What are neonicotinoids?
Neonicotinoids are a neuro-active class of insecticides designed for both agriculture and residential use to protect crops and structures from various pests.
Where are neonicotinoids found?
Neonicotinoids are found in both professional-grade insecticides and in over-the-counter sprays purchased at home improvement and grocery stores. Consumer use is designed for use on lawns, gardens, houseplants and greenhouse crops, as well as around the house to treat against various pests.
Are neonicotinoids used for residential pest services?
Yes, neonicotinoids are a critical tool used by professional pest management applicators and are an effective class of pesticides in controlling a host of pests including termites, ants and bed bugs.
How can neonicotinoids be used safely?
Users of neonicotinoid products, or any registered pesticides, should adhere to the label instructions on such products. Labels, approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, advise how to use products safely and effectively. Homeowners take note: Do not use more of a product than advised. Do not use outdoor products for indoor applications. Always read and follow a product’s label instruction.
Why do some studies show neonicotinoids to be a contributor in CCD?
There is still much research to be done to get to the root of what is causing Colony Collapse Disorder. Many of the recent studies that have focused on neonicotinoids have been conducted in laboratory settings and use high concentrations of neonicotinoids — some more than 10 to 100 times the highest level of what would normally be encountered in field-realistic conditions. These studies can be misleading and do not provide a realistic view of what is occurring outside a controlled laboratory study.