What does "harborage" refer to in the context of pest control?

In the context of pest control, "harborage" specifically refers to the places where pests can hide or nest. This is a critical concept because understanding where pests choose to take shelter informs pest management strategies. Effective pest control involves identifying and eliminating these harborage sites to reduce pest populations.

Identifying harborage areas is essential since these sites provide safety, warmth, and sometimes a breeding ground for pests, making them more challenging to manage. By targeting these locations, pest control professionals can implement strategies to minimize pest presence more effectively.

In contrast, food sources relate to what pests consume and might also be important in pest management but do not directly describe their hiding places. Water accumulation points could be a crucial factor in pest attraction but again do not define where they settle. Environmental changes can impact pest behavior and presence but are more related to broader ecological factors rather than specific hiding spots. Thus, recognizing harborage as the specific areas where pests hide is foundational for effective pest control strategies.