Your Stacer or Northbank boat should be a haven for relaxation and adventure, not a breeding ground for unwelcome critters.  Unfortunately, pests of all shapes and sizes can find their way onto your vessel, causing damage, creating messes, and even posing health risks.  But how do you know if your boat has become a five-star pest hotel?  Here's a guide to identifying common boat pests and the telltale signs of their presence.

What sort of pests you can find inside a boat?

Creepy Crawlies: Cockroaches, ants, and spiders are notorious hitchhikers readily finding their way aboard food containers, boxes, or even clothing. These insects seek shelter, food crumbs, and moisture often nesting in dark and damp areas. They can also destroy electrical wirings and plastic items as well.

Even Worse Creepy Crawlies: They might be tiny, but fleas and lice are an absolute menace in the boat; plus they can attach themselves to anyone (most especially pets) who comes into contact with them. Anyone or any animal that has fleas will experience discomfort, with both itching and scratching.

Rodent Rascals: Rats and mice can wreak havoc on your boat. These gnawing creatures can damage electrical wiring, upholstery, and even fibreglass material. Look for droppings, gnaw marks on wires or wood, and signs of nesting materials like shredded paper or fabric.

Flying Fiends: Mosquitoes and flies can be a nuisance, especially in areas with stagnant water. Look for swarms of insects near food sources or around hatches left one for extended periods.

How to detect if your boat has a pest problem

• Droppings are usually a universal calling card for many pests. No matter the size and shape, if you found them in nooks and crevices, then expect that some critters live in your boat.
• Rodents are known for their nocturnal gnawing habits. If you hear scratching sounds at night, it might be a sound of unwanted furry visitors.
• Look for trails of debris, sawdust-like trails, gnaw marks, or grease left by these critters. These trails can indicate the location of a pest infestation. Aside from trails, check your boat supplies and gear. If you found a nest of shredded papers, leaves, fabric scraps or gnaw marks on wires, holes in upholstery, or damaged food containers can all be signs of pet activity.

How to eradicate the infestation

Prevention is Key: The best way to deal with pests is to prevent them from boarding and staying in the first place. Store food in sealed containers, clean up crumbs, and spills right away, and seal any potential entry points like cracks or gaps around hatches.

Traps and Baits:  For small infestations, traps and baits can be effective. However, ensure you choose traps and baits appropriate for the specific pest you're targeting.

Insecticides and Sprays: Insecticides and sprays can be helpful for eliminating crawling insects. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and prioritize using these products in well-ventilated areas.

Professional Help (If nothing works and you did everything in your power to get rid of these annoying creatures): For serious infestations or if you're uncomfortable dealing with pests yourself, consider calling a professional pest control service with experience in dealing with boat-specific issues.