Well, howdy folks! Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, right here in our beautiful corner of North Georgia.

If you’re a homeowner here in Jasper, you know a little something about sharing our space with nature. We love the mountains, the fresh air, and the beautiful wooded areas, but sometimes, those critters get a little too friendly. When they cross the line from a picturesque part of nature to a pest problem inside your home, you need an expert you can trust.

And that’s why I want to talk to you about why Faith Pest Control is the local bug-buster you should be calling when you’ve got bugs, rodents, or anything else that’s causing you a headache.

First and foremost, we’re a local, family-owned business. We don’t just serve Jasper, we live and work right here in this community. When you call us, you’re not getting a stranger dispatched from an office three counties over. You’re getting a member of your community—a certified professional who understands the exact pest pressures we face here in North Georgia, from the persistent ants and spiders to those sneaky rats, mice, and even termites that threaten the structure of your home.

We’ve been in this business a good while now, and our reputation is built on good, old-fashioned, honest, and reliable service. We know your home is your biggest investment, and we treat it that way.

Now, you hear a lot of talk from different companies, but here at Faith Pest Control, we stand behind our work with a guarantee no one else in the area would even dare to make.

This is my personal promise to you:

“If you hire me to get rid of your pest problem and, at the end of 30 days, you are not 100% HAPPY, I will come back and retreat your home for FREE. And I’ll keep on treating it for FREE until you tell me you ARE happy. If that still doesn’t make you happy, I’ll promptly and politely give YOU back every penny of your money, plus an additional $25.00 for your time and trouble… period.”1

That’s how confident I am in my expertise and the quality of the service my team provides. I want you to be happy, or you won’t owe us a penny.

Termite and pest control is serious business. It involves the use of products in and around your home, where your family and pets live.

Certified Expertise: I’m a Georgia State Certified Pest Control Operator and a State Certified Public Health Specialist. My team is trained not just to spray, but to correctly identify the pest, understand its habits, and choose the most effective and safest treatment method.

Focus on Safety: We work hard to use virtually odorless products and follow every label direction to minimize risk to your children and pets. We’re not about cutting corners just to give you the cheapest price—we’re about providing a safe, long-lasting solution.

If you’ve got squirrels in your attic, wasps building nests, or termites silently munching away on your foundation, you need fast, efficient help from a company you trust.

Free Consultation: If you think you have a problem, or even just have a question about a strange bug you saw, give us a call. We offer a FREE consultation and a FREE 58-Point Pest Analysis of your home or office.2

A Partner in Protection: We’ll give you an honest assessment and a clear plan to get your peace of mind back.

Bottom line, if you’re looking for a local expert with a no-gimmicks, money-back guarantee, then you need to call Faith Pest Control.

Give me a call today! Ask to speak to me, Fred Talley. I’ll be more than happy to talk with you.

Faith Pest Control

Call 770-823-9202 today!

Would you like me to find the best phone number and address for Faith Pest Control for you, or perhaps share some of the common pests we treat in the Jasper area?

Well, howdy folks. Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, right here in our beautiful corner of North Georgia. I’ve been in the pest control business for a good while now, and I’ve seen a thing or two when it comes to the critters that try to make our homes their own. As we look ahead to 2026, I want to share some of my thoughts on what we can expect in the world of pest control here in Jasper and the surrounding areas.

The Ever-Present Intruders: Our Local Pest Scene

First and foremost, some things never change. Our regular cast of uninvited guests will likely keep us on our toes. With our warm, humid climate, mosquitoes will continue to be a significant nuisance and a health concern. We can also expect to see plenty of ants, from the tiny sugar ants in your kitchen to the more destructive carpenter ants. And, of course, termites remain a constant threat to our homes, silently causing damage that can lead to costly repairs if not caught early.

In recent years, we’ve also seen a noticeable increase in calls for wildlife management. As we continue to build and expand into their natural habitats, critters like squirrels, raccoons, and even bats are more likely to seek shelter in our attics and crawlspaces. This trend is something I anticipate will continue, making professional exclusion services more important than ever.

Smarter, Not Harder: The Future of Pest Management

Now, while the pests may be familiar, the way we deal with them is evolving. The pest control industry is seeing some exciting advancements, and here at Faith Pest Control, we’re always looking for better ways to serve you.

One of the biggest shifts is the move towards more eco-friendly and integrated pest management (IPM) solutions. Gone are the days of just spraying harsh chemicals and hoping for the best. Today, it’s about understanding the lifecycle of the pest and using a combination of methods to control them with minimal impact on the environment, your family, and your pets. This can include sealing entry points, using targeted baits, and applying botanical-based products.

We’re also seeing some incredible new technologies emerge. Smart traps and monitoring systems can now give us real-time data on pest activity, allowing for more precise and effective treatments. This means less guesswork and a more proactive approach to keeping your home pest-free.

The Enduring Value of a Trusted Professional

With all this new technology and the wealth of DIY information online, some folks might be tempted to tackle their pest problems themselves. And for a minor issue, that might be just fine. But for persistent or large-scale infestations, the expertise of a trained professional is invaluable.

Here in Georgia, we have specific regulations and licensing requirements for a reason. A professional exterminator has the knowledge to correctly identify the pest, understand its habits, and choose the most effective and safest treatment method. We’re also trained to spot the subtle signs of a potential infestation that a homeowner might miss.

At Faith Pest Control, we’re a local, family-owned business. We live and work in this community, and our reputation is built on trust and a commitment to our neighbors. When you call us, you’re not just getting a technician; you’re getting a partner in protecting your home.

As we look towards 2026, you can be sure that we’ll continue to embrace the latest advancements in pest control while holding true to the old-fashioned values of honest, reliable service. Because at the end of the day, our goal is simple: to give you the peace of mind that comes with a pest-free home.

Well, howdy folks. Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, and I want to talk to you about a problem we’re all too familiar with here in Jasper: mosquitoes. As we head into 2026, the buzzing, biting, and blood-sucking are going to be a bigger headache than ever. Our warm, humid climate is a perfect breeding ground for these pests, and the trends I’m seeing suggest we’ve got to be more vigilant than ever.

The Usual Suspects are Getting Bolder

You already know about the mosquito season that runs from spring until the first hard freeze, but with our mild winters, that season is getting longer. The main species we see are the Asian tiger mosquito and the southern house mosquito. The Asian tiger mosquito is particularly aggressive—it bites during the daytime and is a serious nuisance in our yards and on our porches.

It’s not just about the itchy bites. These little critters are a public health risk. They’re a primary vector for diseases like West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), and while severe cases are rare, the risk is always there.

The most frustrating part is that a lot of our mosquito problems are born right on our own properties. It only takes a bottle cap of standing water for them to lay their eggs. We’re talking about bird baths, clogged gutters, old tires, even a child’s toy left outside.

A Smarter Approach to Control

At Faith Pest Control, we’ve had to get smarter about how we fight back. The old days of just “spraying and praying” aren’t enough. As a local business, I believe in being on the forefront of effective, safe pest control.

Targeted Larvicide Treatments: We’re now focusing more on stopping the problem before it starts. We treat areas of standing water with larvicides that specifically target mosquito larvae. These treatments are safe for people and pets, but they stop the mosquitoes from ever reaching adulthood.

Barrier Treatments: We apply a professional-grade treatment to the foliage around your yard—the shrubs, bushes, and trees where adult mosquitoes rest during the day. This creates a protective barrier that significantly reduces the mosquito population, allowing you to enjoy your yard again.

Education: A big part of my job is educating our community. We need everyone to be a part of the solution. That means getting in the habit of doing a quick check of your yard after every rain to “Tip ‘n Toss” out any standing water. This simple habit can make a world of difference.

The truth is, fighting mosquitoes is a two-way street. We can provide the most advanced solutions, but it also takes some effort on your part to eliminate their breeding grounds. By working together, we can protect our families and our community from these pests, keeping Jasper a beautiful place to live and play.

Well, howdy folks. Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, and I want to talk to you about something that’s been a growing issue here in Jasper and all of North Georgia: rodents. I’m not just talking about the occasional mouse in the garage; I’m talking about a problem that’s getting more persistent and more serious as we head into 2026.

A Year-Round Problem

Most folks think of mice and rats as a winter problem, and that’s partly true. When the weather gets cold, they definitely look for a warm place to nest, and our homes look awfully inviting. But here in North Georgia, thanks to our warm, humid summers, these pests are a year-round threat. They’re always looking for food and water, and the humid conditions allow them to thrive even when it’s hot outside.

The two main culprits we deal with are the Norway rat and the house mouse. The Norway rat is the bigger one, a burrower that usually sticks to the ground floor or crawl space. They can chew through just about anything to get inside. Then you’ve got the house mouse, a smaller, more nimble pest that can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime. That makes it nearly impossible to keep them out if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for.

The Dangers of a Rodent Infestation

When people call me about a rodent problem, they’re often worried about the scratching noises in the walls or the droppings they’ve found in the kitchen. And those are definitely signs of a problem. But the real issue is what you can’t see.

Rodents cause structural damage by chewing through electrical wires, which can create a major fire hazard. They can also gnaw on pipes, leading to leaks and water damage. More importantly, they pose a serious health risk. Rodents carry diseases like hantavirus and salmonella, which can be spread through their droppings and urine, contaminating your food and surfaces.

My Approach to Rodent Control

At Faith Pest Control, we believe in a smarter, more thorough approach than just setting out a few traps. My business is founded on trust, and I won’t do a half-baked job. Here’s how we tackle the problem:

Inspection and Exclusion: First, we do a complete inspection of your home to identify every single entry point. Mice only need a tiny gap, and rats can fit through a hole the size of a quarter. We seal those points with materials they can’t chew through.

Removal: After we’ve sealed them out, we use traps and baits to get rid of the pests already inside your home. We prefer traps over poison to avoid the terrible stench of a dead rodent decaying in your walls or attic.

Sanitation: Finally, we clean up. We remove nesting material and droppings to eliminate the health risks and the pheromones that attract other rodents.

The problem with rodents is that they multiply quickly. If you see one, there are likely many more you don’t see. Don’t wait until it becomes a bigger, more dangerous issue. Give a local professional a call who puts your family’s safety first.

Well, howdy folks. Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, and I want to talk to you about a problem that keeps me up at night and should probably keep you up, too: termites. They’re a silent, destructive force, and as we look ahead to 2026, the threat they pose to homes here in Jasper is as real as ever.

The Enemy at the Gate: What We’re Dealing With

Here in North Georgia, we’re a hotspot for termites, and there are two main culprits we see. The first is the Eastern Subterranean Termite, which is the most common kind in the whole country. They live in massive colonies underground and travel through mud tubes to get to the wood in your home. They are relentless.

The other one that’s a growing concern is the Formosan Termite. We call them “super termites” for a reason. They’re an invasive species, and they have the biggest colonies and the biggest appetites. The scary part is they can build their nests above ground, in your walls or attic, without ever needing to touch the soil. That makes them harder to find and even more dangerous.

Termites love our warm, humid climate. The moisture we get in our soil and the constant humidity in our air are like an open invitation for them. And once they get into your home, they work from the inside out, so by the time you see the damage, it’s often too late.

The Signs to Watch For

Termite damage is almost never covered by homeowners insurance. That’s why being proactive is so important. Here’s what you need to look out for:

Mud Tubes: These are pencil-sized tunnels you might see on your foundation, walls, or in your crawl space. They are the termites’ highways from their colony to your home.

Swarmers or Discarded Wings: In the spring, termites with wings will swarm out of a colony to find a new place to mate and start their own. If you see these winged bugs or, more commonly, their discarded wings on your windowsills, it’s a sure sign you have an established colony either in or very close to your home.

Damaged Wood: Tap on wood beams, door frames, or floors. If they sound hollow or look blistered, it could be a sign of termite feeding.

Staying Ahead of the Problem

The good news is that we’re not defenseless. The technology and methods we have for termite control today are more advanced than ever. We’ve moved beyond simple spraying to create robust protection plans.

We use modern liquid treatments that create a protective barrier around your home. Termites can’t see, smell, or taste this barrier, and when they cross it, they transfer it back to their colony, eliminating the entire nest. We also use baiting systems that are placed around your property. The termites eat the bait and take it back to the colony, wiping it out from the inside.

At Faith Pest Control, we also use advanced tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to find termites in places you can’t see, like behind your walls. The key is to catch them early.

Don’t wait until you see the damage. Termites are a problem that requires a professional and a proven plan. Here in Jasper, we’re your neighbors, and we’re committed to protecting your most valuable investment. Give us a call, and we’ll give you an honest assessment and a solid plan to keep your home safe.

Well, howdy there, folks! Fred Talley here again, your friendly neighborhood bug-buster from Faith Pest Control in Jasper, Georgia. Now, usually, I’m talkin’ ’bout keepin’ the creepy crawlies out of your home. But today, I wanna talk about somethin’ a whole lot sweeter, somethin’ that brings folks from all over to our neck of the woods: Mercier Orchards up in Blue Ridge.

Now, I know what you’re thinkin’ – “Fred, an apple orchard? What’s a pest control guy got to say about that?” Well, let me tell ya, even a man who spends his days trackin’ down rodents and sprayin’ for spiders appreciates a good, wholesome, family-friendly outing. And Mercier Orchards, bless their hearts, they’ve been doin’ it right for generations.

First off, let’s talk about the main event: the apples! Oh, the apples. They’ve got more varieties than I’ve got traps in my truck, it seems. From crispy Galas to tart Granny Smiths, sweet Honeycrisps to juicy Fujis, they’ve got an apple for every taste bud out there. And the best part? During apple season, you can go pick ’em yourself! There’s somethin’ truly satisfying about walkin’ through those rows of trees, findin’ that perfect, ripe apple, and pluckin’ it right off the branch. It’s a real hands-on experience, and it connects you to the land in a way that just buyin’ ’em at the grocery store never could. My grandkids, they absolutely love it. We make a day of it every year.

But Mercier’s ain’t just about apples. Not by a long shot! They’ve got a fantastic market there, full of all sorts of delicious goodies. Their fried pies? Oh, mercy! Those things are legendary. Warm, flaky crust filled with apple, peach, or whatever fruit is in season – they’re worth the drive alone. And their apple cider? Fresh-pressed, sweet, and just what you need on a crisp autumn day. They’ve got jellies, jams, local honey (now, that’s a different kind of pest I appreciate!), and all sorts of other local products. It’s a real treasure trove of North Georgia goodness.

And they’re not just about the fruit. Mercier’s is a full-on farm experience. They’ve got tractor tours that take you out into the orchards, where you can learn a little about how they grow all that delicious fruit. They’ve got a bakery where you can watch ’em makin’ all those pies and donuts. And during certain times of the year, they even have u-pick for other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and peaches. It’s a real working farm, and they do a mighty fine job of sharing it with folks like us.

Now, a little Fred Talley tip: Mercier Orchards gets busy, especially on fall weekends. So, if you’re plannin’ a trip, try to go on a weekday if you can, or get there early on a weekend to beat the crowds. And wear comfortable shoes, ’cause you’ll be doin’ some walkin’.

What I appreciate about Mercier Orchards, beyond all the tasty treats, is that it’s a true family establishment, built on hard work and good, honest values. Just like at Faith Pest Control, they care about their community and they care about what they do. It’s a testament to the kind of folks we have here in North Georgia.

So, next time you’re lookin’ for a sweet escape, a taste of autumn (or any season, really!) in the mountains, head on up to Mercier Orchards. It’s more than just a place to buy fruit; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to make memories with your loved ones, enjoy the bounty of the land, and just soak in the good, wholesome atmosphere. And who knows, you might even see a few less actual pests than usual after fillin’ up on all that good apple cider! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I just smelled a hint of something sweet… no, wait, that’s just the memory of a fried pie. Back to work!

Well, howdy there, folks! Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, your trusted bug man in Jasper, Georgia. Now, I spend a lot of my time down in crawl spaces, up in attics, or out in the yard, rootin’ out critters that don’t belong. But every now and then, even a pest control expert needs a change of scenery, a little something to clear the mind and enjoy the good Lord’s creation. And let me tell you, one of the finest ways to do just that around here is a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.

Now, you might be thinkin’, “Fred, a train? What’s so special about that?” Well, it ain’t just any train, bless your heart. This here is a journey back in time, a leisurely trip through some of the most beautiful mountains Georgia has to offer. You start right there in downtown Blue Ridge, which is a charming little town itself, full of antique shops and good eatin’. You can feel the history in that old depot building, like the walls themselves remember all the comings and goings of folks and goods over the years.

Once you board, you got options. You can go for one of them open-air cars, which I highly recommend, especially if the weather’s cooperating. You get that fresh mountain breeze, the smell of the pine trees, and an unobstructed view of everything. Or, if it’s a bit chilly or rainy, they’ve got enclosed cars, some of ’em even climate-controlled, so you’re comfortable no matter what. There’s even a fancy “Premier Class” for those who want a little extra comfort and some snacks, though for me, a good view and good company are all the luxury I need.

The train chugs along, following the Toccoa River – or the Ocoee River once it crosses into Tennessee, a little fun fact for ya! And let me tell you, the scenery is just stunning. You see the Appalachian foothills, the thick forests, the river winding its way through it all. It’s a different perspective than you get from the road, a real sense of being deep in nature, away from all the hustle and bustle. You might even spot some deer or other wildlife if you keep your eyes peeled. It’s peaceful, truly peaceful. You forget all about those pesky termites for a few hours.

The full trip is about four hours round-trip, with a two-hour layover in the twin towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. That’s right, you can stand with one foot in Georgia and one foot in Tennessee! It’s a neat little photo op. These towns are worth exploring too. They’ve got charming shops, local eateries, and a real small-town mountain feel. It’s a good stretch of the legs and a chance to grab a bite to eat before heading back.

Now, a little Fred Talley advice: this isn’t something you just show up for on a whim, especially during peak season like fall foliage or the holidays. Them tickets sell out fast! So, plan ahead, get your reservations, and arrive a little early to soak it all in. And remember, while you’re out there enjoying the beauty, respect the environment. We want these natural wonders to be here for our grandkids and their grandkids to enjoy.

So, if you’re lookin’ for a unique way to experience the beauty of North Georgia, something that’s relaxing and memorable for the whole family, you can’t go wrong with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. It’s a reminder of a simpler time, a chance to appreciate the world around us, and a fine way to spend a day away from the everyday. And speaking of everyday, I just got a call about some carpenter ants in a cabin up near Lake Blue Ridge… guess my scenic tour is over for now! Y’all have a blessed day!

Oh, hey there, folks! Fred Talley here again, your friendly neighborhood pest control expert from Faith Pest Control, right here in Jasper, Georgia. Now, you might be thinkin’, “Fred, what’s got you talkin’ about trails now? Ain’t you supposed to be chasin’ down roaches and rats?” And you’d be right, that’s my bread and butter! But sometimes, even a man who deals with the little nuisances needs to appreciate something big, something grand, something truly American. And that, my friends, brings me to the Appalachian Trail.

Now, if you were with me last time, you heard me singin’ the praises of Amicalola Falls State Park, right here in our neck of the woods. And why did I mention it? Because that’s where it all starts, folks! The southern terminus of the mighty Appalachian Trail, or the “A.T.” as the long-distance hikers call it, begins right there in Dawsonville, just a stone’s throw from us.

Think about that for a second. From that humble archway at Amicalola, this trail stretches over 2,190 miles, all the way up to Mount Katahdin in Maine! That’s like walkin’ from here to California, and then some, just on foot, through mountains and valleys, forests and streams. It winds its way through 14 states, from Georgia all the way up to the northeast. It’s a true ribbon of wilderness, a testament to grit and determination.

Now, I’m not gonna lie, I ain’t hiked the whole thing myself. My knees ain’t what they used to be after years of crawlin’ in attics and crawl spaces. But I’ve walked a good many miles on sections of it around here, and let me tell ya, it’s something special. You see all kinds of folks out there – young bucks just startin’ out, seasoned veterans with miles of trail dust on their boots, even families out for a day hike. And the spirit out there? It’s somethin’ else. There’s a real sense of community, of shared struggle and shared joy.

You know, when I’m out on the trail, it reminds me a lot about life, and even a little bit about pest control. You gotta be prepared. You gotta have the right gear, the right mindset. You’re gonna face challenges – steep climbs, rocky terrain, maybe even a surprise thunderstorm. Just like when you’re battlin’ a particularly stubborn ant infestation, you gotta be persistent, you gotta adapt, and you gotta keep puttin’ one foot in front of the other.

And the wildlife you see out there? Incredible. Deer, bears, all sorts of birds… it’s a stark reminder that we share this planet with a whole host of creatures, and most of ’em are a lot more beautiful than a German cockroach! It’s important to remember that when you’re out there, you’re a visitor in their home. So, just like I tell folks about not inviting pests into their houses, we gotta respect the wilderness and leave it just as we found it, or even better. No litter, no disturbing the wildlife.

So, whether you’re dreamin’ of a thru-hike, or just lookin’ for a peaceful afternoon walk, I highly recommend you explore a section of the Appalachian Trail. You don’t have to conquer the whole thing to appreciate its grandeur. Just step out there, breathe in that fresh mountain air, listen to the sounds of nature, and let your worries melt away. It’s a truly American treasure, a symbol of perseverance, and a place where you can find a little bit of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And who knows, maybe you’ll even see a few less bugs out there than you’re used to! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I heard a mouse scurrying in Mrs. Henderson’s pantry… duty calls!

Oh, hey there, folks! Fred Talley here, your friendly neighborhood pest control expert from Faith Pest Control in Jasper, Georgia. Now, usually, I’m talkin’ ’bout ants, spiders, and those varmints tryin’ to set up shop in your attic. But today, I wanna talk about somethin’ a whole lot more beautiful than a roach motel: Amicalola Falls State Park.

Now, you might be wonderin’, “Fred, what’s a pest control guy doin’ talkin’ ’bout state parks?” Well, let me tell ya, even a guy who spends his days battlin’ bugs needs a little R&R, a little dose of God’s magnificent creation to clear his head. And when it comes to natural beauty right here in our own backyard, Amicalola Falls is second to none.

First off, let’s talk about that waterfall. Amicalola Falls – it’s the tallest cascading waterfall in Georgia, droppin’ 729 feet! That’s almost like standin’ on top of a 70-story building, lookin’ straight down at water just pourin’ over the rocks. It’s a sight that’ll make you stop, take a deep breath, and just marvel at the power and majesty of it all. You can hear that roar long before you see it, and when you do, it’s just awe-inspirin’. Makes you feel small, in a good way, you know? Reminds you there’s somethin’ bigger than us out there, somethin’ beautiful and wild.

Now, if you’re like me and you appreciate a good challenge, Amicalola Falls has plenty of opportunities to get your blood pumpin’. There are plenty of trails for all skill levels, from nice leisurely strolls where you can just take in the fresh air and listen to the birds, to some real leg-burners. And if you’re feelin’ particularly adventurous, well, this is where the Appalachian Trail, the A.T. as they call it, officially begins. Folks come from all over the world to start their epic journey right here. It’s truly somethin’ special to see that archway, knowin’ the dreams and determination that pass under it every day.

But it ain’t just about the waterfall and the hardcore hikes. Amicalola Falls State Park is a fantastic place for the whole family. They’ve got a great visitors center, a lodge if you wanna stay the night and wake up to that fresh mountain air, and plenty of spots for a picnic. My grandkids, they just love it up there. We’ve spent many a good afternoon just wanderin’ around, lookin’ at the leaves, and breathin’ in that clean mountain air. And let me tell you, after a long week of dealin’ with critters, there’s nothing quite like it to recharge your batteries.

Now, here’s a little Fred Talley tip for ya: when you’re out there enjoyin’ all that nature, remember, you’re in their house. So be mindful of your surroundings. Pack out what you pack in, and leave no trace. We want to keep this beautiful place pristine for generations to come. And while you’re out there, you might see some of God’s smaller creatures – the ones that are supposed to be there, not the ones tryin’ to move into your pantry! Enjoy ’em from a distance.

So, next time you’re lookin’ for an escape, a little slice of heaven right here in North Georgia, I highly recommend you load up the car and head on over to Amicalola Falls State Park. It’s more than just a park; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, a place to reconnect with nature, and a perfect spot to just be. And trust me, after a day there, you’ll feel refreshed, revitalized, and maybe even a little bit inspired. Just like a good pest control treatment makes your home feel clean and secure, a trip to Amicalola Falls will make your spirit feel just as good. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I hear a faint scratching sound in my own attic… time to get back to work!

Well, howdy folks, Fred Talley here from Faith Pest Control, comin’ to you from our stomping grounds right here in North Georgia. Now, we’ve talked about bats and squirrels, but there’s another masked bandit that’s been causin’ a real hullabaloo for our good neighbors in Jasper: the raccoon!

Now, these critters might look cute with their little black masks and bushy tails, like something out of a storybook. But let me tell you, when a raccoon decides your home is their home, that story quickly turns into a nightmare. Here at Faith Pest Control, we’ve been gettin’ plenty of calls about these clever and often destructive nocturnal visitors.

So, what kind of mischief are these raccoons gettin’ into? You’d be surprised!

First off, there’s the attic invasion. Raccoons are strong, agile, and incredibly determined. They can rip open roof vents, tear through soffits, and even chew through wooden fascia boards to get into your attic. Once they’re in, they’ll set up shop, especially if they’re a mama raccoon lookin’ for a safe place to raise her kits. And let me tell you, a family of raccoons in your attic is a recipe for disaster.

The damage they cause is substantial. They’ll tear up insulation to make nests, trampling it down and reducing its effectiveness, which means higher energy bills for you. They’ll chew on electrical wires, creating a serious fire hazard. They can even damage ductwork, creating drafts and further energy loss. We’ve seen homes where raccoons have caused thousands of dollars in structural damage.

Then there’s the health risk. Raccoon droppings, known as latrines, can be a real health concern. They can carry raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis), a parasite that can cause serious neurological damage in humans if ingested. And just like any wild animal, they can carry rabies, though direct contact is usually needed for transmission. Still, it’s not a risk you want to take, especially with kids or pets around. Plus, the sheer volume of their waste can create a strong, unpleasant odor that seeps throughout your home.

And let’s not forget the noise. Imagine hearing heavy thumping, scratching, growling, and chattering coming from your attic or walls, especially at night when these creatures are most active. It’s enough to keep anyone from getting a good night’s sleep! They can also knock over garbage cans and raid pet food left outside, leaving a mess and attracting other pests.

Now, some folks might think they can just trap a raccoon themselves. But let me caution you, dealing with raccoons is not a job for the faint of heart, or for someone without the right expertise. It’s illegal in Georgia to trap certain wildlife without a license, and even if you do, relocating them improperly can just move the problem to someone else’s property, or worse, cause the animal to come back. Plus, an injured or cornered raccoon can be aggressive and transmit diseases.

That’s where Faith Pest Control steps in. We’ve got the know-how and the equipment to handle these smart and powerful critters safely and humanely. Our process starts with a thorough inspection to identify all entry points and assess the extent of the damage. We then implement humane trapping and exclusion methods, often using one-way doors that allow the raccoons to leave but prevent them from re-entering. We’re especially careful during maternity season to ensure no young are left behind.

Once the raccoons are gone, our job isn’t over. We’ll seal up all those entry points with durable materials to prevent future invasions. And if there’s significant damage or contamination in your attic, we can help with the cleanup and decontamination, restoring your home to a safe and healthy environment.

So, if you’re a Jasper resident and you suspect you’ve got raccoons making themselves at home where they don’t belong, don’t delay! Give Fred Talley and the team at Faith Pest Control a call. We’re committed to providing honest, effective service, and we’ll work diligently to get those masked bandits out of your house and keep them out for good. Give us a ring, and let’s bring some peace back to your home!