#vermin-problem

[ follow ]
Pets
fromHoodline
2 hours ago

Baychester dog attack on opossum sparks cruelty probe

A dog attacked an opossum in Baychester, leading to the animal's death and an investigation for possible animal cruelty.
fromSFGATE
2 hours ago

Someone may have deliberately caused Calif.'s multimillion-dollar nutria problem

Genetic sequencing has revealed that the state's nutria populations are most genetically similar to populations in Oregon, suggesting that California's current nutria invasion was the result of intentional reintroduction.
Agriculture
NYC parents
fromGothamist
12 hours ago

As allergy season returns to NYC, here's how you can save yourself from pollen

Tree pollen is the main cause of seasonal allergies in New York during spring, with symptoms peaking in late March and early April.
Roam Research
fromLos Angeles Times
4 hours ago

Large spiders the size of your palm are popping up across the U.S. Here's why you shouldn't be afraid

The Joro spider, an invasive species in the U.S., is large but not dangerous and helps control pest populations.
Public health
fromThe Nation
8 hours ago

Public Health Needs to Get Off the Laptop and Into the Streets

Transformational experiences in South Africa with TAC emphasized the importance of community engagement and effective communication in health education.
London
fromwww.theguardian.com
1 day ago

Say no to pesticides, mix up your lawn and six more ways to help bees to thrive

Solitary bees are crucial pollinators, with over 240 species in the UK, but they are facing significant population declines.
Berlin food
fromArchDaily
1 day ago

"We Live in Toxic Interior Environments": Interview with Healthy Materials Lab

Material selection in architecture is crucial for public health and environmental sustainability.
fromwww.theguardian.com
2 days ago

Houseplant hacks: do eggshells deter fungus gnats from laying eggs?

Crushed clean, dry eggshells, when scattered over the soil, are intended to stop adult gnats from laying eggs and potentially add natural fertilizer. However, they merely sit on the surface, collecting dust, while the gnats remain attracted to the damp compost.
Renovation
#new-york-city
fromHell Gate
3 days ago
Podcast

Randy Mastro Truly Gutted Compost Collection

New York City's mandatory curbside composting program began in April 2025 to reduce organic waste in landfills.
fromStreetsblog New York City
1 week ago
New York City

Trash Containerization Program Remains Unfunded in Mamdani's City Budget - Streetsblog New York City

Funding for New York City's trash containerization program is uncertain, risking the continuation of efforts to improve waste management.
New York City
fromStreetsblog New York City
1 week ago

Trash Containerization Program Remains Unfunded in Mamdani's City Budget - Streetsblog New York City

Funding for New York City's trash containerization program is uncertain, risking the continuation of efforts to improve waste management.
OMG science
fromState of the Planet
6 days ago

Two Sustainability Students See Opportunity Hidden in Laundry-Induced Microplastic Pollution

Federal agencies are prioritizing microplastics in drinking water and launching initiatives to detect and remove them from the human body.
Boston
fromYahoo News
4 days ago

Bronx woman worried about health after apartment overrun with rats

A Bronx woman struggles with a severe rat infestation in her apartment, impacting her health and living conditions.
Upper West Side
fromHoodline
3 days ago

Mice in November, Mice and Roaches in March: Boucherie West Village's Health Inspection Story Behind the A Grade

Boucherie West Village has health inspection issues despite a high rating and frequent bookings.
Environment
fromThe New Yorker
3 days ago

Can Sponge Cities Save Us from the Coming Floods?

Flood control strategies are shifting from traditional barriers to more integrated, park-like solutions due to climate change impacts.
#composting
fromGothamist
6 days ago
NYC politics

New Yorkers stopped composting after city stopped giving them fines, report shows

NYC politics
fromGothamist
6 days ago

New Yorkers stopped composting after city stopped giving them fines, report shows

Enforcement of composting fines in New York City has decreased, leading to a significant drop in compost collection since 2025.
Coronavirus
fromLos Angeles Times
6 days ago

Typhus from fleas hits record level in L.A.: Where the hot spots are and how to protect yourself

Flea-borne typhus cases in L.A. County reached a record high, prompting public health warnings and preventive measures for pet owners.
New York City
fromGothamist
6 days ago

Reforms to 'wild west' private trash industry come to Manhattan's Chinatown

Manhattan's Chinatown will implement new trash reforms requiring businesses to use authorized waste companies by May 2024.
Mission District
fromPadailypost
1 week ago

Property owners asked to double fee they pay to fight mosquitoes

Santa Clara County property owners will vote on a new fee to fund mosquito control and pest management services.
Remodel
fromArchitectural Digest
3 years ago

We Asked Experts How to Eliminate Dust From Every Surface in Your Home-This Is What They Said

Proper dusting involves cleaning from top to bottom and addressing air vents to effectively eliminate dust and improve home health.
Agriculture
fromTasting Table
2 days ago

6 Smart Ways To Keep Gophers Out Of Your Garden - Tasting Table

Gophers can cause significant damage to gardens, but there are effective methods to control them.
Medicine
fromThe Atlantic
1 week ago

Don't Get Sucked Into the War on Lice

Head lice are not a serious medical issue but cause significant psychological distress for those affected.
#pest-control
Coffee
fromTasting Table
1 week ago

Don't Throw Out Coffee Grounds, Put Them On Your Patio - Tasting Table

Coffee grounds effectively repel ants and can prevent infestations when used proactively.
Canada news
fromRealagriculture
1 week ago

Strychnine temporarily approved for controlling Richardson ground squirrels in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Emergency use of strychnine for controlling Richardson ground squirrels has been approved in Alberta and Saskatchewan until November 2027.
#bed-bugs
Agriculture
fromRealagriculture
1 day ago

Ontario agronomists warn of rising waterhemp pressure and emerging Palmer amaranth risk

Waterhemp and Palmer amaranth are rapidly spreading in Ontario, posing significant challenges for crop management as the 2026 growing season approaches.
US news
fromThe Washington Post
1 week ago

NYC's newest hobby is cleaning up trash and documenting the filth

Volunteer groups in NYC are actively cleaning up trash, fostering community bonds, and promoting shared responsibility for urban cleanliness.
Design
fromFast Company
1 week ago

How the public changes spaces-and art-for the better

Public engagement enhances design, transforming spaces into vibrant community hubs that foster creativity and connection.
fromTasting Table
1 week ago

The Fragrant, Fast-Growing Herb That Can Help Keep Squirrels Away From Your Garden - Tasting Table

"Peppermint offers a mild, temporary deterrent, but squirrels quickly adapt, and the scent fades outdoors."
Pets
fromLos Angeles Times
2 weeks ago

As mosquitoes go year-round in L.A., a promising fix hits a snag

"We have not seen them go away altogether like they have in previous years," said Susanne Kluh, general manager for the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.
LA real estate
fromTruthout
2 weeks ago

Weed Killer May Be Causing Cancer "Hot Spots" Across the Midwest

The analysis by Food & Water Watch found that 60% of counties with high glyphosate use had non-Hodgkin lymphoma rates above the national average, indicating a strong correlation between glyphosate application and cancer incidence.
Cancer
UK politics
fromwww.bbc.com
2 weeks ago

Taxpayers to fund clear-up of huge illegal waste dumps

Three major illegal rubbish dumps in England will be cleaned up at taxpayer expense as part of a national waste crime action plan.
NYC food
fromHoodline
3 weeks ago

Brooklyn's Dough Doughnuts Has a Mouse Problem - And That's Just the Start of It

Dough Doughnuts on Vanderbilt Avenue received eight health violations including evidence of mice, contaminated food, improper pesticide handling, and poor sanitation conditions.
Public health
fromABC7 Los Angeles
2 weeks ago

Welcome to allergy season. Here's how to protect yourself

Allergy seasons are worsening due to climate change, but treatments have improved, helping many manage symptoms effectively.
OMG science
fromFuturism
2 weeks ago

Scientists Recruit Undergrad to Step Into Room Filled With Ravenous Mosquitoes for "Full-Body Massacre"

Georgia Tech's study reveals how mosquitoes select prey, demonstrating their behavior changes based on visual and chemical cues from targets.
Agriculture
fromEarth911
1 week ago

Guest Idea: When to Act and What to Use for Seasonal Pest Control

Seasonal pest management strategies help prevent infestations and reduce reliance on chemicals.
London politics
fromwww.bbc.com
4 weeks ago

Residents to grow food on 'unloved' public land

Hounslow Council launches Right to Grow initiative allowing residents to cultivate food on unused public land, becoming only the second London council to adopt this policy.
fromGothamist
3 weeks ago

NYC's 'trash revolution' gets new general as Mamdani names his sanitation chief

As commissioner, Gregory will carry forward the transformative projects he helped build, from waste containerization and curbside composting to commercial waste reform... I look forward to working with Gregory to keep pushing forward to build a cleaner, healthier and more just city for all New Yorkers.
New York City
Everyday cooking
fromTasting Table
1 month ago

Don't Toss That Banana Peel - Use It To Deodorize Your Smelly Kitchen Trash Can - Tasting Table

Banana peels effectively deodorize kitchen trash cans due to isoamyl acetate, a volatile compound that neutralizes odors when placed at the bottom of the bin.
#public-health-policy
Public health
fromNebraska Examiner
3 weeks ago

3 states and New York City join global disease response network * Nebraska Examiner

State and local public health departments in California, Illinois, New York, and New York City independently joined WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network after the U.S. federal government withdrew from the WHO.
Public health
fromMichigan Advance
3 weeks ago

3 states and New York City join global disease response network * Michigan Advance

State and local public health departments in California, Illinois, New York, and New York City independently joined WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network after the U.S. federal government withdrew from the WHO.
Public health
fromNebraska Examiner
3 weeks ago

3 states and New York City join global disease response network * Nebraska Examiner

State and local public health departments in California, Illinois, New York, and New York City independently joined WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network after the U.S. federal government withdrew from the WHO.
Public health
fromMichigan Advance
3 weeks ago

3 states and New York City join global disease response network * Michigan Advance

State and local public health departments in California, Illinois, New York, and New York City independently joined WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network after the U.S. federal government withdrew from the WHO.
Agriculture
fromRealagriculture
2 weeks ago

Pests & Predators, Ep 34: Name the pest and stay focused on thresholds for highest ROI

Unpredictable insect pressure in Prairie lentil crops requires growers to adapt scouting and management strategies based on pest dynamics and economic thresholds.
Renovation
fromArchDaily
1 month ago

Making Infrastructure Visible: When Systems Become Architecture

Infrastructure facilities are transitioning from hidden operational structures to visible civic symbols that define urban identity and skylines.
UK news
fromwww.independent.co.uk
1 month ago

Rat warning as UK homes see huge increase in rodent activity

UK rat infestations surged 10% year-on-year, driven by record heat in 2025 and heavy rainfall displacing rodents from flooded burrows seeking shelter indoors.
OMG science
fromNature
1 month ago

Could flies sniff out contraband chemicals?

Mutant insects could potentially detect narcotics and explosives, while ash seeds employ a screw propeller mechanism for dispersal.
Alternative medicine
fromwww.theguardian.com
1 month ago

Houseplant hacks: can neem oil really beat mealybugs?

Neem oil effectively controls mealybugs when combined with physical removal and repeated applications, though heavy infestations require chemical pesticides and nematodes.
Environment
fromLos Angeles Times
1 month ago

After uproar, Orange County stops spraying herbicide in two creeks

Orange County halted indefinite herbicide spraying in creeks near Doheny State Beach following a resident social media campaign demanding the practice stop.
Pets
fromGothamist
4 weeks ago

Rabid coyote attacks 3 people, 6 dogs in Eastchester and Bronxville area

A rabid coyote in Westchester County attacked three people and six dogs, prompting immediate medical attention recommendations and rabies awareness alerts.
New York City
fromNews 12 - Default
4 weeks ago

City council approves pilot program to improve NYC street cleanliness, snow removal

New York City Council approved a pilot program to enhance street cleanliness and snow removal from public spaces including bus shelters and bike stations, with private owner accountability and results reporting in two years.
fromLos Angeles Times
1 month ago

Fear that herbicides are poisoning Orange County creeks blows up on social media

We want an end to the use of herbicides in our creeks. This idea that we're just going to spray, hose down these creeks and leave them dead is unacceptable. Linas and other residents have filed requests for records detailing the chemicals the county uses to control vegetation in the waterways, such as glyphosate, triclopyr and imazapyr.
California
Renovation
fromLos Angeles Times
17 years ago

Taking the plunge with a composting toilet

A homeowner built a composting toilet as an affordable backup after expensive plumbing repairs, overcoming social stigma through practical necessity and research.
Pets
fromwww.amny.com
4 weeks ago

Paws and reflect: NYC's Animal Medical Center treated critters from the smallest to the colossal in 2025

NYC's Schwarzman Animal Medical Center treated nearly 60,000 animals in 2025 while completing a $125 million renovation, maintaining 24/7 emergency services throughout construction.
#mushroom-poisoning
Science
fromwww.scientificamerican.com
1 month ago

The surprising scientific value of roadkill

Researchers use roadkill as a valuable scientific resource to study wildlife behavior, track species distribution, obtain specimens ethically, and discover new species across diverse research applications.
Agriculture
fromRealagriculture
4 weeks ago

The truth about innovation in crop protection, with Mike Frank

Crop protection innovation is shifting from new molecules to formulations and mixtures, with off-patent actives dominating the market across 140 countries.
New York City
fromwww.theguardian.com
1 month ago

If it's cold, they stop mating': New York City rat population may be on the decline

New York City's severe winter may temporarily reduce the rat population by disrupting mating cycles, as cold temperatures cause rats to cease reproduction to protect vulnerable offspring.
Public health
fromTasting Table
1 month ago

Food Safety Changes You Can Expect In 2026 - Tasting Table

The FDA plans significant food safety reforms in 2026, including stricter regulations on artificial colors, additives, and chemicals to align U.S. standards more closely with international practices.
Business
fromBusiness Matters
2 months ago

What Integrated Pest Management Means for Small Firms

Integrated Pest Management replaces routine chemical treatments with prevention, monitoring, and targeted actions to improve operations, budgets, and compliance for small firms.
Pets
fromBoston.com
1 month ago

A rat race to the rescue: MSPCA-Angell seeks homes after 163 rodents surrendered

MSPCA-Angell received 163 rats from a single surrender in Essex County, the largest in at least five years, with 53 available for adoption at their facilities.
fromThe New Yorker
1 month ago

In Defense of Rats

How did hundreds of women find themselves on operating tables in surgery centers and strip malls several states away from where they live? A forty-million-dollar scam that hinged on product-liability lawsuits. Casey Cep reports "
NYC LGBT
#argentine-ants
Cars
fromLondon Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
2 months ago

Motorists warned against rat infestations which could cause thousands - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Rats and mice increasingly infest parked cars and garages in winter, chewing wiring and interiors; sealing entry points, removing food/trash, and using repellents prevents damage.
Canada news
fromYahoo News
1 month ago

'A single bedbug' found at government building in Ottawa after four-day in-office order

A single bedbug was found Feb. 10 in the Willet Building housing federal employees; the area was treated and follow-up inspections are scheduled.
Agriculture
fromTasting Table
1 month ago

Yes, You Can Grow Mushrooms In An Old Plastic Container - Here's How - Tasting Table

Growing edible mushrooms at home is affordable and simple using recycled plastic containers, spores, and substrate material.
Science
fromArs Technica
2 months ago

Fungus could be the insecticide of the future

Certain strains of Beauveria bassiana can infect and kill Eurasian spruce bark beetles despite beetles’ enhanced antimicrobial defenses.
fromwww.scientificamerican.com
2 months ago

How zoos are preparing animals for this weekend's massive winter storm

In Texas, the Houston Zoo has prepared its buildings and barns with heaters designed to withstand extreme conditions, the zoo said in a blog post on Friday. Animals will have access to extra hay and bedding, and food was stocked in advance. Across the Zoo, sensitive plants are being protected with coverings, and generators are positioned to provide backup power if needed, the blog post said.
US news
Environment
fromGothamist
1 month ago

Environmental groups sue NYC over Willets Point wastewater plant

Environmental groups are suing New York City over plans to chlorinate wastewater entering Flushing Creek, arguing chlorine won't reduce sewage volume and may harm wildlife.
Environment
fromwww.theguardian.com
2 months ago

Stark warning': pesticide harm to wildlife rising globally, study finds

Global ecological harm from pesticides rose between 2013 and 2019, with insects experiencing the largest increase in applied toxicity (42.9%) and soil organisms up 30.8%.
fromThe New Yorker
1 month ago

Is the Rat War Over?

Rats were leaving Manhattan, hurrying across the bridges in single-file lines. Some went to Westchester, some to Brooklyn. It was the pandemic, and the rats, which had been living off the nourishing trash of New York's densest borough for generations, were as panicked about the closure of restaurants as we were. People were eating three meals a day at home, and the rats were hungry.
Public health
#dog-waste
Environment
fromLos Angeles Times
2 months ago

'It is scary': Oak-killing beetle reaches Ventura County, significantly expanding range

Goldspotted oak borer has reached Ventura County, threatening extensive oak mortality and potential northward spread into critical oak woodlands, including the Sierras.
fromwww.theguardian.com
2 months ago

New York City's real animal welfare crisis isn't the Westminster Dog Show | Lauren Caulk

The dogs come to be judged. The owners and handlers come to uphold breed standards. And, almost as reliably as the movie references and the best-in-show ribbon, Peta arrives ready to dominate the conversation. If there is one certainty about the Super Bowl of canines, it's that the protest will share the stage with the pageantry. Westminster is an annual collision of tradition, spectacle and dissent, and Peta has become exceptionally good at owning that moment.
Pets
Public health
fromBoston.com
2 months ago

Boston woman flummoxed after rat makes a home in stroller she left on porch

A Boston woman found a rat nesting in her baby stroller left on her second-floor porch and needs immediate professional removal.
Public health
fromwww.amny.com
1 month ago

Small animals, big pain: Why the NYC Council proposed a ban on glue traps

A proposed New York City law would ban the sale of glue traps because they cause severe animal suffering and can increase human disease risk.
Agriculture
fromArs Technica
2 months ago

Tiny falcons are helping keep the food supply safe on cherry farms

American kestrels in orchards reduce crop damage and lower pathogen contamination on fruit by deterring and preying on small birds and pests.
Public health
fromThe Atlantic
2 months ago

A Chance to Learn What Urban Fire Does to the Body

Los Angeles urban wildfires prompted rapid, extensive scientific monitoring and long-term health studies to assess environmental contamination and mental and physical impacts after urban destruction.
Public health
fromTravel + Leisure
2 months ago

This Is the Most Mosquito-infested City in the U.S.-and No, It's Not in Florida or Texas

Los Angeles, California has the highest mosquito infestation among U.S. cities, driven by invasive Aedes aegypti and climate change, increasing dengue and other health risks.
[ Load more ]