fine.

So when they decided to leave for April's farmhouse, he stayed in the city to search for Splinter and the other Mutanimals after leaving Leo with the others.

Maybe he sees himself as a burden.

Then the rest you make up on the way 👍 /j

This was very fun! Maybe I should just write paragraphs or smol little chapters with much more detail and flow🤔

Nah, I'll just draw.

Can't wait for the looooooooooonnngggg part six :D

[satzy]

RICE FISH FARMING

In the lush paddy fields of Indonesia, where the lifeblood of rice demands vast quantities of water, farmers have ingeniously turned this necessity into a thriving ecosystem. They didn't just cultivate rice; they cultivated fish too.

Imagine this: fish darting through the fields, not as accidental visitors but as deliberate residents. Farmers introduced them in large numbers, releasing them into the water where rice plants sway in the breeze. It wasn't just a symbiotic relationship; it was a game-changer.

#Rice Fish Culture emerged as a brilliant solution. Here's how it worked: first, the fish became natural pest controllers, gobbling up insects, algae, and pests that would otherwise ravage the rice crop. As they fed, they inadvertently pruned the plants, promoting healthier growth.

But that's not all. Their waste, rich in nutrients, became a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil without the need for synthetic additives. And as the fish thrived, so did the farmers, who could harvest them for food or profit.

The result? Land productivity soared by a staggering 20%, surpassing conventional limits. Fields teemed not just with rice but also with bountiful fish stocks, a testament to human ingenuity blending with nature's cycles.

[glassrowboat]

Our Adventure. Venti.

Summary: A child of Mondstadt has recently been gifted a vision. A gift from the gods. Yet all she views it as is a decorative charm that invokes ire and fear in her very own heart, a babble she can't even control. The solution? The best bard in Teyvat, obviously!

Word count: 2400+

Authors note: Basically, I've been toiling away in my head what would happen if a vision user was struggling to use their newfound gift and I wrote this :)

The wind had a habit of carrying many things along it's ever flowing breeze, from leaves to the sweetest of songs, from love confessions to the dandelion seeds that truly marked Mondstadt as a land full of endless wishes and freedom. Tonight, however, there was a cry, a wail that even a banshee herself would be incapable of making as it rang in the young bard's ears. This was how the archon had come to know so many secrets that lay in the land he called home, and this was how he ended up below a closed window with pebbles in his hand.

A small thud could be heard on the sill, bouncing off the wood as Venti tried his best to not get hit with the smooth stone hurtling back down to the ground. When no answer came from that still weeping woman another pebble was tossed.

What plagued her was already known by many, far too many if anything. Gossip spread fast in these stone walls. Drunkards would talk about how they came across a random patch of grass just outside the city's gates dried out beyond compression. The local carpenter would talk about how he had to chop down a tree that suddenly became too unstable to be allowed to stand any longer, only to find out behind the untouched bark the inside was lacking any moisture that was so characteristic of fresh wood. The most notable of all however was the knights who said they had to escort a young woman home, too weak to walk as she knelt down right inside a ring of brown blades too stiff to wave in the wind like the fields of green typically would.

(Y/n), a child of Mondstadt recently gifted with a hydro vision.

The very same person who was on the other side of that window was struck with knock after knock as she glared at it with pure contempt, nose still running even as she picked up a random shoe. A heel with its pointed end should do some decent damage, right? So she held it tightly in her grasp, that is until the window randomly opened as if Peter Pan himself was trying to sneak into her darkened room. No candle lit to truly brighten up the scene of a red shoe hitting a green figure square in the face.

“No, no, that's some vampire shit I ain't about. Go find some other woman to prey on I- I ate garlic bread for dinner ya know?” Even with your vision blurred by tears you quickly grabbed the other shoe, getting ready to throw this one too.

Vampires can't enter without permission, right?

Well nevermind to that idea as the green figure landed on the floor having successfully passed through what was supposed to be a barrier of protection. All the while he was beaming at you with a smile that would make anyone want to punch him, even with his hands up in the air.

“That's not allowed….”

“Hello to you too.” Ah, you recognize that voice. The little pest that would run around the cobblestone streets all the while humming a tune that would be running on replay in anyone's head for hours after. “Can you put the other shoe down? My face already hurts from the first one.”

“I think you deserved it, you oversized fly.” Letting go of the shoe you let it fall to the ground as you got back up from what was an admittedly cowering position on the floor.

“Come now, what happened to you calling me a grand poet the likes no one has seen in this modern age? Am I not the next-” and you ended up throwing the shoe at him in the end- “Hey!”

You just shrugged, hands raising in the air in what could only be described as a whatcha gonna do about it motion.

Venti looked down at the shoe for a moment as it fell to the ground before kicking it back over to you, giving you free ammunition. “You could throw that shoe at me again or you- I was joking about the shoe! Please, spare me.”

“Flies usually get swatted.”

“Okay….different approach then.” Sighing to himself Venti walked over to, hand ruffling with something in his pockets before pulling out a handkerchief. The white square of cloth held out to you as it swayed in the wind coming from that still open window. “A fair maiden such as yourself shouldn't be crying, so I offer you this: let the best bard in Teyvat whisk you away on an adventure for the ages. We can make our grand escape right away!”

That's a great way to have missing person posters plastered up right next to the ones of the travelers sibling, and how well have those worked so far? Therefore your answer was an obvious “fuck that.”

“Please, with a cherry on top? And sprinkles too.”

Grabbing the handkerchief, and half tempted to throw it right back at him, you brushed it against your eyes. The fabric is surprisingly soft for something a bard who can barely afford a drink would be carrying, yet the lack of an abrasive texture appreciated nonetheless. “Why are you even here?”

“Well,” with a giggle Venti held his hand up, like he was in a play about to recite a sonnet in the middle of a stage with hundreds of eyes on him and him alone. If it was any other situation it could be an amusing sight, but he's still trespassing. “Let's say the wind guided me to you.”

It was hard to pinpoint why it felt so off-putting the way he said that, wistful in a way, but you didn't really get the chance to think on it more as Venti opened his mouth again. “What bard can stand hearing a fair maiden cry and not try and cheer her up with a song or two? Certainly not this one.”

“The wind?”

“Yup. Or maybe even Barbatos himself.”

“Have you ever gone to a doctor to see if you're clinically insane? Or have you just been hanging around Barbara and her musings of the church doctrine too much?”

With that Venti leaned over, a hand held up right next to his mouth so he could whisper, “the results came out inconclusive.”

Wait. What?

“Now come on! We have to get going before the sun fully sets and we have no light to help us see.” After all, who would want to be running around tripping over the loose cobblestones in the streets? “Walking through the dark is only romantic on beaches and sneaking around back alley ways to meet your lover, you know.”

So, he is insane.

Yet here you are taking out the hand he was holding out to you, letting that bard whisk you away on this promised adventure as he drags you out the window. (Trying your best to pretend you didn't notice him grabbing the vision you had tossed on the bed as he did). So while you didn't trip over the loose stones, at least not this time, you did fumble over roots as Venti pulled you under windrise. Leaves occasionally fall down from the tall tree, flowing back and forth as the wind catches the thin object before it finally settles down amongst the grass you two were trampling over as he pulled you to sit down.

Your knees hitting the dirt right before the stream winding along the plains to the coast, water softly rushing past you both as the sound hits your ears almost like a melody. Though a certain drunkard would be aghast to hear you say you prefer this over the strumming of his lyre he'd be plucking at any other time, even if it was just as a joke. Though admittedly it was odd not to see the ducks wading around, having gotten so used to seeing them so often from past visits trying to steal your lunch when you weren't looking.

Pesky little things they were, just like this brat.

“So, what's with the field trip?”

“I can't just pull you along for a midnight trip to my favorite spot?” The answer was clearly an obvious no. Not without a reason of course. “I give, I give, just don't have to glare at me like that. I've heard around town that you had a little incident.”

Oh great, so the rumor mill was doing its thing. What a goody. Just the thought of that scene again, of the hydro vision being cradled between your hands as the grass beneath you withered away to the point a patch of dead, dried out flora has your nose wrinkling. Not wanting to go over the image that played in your head like a highlight reel. A movie dedicated to your own inability.

“Is this the part you impart on me some sage advice?”

“I can.” With the wave of his hand, or more like a flutter of the earth's breath itself as a breeze swayed past you both, catching his braids and making them dance, Venti summoned his lyre. A certain blue glow reflecting off the wood from the gem sitting between you both. “Or we can sit here while I play a tune. It's up to you, (y/n).”

“I'd pick the latter in an instant.”

“But?”

“But it won't get me anywhere.”

Somehow even just the gold encased vision (or maybe the casing was a part of the vision, you didn't really know much about how that all worked) had a certain aura about it that felt daunting. Just an item. Just something as useless as an accessory if it wasn't being used by its owner. It was like instinct to avoid it, just like when you were a child and you had to learn the hard way not to touch that pan that had just been pulled off the still burning hot stove. For the two instances to be so comparable was like a funny, passing thought, but to you it certainly wasn't.

How can one laugh at their own misery without doing so just to mask their pain?

“Venti, what was it like when you first got your vision?” It felt like a natural question to ask, but he didn't really give you much of a real response to that besides strumming that lyre. A tune playing between you that you had heard at the tavern a good handful of times before.

“Let's just say I have always been a natural.”

“So you're useless to me.”

“Sounds like it, doesn't it?” Reaching over Venti picked up a windwheel aster only a little bit away, close enough he didn't have to shift at all to simply pluck it from the ground. “Though I wouldn't call the company of a friend useless.”

You couldn't help but huff at his statement, annoyed by the fact he had a point. “Fine. Sorry.”

He nodded in turn, not bothering to say anything about your mood today. Not when you both knew why you suddenly turned into such a grouch. “I can still explain how it feels for me.”

“As long as you promise not to say something cheesy like I become the wind itself.” That would surely make anyone in your position a little peeved. A prodigy sitting before you who has the ability to so naturally have control of something that threatens to turn on you. The claws of a wild animal that one can never say for sure will come to you for help or to attack.

“I can try!” Holding the flower out, those same orange petals that had become second place in the walls of Mondstadt began to spin. Turning round and round as you were left to stare at the little demonstration. “Like freedom itself has graced me. I can feel wind under my fingertips just as easily as I do strings or this flower for an example.”

“(Y/n), you may not currently know exactly what melody you are trying to share with the world yet, and that's fine! We all have to start somewhere.” Giggles came out between his words, easing the tension you couldn't help but feel at being so blatantly called out. “But just like always, a tune will still play, or in this case the sound of rushing water will be the music you grace me with. Either way, I can't wait to see what you can come up with.”

“My, how sweet, I almost want to wretch.”

“Hey, I was being serious for once!”

That's why this entire interaction feels so wrong.

Still, you glanced back down at the blue gem, watching how it glows so the grass it lays on is tinted with its color. Would it do the same to your garments once you get brave enough to hang it from your clothes like you've seen Amber doing? It was still a burner after all, but even a burner will cool. It just takes time.

“I wasn't expecting to see this side of you today.”

“Like what you see, my lady? Next, all we have to do is throw you in the water and see what happens.”

“I swear to fucking god-” No, you are not down for being thrown around by his wind currents. Just having to ride down one as you left your apartment to get here was enough for one day.

“Easy! Easy! We won't go back to throwing shoes at me, right?” He asked, hands in the air. Already surrendering just in case. The flower hanging in the air between you both. His doing, obviously.

“You're infuriating sometimes.” With a huff you snatched the flower from the air, pulling it close so you could look at it properly. It still had life left in it, still had water coursing through that green stem.

Your eyes were so focused on the petals you didn't even notice the smile Venti was giving you, soft in nature as he watched you stare down at the gift with a pout. You didn't need to know that he was just happy to see you free from tears again, to no longer have you be locked up in your own room from fear of something new. As for Venti? He didn't need to know you couldn't help but think maybe Barbatos did send him to you.

No, not all.

So just like any silent night at windrise, or as silent as can be with you two mouthing off at each other, the leaves rustled as branches swayed back and forth, and a tune, for the wind had a habit of carrying the sweetest of songs.

[hellostarposts]

Episode 55 - Pest Control

Jordan Kennedy

That Jane Prentiss' paranoia will never go away for Tim and Jon.

They should’ve just let Jon watch the incineration.

I THOUGHT THAT WE WERE DONE WITH THE BUGS

I swear if this goes back to that nursing home decay pocket dimension. 

House of ants.

Next move is to burn the entire house down. Its already vacant, a little arson wouldn’t hurt.

Replace the spray with a flamethrower

Oh he’s going to open the fridge.

Stopping for a smoke break is well deserved.

GOD DAMMIT A very tall man in a brown suit showed up. That’s the same description from the nursing home ordeal.

How can the rot man be so strong?

BURN BABY BURN! DISCO INFERNO!

Told you that arson is the solution.

Also, that suit saved him from meeting the same fate as that funeral director’s hand.

Oh so this is the guy who dealt with the wasps after Jane stuck her hand into the nest.

Suspicious lack of wasps is very concerning.

At first I thought that the flesh mass in the attic was going to lead to the inset rebirth of Jane. but then remembered that this guy explicitly stated that he never met her. Only saw her dead body.

The landlord setting himself on fire is a choice. He definitely took my prior advice.

His name is Arthur Nolan, he’s got a weird flame shaped scar on his abdomen. When he presses a match to it his whole body ignites. This is obviously going to be important because he is way too chill about it and honestly seems kind of annoyed about having to deal with this kind of situation again.

Does this count as spontaneous combustion?

Man turned his traumatic experiences into a job interview.

I did not anticipate that the rot man and Prentiss would be somehow connected. How interesting.

“There’s no connection between insects and disease” yes there is. There are quite literally so many examples of that. In this instance it is parasites.

Supplemental

Increased volume of reports due to halloween shenanigans.

Awe Jon finally got a good night of sleep because he’s doing work of value.

Can’t stalk people when you are working hard for your paycheque.

First off, I deeply respect Jordan. Dude is much braver than I will ever be when it comes to insects. Second, I do not care for the reprise of the bug related bullshit. Why oh why do we need to make it clear that Jon Amhurst and Jane Prentiss are somehow a part of the same source of bullshit. And that connection is only discovered through them being burned and producing a disgusting smell. I. Hate. It. I don’t think that we have much of anything to create a theory on it. Unless the nursing home isn’t really a pocket dimension. It could be that the side effects of Jon Amhurst being in the building for too long caused the rapid decay of the building. We see a similar effect in the house that he was occupying too, the slimy walls. The ants are throwing me off though, why ants? Unless it's because they are a part of a colony, so a hive mind reference. Maybe they are just part of a decomposition analogy. Jon represents the actual decay of stuff, which is the slime (that ate that one girl's hand). Jane represents the decomposers (and I guess the infestation of insects) which precede the rot process. I am 100% overthinking this now but I don’t care. It’s managed to force me into participating in the bug crap plot. My only statement about the supplemental is that Jon needs a hobby that isn’t stalking.

[autumnmobile12]

Food for thought: The SPR team is pretty eclectic as far as supernatural solutions go. They've got religious figures, people with psychic abilities, researchers. Any ghost they come across, they're pretty much set.

But forget supernatural causes for the hauntings a moment and go back to the first case where it was just a creaky building sinking into the earth. That can't be the only time that ever happened, so now I'm imagining the whole team has an interesting medley of random certifications and educational backgrounds just to make up for the various natural explanations they encounter.

Old pipework leaking water into the ground could also cause a building to sink. Maybe the soil the house was built on is just terrible at draining moisture. There could be a lot of reasons a house is sinking.

I'm imagining someone on Naru's payroll is a certified building inspector. (That takes roughly two semesters.)

Scratching noises and knocking sounds? Could be small animals or other pests, so someone also has a pest control certification? (Three months course.)

They have a lot of electrical equipment that could be a potential hazard. Somebody on the team could be a fire safety officer.

With the advent of the internet ('cause Ghost Hunt takes place in the 90s?) becoming more popular, someone on the team is now the IT person.

All of them probably have CPR and BLS training. Ayako probably just decided to become a certified trainer just to cut out the middle man. Right in the middle of an investigation, she just pulls out the dummy and workbooks and says, "All right, Mai and John get over here. Both of you are due to renew your CPR training."

Yasu probably went to law school just so he could be the company's attorney when the situation arose. (Also, great fallback plan. He would be the most aggravating lawyer ever.)

...

Just saying, if Mai or Yasu are moving on from the ghost hunting scene, they don't even need to put paranormal researcher on their resume.

"Miss, can you tell us why you have so many unrelated certifications on your CV?"

"...I had an...interesting career in my teens and twenties."

[cockroachpestau]

How to Spot Early Signs of a Cockroach Infestation in Your Sydney Home

Cockroaches are among the most persistent and unpleasant pests you can encounter in your home. In a warm, humid climate like Sydney’s, cockroach infestations can develop quickly—often before you even notice them. Early detection is key to stopping the spread, and that’s where professional pest control services come in.

At COCKROACH PEST CONTROL SYDNEY, we help homeowners across Sydney recognize the first signs of cockroach activity and take swift action to eliminate them.

1. Unusual Odours and Smells

One of the first things people notice in a cockroach-infested home is an oily, musty smell. This foul odour comes from pheromones cockroaches release to communicate. The more intense the smell, the more severe the infestation.

2. Droppings and Smear Marks

Cockroach droppings look like black pepper or coffee grounds. You might find them near food sources, under sinks, or along baseboards. In damp areas, you may also see brown smear marks where cockroaches crawl.

3. Egg Casings (Oothecae)

Cockroaches lay eggs in brown, capsule-shaped casings. Each casing can contain up to 50 eggs. Finding these behind furniture, in kitchen cabinets, or near appliances is a strong sign of an infestation.

4. Sightings During the Day

Cockroaches are nocturnal, so if you’re seeing them during daylight hours, it’s likely a major infestation. Daytime sightings indicate overcrowding in their nests, pushing them out in search of food.

5. Damage to Food Packaging

Cockroaches feed on almost anything. If you find gnawed food packaging or crumbs scattered around your pantry, you could be dealing with a roach problem. Professional pest removal solutions can help eliminate their food sources safely and effectively.

Why Early Detection Matters

Ignoring these early signs can lead to serious health risks. Cockroaches carry bacteria and allergens that can trigger asthma and contaminate food. By using licensed pest technicians, you ensure thorough inspection, tailored treatment plans, and safe elimination using eco-friendly pest control methods.

Conclusion

If you suspect cockroaches are invading your home, don’t wait. Trust the experts at COCKROACH PEST CONTROL SYDNEY to provide reliable, affordable pest control services that target the source. Early detection and professional care can save your home from long-term damage and give you lasting peace of mind.

Author: milad bahrami

Who We Are

Expert Cockroach Pest Control Sydney. Licensed technicians, customized solutions, and comprehensive coverage across Sydney Wide. Get rid of German Cockroaches and more! Contact us for a free inspection.

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COCKROACH PEST CONTROL SYDNEY

10 Gray Place Wetherill Park, Sydney, New South Wales, 2164, Australia

+61 1 3005 15630

info@cockroachpestcontrolsydney.com.au

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[definitely-not-an-alb]

My 10 step plan for fixing the book prison from You to be actually good storage for rare and old books instead of looking immediately like weird serial killer shit to anyone who has any competence wrt. books:

First off: Having a small room-in-a-room as special storage is honestly very reasonable, practical and much safer and more cost- and energy effective than renovating your entire basement, so yes, having this thing is fundamentally reasonable and unsuspicious. BUT:

Get that carpet out of there, it’s going to make cleaning harder and might harbour/attract pests and dirt.

Put pest control-traps near the entrance and around the room and check regularly.

Close up the airholes. The thing doesn’t have to be air-tight, but we want to be able to create a micro-climate.

Install air conditioning with humidity control. If you want to be fancy, add a particle cleaner. Definitely add a fire alarm. Also inside, install something to take archival-grade temp+air quality measurements with a recording function that also picks up on mold spores.

Add some kind of quarantine solution. At the low budget end, this is a corner marked off with double-sided tape to catch any pests that newly acquired material goes into for a few weeks, at the high-end scale this is a separate box, potentially with a build in fumigation mechanism.

Exchange the lights for something low lumen. Saves money AND your books. The current box is much too bright and the cold-blue light is bad for the material.

I like the upright, tight storage, but I’d add archival carton covers for each individual book to protect the covers from each other and dirt rub and standing boxes for small volumes.

BUT: Add reinforced vertical storage for overlarge volumes and move the shelves back a bit from the glass wall so air can circulate along the outer edge.

I’d also install a reading table to you don’t have to take anything from the room for showing or photographing. You can put a nice, bright light there.

For the love of god stop putting people in there what’s wrong with you.

[justkpopjokes]

“Giant Bees!” || Lee Know

Ft. Lee Know + florist!Felix cameo (not ship) AU: giant beekeeper Word Count: 698 A/N: Indirectly requested by my bestie jaesea on May 28th of 2020 LMAO it literally took me 3 years smh (also @/hagun-suna I started writing a baker!minho for you YEARS ago and I decided to combine it with this one! idk if you’ll even see this HAHA I doubt you’ll read it but just wanted to say I thought of you!)

if you’d like to reblog just my fanart you can see it on my art blog ^^

If you know my fics, you’ll know that each AU comes with a twist…this one is giant bees

That’s not a figure of speech lmao the twist is that there are giant bees

Like I need you to understand that Minho takes care of LITERAL GINORMOUS BEES

It’s a bit of a challenge considering the bees are larger than his head 

Averaging 1 foot (~0.3 metres) long, Apis magna is the world’s largest species of bee!

(For context, a normal honeybee is 0.5 in or 1.2 cm long, which is 0.04 ft or 0.012 m)

Entomologists would be hesitant to even call it a bee anymore if it wasn’t for the blatant bee-haviour ahahahahah get it bee behaviour and appearance of a bee

(The drawing I made for the header is just a cuter depiction lol

I imagine they’d look more realistic, but you can also imagine lil blobs for this fic)

Minho took up beekeeping after discovering that the giant bees visiting his garden acted like his cats

His cats were actually scared of them at first LMAO but these giant bees don’t sting because they have lost their usual natural predators

In fact, they don’t seem to have any natural predators and don’t reproduce as often as normal bees, so they’re rare to find

Kind of more like something out of a fairy tale than an actual insect

But, somehow, Minho finds one such giant bee in his garden one morning feeding on the few colourful flowers he has planted there

He’s spooked at first, but his cats start playfully swatting at the bee and the bee seems to be having fun with them

So Minho brings out a jar of honey from his kitchen to feed the big bee

The bee drinks some of the honey and then flies off on its way

The next day, he wakes up finding 3 in his backyard

It understandably FREAKS HIM TF OUT and he doesn’t really know what to do??? Who does he even call???? Pest control seems a bit much?????

His cats seem to be playing with them again, though, so maybe this isn’t a huge problem (figuratively, of course)

So he calls his friend Felix who happens to be a florist

Minho: “FELIX I found a giant bee in my backyard yesterday AND THEY MULTIPLIED WHAT DO I DO??”

Felix: “Woah woah okay calm down, I’ll come over with some sunflowers”

Felix stops by and helps Minho plant some sunflowers in his backyard

Apis Magna love sunflowers because there are certain species of flowers that evolved to also be larger, which makes it easier for the bees to drink nectar from and pollinate

The obvious solution in Minho’s eyes is that Felix takes the bees, but beekeeping with giant bees isn’t like normal beekeeping

You can’t really choose where to keep the bees, they just fly out on their route to where they want

And if they trust you, they’ll let you harvest honey from their hive!

So, essentially, Minho got chosen to be their beekeeper LOL

He gave them honey one (1) time and they sort of imprinted on him

Bees were rlly like “we like this one can we keep him?”

(haha they beekeep but like the other way around,,,)

So Felix advises Minho to try and follow the bees

Once they trust him enough, they’ll lead him to their hive

Minho isn’t really focused on getting honey, but one day, all 3 of his cats run off

And so he follows them out…

…and finds the beehive!

A few bees seem to greet him, which he recognizes as the original bees in his garden!

They’re sort of fuzzy, so he gets an itch when they start to rub against his face

Anyway, he’s just there to collect his cats…but now that he knows where the hive is, might as well collect some!

So he collects some delicious honey (and his cats), pets some bees, and then heads home

From then on the bees visit Minho’s garden and he asks Felix for more flowers in exchange for their honey!

And they lived habeely ever after the end :D

[maximumfluxqueen]

Hotel Pest Control Essentials for Guest Satisfaction

Introduction

In the hospitality industry, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and comfort is paramount. Guests expect their accommodations to be not just visually appealing but also pest control free from Buffalo Exterminators in Buffalo pests. The presence of insects or rodents can turn a pleasant stay into a nightmare and significantly damage a hotel's reputation. This article delves into the Hotel Pest Control Essentials for Guest Satisfaction, exploring effective pest control services, prevention affordable annual pest control plans strategies, and the importance of integrating pest management into daily operations.

Understanding Hotel Pest Control Essentials for Guest Satisfaction Why Is Pest Control Crucial in Hotels?

Pests can severely impact guest satisfaction. Imagine checking into a hotel only to find cockroaches scuttling across the floor or bed bugs lurking in the sheets. Such experiences lead to negative reviews, loss of repeat business, and potential legal issues. Therefore, implementing effective pest control measures is essential for ensuring guest satisfaction.

Types of Pests Commonly Found in Hotels

Hotels can attract various pests due to their nature as transient spaces. Some common pests include:

Bed Bugs: These tiny insects are notorious for infesting bedding and causing discomfort through bites. Cockroaches: Often found in kitchens and bathrooms, these pests are unsightly and unsanitary. Rodents: Mice and rats can invade hotels seeking food and shelter, leading to contamination. Ants: These pesky insects can invade food storage areas, compromising hygiene. Flies: Common in dining areas, flies spread bacteria from food waste.

By understanding the types of pests that may invade hotels, management can take proactive steps toward effective pest prevention services.

Effective Pest Control Services for Hotels Professional Pest Control vs. DIY Solutions

When it comes to pest control in hotels, hiring professional exterminator services is often more effective than attempting DIY solutions. Professionals have access to potent pesticides and advanced techniques that can cockroach exterminator eliminate infestations quickly and safely.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Pest Control Services: Expertise: Trained technicians understand pest behavior and treatment methods. Safety: Professionals use licensed products that are safe for guests. Long-term Solutions: They offer integrated pest management tailored to the hotel’s needs. Choosing the Right Exterminator Services

Selecting a reputable pest control company is crucial for successful insect control service implementation. Here are some tips:

Look for licensed pest control providers with experience in hotel settings. Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction. Ask about their approach to eco-friendly pest control options. Key Components of an Effective Pest Management Plan Initial Pest Inspection Services

Conducting a thorough pest inspection is the first roach inspection and treatment step in any effective pest management plan. Thi

[newimagetreesolutions]

Emerald Ash Borer - Roswell Pest Threat

Keep an Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) infestation from decimating the ash trees in your yard and neighborhood. Recognizing infestation signs and knowing who to call can save countless trees in the Georgia landscape.

New Image Tree Solutions gathered Emerald Ash Borer beetle information, the threat to trees, infestation signs, prevention measures, and who to call when there is a confirmed infestation.

What is Emerald Ash Borer?

Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) is a small, metallic-green beetle that may appear harmless at first glance. However, its larvae tunnel under tree bark, disrupting nutrient and water flow within the tree. This internal damage eventually leads to tree decline and death. The beetle is particularly lethal because its feeding habits are challenging to detect until significant damage has occurred.

The Threat to Ash Trees

EAB poses a severe threat (to ash trees) due to its rapid spread and destructive lifecycle. In less than a decade, millions of ash trees have been killed across North America. In Roswell, Georgia, this pest jeopardizes the health and beauty of local landscapes. EAB attacks all ash species, stripping trees of vitality and leaving behind skeletonized trunks.

Note: Ash tree species are inherently more susceptible to boring insects due to a lack of tannins in the tree’s sap (sap is the tree’s defense against intruders and tannins make tree sap undesirable to boring insects).

Why EAB is So Deadly

EAB larvae feed extensively on the inner bark, disrupting the vascular system essential for tree survival. When visible symptoms appear - like canopy thinning, bark splitting, and wood peeking through - the damage is extensive and irreversible. The beetle’s lifecycle allows multiple generations annually in warmer climates, accelerating the infestation process. This rapid reproduction and feeding pattern make EAB one of the most destructive pests targeting ash trees.

Ash Tree Species in Roswell, Georgia

In Roswell, several ash species are common. Five notable species include:

Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)

White Ash (Fraxinus americana)

Black Ash (Fraxinus nigra)

Blue Ash (Fraxinus quadrangulata)

Manchurian Ash (Fraxinus mandshurica)

Each species plays a role in local ecosystems, providing shade, habitat, and aesthetic value.

Preventive Measures Against EAB

Preventing EAB infestation requires proactive steps and continuous monitoring. Homeowners and municipalities should consider the following measures:

Regular Inspections: Schedule frequent visual inspections during spring and summer. Look for D-shaped exit holes, serpentine galleries under bark, and canopy thinning.

Chemical Treatments: Apply systemic insecticides in early spring when EAB activity begins. Consult with certified arborists to determine proper treatment intervals.

Biological Controls: Explore releasing parasitic wasps that target EAB larvae. Research on these natural enemies continues, and some programs already show promising results.

Quarantine Regulations: Follow local guidelines restricting firewood movement and other wood materials that could harbor EAB larvae.

When to Call an Arborist

Professional arborists should be contacted immediately if an EAB infestation is suspected. Signs include:

D-shaped exit holes in bark

Rapid decline in canopy density

Excessive wood peeking through bark layers

Visible larval galleries during bark inspection

Arborists can confirm diagnosis, suggest treatments, and recommend containment measures. Early intervention may save some trees, but heavily infested ones may require removal to prevent spread.

EAB Infested Trees - Removal and Destruction

When a tree becomes too heavily infested (or poses a risk to surrounding structures), tree removal is necessary. The process involves:

Assessment: Arborists conduct thorough assessments to determine the tree's condition.

Permitting: Obtain necessary permits from local authorities before removal.

Safe Removal: Employ specialized equipment to safely remove the tree, minimizing risks to property and public safety.

Destruction: Infested wood should be chipped or incinerated (following local regulations) to prevent re-infestation. Proper disposal is critical to contain EAB spread.

EAB-Resistant Tree Species

As EAB continues to devastate ash populations, replacing vulnerable trees with resistant species is a strategic long-term solution. Five recommended alternatives include:

Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)

These species not only bring diversity but also enhance the resilience of urban forests against invasive pests.

Documentation and Reporting

When EAB outbreaks occur, comprehensive documentation is essential. Arborists and municipal agencies compile detailed reports that include:

Visual evidence through photographs and videos

Data on tree health and infestation levels

Treatment and removal recommendations

Impact assessments on urban green space

These reports support decision-making by community leaders and help coordinate regional response strategies.

Contacting Relevant Organizations

In the event of an EAB detection, it is crucial to notify the following organizations to coordinate a swift response:

New Image Tree Solutions: Will dispatch an arborist to identify EAB, offer immediate containment solutions, and begin documentation. Call today for a free assessment: 404-680-0041

Local Cooperative Extension: Provides expert guidance on pest management. Fulton County UGA Extension Office Phone: 404-613-7670

State Forestry Division: Oversees invasive species control and urban forest health. Georgia Forestry Commission Phone: 800-436-7442

U.S. Department of Agriculture: Offers resources and support for large-scale infestations. National Identification Services Team Phone: 301-851-2182

Emerald Ash Borer Network: Offers a direct way to report EAB infestations with local connections to entities specialized in EAB containment.

Georgia Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health Email: bugwood@uga.edu

Early notification and collaboration with these agencies can lead to more effective containment and treatment efforts.

Emerald Ash Borer Infestation and Containment

In this article, you discovered Emerald Ash Borer information, the threat to trees, infestation signs, prevention measures, and who to call when there is an infestation.

Immediate action after detecting an EAB infestation can save your community's ash trees from certain death.

Failure to act against the Emerald Ash Borer leaves every ash tree in the Roswell, Georgia, region susceptible to its rapid spread and lethal feeding habits, resulting in extensive tree loss.

Sources: fs.usda.gov/about-agency/features/invasion-forest-destroyers-and-how-science-fighting-back aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/eab-manual.pdf news.uga.edu/tree-killing-insect-emerald-ash-borer-found-in-georgia-0813

Photo Credit: Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources – Forestry Archive, Bugwood.org

New Image Tree Solutions

Roswell, GA (404) 680-0041

To see the original version of this article, visit https://www.newimagetreesolutions.com/blog/emerald-ash-borer-roswell-pest-threat

[screenmobile]

What is the Best Way to Enclose a Patio?

A patio is one of those spaces that can be whatever you want it to be—a peaceful morning coffee spot, a family gathering place, or even a cozy workspace with fresh air. But let's be honest: weather, bugs, and unpredictable seasons can make it tough to use year-round. That’s where enclosing your patio comes in.

Now, you might be wondering: What’s the best way to enclose a patio? Well, that depends on your goals, budget, and how much time you're willing to invest. Whether you’re looking for a simple screened-in space or a full-blown sunroom, there are plenty of ways to turn your patio into a functional, comfortable retreat. Let’s break it down.

Why Enclose Your Patio in the First Place?

Before getting into the details, let’s talk about why enclosing a patio is a great idea in the first place.

Weather Protection – If you live in South Bend, you know the Midwest doesn’t mess around when it comes to weather. Rain, snow, and intense summer heat can make your patio unusable for months at a time. An enclosure helps you enjoy it year-round.

More Living Space – A patio enclosure is like adding an extra room to your home without the headache of a full renovation.

Pest Control – Mosquitoes, flies, and other insects can turn a relaxing evening outside into an annoying battle. A screen enclosure keeps the bugs out without blocking the fresh air.

Increased Home Value – A well-enclosed patio can add curb appeal and boost your home’s resale value, making it a smart investment.

Energy Efficiency – Some patio enclosures can help insulate your home, reducing heating and cooling costs.

Now that we know why it’s worth considering, let’s get into the different ways to enclose your patio.

Screen Enclosures: Keep the Fresh Air, Lose the Bugs

If you love the feeling of an open-air patio but hate dealing with insects, a screened-in patio is the way to go. This is a popular choice because it’s budget-friendly, easy to install, and still lets you enjoy the breeze.

Best For: Homeowners who want a cost-effective enclosure while keeping an outdoor feel. Cost Estimate: $5,000 – $10,000 (varies based on materials and size) Pros:

Keeps bugs out while allowing airflow

Affordable and quick to install

Doesn't block your view of the yard

Cons:

Provides no insulation—still cold in the winter

Screens can tear and need occasional replacement

If you want something a little more substantial but still want fresh air, let’s move on to glass enclosures.

Glass Enclosures: More Protection, Better Views

A glass-enclosed patio (sometimes called a sunroom or four-season room) gives you the best of both worlds—natural light and outdoor views, without dealing with the elements. Depending on the glass type, you can even insulate it enough to use year-round.

Best For: Homeowners looking for a high-end, all-season patio space. Cost Estimate: $15,000 – $40,000 (depending on insulation and materials) Pros:

Provides full weather protection

Adds value to your home

Can be insulated for winter use

Cons:

More expensive than screens

Requires professional installation

Can get hot in summer without proper ventilation

A glass enclosure is a great way to extend your living space. But if you want a more flexible option, let’s talk about retractable enclosures.

Retractable Patio Enclosures: The Best of Both Worlds

A retractable enclosure is a flexible solution that lets you switch between an open and enclosed patio whenever you want. These can be motorized screens, sliding glass walls, or even retractable roofs—depending on how fancy you want to get.

Best For: Homeowners who want control over when their patio is enclosed. Cost Estimate: $10,000 – $30,000 Pros:

Adjusts based on the weather

Lets in fresh air when wanted

Adds modern style to your home

Cons:

Can be pricey

Requires regular maintenance

A retractable setup is perfect for homeowners who want to enjoy both open and enclosed patio options. But what if you’re looking for something even more versatile?

Vinyl or Acrylic Enclosures: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

If you like the idea of glass but want to save some cash, vinyl or acrylic panels might be the answer. These enclosures look like glass but cost significantly less.

Best For: Homeowners who want a weatherproof patio without breaking the bank. Cost Estimate: $8,000 – $20,000 Pros:

Less expensive than glass

Blocks wind and rain

Some panels are removable for fresh air

Cons:

Not as durable as glass

Can yellow or scratch over time

This is a solid choice if you want an enclosed patio without the full commitment of glass walls.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: Should You Do It Yourself?

Thinking about enclosing your patio yourself? It’s possible—but it depends on the complexity of the project.

DIY is great for:

Simple screen enclosures

Temporary vinyl enclosures

Adding curtains or roll-down shades

Hire a pro for:

Glass enclosures

Permanent structures

Motorized or retractable setups

If you're in South Bend, working with a professional like Screenmobile South Bend ensures your enclosure is properly installed, durable, and meets local building codes.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the best way to enclose your patio? It depends on how you plan to use it:

Want an affordable way to keep bugs out? Go with a screen enclosure.

Looking for a year-round living space? A glass enclosure is your best bet.

Want flexibility? A retractable enclosure lets you switch between open and closed.

Need a budget-friendly alternative to glass? Consider vinyl or acrylic panels.

No matter which option you choose, an enclosed patio adds value, comfort, and functionality to your home. If you’re ready to transform your patio, Screenmobile South Bend can help you find the perfect enclosure for your space.

Thinking about enclosing your patio? Contact Screenmobile South Bend today and turn your outdoor space into the perfect retreat!

[originexterminators]

Effective Mosquito Control in Singapore

Mosquito Control

Singapore’s warm and humid climate makes it a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Unfortunately, this also means a higher risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Effective mosquito control is essential not only for individual households but also for entire communities to stay safe from these tiny but dangerous pests.

Why Is Mosquito Control Important?

Mosquitoes aren’t just annoying—they can be deadly. Singapore has seen outbreaks of dengue fever, and with climate change, the risk is only increasing. Mosquito pest control is about more than just avoiding itchy bites; it’s about preventing the spread of diseases that can impact public health.

How Do Mosquitoes Breed?

Understanding how mosquitoes reproduce is key to controlling their population. Female mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, and it takes just seven days for these eggs to turn into adult mosquitoes. Some common mosquito breeding spots include:

Clogged drains

Plant pots and trays

Open containers or buckets left outside

Roof gutters that collect rainwater

Eliminating these breeding sites is the first step toward effective mosquito control.

Ways to Control Mosquitoes in Singapore

1. Eliminate Stagnant Water

This is the most effective and natural way to reduce mosquito populations. The National Environment Agency (NEA) encourages residents to do the “5-Step Mozzie Wipeout” weekly:

Turn over water storage containers

Cover bamboo pole holders

Clear roof gutters

Empty potted plant trays

Check for stagnant water in common areas

2. Biological Mosquito Pest Control

One of the innovative ways Singapore is tackling mosquitoes is by using Wolbachia mosquitoes. These are male mosquitoes infected with a special bacteria that prevents mosquito eggs from hatching when they mate with female mosquitoes. This method has been successful in reducing mosquito populations in trial areas. Another natural mosquito predator is mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis), which feed on mosquito larvae. These fish are introduced into ponds and reservoirs to help control mosquito populations.

3. Chemical Control Methods

Singapore uses fogging to kill adult mosquitoes in high-risk areas, especially where dengue cases are reported. While this method is effective, it is used only when necessary to avoid overuse of pesticides.

Residents can also use mosquito repellent sprays or patches containing DEET, Picaridin, or Citronella oil to protect themselves from bites.

4. Community Involvement and Government Regulations

Singapore takes mosquito control seriously, and the government has strict regulations to ensure public health is protected. The NEA conducts regular inspections, and homeowners can be fined if mosquito breeding is found on their property.

In addition to regulations, community engagement is crucial. Residents are encouraged to report mosquito breeding sites and participate in dengue prevention campaigns.

How You Can Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes

Apart from eliminating mosquito breeding sites, here are some ways to keep mosquitoes away from your home:

Use mosquito nets and screens on windows and doors

Apply mosquito repellent when going outdoors

Wear light-colored clothing to avoid attracting mosquitoes

Use mosquito traps or electric zappers to reduce mosquito populations indoors

Final Thoughts

Mosquito control in Singapore is a shared responsibility. By taking small but effective steps, such as removing stagnant water, using repellents, and staying informed about government measures, we can significantly reduce the mosquito population and protect our health.

Contact ORIGIN for an eco-friendly mosquito control solution!

Visit our website today!

[ranchracoon]

Ch. 19 One Last Time

You couldn't move faster out of the castle, Alcina offered a carriage to take you to the edge of Donna's property but you vetoed it. The news from Mother Miranda ignited a fire inside you and gave you a surge of adrenaline that you used to propel yourself from the castle grounds. People in the village scurried to move out of your way, some of them recognizing you and giving you glances of worry but you paid them no mind. In the distance you saw the altar, which meant you were so close to the gate but life wasn't kind to you for long. The gate opened as you approached, making you skid to halt and panic set it for a brief moment. Panic turned to contempt when you recognized the pasty, scrawny, pathetic excuse for a human come into view.

"Salvatore." You nearly spat.

Mother Miranda warned you, maybe you could beg on your knees for forgiveness, but what could she really do? Throw you out of the village to be exposed to the elements? You would live as a hermit with Donna, because you knew she would rescue you. She always recused you. Before he could speak you approached him, fist clenched, you wanted nothing more than to put him in the dirt where he belonged. You swung your first toward his head, it would have hit him in the nose but he dodged at the last moment, before you could rewind he grabbed your hand with his own. He smirked at you, flashing his yellowing teeth as he tightened his grip enough to make you flinch.

"Nice try sweetie, but I've done this-"

He was cut off by another fist flying through the air and hitting him square in the jaw, the impact enough to send him stumbling to the ground. He sat up rubbing the spot, groaning loudly as the few villagers around gasped and made 'ooh' sounds. You looked over to see Cassandra shaking her hand then bringing it up to her lips to kiss her knuckles.

"Wow, that felt good." She giggled.

"What are you doing here? I thought you were in trouble with your mother."

"I am but Mother thought you might run into a certain pest and didn't want you to make any rash decisions."

"And this was the solution?" You motioned toward Salvatore.

"She didn't say I couldn't do anything." She said dramatically while emphasizing the 'I'.

Salvatore spat near your feet and growled, "you'll regret this! Wait until Mother Miranda hears about this."

"You know, I think you deserve another punch because obviously you can still speak." Cassandra threatened.

She turned toward Salvatore, from where you stood it was kind of humorous to see how Cassandra towered over him. She had a good six or seven inches on him easily, and judging from how hard the hit sounded, outmatched him in strength. She looked over her shoulder at you and winked as you smiled in return and went through the gate. On your way to the manor you paused at the sound of other footsteps, you were near Claudia's grave which didn't give you many options as far as hiding. You took a dive into the brush behind a tree, squatting down and peeking through the bushes to see Mother Miranda come into view through the fog.

She paused in front of Claudia's grave, kneeling down in front of the name plate as she ran a hand over it to brush away some fallen leaves. You couldn't hear what she said but could see her mouth moving, probably saying a prayer. Mother Miranda stood up from the grave and turned around to leave the way you came, once you were certain that she was out of range you darted for the path to the manor.

The manor stood in all of its doom and gloom, shrouded in mist from the waterfall but to you it was beautiful. You were finally home again. You slowed down and worked on catching your breath rather than controlling your descending thoughts. You guessed that the manor would be called your home now, obviously you weren't returning back to the states or leaving in general. Did you really want to leave? It seemed like that would be the best course, if you left all of this behind you could start fresh.

Before this you were always cautious, sheltered, didn't go out of your comfort zone, and never dreamed of shaking the boat. Since being here you've punched someone, yelled at someone superior to you, got involved in a murder, and currently are head over heels for a woman far out of your league. Maybe being here is a bad influence on you. You looked up at the manor one more time, thinking about Donna and how she looked at you, how she trusted you, and how much you longed to be in her arms again. Alcina was right, this may be the last night you have together and you couldn't waste it.

You stopped at the large metal gate, when you pushed it open it announced your arrival by creaking loudly. You stepped through the gate as the door opened to Angie, she looked you over with not a hint of of surprise at seeing you once again.

"Hi Angie. Miss me?" You asked with fake enthusiasm.

"As much as a cat misses a flea." She remarked.

"Oh come on, you like me."

"I-" She grumbled and waddled toward the stairs, "it has been quiet with you gone. Lord-Donna has gone back to her old habits: bedroom, workshop, repeat."

She whipped around suddenly, making you jump back to avoid being hit by the broom she held in her hand.

"You go down there and tell her that if her workshop is still a mess, I will personally drag her by the ear and make her clean until that floor shines." Angie threatened.

"Will do."

"You too! Scampering around with the lords has made you lazier than ever." She scorned.

You gasped and tried to protest but she held her broom threateningly and you decided that you would not win in a fight against Angie. She turned back around and started her slow ascend up the stairs, while you scurried off downstairs. The first spot to check was the workshop, which unfortunately was still destroyed, but that was a future problem. That meant Donna was in her bedroom. You approached her bedroom door, seeing an untouched tray of mystery food in front of it, you gently scooted it with your food and knocked on the door. No answer. You knocked again and heard some shuffling around but still no answer after waiting for a moment. You huffed and tried the door discreetly to find it locked.

"Donna?" You called quietly.

There was a shift in noise, you heard some clattering and some words that you couldn't make out followed by some more shuffling around before silence. The door swung open to expose Donna who stood there in a button down shirt, some type of slacks, and black socks. Even when she was lounging she still looked so good. You bit your lip softly and chuckled nervously, losing the nerve you once had at seeing her without her mask again. She looked so beautiful in the lamp light, the light perfectly highlighted her jaw and the shadows didn't help.

Her eyes were shadowed, the pure white one like a beacon in the night while the other pulled you into the ocean of darkness. She reached down and pulled you into the bedroom, locking the door behind you before she engulfed you in a tight hug, her nose burying into your neck.

"I miss the way you smell." A kiss on your neck.

"The way you touch." Another kiss on your jaw.

"The way to taste." A kiss behind your ear.

"The way you say my name." She whispered in your ear.

Goosebumps covered your skin as your hands traveled up her back to her shoulders, pulling her in tightly. You whimpered a little as her fingers dug into the small of your back, pressing you impossibly closer to her. She continued to plant kisses against your skin, you tilted your head and managed to see a book on her bed. Upon narrowing your eyes you saw it was the same book she gifted you, Mountain Flowers and How to Care for Them.

"Doing some light reading?" You questioned teasingly.

Donna stopped kissing you and shot her head up, you frowned when she released you and stretched over to grab the book. She tossed it into one of the nightstands, closing the drawer and standing in front of it. You giggled a little at how she toyed with her fingers nervously, not looking in your direction.

"I...we started all that work in the greenhouse so..I didn't want that to go to waste."

You smiled at her sweetly, taking her hands in yours and pressing kisses to her knuckles, "that's very sweet of you."

The two of you stood in an awkward silence, you sigh and rub your thumbs against her soft skin. She leaned forward and rested her head against your shoulder, you inhaled her scent deeply while you let go of her hands in order to wrap yours around her neck. You opened your eyes and lowered your head so that your forehead was on her chest, holding in a giggle at seeing her toes wiggle.

"Donna...we need to talk."

"Not tonight."

"But-"

She sighed, a low rumbling resembling a growl came from her throat, "it's about Miranda isn't it?" She asked, hinting on annoyance.

"Yes."

Donna sat down on the bed, sighing again as she planted her hands firmly on each side of her on the bed. She shook her head a little, you pushed her legs apart and held her head against your abdomen, stroking your fingers through her hair after untying it from its bun.

"I heard her speaking with Angie. She thinks that I had something to do with the maid showing up dead and asked Angie where I was. Angie of course was an open book on where I was." Donna said.

"Did Mother Miranda say anything else?"

"That she'll consider Angie's testimony and that she'll call us tomorrow about her decision."

"So, tonight might be our last night together." You mumble.

You could feel Donna smirk against you as she wrapped her arms around your torso and pulled you down onto her lap. She kissed underneath your jaw and down your neck, her hands slipping underneath your shirt.

"Mhm, which is why I'm going to worship you as if it is." She growled.

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