Pest magic refers to the use of supernatural or magical powers to control or eliminate pests, such as insects or rodents. It draws upon the belief that certain individuals possess the ability to command or manipulate these creatures through mystical means. Throughout history, various cultures have practiced forms of pest magic to combat infestations and protect their crops and homes. In ancient Egypt, for example, cats were highly revered for their ability to ward off rats and mice. It was believed that these feline companions possessed a connection to the spiritual realm and could keep pests at bay through their divine powers. Similarly, in medieval Europe, folklore and superstition surrounded the use of charms and potions to repel insects and rodents.

Ultrasonic Pest Repellers: Solution or Scam?

Ultrasonic pest repellers are electronic devices that emit high-frequency sounds designed to repel, injure or kill household pests, such as rodents and insects. Whether they're actually effective at doing so has been disputed by testing labs and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Left unchecked, rodents and insects can transmit salmonella, hantavirus and other diseases, as well as cause significant building damage. Signs of a rodent infestation include droppings, especially near food and beneath sinks, gnawed or chewed food packages, and holes in structural materials that can provide entry into the home.

Cockroach infestation, which is arguably the most pervasive and hard-to-eliminate type of pest infestation, especially in urban areas and industrial and commercial kitchens, is evidenced by the pest's droppings, which are pepper-like specs, typically found in kitchen cupboards, as well as their egg sacs, which are often spotted in hard-to-reach locations, such as cracks and crevices in kitchen cabinets and drains, and behind dishwashers and refrigerators. Ultrasonic pest repellers are claimed to eliminate even these types of household pests.

The use of audible sound to deter pests is an old strategy; the ancient Chinese used a number of mechanically operated sensory-repellent devices to deter rodent infestations in agricultural crops and buildings. Ultrasound, which is defined by sound frequencies beyond the upper limit of human hearing, has been used as pest control only over the past few decades, however.

The ultrasonic devices are plugged into a home’s electrical receptacle outlets which then purportedly emit high-frequency sounds that are disruptive to pests. The sound supposedly causes a physiological response known as audiogenic seizure response, which is characterized by non-directional running, convulsions, and possibly death from cerebral hemorrhage. The theory behind the devices is that confused rodents eventually flee when the disruption prevents them from gathering food, breeding, building nests or communicating. Ultrasonic devices are popular and appealing to consumers because of their ease of use and the fact that they are silent to human ears and allegedly eliminate the need for traps and poison, which are thought by some to be inhumane forms of pest control. Electromagnetic and subsonic devices are also available, and all designs vary by signal intensity, rate and frequency.

But Do They Work?

Studies designed to investigate the efficacy of ultrasonic pest repellents have shown mixed results. One extensive test performed by Kansas State University in 2002 found that the devices were effective at repelling some insects, such as crickets, but the same devices had little effect on cockroaches. Ants and spiders were unaffected by any of the devices. Of the pests that seem to be bothered by the noise, some tests have shown that they soon become habituated as they realize the noise is harmless. Even models proven successful in tests are unlikely to perform adequately in real-world situations, where signal strength rapidly diminishes and can be blocked by walls and furniture.

Safety concerns have arisen, too; some users have reported that the sound can weaken the clarity of telephone conversations, interfere with burglar alarm systems, and cause muting in hearing aids. The noise may also cause inadvertent distress to rabbits and rodent pets, such as guinea pigs and hamsters. Cats and dogs can hear in the ultrasonic range, but they appear not to be bothered by the noise emitted by these devices.

Manufacturers of ultrasonic pest repellers make claims that may be unsupported by scientific testing. In fact, more than 60 companies received warning letters from the FTC in 2001 stating that “efficacy claims about those products must be supported by scientific evidence." Two years later, one company was sued by the FTC for violating its warning.

Nevertheless, many users have reported success, so customers are advised to research specific brands before they purchase an ultrasonic pest repeller. The devices should be placed in areas where their signals will travel uninterrupted by walls or furniture.

InterNACHI inspectors may inform their clients that many more reliable forms of pest control, such as chemical pesticides, traps and even cats, are effective and inexpensive. Many InterNACHI inspectors are also qualified to perform wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspections, which can further identify and possibly diagnose insect infestation problems to help homeowners devise workable solutions. Inspectors should always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment when inspecting areas of a home that could be a refuge for pests.

In summary, ultrasonic pest repellers emit high-frequency sounds that manufacturers claim reduce household pest infestation, but laboratory tests have shown that the majority of such devices do not work as advertised, in violation of FTC guidelines. Homeowners with pest problems should rely on a qualified inspector who can help them identify their particular pest problem and advise them on practical and effective solutions.

Pest magic

* For new customers only. Cannot be combined with other coupons, discounts and flash sales. Not valid on Fly Eliminators or Gift Certificates.

Bats are, for the most part, harmless to people and can be helpful in keeping insect populations down. But, they can also damage buildings and carry diseases like rabies and histoplasmosis. Not to mention that their squeaking, scratching and odor can drive a person, well, batty. Use the convenient Bat Magic "place packs" to repel these flying critters from most structures; simply place them where the bats hide. They can be used indoors and outdoors in confined areas where bats like to gather such as attics, wall voids, crawl spaces, behind shutters, in chimneys, sheds, garages, etc. Made with all natural peppermint and spearmint oils, these packs are biodegradable, ready to use and last for weeks.

The essential oils in these packs are pleasantly aromatic for most people, but effectively repel bats simply. The unique nature of the oils interferes with the chemoreception of the bat (which it uses for mating and recognizing other bats) and the functions of the bats' Stenson's canal (part of their olfactory system). Since bats have very highly tuned receptive abilities and rely on them a great deal, they cannot abide any disruption to them. They will naturally be repelled by an area they find so uncomfortable. This repellent has no lasting or harmful effect on the bats.

Bats will continuously return to roost in the same area, so remember to seal off any entrances to an area once it has been cleansed of bats. Illuminating the area, if possible, will also discourage re-entry. Once the bats have been eliminated from the undesired roosting areas, why not give them another option for accommodations? We recommend the Songbird Essentials Bat House or the Woodlink Audubon Bat Shelter.

Suggested Uses: Use to drive bats from attics, wall voids, crawl spaces, behind blinds and shutters, eaves, soffits, chimneys, gable vents, sheds, louvers, ridge vents, behind siding, in garages and other dark, confined spaces.

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BONIDE Bat Magic is packaged in convenient "place packs" that are ready to use and can easily be placed, tossed or tacked up wherever needed. Begin treatment by placing one pack per 150 sq. ft. Increase the number of place packs as needed until the desired results are obtained. Although the smell may be pleasant, it can be overpowering in small spaces. Should this occur, simply reduce the number of place packs used.

NOTE: Do not apply to furniture, painted surfaces or fine finishes without testing on a small inconspicuous area first.

Storage: Store and transport in an upright position. Store only in original container, in a dry place inaccessible to children and pets. Do not reuse empty container. Discard empty container in trash.

Cannot Be Shipped To: DC,IN,NM,WI

Warning & Toxicities: KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Do not apply directly to water.

Active Ingredients/Guaranteed Analysis:

2.00%. Peppermint Oil
2.00%. Spearmint Oil

Inert Ingredients:

Dr. Mani's Magic - Pest Protect Pro

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Now you can easily SPRAY and evenly coat a large area against all the nasty bugs, mites, flies, worms, and fungal diseases affecting any plant and grass.

An organic application that is simple and works via diatomaceous earth’s MECHANICAL destruction of pests - so there is NO RESISTANCE.

Sulfur is the world’s oldest fungicide, applied safely for thousands of years.

Take the very best of nature and start protecting your lawn, garden, fruit trees…and most importantly the people in your life.

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Remember…this is our own regimen that we use on our 250,000 trees in our nursery and 150,000 trees in our grove. This product was made to solve our own problems that you have!

1-gal of concentrate makes 25-gal of product

Spray on leaves, trunk, branches weekly to control pests and fungal disease.

Repeat spray more often or higher concentrations for more aggressive control.

PRECAUTIONS:

**test first on sulfur-sensitive plants: tomatoes, curcurbits, cruciferous vegetables, stone fruit & berries**

**do NOT use within 14 days of application of any sort of horticultural oil - will burn leaves**

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Similarly, in medieval Europe, folklore and superstition surrounded the use of charms and potions to repel insects and rodents. In some cases, pest magic involves rituals or spells performed by individuals with specialized knowledge or training. These rituals may include the use of herbs, crystals, or other objects believed to possess magical properties that repel pests.

The performance of specific gestures, incantations, or prayers may also be a part of the process, depending on the traditions and beliefs of the practitioner. While the effectiveness of pest magic may vary depending on one's belief system, there is often a psychological component at play. Believing in the power of pest magic can provide a sense of control and security, which may contribute to a person's feeling of relief from infestations. Additionally, certain herbs or substances used in pest magic rituals may have natural properties that repel pests, providing a practical aspect to the practice. Today, with advancements in science and technology, pest control methods have largely shifted towards more practical and evidence-based approaches, such as the use of pesticides and integrated pest management strategies. However, remnants of pest magic can still be found in some cultural traditions or alternative practices that combine mystical beliefs with modern pest control methods. In conclusion, pest magic is a concept rooted in the belief that supernatural or magical powers can be harnessed to control or eliminate pests. While it may have historical and cultural significance, its practical effectiveness is often subjective. Nonetheless, it serves as an interesting example of how belief systems and cultural practices have evolved to address practical challenges throughout human history..

Reviews for "Debunking common myths about pest magic"

1.

Name: Amy

Rating: 2/5

Review: I was not impressed with Pest Magic at all. I purchased it hoping to get rid of the ants in my kitchen but it did absolutely nothing. I followed the instructions carefully, applied it in all the recommended areas, but the ants just kept coming back. I ended up having to call a professional pest control service to finally solve the problem. Pest Magic was a total waste of money for me.

2.

Name: John

Rating: 1/5

Review: I bought Pest Magic after seeing all the positive reviews, but unfortunately, it did not deliver for me. I had a serious cockroach problem in my basement and hoped Pest Magic would help me get rid of them. I applied it as directed, but the cockroaches seemed to be completely unaffected. Not only did they not die, but they continued to multiply. I tried using Pest Magic for several weeks, and finally had to resort to calling an exterminator to solve the infestation. I would not recommend Pest Magic to anyone.

3.

Name: Sarah

Rating: 2/5

Review: I bought Pest Magic to get rid of the spiders in my garage, but it did not work as advertised. I sprayed it in all the corners and areas where I usually see spiders, but they just kept coming back. I even tried reapplying it on multiple occasions, but it had no effect whatsoever. I'm very disappointed with Pest Magic and would not recommend it for spider control.

4.

Name: David

Rating: 3/5

Review: I had moderate expectations for Pest Magic, but it fell short for me. I bought it to deal with a minor ant infestation in my backyard, and while it did reduce the number of ants initially, they started coming back after a few days. I applied Pest Magic as directed, so I'm not sure why it didn't have a long-lasting effect. It might work for smaller pest problems, but for anything more serious, I would suggest seeking professional help.

The eco-friendly solution: why pest magic is the way to go