Do Flea Bombs and Foggers Work? Important Information

Did you know that fleas can lay up to 40 eggs a day and survive for up to two weeks without feeding? It’s one of the many reasons fleas remain one of the most common summer insects and are difficult to contain.

While we tend to associate fleas with our puppy pals, they can also attack humans as well. Not only can fleas leave itchy bites that can be painful, but they are also known to carry and spread diseases, including murine typhus, tungiasis, and the bubonic plague.

Fleas can make their way into your home in several different ways, but most commonly by infesting dogs and cats spending time outdoors. Many people may be tempted to resort to flea bombs and foggers, but they are not always the most effective options.

We’ll discuss why these treatments rarely work and offer better ways to get rid of fleas based on what has been the most effective for our clients in the past.

Why Are There Fleas in My Home?

Fleas commonly enter homes by latching onto dogs and cats after they have spent time outdoors. Fleas can also make their way into your home by hitching a ride on used furniture, clothing, or even the skin of someone who has been infested.

Once a dog or human enters an area with a flea infestation, all it takes is one flea to leap onto its skin to start the infestation. And contrary to popular belief, fleas cannot fly, but they can jump incredibly long distances so they can latch onto you without even knowing they’re present.

Once you bring fleas back to your home, they become experts at hiding and can typically be found in furniture, carpeting, and other crevices around the house.

Therefore, the best way to avoid fleas is to avoid places and people that you know are dealing with fleas. Otherwise, you will need to be vigilant once an infestation strikes.

 

How Do Flea Bombs and Foggers Work?

Two common treatments for fleas are flea bombs and foggers, pesticides designed to kill fleas relatively quickly.

Flea bombs and foggers typically come in aerosol cans and can be activated by pressing a button and allowing a fog of pesticides to cover the area. Once the fog falls to the ground, it will stick to surfaces and eventually kill any fleas in that area.

However, the problem with these products is that they often don’t penetrate far enough or kill all of the fleas, essentially putting a bandaid on the problem without resolving it entirely.

Are Flea Bombs Effective?

While flea bombs may be a quick and cheap DIY solution in a pinch, they are not considered an effective method of flea control. This is because the pesticides in flea bombs typically do not penetrate the carpet where fleas tend to hide, making it easy for many of them to survive.

Furthermore, flea bombs and foggers do not kill larvae or eggs.

How Safe Are Flea Bombs and Foggers?

Another downside of using these pesticides is that they can be highly toxic and are not fully effective.

Most products require all humans and pets to evacuate the home while the treatment is applied because the fumes can be so toxic.

So to sum it up, not only are flea bombs and foggers ineffective, but they are also invasive and toxic. But what is the solution to fleas in your home?

When it comes to effectively treating a flea infestation, Integrated Pest Management is the best approach to take.

What Is Integrated Pest Management?

Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is a form of organic pest control method designed to protect the environment and your home. IPMs use up-to-date information on the life cycles of pests and how they interact with the environment in order to control them. IPMs aim to manage pests in ways that are as safe as possible for humans, animals, and the environment.

For example, an IPM strategy for fleas may involve the use of vacuums and steam cleaners to eliminate any fleas from your carpets or upholstery. They may also involve frequent inspections of the home using methods such as walking across floors with white socks and also just checking your pets for fleas.

How Can An Exterminator Help?

Enlisting the help of a professional exterminator is always your best bet when it comes to dealing with fleas, as these pests can be especially tricky to get rid of.

A pest control professional will be able to identify the infestation and determine how severe it is before coming up with a unique treatment plan. Treatment plans may involve a mix of deep cleaning solutions and some milder pesticides to safely and effectively eliminate fleas for good.

FAQs

How long do fleas live after the bombing?

Most fleas will typically die within 24 hours after bombing, though some can hang around for a couple more days before eventually perishing. However, some fleas' eggs may survive after bombing and hatch later on, but the pesticide residue is typically strong enough to kill adult fleas.

Where do fleas most often hide?

Fleas are most often found hiding in crevices around the home, such as upholstery, furniture, and other household furnishings. They can also commonly be found in carpeting and lower-traffic areas of your home.

How safe are flea collars?

There are both pros and cons of using flea collars to protect your dog from picking up fleas. Flea collars are typically more cost-effective than topical or prescription medication, but they also pose certain risks. Many flea and tick collars have been shown to contain TCVP, a harmful chemical that can be toxic to pets who wear them. When it comes to determining the best course of treatment for fleas for your dog, it is best to speak with your vet to go over your options.

 

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by Jeff King

The Complete Guide to Small Stinging Insects

With summer right around the corner, you have probably noticed an increase in the number of stinging insects buzzing around outside. While we typically coexist with these creatures with little to no problems, certain stinging insects can cause a lot of pain if they decide to attack. 

Knowing the most common types of stinging insects and their level of aggression is important to ensure you and your family stay safe this summer. Here are some of the most common stinging insects you may encounter and what to do if you come face to face with one.      

7 Common Stinging Insects

1. Bumblebees

Bumblebees are some of the most common stinging insects, but they typically won’t sting unless they feel threatened. Bumblebees play an important role in our ecosystem, as they pollinate our flowers and plants. 

Bumblebees have a large, round-bodied appearance and are covered in hair. They are typically yellow and black in color, though some species appear more orange or red. 

If you’re dealing with a large number of bumblebees, the best thing to do is leave them alone or call a professional for help. 

2. Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees are similar to bumblebees in that they are pollinators and are generally harmless to humans. However, they can cause a lot of damage to wooden structures, so you should reach out to an exterminator if you notice a large presence near your home. Carpenter bees look similar to bumblebees but lack the same yellow markings on their abdomens. 

3. Wasps

Wasps are stinging insects that are neither a bee nor an ant and are known to be more aggressive. Wasps look similar to bees but are much more slender and have sparse hair, with two sets of wings and six legs. Common wasps in Pennsylvania can be solid black, solid yellow, or black and yellow striped and have legs that hang down when they fly. 

4. Africanized Honeybee

African honeybees may look cute, but they are actually some of the most aggressive bees in the Americas and are known for their menacing nickname, “killer bees.” African honeybees tend to swarm when attacking and can follow people for more than a quarter mile if they feel threatened. These bees look similar to domestic honeybees but are slightly smaller, with golden yellow coloring and dark brown bands. 

Fortunately for us northerners, most of these honeybees remain down south though they continue to migrate. 

5. Hornets

Like African honeybees, hornets are another type of stinging insect that can be extremely aggressive. Hornets are larger than wasps and have reddish-brown heads and thoraxes, with a thin waist between the thorax and abdomen. Hornets are known to be mother nature’s pest control, as they protect gardens from pests like caterpillars and spiders. 

Still, hornets can be dangerous to humans and downright annoying. If you spot a hornet’s nest, you should contact a professional for help. 

6. Horse Flies

Horse flies are commonly seen during the summer months and usually hang out near damp areas, including swimming pools. Horse flies are generally harmless to humans but can bite and cause momentary pain, making these insects quite the nuisance during the summer. Horse flies have large gray or black bodies and are noticeably bigger than houseflies. 

7. Gnats

Gnats are some of the most common insects during the summer months and regularly make their way into homes in search of fresh flowers, overflowing garbage, or houseplants. Gnats are very small and thin, and most are weak fliers. 

While gnats can sting humans, they are rarely dangerous and are generally considered an annoying household pest rather than a threat. 

Fortunately, getting rid of gnats is easy and can be done with a few pantry staples. 

Which Stinging Insects Are Dangerous?

While being stung by any stinging insect is never a pleasant experience, some are more dangerous than others. Mosquitos are extremely common during the summer months, and most people won’t even notice that they are being bitten until after the fact, but these pesky insects can carry a multitude of viruses, including Zika, West Nile, and malaria. 

Bee stings can also be dangerous to people with allergies, causing those stung to sometimes go into anaphylactic shock and require immediate medical treatment. 

What’s the Difference Between Wasps and Bees?

Bees are more full-bodied and covered in fuzzy hair, while wasps are thinner and appear to have no body hair. Wasps are also typically more aggressive than bees and will attack anyone or anything they perceive as a threat, while bees tend to keep to themselves and only attack if their colony is disturbed. 

Natural Stinging Insect Deterrents

There are several methods to naturally deter stinging insects, including using essential oils to keep these bugs away. For example, most stinging insects dislike the smell of peppermint, clove, citronella, and lemongrass, so rubbing some essential oil on your wrists and temples can effectively keep these insects away. 

You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil in a spray bottle with some dish soap and spray the solution anywhere you have seen nests around your home to deter any stinging insects from returning. 

Should I Use Insecticides on Stinging Insects?

The use of insecticides is typically very effective in getting rid of stinging insects, so this is always a good option if you want to get rid of the problem quickly. If you prefer to purchase an insecticide spray at the store and do it yourself, be sure that you’re following the directions on the bottle to safely apply the solution and prevent yourself from getting stung. 

However, it is always best to reach out to a trusted pest control company to tackle a stinging insect presence, as trying to treat the problem yourself can be dangerous and end up doing more harm than good. 

When Should You Call an Exterminator

Due to how dangerous certain stinging insects can be, you should contact an exterminator as soon as you see a nest or suspect a possible infestation. An exterminator will perform an inspection and determine what kind of stinging insect you’re dealing with before coming up with a unique and effective treatment plan.  

FAQs

What is the most common stinging insect?

Bees, yellow jackets, hornets, and wasps are some of the most common stinging insects and can be regularly found in early spring and summer. These insects typically hang out near their hives, as well as sheds, swimming pools, bushes, and shrubbery. 

How do I know what stung me?

If you’ve been stung by a stinging insect but aren’t sure exactly what attacked you, first take a look at your surroundings to see if you can spot the insect buzzing around near you. 

If you don’t see anything, check the part of your body that was stung for a stinger. Honey bees are known to leave stingers behind when they bite, and these stingers typically look like tiny black dots. 

If you can’t find a stinger but notice the sting getting swollen or itchy, wash the area thoroughly, apply ice, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed. 

What is worse, a hornet or a wasp?

While hornet and wasp stings are rarely fatal to humans, except in the case of allergic reactions, hornet stings are known to be more painful than wasp stings. When hornets sting, they release an acid compound called melittin, which activates their victim’s pain receptors and can make the entire experience incredibly painful. 

 

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by Jeff King

11 Common House Bugs: Identification Guide

Dealing with a pest infestation is every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Not only is dealing with an infestation time-consuming and expensive, but the experience can also be traumatizing and leave you riddled with anxiety.

While many different parts of the country have pests that are specific to that area, several common house bugs can be found in many homes across the country. So keep reading to learn about why bugs may be attracted to your home, as well as the most common types of house bugs you might run into.

Reasons Bugs Are Attracted to My Home

There are several reasons why bugs may be attracted to your home, but the main reason is that they seek food, water, and shelter.

Depending on the type of pest you’re dealing with, they may also reproduce, potentially introducing large amounts of other bugs into your home. For example, ants and cockroaches release pheromones for mating that attract other pests to your home once inside.

To avoid bugs entering your home, try to clean regularly and avoid leaving food out for insects to feed on. Certain pests are also attracted to damp environments, so it’s a good idea to fix any leaking pipes or cracks in the windows to prevent bugs from getting in.

We’ve listed several ways to prevent a pest infestation. However, it’s important to know what pest you are dealing with to prevent and treat them. So here are eleven common house bugs you might encounter in your home if you don’t keep it clean.

11 Common House Bugs: How to Identify Them

1. Ants

Ants are common household pests that can be found in every state across the US.

The most common types of ants that infest homes are carpenter ants, as they are known to chew through wood to create tunnels to crawl through. Carpenter ants have three distinct body regions and are typically black or reddish in color.

Carpenter ants are not harmful to humans or pets, but they could be destructive to any home they enter. Other common household ants include pavement ants and fire ants, the latter of which are aggressive and often sting humans who come into contact with them.

2. Termites

Termites are some of the most destructive house bugs, and they cause billions of dollars worth of property damage each year. Termites can be identified by their long, oval bodies and white to light brown coloring.

They measure between ¼ and ½ of an inch, with the kings and queens typically being larger. While termites may bite or sting humans, they are not known to carry diseases.

Treating termites is notoriously difficult. Therefore, professional assistance is always recommended.

3. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are some of the most feared household pests and for a good reason. Unfortunately, getting rid of cockroaches can be extremely difficult, as they breed quickly and are excellent at hiding.

While there are 69 cockroach species in North America, the most common ones found in homes are German cockroaches. German cockroaches are light brown in color and have two parallel stripes on their backs.

Cockroaches are considered dangerous to humans, as they carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans simply by breathing the same air.

4. Beetles

Beetles are another common type of house bug, though they are relatively harmless. Beetles typically make their way into homes by hitching a ride on something that is being brought inside, like grocery bags or laundry. Beetles are typically oval-shaped and range in color depending on the specific type.

5. Lady Bugs

Ladybugs are usually attracted to warm and safe places, making your home the perfect refuge for them. Lady bugs are easily recognizable, with tiny red bodies and wings. They often have black dots on their bodies but can also be solid red in color.

Luckily, ladybugs are not harmful to humans and are docile in nature. Plus, getting rid of ladybugs is fairly easy.

6. Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are another household pest that has a distinct look, with their shield-shaped bodies and speckled brown pattern. Stink bugs are harmless to humans but may cause an allergic reaction for some people with the allergens they give off; however, this is rare. Like many other hose bugs, stink bugs usually enter a residence in the colder months to seek shelter.

7. Silverfish

Despite their creepy appearance, silverfish are not known to bite humans and do not carry diseases. Silverfish can be identified by their silvery, light gray color, and “fish-like” movements, as well as two large antennae. If you see a silverfish, there is a good chance there are many more living in your home, as they reproduce quickly and can infest in large numbers.

8. Spiders

Spiders are another common household pest you may run into, and the different species can vary in how dangerous they are to humans. Some of the most common house spiders are wolf spiders, black widow spiders, and cellar spiders. While wolf spiders are generally harmless and don’t bite unless provoked, black widows can be aggressive when threatened and have an extremely poisonous venom that is about 15 times stronger than that of a rattlesnake.

9. Pincher Bugs

Pincher bugs, often known as Earwigs, are a common type of house bug that may find their way inside your home. Pincher bugs can be easily identified by their large pincers and thin, dark brown bodies. While pincher bugs may be able to leave red marks on your skin from their pincers, they are not strong enough to break skin and do not carry diseases.

10. Crickets

Crickets are another bug that can accidentally end up in your home by latching onto clothing or making their way in through open windows and doors. While crickets are a larger insect and are commonly mistaken for cockroaches, they aren’t known to be dangerous to humans and are more of a nuisance pest due to their vocal nature.

11. Centipedes

If you see centipedes in your home, there is a chance you may have other pests as well. Centipedes typically enter homes to feed on cockroaches and spiders, and are often lured in by these pests. Centipedes have flattened or rounded heads and have one pair of legs per body segment, with the number of body segments varying depending on the species. While centipedes do not pose a serious threat to humans, their bites can cause mild pain and swelling.

If you are dealing with a pest infestation, do not hesitate to reach out to a professional. The Pest Rangers’ residential Home Protection Plan guards against several different species of pests, including all of the ones listed above. We also offer emergency services with quick turnarounds to treat an infestation when it arises.

FAQs

How can I identify what type of bug I found?

If you find a bug in your home and aren’t sure what it is, try to trap it if you’re able to, or take a clear picture for reference. It is always best to contact a pest control expert at the first sign of any infestation, as they will be able to determine what kind of pest you’re dealing with and take the proper steps to treat the problem.

Do bugs come in clean houses?

No matter how clean your house is, bugs will often still find a way in. As mentioned earlier, the main things a bug is looking for are food and water. If they do not find those resources in your home, they will not feel as inclined to stick around.

What bugs are harmful and dangerous?

Certain types of spiders, such as the black widow, as well as cockroaches and some ants, can be harmful to humans and pets. If you suspect you may be dealing with a pest infestation, contact a trusted pest control expert right away to assess and treat the situation.

 

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by Jeff King

Your Ultimate Guide to Identify and Treat Bed Bugs

Discovering that you have bed bugs is every homeowner’s worst nightmare and can be an extremely distressing problem to deal with.

According to one survey, at least one in five Americans has dealt with a bed bug infestation in the past or knows someone who has.

While some may think of bed bugs as a sign of a dirty home, they tend to enter homes on used furniture and clothing, often due to traveling or shopping secondhand. And since bed bugs spread quickly, identifying and treating bed bugs with bed bug remedies is imperative should you ever encounter these pests in your home or while traveling.

Why Are Bed Bugs in My Home?

Bed bugs can enter your home in many ways, most commonly by latching onto used furniture.

If you’re someone who thrifts and shops for antiques regularly, you may want to take extra precautions when inspecting furniture or clothing before bringing new items into your home.

Bed bugs can also enter residences by clinging to your suitcase when staying in a hotel, so be sure to look at guest reviews before booking a hotel room and check for any signs of bed bugs when you arrive.

Are Bed Bugs Dangerous?

While bed bugs are not inherently dangerous to humans, they can cause an allergic reaction in some people if bitten. Therefore, bed bugs are considered a household nuisance and should be dealt with promptly by an experienced pest control expert.

How to Identify Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are a reddish brown color and are typically small and wingless, about the size of an apple seed. Immature bed bugs are smaller than adults and have a more translucent color, often making them more difficult to spot.

Bed bugs should not be confused with lice, fruit flies, or any other common bugs found in the home, so understanding what they look like is imperative to recognizing and treating a possible infestation.

Signs of Bed Bugs

• Bloodstains on Sheets - Small reddish-brown stains on your sheets can be a sign of bed bugs, as this could be blood from bugs that have been crushed. These stains may also appear on your mattress, couch, or armchairs.
• Bed Bug Bites - Bed bug bites look like small, swollen red spots that often appear in a zigzag pattern on the skin. Bed bug bites are typically itchy and sometimes have a darker spot in the middle of the bite.
• Bed Bug Shells - Otherwise known as bedbug molt, bed bug shells are a common sign of a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs typically molt after a week of infesting your home, and the molt looks translucent in appearance.
• Musty Odor - Bed bugs often emit a musty, sweet odor in larger infestations, so if you smell this kind of scent in your home, reach out to a pest control expert immediately.
• Live Bed Bugs - Seeing live bed bugs on your furniture or garments is a telltale sign that there is a bed bug presence in your home.

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

• Wash Your Bedding - If you suspect a bed bug infestation, you should promptly wash all of your bedding at a high temperature for 90 minutes or more. It may also be helpful to wash any garments that may have been exposed, as bed bugs can cling to these items as well.
• Vacuum Your Home - After washing your bedding and garments, you should vacuum your floors to catch any bed bugs that may be infesting your carpets. Keep in mind, however, that bed bugs can escape vacuum cleaners, so be sure to empty your vacuum immediately after cleaning and dispose of the garbage bag outside of your home.
• Contact a Professional - If you discover bed bugs in your home, you should contact a pest control expert right away to treat the infestation. Bed bugs can be extremely difficult to take on alone, and the problem could worsen the longer you wait to get help.
• Prep Your Home For Treatment - Before your home is treated for bed bugs, you will need to prepare your home and get rid of any unnecessary clutter.

Cleaning up the house and tossing anything you don’t need will give the bed bugs fewer places to hide, so be sure to make your home as neat and clutter-free as possible to prepare for treatment.

Additionally, you should avoid going into rooms where there is a bed bug presence and close the door to prevent your children or pets from entering an infested area as well.

How to Treat a Bed Bug Bite

If a bed bug bites you, wash the bites with soap and water to prevent infection and reduce any itchiness you may experience. You can also apply a corticosteroid cream to the affected area to relieve itching. These creams can be purchased at the drugstore or prescribed by a doctor.

Bed Bug Prevention Tips

• Wash Your Furniture - Regularly washing and vacuuming your furniture is a great way to prevent bed bugs from entering or returning to your home. This is especially true for things like mattresses, couches, and armchairs, as bed bugs often cling to these pieces of furniture.
• Clean Up Clutter - The fewer places bed bugs have to hide, the better, so be sure to clean up any clutter that may be taking up space around your home.
• Inspect Secondhand Items - Before taking home any items from the thrift store, be sure to thoroughly inspect them for any signs of bed bugs. For example, you should avoid purchasing used mattresses and box springs, as bed bugs commonly infest these items. If you decide to purchase used clothing or household appliances, make sure to wash them before using them in your home.
• Seal Cracks - Sealing any cracks and crevices in your home is a great way to prevent bed bugs from entering. Silicone caulk can be purchased from any home improvement store and can be used to seal any possible bed bug entryways around your house.
• Invest in Pest Control Maintenance - Investing in preventative pest control is a solid way to prevent bed bugs from entering or returning to your home. If you can afford it, reach out to a pest control company and ask about setting up a maintenance plan to give you and your family peace of mind that you won’t see any bed bugs around your home.

FAQs

Can you see bed bugs with the naked eye?

While bed bugs are tiny, they are typically visible to the naked eye. If you see small, reddish-brown bugs with flat, oval-shaped bodies on any of your furniture, contact a pest control expert to assess and treat the problem.

Where do bed bugs hide on your body?

Bed bugs do not typically hide on people’s bodies, but they can hide in your clothing or in the soles of your shoes. If you notice any itchy bug bites in the shape of a zigzag pattern, contact a pest control expert immediately.

How do you check for bed bugs?

Keep an eye out for small reddish-brown stains on your mattress or bedding, as this could be blood from crushed bed bugs. You may also see live bed bugs, although this is rare, as they can be difficult to see if you’re not looking for them.

 

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by Jeff King

What is the Best Way to Prevent a Pest Infestation?

They say the best offense is a good defense. Well, when it comes to pest control, prevention is always better than cure. 

Find out how to protect your homes from best using the best methods of preventative pest control. 

Why Pests Are Attracted to Your Home

Pests are attracted to homes for various reasons, but primarily because they are attracted to some food source. For example, crumbs on the floor or pet food left out overnight can be an easy magnet for pests if not properly disposed of.

Pests also use your home for shelter during extreme temperatures and weather conditions, such as the frigid winters. Other environmental factors can attract pests, too, such as moisture and humidity levels in some regions of your home that provide a hospitable environment for bugs and rodents.

In addition, there are other elements that may draw pests into your home without you even realizing it. For example, if you have wood piles stored near your house or compost bins close by, they can be attractive places for insects like ants and termites to nestle in before finding their way inside. 

Even small cracks around window sills or door frames can act as entry points for many types of bugs seeking refuge from the outdoors.

Leaving dirty dishes out overnight can be an invitation for cockroaches, as it provides them with easy access to food sources and much-needed water during dry spells when outdoor water sources become scarce. 

Clutter, such as stacks of newspapers or old furniture tucked away in corners, also provides plenty of hiding spots for mice and other rodents looking for a cozy spot to settle down in until they find something more permanent within your walls or attic space. 

Finally, outdoor lighting fixtures can also be responsible for attracting unwanted guests indoors; lights at night make it easier for flying insects like moths and mosquitoes to find their way inside through open windows or doors left unlocked after dark hours have passed. 

All these elements combined create an inviting atmosphere that will likely bring all sorts of critters crawling right up onto your doorstep.

In sum, understanding why pests are attracted to your home is the first step in preventing an infestation. To help you combat pests that enter your home, let's discuss four types of pest control methods available to homeowners. 

3 Types of Pest Control Treatments

1. Chemical Pest Control:

Chemical pest control is the most common form of pest management. It involves the use of pesticides and insecticides to kill and prevent pests that enter your property. 

These chemicals are usually sprayed directly onto infested areas, and they can be in liquid, aerosol, powder, or granular form. 

The advantage of this method is that it's fast-acting and effective against a wide range of pests. 

However, there are some drawbacks as well; chemical pesticides can cause health risks for humans and pets if not used properly and may also have an adverse effect on the environment.

2. Natural Pest Control:

There are natural pest control methods that involve the use of natural ingredients such as essential oils, herbs, plants, minerals, and other organic materials to deter pests from entering your home or business premises. This type of pest control is often preferred by those who want to avoid harsh chemicals due to the potential health risks associated with them. 

Examples include planting certain types of flowers near entry points which act as a natural repellent for insects like mosquitoes; setting up sticky traps around window sills; placing diatomaceous earth around baseboards; spraying vinegar solutions on ant trails; sprinkling cinnamon powder near cracks where cockroaches enter and so forth.

3. Biological Pest Control:

Biological pest control uses living organisms such as predators (e.g., ladybugs) or parasites (e.g., nematodes) to target specific species of pests without harming beneficial insects like bees and butterflies that help pollinate our food crops. 

This method has been found to be more sustainable than chemical treatments since it does not leave behind any harmful residues in the environment after application–making it safer for people's health too. 

The downside, however, is that biological controls take longer than traditional methods because you need time for the predator/parasite population to build up before they start attacking your targeted pests effectively. As a result, biological pest control is best used as a preventative method instead of a cure for pests. 

No matter which pest control method you choose, it is important to understand that the best way to prevent a pest infestation is by taking proactive steps. Professional pest control services can provide more comprehensive solutions and guarantee results.

That’s why we recommend regular pest inspections as part of any preventative pest control package. 

Benefits of Regular Pest Inspections

Regular inspections help detect any signs of pests early on so that appropriate action can be taken quickly to prevent further damage or health risks.

For residential customers, regular pest inspections are especially important because it helps them identify any possible entry points for pests into their home. Inspections also allow homeowners to check for any existing infestations that may have gone unnoticed until now. 

By detecting the presence of pests early on, homeowners can take preventive measures such as sealing off cracks and crevices around windows and doors where pests could enter from outside.

Commercial businesses should also consider scheduling regular pest inspections since a single infestation could potentially lead to costly damages or legal liabilities if left unchecked. 

Professional inspectors will be able to detect signs of an active infestation and areas where there is a potential risk of one occurring in the future due to conducive conditions, such as moisture buildup or inadequate sanitation practices within the premises. 

Inspections allow business owners to take corrective actions immediately before the situation gets out of hand, resulting in lost time and money spent on repairs or replacements caused by pest-related damages.

5 Tips to Prevent a Pest Infestation

1. Keep a Clean Home

Pests are attracted to trash and clutter inside and outside of the home. That’s why we recommend:

• Disposing of any loose trash
• Sealing all trash bags
• Eliminate any standing water
• Mowing your yard
• Getting rid of any leaves or debris
• Cleaning basements and attics regularly
• Moving large or loose objects to a storage unit

Keeping a clean home is not a foolproof way to prevent pests, like bed bugs or house termites, but it might be enough to keep cockroaches away, who are attracted to food sources in your home. 

2. Seal Off Entry Points

Stop pests from physically entering your home by sealing off any cracks or gaps in your exterior, roof, or basement spaces. 

Consider turning the lights off in your basement or attic during the day to see where light can peak through your home and filling the gap with a spray foam solution. 

3. Know What Pests Are Local to Your Area

Understanding what pests are native to your area and their seasonal habits can help you prepare for any potential infestation. For example, prepping your yard and eliminating standing water to prevent gnats and mosquitos from infesting the property will help you enjoy those summer BBQs in the backyard without getting attacked. 

4. Get Regular Inspections

For the best-guaranteed. protection, we highly recommend getting regular inspections. Not only will exterminators detect the presence of any pests in your home, but they will also help you prevent pests by identifying potential entry points and food sources. 

5. Call the Professionals When a Pest Infestation Arrives

Once prevention fails, your only recourse should be to call a professional exterminator. A pest control expert will help you eliminate any standing infestations before additional damage has occurred. 

Pest infestation can be a serious problem for both residential and commercial properties. Taking the necessary steps to prevent pests from entering your property is essential in keeping your home or business safe and healthy. 

The best way to prevent pest infestation is by utilizing a combination of chemical, natural, biological, and preventive methods. Additionally, regular inspections are key in detecting any potential problems early on before they become more serious issues. 

Professional pest control services may also be beneficial if DIY solutions don't seem to work effectively. By taking these proactive measures, you can ensure that your property remains pests-free.

 

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by Jeff King

Organic Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Bugs Naturally

Organic pest control is becoming increasingly popular for homeowners and business owners who are more environmentally conscious. With its safe, natural ingredients that are better for the environment, organic pest control offers practical solutions to getting rid of pests without resorting to harsh chemicals or toxic substances.

This guide will explore the many sides of organic pest control and whether it is truly effective.

What Is Organic Pest Control?

Organic pest control uses natural and biological methods to manage pests without chemical pesticides. It is considered a safe and eco-friendly alternative that is better for the environment.

Organic pest control can be used indoors and outdoors, in residential or commercial settings, and with DIY or over-the-counter products.

Benefits of Organic Pest Control

• Safe for pets and children
• Can be made DIY
• Less irritating for health
• Promises effective treatment
• More cost-effective
• Doesn’t use any synthetic chemicals
• Requires fewer applications over time

How Effective Is Organic Pest Control?

Organic pest control effectively eliminates your home or business from pests without harsh chemicals. Instead, it uses natural ingredients such as neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and spinosad to target specific pests. While organic pest control can be highly effective in controlling certain types of pests, some factors can affect its effectiveness.

For example, some pests may require pesticides, such as to keep cockroaches away for good. Additionally, pests like bed bugs may require chemical pesticides to do the trick.

Organic pest control can be very effective against certain pests and is a great preventative measure. However, many pests may require more extreme chemical pesticides to effectively rid your home of pests.

Drawbacks of Organic Pesticides

• Not always effective against pests
• May require longer to work as effectively
• Efficacy may be altered by the temperature
• May pose some health risks (though most are safe)

By understanding the pros and cons, as well as common misconceptions about organic pest control, you can make informed decisions when choosing products to use for controlling pests in your area.

Effective Organic Pest Control Products

There are many natural products available that can be used to effectively control pests without the use of harsh chemicals.

• Neem oil has been used for centuries in India as a natural insecticide. It disrupts insects' reproductive cycle, preventing them from reproducing and spreading further infestations.
• Diatomaceous earth is another popular organic pest control product; it consists of tiny fossilized shells that act like razor blades when insects ingest it, cutting through their exoskeletons and killing them quickly.
• Spinosad is a naturally occurring bacteria found in soil that can be used as an organic pesticide. It kills certain types of caterpillars and other soft-bodied insects on contact while leaving beneficial insects unharmed.
• Traps and baits are also effective ways to get rid of pests organically. They work by luring pests into traps with food or scents and trapping them inside until they die off or can be disposed of safely away from your property.
• Other natural products for controlling pests include boric acid powder, essential oils like peppermint oil, garlic spray, cedar chips, and diatomaceous earth mixed with water or vegetable oil spray for outdoor plants affected by bugs such as aphids or mites.

General Tips for Preventing Infestation with Organics

Preventative pest control is the best way to ensure a pest-free home. Not only are these general prevention tips effective, but they are also safe for the environment.

Keep Grass Cut Short

Long grass provides a great hiding place for many pests, so regularly mowing your lawn can help deter them from taking up residence in your yard. If you have trees and shrubs near your house, ensure they are trimmed away from the walls.

Seal Entries to Home or Business

Pests will often enter through cracks and crevices around windows and doors, so ensure these areas are properly sealed with caulk or weatherstripping. Also, check that screens on windows and doors fit snugly against their frames to keep out any unwanted visitors.

Keep a Clean House or Business

Keeping surfaces clean can go a long way toward discouraging pests from entering your home. Make sure floors are swept regularly, and dishes washed immediately after meals. Vacuum carpets frequently as well since dust bunnies can attract insects like ants and cockroaches looking for food sources in your home or business space.

 

Dethatch Lawns & Gardens

Thatch consists of dead grass clippings that accumulate over time on top of the soil, creating an ideal environment for certain bugs such as fleas, ticks, spiders, etc. So removing this layer helps discourage them from making themselves home in your yard.

Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes love standing water as it provides a breeding ground, so eliminating any potential sources, such as birdbaths and buckets filled with rainwater, will help keep them away from your property altogether.

By taking proactive steps such as keeping your grass cut short, sealing entries to your home or business, and removing standing water sources, you can help prevent pest infestations. However, for more serious cases of infestation, it may be necessary to consider professional services.

DIY vs Professional Services for Organic Pest Control

Advantages of DIY Services:

DIY Solutions for organic pest control can be a great way to save money and take care of your home or business.

DIY solutions are often cheaper than professional services, as you don’t have to pay for labor costs. You also get the satisfaction of taking care of the problem yourself.

However, there are some drawbacks to using DIY solutions that should be considered before making a decision. For example, DIY solutions can be unsafe if handled improperly and put you and your home at risk.

Furthermore, many DIY solutions may not be that effective.

Advantages of Professional Services:

On the other hand, professional services offer several advantages over DIY solutions, such as access to specialized equipment and expertise in pest identification and elimination techniques.

Professionals may simply be required if you spot signs of termites or harder to deal with pests, which require inspection and pesticides to treat.

In addition, most professionals guarantee their work, so if something goes wrong during treatment or if new pests appear after treatment has been completed, then they will come back at no additional cost until complete eradication is achieved.

Ultimately, we recommend asking your exterminator about organic pest control methods and leaving it up to them to determine what products and methods they think are the most effective. This will guarantee that pests are handled quickly and effectively so that your home is pest free.

Contact us below for any help regarding pest control within the Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, or Poconos areas.

FAQs Organic Pest Control

Does organic pest control work?

Yes, organic pest control can effectively control pests in certain instances. It relies on natural ingredients such as plant oils and extracts to create a barrier that repels or kills insects. Organic pest control is also safer for people, pets, and the environment since it does not use harsh chemicals or toxins. Additionally, it may be more cost-effective than traditional chemical methods since fewer materials are needed to treat an area.

What are organic methods of pest control?

Organic pest control methods are those that use natural materials and processes to eliminate pests without the use of synthetic chemicals. These methods include physical barriers such as screens, traps, and sticky tape; biological controls like introducing predators or parasites to target specific pests; and cultural practices such as crop rotation, proper sanitation, and using resistant varieties of plants.

Which organic pesticide is best?

The best organic pesticide depends on the type of pest. Natural oils such as neem oil or pyrethrin are effective against certain insects but may not work against rodents. Diatomaceous earth is an effective barrier against crawling insects and can be used indoors with minimal risk to humans or pets.

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by Jeff King

How to Rid Your House of Mice: 11 Proven Tips

Discovering you have a mouse can not only be annoying, but it can be potentially dangerous to you and your loved ones. The sooner you evict these little pests from your home, the better it will be for your livelihood.

Unfortunately, like most pests in Northeast PA and the Poconos, a mice infestation can be tricky to deal with. There’s no telling how many rodents may be residing in your home, where they may be coming from, and where they may have made a nest.

If you think you may be experiencing a mouse problem, here are 11 proven tips about how to rid your house of mice for good.

1. Find Their Entry Point

The first step to stopping a mouse infestation is finding where they are coming from. Mice are so tiny they can slip through the smallest crack or tiniest hole. Additionally, these little critters can burrow their way in through a spot as big as a pen cap. Check the inside of your home from top to bottom to see any possible access areas.

2. Close off Entry Points

Once you have found where they are coming in, it is time to shut them out. Steel wool and caulking are great tools for sealing up any potential entryways. Check around vents, utility pipes, foundation, and basement windows. Try not to use any sealants that mice can gnaw through, such as plastic or wood. If the mice can’t get in, they won’t be a problem.

3. Look for the Signs

If you suspect you have a mouse problem, there are some signs to look for. Mouse droppings are a clear indication that you may mice. You can usually find them near entryways, nests, or food sources. Aside from droppings, you may find chewed boxes in your pantry, attics, or basement. Mice look for nesting materials, and they can chew right through cardboard food containers. Additionally, scan your walls and wiring for possible gnaw damage and be wary of foul odors.

4. Determine the Type

If you do have a mouse, determining the type is a good way to stop it from coming back.

The three most common mice types and their traits are:

House mice

• Use shredded materials to build nests
• Eat glue, soap, and many other things
• Carry typhus, salmonella, and bubonic plague
• ¼ of an inch to ½
• Reddish black, nocturnal

Deer Mice

• Outdoor habitat in sheds, barns, and garages
• Transmit Hantavirus
• About, 5-8” long
• Light brown with white feet and belly
• Chew through wires, insulation, furniture, etc.

White-footed Mice

• Seek refuge in the Fall and Winter months
• Can spread bacteria and diseases through food
• Can transmit Lyme through ticks
• 6-8”
• Light to reddish-brown
• Found in brushy, Northeastern areas
• Eat insects, wood, seeds, nuts, and fruit

5. Eliminate the Food Source

Mice don’t want to live where there is no food source; take steps to protect yours. Make sure to store and seal all food in airtight canisters. Don’t forget about pet food. Also, be sure not to leave out empty food containers or dirty dishes. Cover all trash receptacles and tidy any areas that serve as a dining areas. These extra steps will not only help prevent an infestation, but it can protect you from contamination should you experience one.

6. Set Mouse Traps

While not always successful, should you find a mouse in your home, you can try to set your own traps. DIY home remedies are not proven to work and may actually make a problem worse. Classic snap traps, humane traps, or any other store–bought trap can work, Try a few different ones; mice can be clever and avoid certain hazards. Always have more than one because you can’t be certain if you have one mouse or many.

7. Use the Right Bait

Cheese may work in the cartoons, but mice prefer other treats. When setting your trap, try various baits to trap mice: chocolate, peanut butter, bacon, or dried fruit. Replace the bait and try something new to lure out your pesky invaders. Avoid using poisons, however, especially if you have pets. Poisons are not recommended for the DIY homeowner due to the harm they can cause!

8. Location! Location! Location!

Placing traps and plugging up holes is crucial to eliminating a pest problem. Mice stay close to their food sources and their homes. Place these traps where you see signs of a mouse: building nests, scratches on walls, or droppings.

9. Mice aren’t just an inside problem.

Mice don’t only look indoors for solace; they can be attracted to outdoor refuse too. If you have a buildup of yard clippings, branches, or firewood, mice may take that as an open invitation. Make sure that you keep any possible nesting areas to a minimum.

10. Keep things clean!

While keeping your home clean won’t rid your house of mice, it can keep it from getting out of hand and keep you safe. Mice can contaminate your food and transmit diseases. The best course of action is to be vigilant and clean all surfaces. Without any areas to scavenge food, the mice are less likely to return.

11. Make a game plan.

The most crucial way to tackle a mouse problem is to have a game plan. If you discover signs of a mouse in your home, take the steps to seal off entryways, locate their living space, and limit their food supply. If you believe your mouse infestation may be more serious, contact a pest control specialist to help you deal with the problem. Be prepared for the worst and aim to prevent it.

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by Jeff King

Cold Weather Pest Control Tips For Your Vehicle

As Winter approaches, there’s a good chance you may be storing that old convertible or RV for next summer. While this may seem innocuous, you could leave your vehicle vulnerable to a pest infestation.

While pest infestations in your car may seem unlikely, they’re actually relatively common in the colder months. Whether searching for food, shelter, or both, pests can find a way into your vehicle through even the tiniest and most insignificant openings, wreaking havoc on electrical wiring and quickly multiplying.

This article will look at the most common pests responsible for infesting your vehicle, how they squeeze in, signs of pest infestation, and various ways to keep pests away.

What Pests May Try to Get Into Your Vehicle in the Cold?

Pests tend to invade your personal space for resources and shelter; while your car isn’t necessarily their first choice to inhabit, it’s a warm and dry space that’s likely better than outside.

Several types of pests may invade your vehicle throughout the winter, with the most common being:

Cockroaches: Cockroaches often invade vehicles to scavenge what food they can find. Even food hidden deep inside tight pockets and crevices can serve as a breeding ground for cockroaches. So, if you spot cockroach droppings in your car, this may be a sign that you have a cockroach infestation in your vehicle.

Bed Bugs: Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are actually quite versatile pests, hiding in even the smallest nooks and crannies. While beds are their preferred feeding ground due to the close proximity to potential meals, they’ve been known to migrate into cars after contact with infested clothing, books, or furniture. Bed bug molt and shells are common signs of a bed bug infestation in your car’s upholstery.

Ants: Like cockroaches, ants are foragers with voracious appetites. With their heightened sense of smell, most ants can sense the presence of food several meters away, making their anthill next to your driveway well within range to pick up the scent of food. In addition, with their miniscule size, ants can squeeze into even the tiniest gap in your car’s weatherstripping, making quick work of the leftovers under the seat. While ants won’t reproduce in your car, the sheer number of workers making up a single trail is more than enough to pose a problem.

Mice and Rats: Both rodents can also squeeze their bodies into seemingly impossible spaces, making quick work of holes in your firewall or missing door seals. Once inside, mice and rats will consume any and every morsel of uneaten food strewn across the floor; they may even begin nesting under the hood or in the interior due to the plentiful supply of carpet padding, sound deadening, fabric, and other supplies. Additionally, rodents pose the most severe threat to your vehicle's reliability. They’re known to chew holes into wiring, protective loom, and rubber hoses responsible for transporting coolant, oil, and crankcase vapors.

Spiders: These 8-legged predators can often be found spinning webs throughout your vehicle’s suspension, near the side view mirrors, or even inside of the cab–especially if your interior is already infested with cockroaches or bed bugs. In any dry, secluded area with a bountiful food source, spiders will thrive.

How to Prevent Bugs in Your Vehicle

Though vehicle-invading pests come in all different shapes and sizes, the means of preventing them are generally the same. By following these simple tips, you can keep your car or truck clean and pest-free.

Perform Routine Cleanings

One of the most effective means of keeping pests from entering your vehicle is to keep its interior and exterior clean. Routinely spraying off the undercarriage, mirrors, and other tight spaces is an excellent means of preventing spiders from building webs and laying eggs.

In addition, cleaning the interior will help to prevent scavengers from making a meal out of your forgotten leftovers, spills, and messes. So even during the winter, don’t hesitate to bust out the vacuum and cleaning supplies, and make sure to get under the seats!

Close Your Windows

While this one may seem obvious, it’s not uncommon to accidentally leave a window cracked after airing-out the interior on a warmer day. Unfortunately, this provides the perfect entry point for pests of all shapes and sizes. So before parking your vehicle for the night, make sure to double check all of your windows.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

If you’ve noted the presence of ants, rodents, or any other pest in your vehicle, take note of its location and the surrounding conditions. For example, note if there’s an anthill beside the driveway or a spider-infested tree nearby.

In any situation, treating the surrounding infestations is best before tackling localized pest control on your vehicle, ensuring that the root of your issue is handled.

Don’t Leave Vehicles Idle For Extended Periods

Most pests aren’t too keen on the presence of humans, and will likely avoid vehicles that are used on a daily basis. However, the occasionally driven/spare car parked on the side of the driveway may be the perfect target for rodents and spiders. So, if you routinely find pests making a home of your spare car, consider taking it out for a spin at least once a week, and don’t forget to run it through the car wash for good measure!

Concluding Thoughts

While not as likely as home infestations, it’s not uncommon to find pests in or around your vehicle from time to time. However, with proper preventative care, you can significantly reduce the chance of a full-scale infestation.

In the event of a seemingly never-ending infestation, don’t hesitate to contact your local pest professionals for various home and vehicle treatment options.

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by Jeff King

Will Frost Kill Bugs In Northeastern PA? Here’s What to Know.

Are you dealing with an insect infestation in your yard or home?

Your solution may be to wait until winter for all of those pests to go away, but that’s not always an effective solution.

In this article, let’s answer whether frost kills bugs and stops infestations once and for all.

Does the Frost Actually Kill Bugs?

While unexpected, prolonged frosts can take out a large population of insects outdoors, declining temperatures don’t always equate to the complete eradication of pests. In fact, experts claim that temperatures must drop below freezing–both day and night for at least 5 days–for pest populations to decline.

For this reason, you may even notice a spike in bugs around your home as insects search for a location to overwinter.

Insects and other pests are primarily motivated by survival and resources. Once the cold hits and the outdoors are no longer habitable, they’ll find the nearest warm and dry place to take shelter.

Some of their hiding places may include:

• Under tree bark
• Burrowing underground
• In piles of leaves
• Inside your attic or basement

Additionally, several species of insects have developed the ability to freeze their bodies and hibernate through the winter, only emerging once the ice or soil they’re trapped within thaws–kind of creepy, right? For these reasons, it’s important to maintain adequate pest-prevention practices, learn the signs of a pest infestation, and understand the habits of the insects most likely to survive the frost.

Which Insects Are Most Impacted by Frost?

When it comes down to it, nearly all insect populations will decline if exposed to freezing temperatures for long periods. However, several insects can combat the cold by overwintering underground, in your home, or in any warm and dry location.

Insects that disappear over the winter include:

• Bees: Our favorite, fuzzy pollinators will often seal themselves in their hives, protecting the queen from the cold until the next Spring. As a result, you’ll rarely spot them throughout the colder months.

• Wasps: By the time the first frost rolls around, most wasps in PA will perish from the cold and age. The few remaining members of the colony will often migrate into the crevices of buildings or under tree bark, where they’ll remain dormant through the winter.

• Ants: These helpful little decomposers/soil aerators generally spend the winter in their colonies underground, even going as far as to seal off anthills/entrances to better insulate the tunnels. Like bees, ants tend to focus their efforts on protecting their queen.

While other pest populations may seem to diminish, you’ll still likely spot lingering members throughout the cold months.

Bugs that Are Active In the Winter

As previously stated, a quick frost isn’t likely to wipe out a large portion of the insect population; more commonly, a brief chill is just the warning pests need to begin their search for shelter.

As far as household pests go, there are two main categories you need to be aware of: overwintering pests and continually active pests.

Overwintering pests are insects that tend to go into a dormant state in the winter, also known as diapause. During this time, insects tend to migrate to warm, secluded areas to hibernate, such as your attic, walls, or crawl spaces. This category includes such common PA pests as:

• Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
• Asian Lady Beetles
• Boxelder Bugs
• Cluster Flies

While these insects may reside within your home during the winter, you aren’t likely to see them due to their preference for secluded spaces.

However, there are several species of active pests that you are likely to encounter, including:

• Silverfish
• Cockroaches
• Spiders
• Termites
• Fleas

These pests don't necessarily go dormant; instead, they’ll move indoors and continue their regularly-scheduled business.

How to Prevent Winter Pests

Ideally, keeping a pest-free home year-round is the goal of every homeowner. As such, it’s important to continue treatment and prevention even after the year's first frost.

Sealing gaps in siding doors and windows is always an effective preventative measure, while treating potential entry points will keep your home free from arthropod intruders.

If you’re still struggling with pests through winter, contact the professionals at The Pest Rangers below. We offer year-round preventative maintenance services to ensure your home is pest-free.

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by Jeff King

Should You Kill A Stink Bug? What Happens When You Squish One?

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by Jeff King

What is the Halloween Beetle and Are They Dangerous?

As temperatures dwindle and the leaves of your deciduous maples, dogwoods, and box elders begin their transition from lush green to ever-so-familiar reds, oranges, and yellows, it’s clear that the seasons are changing. Fall is among us in Pennsylvania, welcoming hot cider, pumpkin patches, faux spiderwebs, and witchy broomsticks adorning porches. 

When you think of Fall, you’ll likely be grateful for the decline in common Summer pest insects like ants, black flies, wasps, and other creepy crawlies. However, don’t celebrate just yet; this Halloween, children won’t be the only costume-sporting critters knocking on your front door! 

If you’ve ever wondered why even after you get rid of ladybugs, you find them coming back in the fall months, I have some bad news; these aren’t the same insects you know and love. What you’re likely encountering is actually an imposter: the Halloween Beetle. 

What is a Halloween Beetle? 

Also known as the Asian Lady Beetle, these insects gain their colloquial name from their pumpkin-orange appearance and the approximate time they’re most active. Halloween beetles are a close relative to the common ladybug species we all know and love. However, Halloween beetles are far less pleasant, more of a nuisance, and slightly more monstrous than their polka-dotted cousins!

Halloween beetles are generally viewed as nuisance pests due to their invasive and undesirable habits. While non-venomous, Halloween beetles have been known to nibble on humans on rare occasions; imagine your horror after picking up what you believe to be a harmless ladybug, only to receive a rough scrape from an imposter! In addition, Halloween beetles are known to produce a sticky, staining, foul-smelling orange liquid from their leg parts when feeling threatened–a process known as “reflex bleeding.” 

These insects differ from ladybugs in several ways. While sporting a rather convincing costume with similar spots and colors, these imposters aren’t as harmless nor look the same as the beloved yellow ladybug. When compared to a ladybug, Halloween beetles feature: 

• A slightly larger overall size 
• Longer abdomen and snout
• Colors ranging from yellow to orange, rather than red
• A primarily white head with a discernible black “M” pattern

Next, we’ll discuss habits. Unlike ladybugs, who travel individually, Halloween beetles are often found in droves. They also tend to collect in sunny areas, windows, and windscreens in the warmer months. 

Additionally, come Winter, when ladybugs seek shelter outdoors, Halloween beetles have been known to turn indoors to your home. Halloween beetles are often found squeezing through cracks in siding and torn window screens to gain entry into your residence, where they’ll attempt to hibernate until late the following summer or early fall. 

Where Do They Come From? 

Outer space? The graveyard? Or maybe from a Witch’s spellbook? Unfortunately, the origins of Halloween beetles aren’t as spooky as their name suggests. To answer this probing question, we’ll split it into two separate but equally important topics: Entomology and Habits. 

Entomology

Halloween beetles aren’t a native species to Pennsylvania or any part of the continental U.S. As previously mentioned, Halloween beetles are also known as the Japanese Lady Beetle or Asian Lady Beetle because they are native to areas of Japan, China, Russia, and Korea. 

Halloween beetles were intentionally brought and released in the U.S. as early as 1916. While stinkier and potentially more of a nuisance than the common ladybug, the Halloween beetle is an aggressive predator that can consume hundreds of aphids and other common agricultural pests, protecting our crops and gardens. 

Habits

This leads us to another interesting question: where do Halloween beetles come from every year? 

Halloween beetles are “overwintering” insects that hibernate through the colder months. Once the leaves have fallen and cold weather settles in PA, surviving adults seek shelter. Often, they’ll find a warm nook in your attic or walls and sleep off the cold. Once awakened, they’ll emerge from their dwellings and replenish their population. 

How Do You Get Rid of Them? 

All-in-all, Halloween beetles aren't necessarily a bad bug, though they’re commonly viewed as a nuisance pest due to their overwhelming population booms and propensity to settle in your home. If you’re suffering from a mild to severe Halloween beetle infestation, there are several easy tips and tricks to keep them at bay.

Prevent Them From Entering in the First Place 

Preventative pest control using natural methods is much more effective and safer than chemical treatments. All you need to do keep Halloween beetles out is to close off all openings. 

So seal any gaps in your siding or windows with suitable latex caulking, repair any torn window screens and replace worn garage seals. In addition, install bug-resistant mesh on all attic and crawl-space vents, and keep doors closed to prevent them from crawling or flying across your threshold. 

Suck Them Up! 

If you’re already dealing with an infestation, there are other ways to keep Halloween beetles out. 

Vacuum cleaners are an excellent way to rid your home of both live and dead beetles, but don’t just go grab the hoover and get to cleaning! Remember that Halloween beetles expel a sticky, stinky, and staining liquid when threatened, and the last thing you’ll want is a vacuum full of foul-smelling goop. 

Using a nylon stocking is one of the most effective methods of preventing Halloween beetles from traveling into the furthest depths of your vacuum while still capturing them. Insert the closed end of a nylon stocking into a vacuum cleaner nozzle attachment and secure the stocking using a rubber band, thus creating a nifty and easily disposable bag! 

Trapping 

Another method to keep out pests is to trap them. Use an ultraviolet trap to lure in and capture Halloween beetles without ever touching them! However, avoid traps that utilize an electrical charge to kill insects. These traps will turn every Halloween bug into a compact stink bomb, filling your house with an unsatisfactory scent. 

Pesticides 

If all else fails, a few EPA-approved insecticides are effective against Halloween beetles. Use them wisely, or contact your local pest professionals for a quote!        

Next time you’re reaching to pick up a seemingly harmless little ladybug, keep an eye out for the telltale “M” pattern on its head, elongated body, and pumpkin orange color, or else you might end up with a quick bite and a handful of sticky orange goop! 

Besides their unappealing behavior and fondness for the interior of your home, Halloween beetles are relatively harmless and beneficial to the environment. So leave them be when you spot them outdoors and keep an eye out for any tiny imposters during this year’s Halloween costume party!  

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by Jeff King

Bed Bugs vs. Lice: What You Need To Know

Bed bugs and lice are arguably two of the most disturbing and fright-inducing infestations.

You’ve likely heard the horror stories of bed bug-infested hotel rooms or elementary classrooms riddled with an outbreak of lice; perhaps you’ve even dealt with these pests up close and personal. In either case, you don’t need to don’t live in fear. These common pests aren’t known to spread disease and can be removed with a single treatment or some preventative pest control. 

Let’s cover the essential facts about lice and bed bugs, including their identifiers, key differences, reasons for infestations, and how to effectively rid yourself of them.

So What Exactly Are Bed Bugs? 

Bed bugs are small, brown, and wingless insects that feed off people's blood. Fortunately, they do not spread disease, but they can easily hop around from one host to another. 

Bed bugs are part of the Cimex genus. Only two species infect humans, including theCimex lectularius (common bed bug) and Cimex hemipterus (bed bugs found in tropical/subtropical environments).

You can easily identify these insects by their small, ¼” length, oval shape, flat body, and dark brown/black color, often compared aesthetically to an apple seed. They receive their colloquial name from their favorite hiding place and feeding ground: the bed. Like other insects, bed bugs only settle near their necessary resources, such as nutrients and shelter. As nocturnal bloodsuckers, what better location to feed than your mattress or box spring? 

How Did I Get Them? 

One of the most common misconceptions is that bed bugs equate to poor hygiene; however, this is far from the truth. Bed bugs won’t magically appear in a dirty bedroom or unwashed bedding. Rather, they’ll stow away in infected luggage, contaminated clothing, or used beds/furniture. 

While there are many bed bug signs, bed bug shells around furniture may be the biggest. 

Additionally, bed bugs are common in areas with a high population density, such as apartment buildings, packed cities, or hotels. Once settled into the crevices of your mattress, these insects quickly begin their routine of nightly feeding and daily hiding. 

Why Are There So Many? 

Bed bugs are highly elusive pests found nearly anywhere in your home. Unfortunately for you, this often allows infestations to go undetected for extended periods of time, especially when coupled with their nocturnal cycle. As a result, by the time you’ve seen your first bed bug or noted your first bite, these insects have likely had time to reproduce and multiply into a sizable infestation. 

How Do I Get Rid of Them?

Bed bug infestations can be an overwhelming hassle to get rid of; in most cases, it’s best to leave the job to a qualified professional. If you catch an infestation early, however, you can attempt these bed bug home remedies to eliminate an active infestation. 

1. Identify the Affected Zones

The first step in treating an infestation is to assess the extent of the infestation, including all areas the bed bugs inhabit. When conducting your initial search, be as thorough as possible to reduce the risk of subsequent infestations. Common areas to inspect, include:

• Curtain folds
• Switch plates
• Bed frames and posts
• Mattress folds and tags
• Box springs
• Luggage
• Surrounding furniture
• Dressers and clothing
• Behind posters, pictures, and other hanging decor

2. Containment

Once you’ve located the infestation, it’s time for containment. Using a vacuum, thoroughly go over common hiding places to trap any bed bugs. 

After capturing the bugs, dispose of them in a tightly sealed bag or container in an exterior trash receptacle. Any infested clothes or bedding should either be sealed in bags for upwards of 3 months or immediately washed and dried at high temperatures to kill all eggs and live bugs. Infested furniture should be cleaned thoroughly; if thorough cleaning cannot be performed, the items should be disposed of accordingly. 

3. Treatment

To begin the treatment step, first prep the infested rooms. Next, clean any clutter from the floor and surrounding areas, fill gaps and cracks in walls and bed posts with caulk, and glue down loose wallpaper.

To treat without insecticides, use high heat or extreme cold on smaller items, and install a bug-proof bed cover to trap remaining bed bugs and prevent their return. If all else fails, attempt the use any of the following EPA-approved insecticides: 

• Desiccants
• Foggers/bug bombs
• Pyrethrins
• Pyrroles
• Neonicotinoids
• Plant-based products

Remember that bed bugs are tough and resilient; single treatments may not be effective, so continue treating until you’ve seen no new activity for at least a week. Then, if all else fails, contact your local pest experts. 

What’s the Difference Between Bed Bugs and Lice? 

While both bed bugs and lice are parasitic insects, they’re entirely different in their behavior, appearance, and how they spread. 

Lice are approximately the size of a sesame seed and live on your body rather than near it. Therefore, they require shelter like most pests, although they use your body hair or clothing as cover. These pests come in various subspecies, including head lice, body lice, and pubic lice, all affecting the associated areas from which their names are derived. 

Further, lice have a rather short life cycle (approx 30 days), yet reproduce rapidly, allowing infestations to drastically increase in size and severity in a matter of weeks. 

Unlike bed bugs, which can live for months without a host, lice typically die within 1-2 days without feeding. This makes transmission through clothing, carpet, or furniture extremely rare; their primary mode of transmission is direct contact with an infected person.

How to Get Rid of Lice  

It’s important to note that lice are typically not deemed a pest control issue due to the nature of their infestations. Instead, lice are a health concern that a qualified medical professional traditionally handles. 

Treatment for lice infestations often consists of physical removal using lice combs or related tools and treating insecticide shampoos, body washes, oral medications, and topical treatments to eradicate all active infestations and eggs. 

While both bed bugs and lice are common nuisance pests, they don’t pose a permanent threat to you or your home. Neither is known to harbor or transmit diseases, making them relatively harmless besides the physical discomfort of their associated bites. 

In either case, professional help is recommended to ensure that infestations are effectively eradicated. Contact us below if you need a trusted pest expert team. 

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by Jeff King