Pest control is at least as old as agriculture, as there has always been a need to keep crops free from pests. Alternatively, various methods of biological control can be used including sterilisation programmes. Control of these pests is attempted through exclusion or quarantine, repulsion, physical removal or chemical means. In homes and urban environments, the pests are the rodents, birds, insects and other organisms that share the habitat with humans, and that feed on and/or spoil possessions. Where possible, biological means are used, encouraging the natural enemies of the pests and introducing suitable predators or parasites. This can be achieved by monitoring the crop, only applying pesticides when necessary, and by growing varieties and crops which are resistant to pests. Concern about environment means limiting the use of pesticides in favour of other methods. Ploughing and cultivation of the soil before sowing mitigate the pest burden, and crop rotation helps to reduce the build-up of a certain pest species. In agriculture, pests are kept at bay by mechanical, cultural, chemical and biological means. Pest control measures may be performed as part of an integrated pest management strategy.

The human response depends on the importance of the damage done and will range from tolerance, through deterrence and management, to attempts to completely eradicate the pest.

Pest control is the regulation or management of a species defined as a pest such as any animal, plant or fungus that impacts adversely on human activities or environment. For the Doctor Who audio adventure, see Pest Control (Doctor Who audio).Īn agricultural aircraft applies low-insecticide bait against western corn rootworm.

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