After you have your business set up with protection against all manner of human threats, the worst thing is to find out that you have been infiltrated by Mother Nature. Rats! These little critters destroy infrastructures and run away customers. They are bad PR and even worse business partners. Here are some of the warning signs of a rodent infestation and a few immediate … Read More
Differences Between Bed Bug Bites & Common Insect Bites
Waking up itchy from a bug bite is a common fear we all share since we don’t know what was behind the irritation. Thankfully, we’re going to cover some common bug bites so you can identify what it was (and how to take further action). With this being said, here’s a look at the difference between bed bug bites and common insect bites. Mosquito Bites … Read More
Identifying Brown Recluse Spiders
If you live in many of the southwest states, you may also live in the vicinity of a Brown Recluse spider. Distinguishing this spider from other spiders is critical because their bite can cause a painful, potentially life-threatening wound. Preventive pest control and familiarity with their appearance can help you avoid a painful Recluse spider bite. Appearance From a Distance Body … Read More
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Centipedes
Far from the commonest bug in nature, yet nearly everyone is sure to have seen a centipede in the flesh one time or other. They have a reputation for being venomous and can move quite rapidly for their size. The sort most commonly found indoors, grow to between one and two inches long, and have a painful bite which … Read More
Rodent Control
If you hear the patter of tiny feet in the walls or across your roof you have just experienced what is commonly known as rattus rattus or roof rat. Roof rats reside in most all of the Houston area and these critters have different habits than normal everyday rat. If you hear the scratching and gnawing more likely it is … Read More
Preventing a Kissing Bug Infestation
Triatomine bugs, also known as kissing bugs, can carry the parasite that causes Chagas disease which can be fatal. Because of the threat to health that these insects cause, it is best to know their behaviors and how to prevent a kissing bug infestation. Where to Look for Kissing Bugs Kissing bugs are typically found in South America, Central … Read More
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Kissing Bugs
When you’re making efforts to prevent Chagas disease, it’s important to learn about the characteristics of kissing bugs. The following are 10 important facts your should be aware of to stay healthy: Kissing bugs- and Chagas disease- are most commonly seen in Latin America- Those living in Latin America and the southern United States need to be particularly aware. … Read More
Why are Kissing Bugs a Threat to Your Health?
What is a Kissing Bug? A kissing bug is an insect that originated in Latin America and then spread to the southern half of the US, where it is now flourishing in twenty-eight states. Its scientific name is the triatomine bug, and there are eleven different species. The kissing bug’s moniker makes it sound like a loving insect, but … Read More
Basic Facts You Didn’t Know About Kissing Bugs
Triatominae, “kissing bugs,” are commonly found across tropical climates, most often in South and Latin America. However, the bugs have been making a gradual march northwards and are affecting people in Texas. Unfortunately, kissing bugs may spread a potentially deadly disease, Chagas disease, and Houstonians need to know a few facts about these insects. Kissing Bugs Have Been Found Across … Read More
Interesting Facts About Spiders
It is well known that spiders have eight legs, spin webs, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are also quite a few things about spiders that are not as well known. Often these arachnids have a bad wrap, and how they are helpful is easily forgotten. Here are four very interesting facts about spiders. How … Read More
Facts About the Deadly Assassin Bug
The Assassin bug is an insect that delivers a very painful sting. It is common throughout the country, including Houston. It has a powerful beak that it uses to launch a violent attack on its prey, stabbing it to death. It is not necessarily aggressive toward humans but when it feels threatened it will attack and it is quite unpleasant … Read More
Tips On Keeping Roaches Out This Winter
Many people deal with roaches in winter months that could have been easily prevented if they would have taken some precautionary measures. Roaches are one of the worst bug problems to deal with because they are large, obvious, and make people feel uncomfortable. They will also make someone embarrassed to have guests over because they don’t want their friends … Read More
Common Winter Pests in Utah
When the temperatures drop and even before the snow begins to fall, critters begin looking for a warm place to stay during the winter. Unfortunately, this location is oftentimes in your home. So which nuisances are trying to invade your space to beat the winter chill? Ants The cold really slows down ants. That’s why they tend to hibernate … Read More
Tis the Season for Christmas Tree Pests
Basking in the glow of the lights of your freshly cut and decorated Christmas tree, you begin to notice movement coming from the tree that was not there when you brought it home. Insects. Why Are There Insects in My Christmas Tree? Any time you bring a live Christmas tree into your Houston home, you risk bringing pests with it. According to Texas A&M, … Read More
Tips to Keep Spiders Out of Your Home This Winter
There’s No Off-Season For Pest Control It’s true. As long as your house is warm and cozy, you need to be vigilant about keeping pests out in any season. Spiders in winter may sound strange, but it’s a common problem. Fortunately, there are also some common solutions to prevent spiders from taking over your home. Inside Your Home It’s hard … Read More
Tips on Keeping Ants Out this Winter
As the temperature falls, ants are more likely to show up in your home. Ants in winter often hibernate, but when they do not, they find human constructed buildings a perfect place to be. Here are some tips on preventing ants from entering your home and dealing with them if they do. Keeping Ants Out Block Entries Blocking every … Read More
Interesting Facts About Ants
North America is an ant haven with over 350 different species of ants in the Southwestern United States. The chances are high that you may have ants in your yard, near your house or even inside your home if you do not have regular exterminations. Common Types of Ants in The Southwest Odorous House Ant The odorous house ant … Read More
Yes, Winter Pest Control is a Real Thing in Texas
Preventive Pest Control is a Year-round Job When winter arrives, and cold weather sets in for a few months, we like to settle in and hunker down, keeping cozy and warm in our homes. We also let our guard down when it comes to pest control, falsely believing that rodents and insects are taking the winter off. The truth is, your warm … Read More
Getting to Know Common Winter Pests in Arizona
The average winter temperature in Arizona may seem fairly mild if you happen to be a resident of this warmer-climate state, but definitely cooler than the usual. So cool, in fact, you may be tempted to just forego your usual preventive pest control regimen, whether it is monthly visits from the exterminator or something a little less professional, such as … Read More
Rodent 101 Infographic Part 3
DISEASES TRANSMITTED DIRECTLY Transferred directly to humans through 1.) Bite wounds and 2.) Ingestion of food or water contaminated with rodent urine or droppings INDIRECTLY Transferred indirectly to humans through ticks, mites or fleas that fed on infected rodents. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, Us, 1993-2013 Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but deadly respiratory disease which is caused by infection … Read More
Rodent 101 Infographic Part 2
BAD, BAD RODENTS! Rodents such as rats and mice play an important role in the health of grasslands and forest, and are a major source of food for many predators and scavengers, including hawks, fox, bobcats, and even wolves. Rodents such as rats and mice play an important role in the health of grasslands and forest, and are a major … Read More
Rodent 101 Infographic Part 1
THERE ARE 2,000 SPECIES OF RODENTS Rodents are animals of the order Rodentia (the largest order of mammals). More than 40% of mammals belong to Rodentia. They are found all over the world except Antartica. Rat Squirrel Porcupine Gopher Mouse Chipmunk Beaver Guinea Pig Hamster Prairie Dog Jerboa Despite their great species diversity, all rodents share common features. Rodents have … Read More
Ants Infographic Part 3
How to Keep Ants Away Trim vegetation around the property Clean crumbs and spills as soon as possible Clean and empty garbage bins regularly Keep attractive food items like honey and jelly in sturdy and sealed containers Seal all cracks and crevices that ants may use to gain entry to the property Check and repair faulty faucets, leaking pipes and … Read More
Ants Infographic Part 2
Areas Vulnerable to Ant Infestation** Kitchens – 96% Bathrooms – 89% Inside Walls – 73% Bedrooms – 61% Living Rooms – 60% Basements – 54% Air Conditioning and Heating Units – 37% Are Ants Dangerous? Ants are just considered as nuisance pests by most people. They don’t pose significant threat to human’s health since they are not vectors of diseases. … Read More
Ants Infographic Part 1
54 in 100 homeowners surveyed by NPMA* in 2011 say that ants is their number one concern.** 54 % of participating pest control professionals from a survey funded by Professional Pest Management Association say that ant infestations are currently on the rise throughout United States. ** Top 3 Invaders Although there are over 300 species of ants that are named … Read More
Black Widow Spiders
Black widow spiders can easily turn a nightmare into reality if they happen to claim your home as their own. However, methods of spider bite prevention have been created to eliminate the fear quickly – and efficiently – without prolonged sleep loss due to an unknown black widow spider occupancy. With this being said, we’re providing excellent information regarding black widow spiders and bite prevention that allow you to fearlessly relax in … Read More
Bed Bugs Heat Treatment
Bed bugs can quickly become a costly nightmare if not handled appropriately. However, methods of extermination have been created to eliminate the problem quickly – and efficiently – without prolonged sleep loss due to bed bug occupancy. With this being said, we’re providing excellent information regarding heat treatment and bed bug extermination that not only saves you money, but … Read More
Preventive Pest Control Tips For Your Garage Or Shed
As the nights become cooler and longer, everyone loves to retreat to their cozy home for warmth. The problem is that rodents and insects want the same thing! That’s why they are so often drawn to your garage or shed, as it typically offers comfortable conditions for them as winter sets in. By following these essential tips, you can help … Read More
5 Ways to Control Scorpions in your Home and Yard
While some scorpions are merely a nuisance, others, like the Arizona Bark Scorpion can deliver a truly nasty and dangerous sting. You can cut your risk of encountering any scorpions by taking some wise preventative measures to protect your home and family. From clearing away scorpion friendly debris to using a blacklight to spot these pests at night, these … Read More
When It’s Time to Call in the Exterminators – Part 2
In part 1 of this series we discussed infestations involving mice and rats ants, and roaches. It is important to know at what point to call a professional for health and safety reasons, for the structural security of your home, and for your own peace of mind. Spiders Spiders are quiet, they typically stay out of the way and keep … Read More
When It’s Time to Call in the Exterminators – Part 1
There are times when, despite your best efforts, you just can’t get ahead of your pest problem. At that point it is best to go ahead and call a professional. There are many advantages to having a pest exterminators manage your pest problem for you. In this two part post we’ll talk about some of the more common household pests, what … Read More
Preparing Your Home Against Fall Pests
Pests like rodents, roaches, and spiders may tend to move closer to home when the temperatures start to drop. These pesky pests don’t have any respect for the fact that it’s your home rather than their refuge. The fall months are prime time for pests to start the migration into your home because the temperatures are just starting to turn … Read More
Flying Ants Invasion in Albuquerque
Flying ants invade Albuquerque during the monsoon season. This is the time that these insects reproduce and colonize. These pests take over people’s yards by hundreds or thousands at a time. Although these ants are harmless, they can be very annoying and disgusting. Chesley Elkins, an expert from Preventive Pest Control, says that bug sprays wouldn’t work on these pests. … Read More
Get Rid of Kitchen Ants
During the warm summer months ants tend to be more active as they store food in preparation for the winter (yes, the ant and the grasshopper story was pretty accurate). You may have a live and let live philosophy, which is all well and good until they move their preparations into your home. When you find hundreds of tiny ants … Read More
Carpenter Ants vs. Standard Ants – What’s the Difference?
While neither ant is desirable, carpenter ants are more than a food stealing nuisance – they can actually damage the structure of your home. There are visible differences that allow you to tell whether the ants you are seeing in or around your home are carpenter ants; in general, here’s what to look out for: Carpenter Ants vs. Standard Ants … Read More
Common Pests in Salt Lake City
Summer in Salt Lake City brings barbecues, picnics, and pests. The cold, dry winters of the Wasatch Front often keep many pests at bay during the winter months. Unfortunately, pests emerge in force in the Salt Lake valley during the summer months. We’ve compiled a list of 5 common pests to watch out for during the sunny days of summer … Read More
Common Pests in Arizona
Beautiful as Arizona is, our state has its fair share of pesky creatures. Following are some of the most common pests in Arizona and the dangers they can carry. Black Widow Spider The black widow spider is prevalent in Arizona. Contrary to popular belief, the female black widow does not eat the male. The female is most easily recognizable with … Read More
Protect Your Pets from Summer Pests
It’s summer, and we all want to get outdoors. If you are a pet owner, then naturally, that means your pets will be outdoors more as well. Dogs especially like to be near their owners, having fun right along with them. And cats too, they just may be a little sneakier about it. Just like us, our pets are … Read More
Identifying and Preventing Mosquito Bites
Do mosquitoes seem to follow you wherever you go? With a few tips, you can identify mosquito bites, and learn how to fend off mosquitoes outdoors and inside your home. Mosquitoes can cause more harm than an annoying bite Mosquitoes cause an annoying bite but can potentially make you sick. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) points out that … Read More
Jeremy Can’t Box
Jeremy may not know how to box, but he knows pest control. Learn more about Preventive Pest Control and their fun team at http://preventivepestcontrol.com. Mention “boxing” to get started for $1!
Black Widow Spiders Characteristics, Habitat, and Life Cycle
Black widow spiders are one of the most feared species of spiders in the U.S. While there is some merit to the reputation, black widows have gotten a bad rep mostly based on misinformation. While it is true that they are aggressive, venomous, and the females have a venom reserve that is larger than the males’, the actually bite … Read More
Red Imported Fire Ants: A Dangerous and Virulent Pest
All it takes is one bite from a red imported fire ant to learn how they received their name, but most victims aren’t lucky enough to only suffer a single attack. As one of the most dangerous, persistent, and organized threats to a homestead, These persistent pests are a major concern for homeowners and groundskeepers, but we aren’t without … Read More
Desert Subterranean Termites and How They Affect Arizona Homes
Termites – that word probably just makes you cringe as a homeowner. First off, any pest is a nuisance. However, these creatures only get to be about 1/2 inch in length, but they’re big trouble. One example is the desert subterranean termites of Phoenix. The unusually high moisture level and the abundance of structures consisting of wood make the metropolitan area of … Read More
Bee Hives and Wasp Nests – Know the Difference
Although bees and wasps may seem like they are very similar, they are vastly different. Where you find their nests and how you get rid of them can vary greatly. If you are going to get rid of your pest issues, you will need to know how to determine the difference so that proper removal can be completed. Bee hives … Read More
How to Keep Rats Out of Your Business This Fall
No matter how neatly you maintain your business, no structure is completely immune from a potential rat infestation. These pesky creatures descend upon even the cleanest of places, and when a business owner’s reputation is on the line, there’s nothing worse than a rodent creeping up on a customer. Not only are rats annoying and downright terrifying to some people, but they also pose a serious … Read More
Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites
Mosquitoes can quickly spoil the fun of a picnic, camping trip or a barbecue. Not only do they buzz around your ears, but also they bite with their mouthpart, which causes an itchy bite. Identifying a Mosquito Bite You will often catch a mosquito in the act of stinging your body: that’s the most obvious way of identifying what caused … Read More
Top Tips to Avoid Cockroach Infestations in Your Place of Business
An infestation of cockroaches can be incredibly difficult to eliminate. These pests multiply rapidly and are incredibly hardy. It only takes a few survivors and then business owners are right back to where they started from, once again having to call in for pest control experts and DIY techniques to contain the problem. The best way to combat the likelihood … Read More
How to Protect Your Home From Fire Ants
Fire Ants are dangerous insects that can take down larger prey, sting and inject venom in unison and destroy the surrounding ecosystem. They are not guests that one would want in or around a home. Introduced in the 1930s, they have become permanent residents in a number of southern states. Homeowners must take precautions to protect their investment and their … Read More
Avoiding Bees and Wasps this Year
Snow has melted and those chilly temperatures are lifting with every passing day. Spring and summer bring color and life everywhere you look, but unfortunately they also bring insects from their hiding places too. Nothing against the honeybee as they pollinate our gardens and bring us sweet nectar, but they’re not quite as harmless when they nest in or near … Read More
Spider Control In Your Home
Spider in your home or workplace can cause a nuisance. Although some of them are harmless, others are harmful and can cause death when they bite someone. Types of Spiders Poisonous The most dangerous spiders include the black widow, brown recluse and hobo. The hobo spider rarely goes above basements or climb on vertical surfaces. The bite of this spider … Read More
Where Rodents are Hiding in Your Home
If the thought of having rodents living in your home makes you cringe, you are not alone. These little animals can bring diseases and other disease carriers such as mites and ticks, and their excrement is dirty and smelly. The trouble is that rodents can sometimes be tricky to spot; here’s what you need to know to find and protect … Read More
The Importance of Maintaining Pest Prevention
Many pests that find their way into your business or home can spread disease or cause damage to your house or structures on your property. While you may have been successful in eliminating pests from your environment, it is important to maintain that pest control, especially where food is stored, prepared, or eaten. Maintaining pest prevention is part of integrated … Read More
Scorpion Control: Know the Basics
The Threat of Scorpions For many people living in the southern and southwestern parts of the United States, scorpions present a serious pest problem. Contrary to popular belief, scorpions do not only live in desert regions, but can be found anywhere where there is a sufficient water source and place for shelter. All too often this means people’s properties and homes. … Read More
Why You Need to Check for Termites Now
Don’t let termites turn your home into an all-you-can eat buffet! A part of the cockroach family, termites are stealth insects that can wreak havoc on your property, and lead to thousands of dollars being spent for damages. You have to be vigilant in making sure that they do not invade your home or exterior. This means being able to identify the … Read More
What You Need to Know About Cockroaches
We’ve all heard people talk about cockroaches crawling on someone’s wall. It’s the stuff of both horror movies and comedy skits alike. What a mortifying experience – imagine how you would feel if a cockroach sauntered its way across the wall while you had guests in your house? What would they think of you? We have all thought about that … Read More
Are Pesticides as Dangerous as You Think?
There is a great deal of buzz lately about the use of pesticides and their safety for humans and pets. Horror stories about people becoming dangerously ill or seriously affected by pesticides tend to fuel the fears of people without providing the full picture of the situation. The truth is, the majority of problems that arise from people or pets … Read More
Insect Control Tips for Your Home
Now that spring has finally decided to grace us with its presence we can put away our sweaters and snow boots, while our thoughts turn to warm weather fun. Spring did not arrive alone, though, along with the April showers and May flowers, it bring a host of pests to invade your home, pester your family, and bother your pets. … Read More
How to Get Rid of Wasp Nests
Nothing ruins a fun time in the yard like a wasp nest. They can pop up just about anywhere, and are usually pretty well-hidden. But that does not mean they are impossible to find and eliminate. As the season is warming up, wasps are becoming more and more active. Now is the time to take on the pests before summer … Read More
Six Home Remedies for Wasp and Bee Stings
It’s amazing how much pain a small insect can cause. The area around the sting swells up, the pain lasts for hours, and the itching can last for days. In this situation, you want immediate relief. There are drugstore products designed for bee and wasp stings, but what if you don’t have any on hand? Well, there are a number … Read More
Protecting Your Home from Fire Ants
How to Protect Your Home From Fire Ants Spring brings relaxing warm breezes, abundant foliage and flower displays, and longer days in which to enjoy spending time in you outdoor living space. However, as temperatures heat up, fire ant populations explode. Your first indication of a fire ant colony in your yard is when you or a household member comes … Read More
7 Most Common Pest Problems in Hotels
Pests are going to thrive in climates that are conducive to their survival, so it stands to reason that they will vary from place to place. Traditional thinking supports the idea that infestation is the result of unsanitary conditions, but the truth is, they happen in four-star hotels and the most sanitary of hospitals. Common Pest Problems in Hotels on … Read More
Why Termite Inspections are Necessary for Buying/ Selling Your Home
Buying or selling a home is an enormous transaction. It’s likely the biggest one you’ll ever make! It’s important to do your due diligence and have an inspection. However, you’ll also need one just for termites. How Common Are Termites? Termites are more common than you might think. They’re the largest threat to wooden homes, more than flooding or fires. … Read More
What to do if Pests Enter Your Home
You may enjoy the occasional guest in your home, but when it comes to the four legged variety you might not be so welcoming. Mice, rats, raccoons, squirrels, and bats can get into your attic, basement, crawlspace, and even living area and wreak havoc. They can destroy drywall, chew wires, and introduce disease and pests like fleas and mites that … Read More
How to Prepare for Spring Bugs and Insects
While the temperatures are cold, most people have Spring to look forward to. Some expect a decrease of bugs and insects given that their population were affected by the extreme temperatures. So the big question on everyone’s mind is if we will see a decrease in the bugs population this coming spring. Although most can expect a decrease on the population of insects, … Read More
Things You Can Do to Help Prevent Pests from Entering Your Home Before Spring
Spring brings the blooming of flowers, trees full of leaves and green grass. With the great weather ahead, more and more people just can’t wait for the change of season. But with the coming of the warm weather, it can also be expected that different pests will be more active. Pests such as ants, mosquitoes, wasps, ticks, fleas, cockroaches, rodents, … Read More
The Threat of Beetles in Texas
The emerald ash borer beetle is not a native beetle in the United States as it originated in Asia and was probably transported by cargo ships or airplanes. They were first found in Michigan, the year 2002, but have now spread to most states including Texas. This beetle is considered a threat because of its ability to nibble on ash foliage and … Read More
How to Get Rid of Kitchen Ants and Prevent Further Invasions
Ants naturally live outdoors, but commonly they wander into our homes and raid our kitchens in search of food, water, and shelter. Once these ants find food in your kitchen, they create a trail that will lead other ants to the food and water. They will follow this trail to go in and out of your home. To get rid … Read More
Drywood Termite Characteristics, Habitat and Life Cycle
Drywood Termite (Cryptotermes cavifrons Banks) Characteristics Three primary caste: Reproductives Drywood termites have swarmers or alates that vary in body color. These reproductives can be dark brown to light yellow-tan. Their wings have an almost clear to smokey gray that contains distinctive veins. Reproductives are about 7/16 inches long including their wings. The main reproductives are the king and queen, … Read More