Bird droppings have been covering walkways and building windows around the Branch County Courthouse and Annex during the fall and winter months. Maintenance efforts, including power washing, have been limited in effectiveness, especially in freezing temperatures. A 'backup beeper' installed on the courthouse roof initially deterred the birds but they became accustomed to it. The birds, likely a mix of crows and blackbirds, roost in trees like the Ginko tree and are drawn to areas with abundant food. Wildlife experts note the flocks create 'predator confusion' and disperse by late March to begin nesting. Some birds are year-round residents, others migrate from northern latitudes.
THESE ARE THE MOST BED BUG–INFESTED CITIES IN THE U.S. New York City isn't even in the top 10
Pest control company Orkin released a list of the 50 most bed bug–infested cities in the U.S. based on treatment requests from December 2019 to November 2020. Chicago tops the list, followed by Baltimore, Washington, DC, and Detroit. New York City ranks 12th, down from 6th in 2020, while Los Angeles moves from 4th to 9th worst. Toledo, Ohio, jumps from 50th to 27th in just one year. The data highlights that bed bugs are a widespread issue beyond major urban centers.
Rats 'breeding well' in Bristol homes and 'could spiral out of control'
Bristol's rat population is rising rapidly, with Pest.co.uk estimating 950,000 rats in 2020—a 25% increase from the previous year. The surge is attributed to migration from commercial to residential areas during lockdown, combined with growing rat immunity to poisons and limited control resources due to funding cuts.
Wilt Disease Kills Hundreds of Trees in Tokyo Parks
A fungal disease transmitted by ambrosia beetles has killed over 500 broad-leaved trees and infected more than 1,700 in Tokyo parks this fiscal year, with the disease spreading due to higher-than-average summer temperatures following a rainy season. Infected trees show withered, brown or reddish-brown leaves and do not recover. The Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association plans to remove affected trees in phases, with wood repurposed for biomass and papermaking. Tama and Inagi cities have included funding for disease control in their budgets.
Bed Bug Nuisance Found at Port Hardy Secondary School
A single bed bug was discovered at Port Hardy Secondary School on January 30, 2021. Public Health confirmed bed bugs are primarily a nuisance rather than a health risk, though parents were notified to check their children's belongings. Prevention and treatment tips include vacuuming (with proper precautions), high-heat washing, steam cleaning, and professional pest control.
Spotted Lanternfly Threat to Colorado's Fruit Crops
Entomologists warn that the invasive Spotted Lanternfly, originally from China and Vietnam, could arrive in Colorado soon, threatening grape vines, peach trees, and other crops. The insect feeds on plant sap, weakening trees and reducing fruit quality. It spreads via human activity, such as RVs, and is already present in several U.S. states. Colorado is preparing through public education and a ballot measure to regulate the pest without increasing taxes.
Rats 'Immune to Poison' Taking Over Brit Estate and Feasting on Overflowing Bins
Rats infected with a resistance to poison are infesting Coley Park in Reading, UK, where they have been breeding rapidly and causing distress among residents for three years. Despite repeated culling and cleaning efforts, the pests continue to thrive due to overflowing bins and accessible food sources. The council has introduced a 'Week of Action' and plans to invest over £20 million in improvements, including modern waste management systems.
Rats 'Immune to Poison' Taking Over Brit Estate and Feasting on Overflowing Bins
Rats resistant to poison are infesting Coley Park estate in Reading, UK, where overflowing bins and breeding activity have led to a persistent problem for residents over three years. Despite council interventions, including a 'Week of Action' and improved waste management, the issue continues to worsen, with residents reporting increased sightings and concern for children's safety.
Squirrel Causes Power Outages and School Closures in South Portland, Maine
A squirrel entered a substation in South Portland, Maine, causing power outages for thousands of customers and leading to the closure of public schools. Central Maine Power Co. restored power to approximately 6,700 customers in South Portland, 200 in Cape Elizabeth, and 1,500 in Portland after extensive repairs. The incident highlights the recurring issue of animal-caused outages, with animals responsible for about 20% of all power outages annually.