Pest Control Branbridges

Pest Control in Branbridges

Branbridges is a small area near East Peckham in the Medway valley, sitting on the flat fertile farmland that stretches between Tonbridge and Maidstone. The river Medway and its tributaries wind through this low-lying landscape and the combination of water, rich agricultural soil and the mild valley climate makes it prime territory for pests. Rats are the biggest issue here. The riverbanks and the drainage ditches that cross the farmland provide everything rats need, from burrow sites to drinking water and cover. We deal with rat problems at properties across the Branbridges area and the homes and farms closest to the watercourses need the most attention. After flooding or heavy rain, rat activity often increases as animals are displaced from their burrows and seek higher ground.

The hop gardens and orchards that once dominated the Medway valley still exist in pockets around Branbridges and the open arable fields that have replaced many of them still support strong mouse numbers. Mice head indoors during the cooler months, following the hedgerows and field edges right up to houses. Mouse control in these agricultural settings needs to address both the mice already inside and the routes they are using to get in. Steel wool and cement in the gaps around pipes and air bricks is simple but effective proofing that can keep a house mouse-free for years.

Summer brings wasp nests to the outbuildings, roof spaces and garden sheds around Branbridges, with the fruit trees in the area providing food for the colonies. The flat open fields also make this a good area for ground-nesting wasps where the soil is light enough. We occasionally handle flea problems from homes with cats or dogs that roam the fields and pick up fleas from the wildlife living along the river margins and hedgerows.