Generalization of the damage caused by pests is not possible. Hence deciding upon the sort of pest control program depends on the type of damage caused by the pests. The main types of damages are:

?Economic damage

?Medical damage

?Aesthetic damage

Economic damage can be anything from termites gnawing through the boards or cabbage maggots chewing away the roots of cabbage in the garden. The point to be remembered is whether pest problem will become dangerous for the family or diminish the worth of the house.

Medical damage refers to diseases which can be transferred from animals or insects to people. Normally we consider wildlife as beneficial or something which is desirable. But it may transmit illnesses like Lyme disease or Malaria, which should be taken seriously.

Apart from this the mere presence of a plant or animal causes an unwelcome change in the look of something. Here occurs aesthetic damage. Even though these kinds of pest infestations never cause economic damage, it hinders the aesthetic pleasure of the family. Dangerous pesticides should not be used to deal with this problem since it is a small problem for example squirrels digging up the lawn to bury nuts or seedling, trees that grow up in the lawn or flower bed. Though these problems do not cause serious economic damage but one feels like taking action.

Many ways are there to get rid of insects without spending much. By spraying citrus rind soaked in water for a few days insects can be controlled. Ants can be controlled by keeping cucumber peel on kitchen shelf. Bay leaves keep pests away in the pantry. Peppermint planted around the house will keep ants and mice out. Mint tea bags are good to repel moths in clothing drawers and closets. Such small steps will help the environment as well as the budget at the same time.