Welcome to this article where we will be discussing one of the most annoying pests in Southern Africa - Parktown Prawns!
What are Parktown Prawns?
Parktown Prawns are large, burrowing insects that are commonly found in South Africa. They are also known as king crickets or weta. They can grow up to 10 cm long and have a hard, spiky shell. These pests can cause quite a scare to homeowners as they invade homes in search of food and shelter.
Why are they a problem?
Parktown Prawns may be harmless but they can be a nuisance in several ways. Firstly, they can be quite frightening to encounter especially with their burrowing habits. They are attracted to bright lights and may fly or jump towards them, which can be alarming for some people. Secondly, they can cause minor damage to gardens and crops as they feed on plants. Lastly, they can invade homes, and their burrowing habits can cause damage to buildings, furniture or carpets.
How to get rid of Parktown Prawns?
1. Seal off entry points: Parktown Prawns can enter your home through gaps in your doors, windows or other openings. Check for and seal all possible entry points to prevent them from entering your home.
2. Turn off outdoor lights: As mentioned earlier, bright lights attract Parktown Prawns. It is recommended that you turn off all unnecessary outdoor lights especially during the night.
3. Use insecticide: To get rid of Parktown Prawns, you can use insecticides. Hire a pest control professional or use DIY insecticides that are safe to use indoors.
DIY insecticide:
| Materials needed: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| Dish soap | 1. Mix some dish soap and water in a bowl |
| Lemongrass oil | 2. Add a few drops of lemongrass oil to the solution |
| Spray bottle | 3. Pour the solution into a spray bottle |
| 4. Spray areas where Parktown Prawns have been spotted |
4. Use natural deterrents: There are several natural deterrents that you can use to keep Parktown Prawns away. These include planting lavender or mint plants, garlic, or citrus peels around your home. Additionally, birds and geckos prey on Parktown Prawns, so encouraging these animals to visit your garden can be beneficial.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing a Parktown Prawn invasion, do not panic. There are several ways to get rid of them using either professional pest control services or DIY methods. The key is to remain diligent and keep your home as unattractive to these pests as possible.
