Monday, February 02, 2026 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
Groundhog Day rolls around as we head into February, bringing with it a beloved tradition focused on a cute little critter popping out of its burrow to predict how much winter we have left. While most of us enjoy watching Punxsutawney Phil search for his shadow every February 2nd, there are other underground dwellers that aren’t nearly as charming. Some pests that live below the surface can signal far bigger problems than six more weeks of cold weather if they start showing up around your home. One such pest is the rover ant—an invasive ant species that’s still fairly new to the U.S., but has already proven it knows how to make itself noticed.
Large view of the tiny Rover Ant
What do Rover Ants Look Like?
Rover ants are an especially tiny species, with worker ants measuring just about 1/16 of an inch long—roughly half the length of a sesame seed. The workers are monomorphic, meaning they’re all similar in size, although their coloration can vary widely from pale yellow to dark brown or even black. Another distinguishing feature is their relatively simple antennae, which have only nine segments and lack the club seen on many other ant species. Their thorax is also uneven, with the front portion rising into a noticeable hump, giving it a camel-like appearance.
Winged rover ant reproductives are nearly twice the size of the workers and are about the same size as a termite swarmer. To make matters more confusing, rover ants and termites often favor similar environments when establishing their colonies. Because of this overlap, it’s crucial to understand the differences between ants and termites so you’re not left feeling stressed every time a winged insect shows up indoors. We cover this in more detail in articles like “Termites vs. Carpenter Ants” and “Termite 101.” And if you spot winged pests around your home, don’t wait—call The Bug Dude at 800-310-BUGS (2847) for a professional identification and prompt treatment before the issue escalates, no matter which pest you’re dealing with.
Where do Rover Ants Live?
Rover ants can be found both inside and outside the home, with a strong preference for urban environments where moisture and sugary food sources are easy to come by. Outdoors, their colonies often set up in damp soil, mulch, leaf litter, and trash piles, and they’ve even been known to nest beneath a home’s concrete slab. Indoors, rover ants are most commonly spotted in kitchens and bathrooms, but their nests may be hidden in water-damaged wood, cinder blocks, potted plants, electrical outlets, light fixtures, or tucked away inside wall voids.
An individual rover ant colony is relatively small, typically made up of a few hundred to a few thousand ants. That said, if conditions are favorable, multiple colonies can exist in the same home or yard at the same time. This is a big reason rover ants have earned a reputation for being especially difficult to control—eliminating the problem often means locating and treating several colonies, not just one. The good news is that the experienced technicians at TheBugDude.com are well-versed in dealing with rover ant infestations and use proven methods to quickly and effectively eliminate these pests from your home.
Within the United States, rover ants are predominantly found in the Gulf states, though their reach into the rest of the contiguous states is constantly expanding. These tiny ants have a distinct advantage in their spread in that they can successfully live in close proximity to other ants, including fire ants, tawny crazy ants, and Argentine ants. They even have a protection against fire ant venom: they can blanket themselves in a protective layer of formic acid.
Peach tree completely infested with aphids. Aphid attacks can lead to death of the peach tree.
What do Rover Ants Eat?
In the U.S., rover ants are most commonly found throughout the Gulf states, but their range continues to expand into other parts of the contiguous United States. One reason these ants spread so effectively is their ability to live near—and even alongside—other aggressive ant species such as fire ants, tawny crazy ants, and Argentine ants. They’re even equipped with a defense against fire ant venom, as rover ants can coat themselves in a protective layer of formic acid, giving them a unique survival advantage.
Are Rover Ants Dangerous?
Thankfully, rover ants are mostly harmless, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be incredibly annoying once they make their way into a home or workplace. They don’t sting or bite, posing no direct threat to people or pets, and unlike carpenter ants, they don’t damage wood or compromise structures. The real problem comes from their tendency to form multiple colonies, which makes them notoriously hard to eliminate. Once they gain a foothold indoors, rover ants can linger for a long time without professional intervention—making a call to The Bug Dude at 817-354-5350 a smart move sooner rather than later. Outdoors, they can be just as frustrating, especially around water. Their attraction to moisture often leads them into swimming pools, turning what should be a relaxing summer swim into extra time spent skimming and cleaning instead.
While the risk is not considered extreme, rover ants can pose a health concern if they invade sterile environments or healthcare settings. Like many ants, they are capable of carrying and spreading certain types of bacteria, including E. coli, which makes their presence in medical or sensitive facilities especially problematic and something that should be addressed quickly.
How do you Prevent Rover Ants?
Effective rover ant prevention requires a two-pronged approach: removing excess moisture and cutting off access to food sources. Taking both steps together gives you the best chance of keeping these pests at bay. Here are several practical ways to reduce your risk of an infestation:
Avoid DIY treatments. At the first sign of rover ants, call The Bug Dude at 800-310-BUGS (2847) so trained professionals can apply the proper products. Over-the-counter treatments are often ineffective and may even reduce the success of professional control.
Replace any water-damaged wood in or around your home.
Remove yard debris such as leaf litter, mulch buildup, and grass clippings.
Repair known plumbing leaks and thoroughly dry any affected areas.
Watch for aphid or scale infestations on plants and have them treated promptly.
Trim trees and shrubs so they don’t touch your roof or exterior walls.
Keep gutters clean and free-flowing.
Maintain a clean kitchen and limit access to sweets by storing fruit in the refrigerator and keeping sugary foods covered.
Enroll in a regular pest control service plan with The Bug Dude to help keep your home consistently pest-free.
How do you Eliminate Rover Ants?
Rover ants have earned a reputation for being especially challenging to control over the long term. If you’re dealing with an ant problem and suspect these tiny invaders may be the cause, call The Bug Dude at 817-354-5350. Our knowledgeable technicians can accurately identify the ant species in your home and, even when it comes to stubborn rover ants, apply the most effective treatment strategy to eliminate the issue—so you can get back to life as usual, whether winter sticks around for six more weeks or not.
Thursday, January 01, 2026 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
Christmas has wrapped up and a brand-new year is underway. For many households, the kitchen has been a hub of nonstop action over the last month and a half, filled with baking, snacking, and festive food prep. From pecan pies and sugar cookies to gingerbread houses, Chex mix, and cracker trays, holiday treats tend to pile up quickly. And with generosity at the heart of the season, it’s common for pantries and refrigerators to remain stocked with leftovers long after the decorations come down—and well beyond the launch of New Year’s resolutions. While most goodies will eventually be eaten or tossed, leftover baking ingredients often stick around, slowly getting shoved to the back of shelves and forgotten. Unfortunately, forgotten doesn’t mean harmless. Those idle bags of flour and grains can become the perfect invitation for flour beetles to settle in, quietly multiplying until your fresh start to the year turns into an unexpected pantry problem.
What do Flour Beetles Look Like?
In the United States, flour beetle infestations typically involve one of two species: the red flour beetle or the confused flour beetle. These insects are nearly indistinguishable from one another, sharing the same appearance, habits, preferred environments, food sources, and control strategies. In fact, the confused flour beetle earned its name because it was originally misidentified as the red flour beetle. Adult flour beetles measure roughly 1/8 to 1/4 inch long and have flat, oval bodies with a reddish-brown color, clubbed antennae, and wings—although only red flour beetles are capable of flight. Their eggs are extremely small, white, and cylindrical, coated with a sticky substance that allows them to cling to food materials. Females lay eggs in small clusters of two or three and may produce up to 1,000 eggs over their lifetime. After hatching within 5 to 12 days, tiny yellowish-white larvae emerge and feed for about 27 to 29 days before entering the pupal stage. Pupae resemble the larvae but are paler in color and last just 3 to 7 days before becoming adults. Once mature, flour beetles can survive for as long as three years.
Where do Flour Beetles Live?
Flour beetles are found worldwide, and while both species occur across much of the United States, their ranges tend to follow a general pattern. Red flour beetles are more commonly found in southern states, while confused flour beetles are typically seen in northern regions. These insects are mainly indoor pests, choosing to live close to their food supply. They are most often discovered inside stored food products or tucked away in cracks and crevices of pantries, cabinets, shelves, and baseboards, where they can remain hidden while continuing to spread.
What do Flour Beetles Eat?
Both adult and larval flour beetles feed on stored foods, with a strong preference for milled or processed products. They are commonly found in items such as flour, cornmeal, grains and cereals, shelled nuts, spices, chocolate and cacao, dried beans, peas, peppers, vegetables, and fruits, as well as dry pet food, birdseed, powdered milk, dried flowers, animal hides, and even museum specimens or certain medications. While flour beetles cannot eat whole, undamaged grains or unshelled nuts, they require very little to survive. In fact, they can live on tiny amounts of food, including the fine grain dust that naturally collects inside packaging as products rub together over time.
Are Flour Beetles Dangerous?
Despite how quickly flour beetle populations can grow, it’s a relief that they don’t pose a direct health threat to people or pets. They don’t bite or sting, aren’t poisonous, and aren’t known to spread disease. That said, their presence in stored foods is still a serious problem. Once beetles move in, food quickly becomes unsafe to eat and often has to be discarded, leading to unnecessary expense and waste. Beyond the obvious unpleasantness of finding beetles, eggs, larvae, or pupae in your pantry, these pests contaminate food as they live and feed in it. Infested products are often riddled with dead insects, fecal matter, and secretions, which can cause the food to develop a strong odor, turn grayish in color, and even promote mold growth when populations are high. Any food found to be infested should be discarded right away.
How do you Prevent Flour Beetles?
In most cases, a flour beetle infestation starts when the pests are unknowingly brought home from the store. Because of this, careful inspection is the single most important step in prevention. Before purchasing or bringing susceptible items into your home, take a moment to closely examine the packaging—especially products like flour, grains, cereals, and other dry goods. Avoid buying anything that shows signs of damage, such as leaking powder, holes, tears, chew marks, or cuts in cardboard or plastic packaging. These warning signs often indicate contamination, and bringing even one compromised item home can be enough to introduce flour beetles into your pantry.
Once you’re home, transfer all dry food items—including pet food—into tightly sealed glass or sturdy plastic containers. This not only helps keep pests out but also makes it easier to spot problems early. Make a habit of regularly checking your pantry and discarding foods that are expired or haven’t been used in a while. Extra care should be taken when buying in bulk; only purchase quantities you know you’ll use in a reasonable amount of time. Otherwise, those forgotten bags and boxes can end up sitting on shelves and becoming an ideal breeding ground for pantry pests.
Good sanitation is another key factor in keeping flour beetles out of your home. Regularly sweep or vacuum and wipe down areas where food is stored or prepared to remove crumbs and food dust that can attract pests. Any spills should be cleaned up right away before they become a food source. If possible, sealing cracks and crevices in pantry shelves with caulk can make cleaning easier and reduce the places where crumbs can hide, helping to eliminate potential harborage areas for beetles.
Finally, at the first hint of a pest issue, don’t wait for it to get worse. Call The Bug Dude at 800-310-BUGS (2847) and have a trained technician inspect the situation and provide targeted treatment. Addressing the problem early can save time, money, and frustration—stopping a minor concern before it turns into a full-blown infestation.
How do you Eliminate Flour Beetles?
Once flour beetles have been confirmed in your home, taking fast action is critical to keep the problem from spiraling out of control. Left unchecked, a small issue can quickly turn into thousands of pests and a growing pile of wasted food. At the first sign of trouble, contact The Bug Dude at 800-310-BUGS (2847) to schedule treatment for the affected areas. A Bug Dude technician can also help identify additional hiding spots that may be contributing to the problem. After the source of the infestation has been located and removed, thoroughly clean the impacted space—whether that’s a single cabinet, the pantry, or the entire kitchen. Be diligent: sweep or vacuum, remove and clean beneath shelf liners, wash and fully dry shelves, and pay close attention to cracks and crevices where beetles or food debris may remain.
This year, as you embrace the mantra of “out with the old and in with the new” for 2026, don’t overlook your kitchen and pantry. Taking the time to clean, organize, and inspect these spaces can help ensure the new year starts off on the right foot—prosperous, organized, and free from unwanted pests.
Saturday, November 01, 2025 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
A crisp autumn breeze stirs the falling leaves as soft white clouds drift lazily across a clear blue sky. Jack-o’-lanterns and skeletons have disappeared from lawns, replaced by corn stalks, turkeys, and cozy decorations inviting loved ones to gather and give thanks. Family recipes are being dusted off in preparation for Thanksgiving feasts, while those already dreaming of a white Christmas begin stringing lights along rooftops and eaves. Yet, amid the peaceful charm of the season, an unwelcome danger may be hiding nearby—ready to turn joyful holiday decorating into a painful trip to the emergency room: paper wasps. Though less infamous than hornets, their sting delivers a serious sting, and they prefer to build their nests right where you’re about to hang those twinkling lights. Decorating with family and friends should be a cherished moment, but encountering a swarm of irritated wasps while perched on a ladder is anything but festive. So before diving into the most wonderful time of the year, read on to discover what might be lurking on your rooftop (spoiler: it’s not Santa or his reindeer) and how to ensure your holiday season stays safe, bright, and joyful.
Paper wasp guards nest with rust in background
What do Paper Wasps Look Like? Texas is home to several species of paper wasps, each with subtle variations in appearance. Typically measuring between three-quarters of an inch to an inch long, these insects have slender bodies with narrow waists. Their coloring ranges from brown with yellow markings—resembling yellow jackets—to a more uniform reddish-brown hue. They sport smoky black wings and are easily recognized in flight by their distinctive posture, with their long back legs dangling beneath them as they glide through the air.
Why are they called Paper Wasps? Though most often referred to as paper wasps, these insects have another fitting nickname: umbrella wasps. Both names stem from their distinctive nests—one describing the material they’re made from, the other their unique shape. Paper wasps build their nests using wood fibers scraped from fences, posts, and plant stems, which they chew into a papery pulp. This pulp is shaped into a single layer of downward-facing hexagonal cells, suspended by a thin stalk, creating the look of an upside-down umbrella. Despite being crafted from wood fibers, these nests are remarkably waterproof. The secret lies in the wasps’ saliva, which, when mixed with the fibers, acts as an exceptional waterproofing agent—so effective that it has even been studied as a model for developing synthetic waterproofing materials.
Where do Paper Wasps Live? A single paper wasp nest typically houses between 20 and 75 adult wasps. These nests are most often found on or near man-made structures such as homes, garages, sheds, porches, or barns, usually in well-protected spots like beneath eaves, decks, or railings, or attached to ceilings, window frames, door frames, or even inside attics. When not built on buildings, they’re commonly seen hanging from shrubs or tree branches. While paper wasps are usually active outdoors, this changes in late fall when fertilized queens search for sheltered places to hibernate through the winter. During this time, you may notice increased wasp activity, especially high above the ground near treetops or towers, as males and reproductive females mate. Once fertilized, the new queens seek refuge in elevated, protected areas such as attics or chimneys—and in doing so, they sometimes find their way indoors, occasionally in small groups, in search of warmth and safety.
What do Paper Wasps Eat? Although adult paper wasps primarily feed on sugars from sources like ripe fruit, plant nectar, and honeydew (a sweet substance produced by aphids), they are also skilled predators of other insects, including caterpillars, beetle larvae, flies, and spiders. These captured prey are chewed up and fed to the developing larvae, which grow within individual cells over the course of about six weeks. Once mature, each cell is sealed, and the larvae pupate before emerging as adults—either joining the existing colony as non-reproductive female workers or venturing out as reproductive males and females to establish new colonies.
Are Paper Wasps Dangerous? Paper wasps belong to a small but notable group of stinging wasps that can pose real danger to humans. While thousands of wasp species are capable of stinging, most are either unlikely to attack people or lack venom potent enough to cause serious reactions. Paper wasps, however, are members of the Vespidae family—alongside hornets and yellow jackets—a group of highly social insects known for aggressively defending their colonies. Their stingers serve mainly as defensive weapons, delivering venom made up of more than 30 different compounds, any of which can trigger allergic reactions in humans. A sting from a paper wasp is intensely painful and usually causes localized swelling, but in some cases, it can lead to severe or even fatal reactions. In the United States, insect stings account for roughly 40 to 100 deaths each year, often due to rapid-onset anaphylaxis occurring within minutes. This serious risk underscores the importance of contacting The Bug Dude at the first sign of a wasp problem—allowing trained professionals to handle the infestation safely and protect your family from harm.
Point of Interest: Only female wasps and bees are capable of stinging. This is because the stinger is actually a modified ovipositor—an egg-laying organ that males simply don’t have.
How do you Prevent Paper Wasps? Although paper wasps rarely reuse the same nest from one year to the next, once they find a successful nesting spot, they tend to return to that location each spring to build new nests. This predictable behavior makes prevention especially important—without it, you could find yourself dealing with repeated infestations year after year.
Because wasps can fly and are small enough to conceal themselves in countless places around your home, it’s impossible to completely prevent them. However, these steps can help make your property less appealing to these unwelcome guests:
Inspect regularly: Check hidden or sheltered areas—such as eaves, porch ceilings, and rafters—for early signs of nest building. If you find a nest, contact The Bug Dude at 800-310-BUGS (2847) right away to have it safely removed.
Schedule routine pest control: Maintaining regular service with The Bug Dude helps reduce other insects around your property, limiting food sources for wasp larvae.
Repair and reinforce problem areas: If a nest appears in or on your home, make the spot less inviting by sealing cracks or openings, repairing window screens, or adding a fresh coat of paint or varnish to deter nest attachment.
Trim vegetation: Keep bushes, trees, and shrubs near your home neatly trimmed and properly thinned to reduce potential nesting sites.
Eliminate sugary temptations: Promptly clean up spilled drinks, open soda cans, or fallen fruit that can attract adult wasps.
By following these precautions, you can significantly lower the risk of wasps taking up residence around your home and keep your property safer year-round.
How do you Eliminate Paper Wasps? Paper wasps are not pests to take lightly. When their nest is threatened, they attack in large numbers—and since each wasp can sting repeatedly, the results can be extremely painful and, in severe cases, even life-threatening. That’s why the technicians at Mid-Cities Pest Control are highly trained in the safe and effective removal of wasp nests. Armed with the proper knowledge, products, and equipment, the professionals at The Bug Dude can swiftly eliminate any wasp problem and help you get back to enjoying your holiday preparations. At the first sign of a wasp issue, call The Bug Dude at 817-354-5350 and let our experts take one worry off your holiday to-do list—leaving you free to focus on that extra helping of turkey.
Further Reading:
“Paper Wasps, Yellowjackets and Solitary Wasps” – Glen C. Moore and Mike E. Merchant, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension “Paper Wasps” – Eric P. Benson, Extension Entomologist/Associate Professor and Patricia A. Zungoli, Extension Entomologist/ Professor, Department of Entomology, Soils, and Plant Sciences, Clemson University. “Paper Wasps, Yellowjackets and Other Stinging Wasps” – Hal C. Reed, Richard Grantham, Russell Wright – Oklahoma State University Extension
Wednesday, October 01, 2025 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
A cold wind moans past your open window, rattling the blinds and scattering leaves down the deserted street. You shiver, tug your sleeves tighter, and move to shut out the chill. But before you can, a sudden crash echoes through the night—and a dark blur darts across your yard. The wind stills, and the world goes silent. Peering through the glass, you scan the dim glow of a single streetlight, its weak amber halo swallowed by the surrounding shadows. Then—rustling. The bushes below your window tremble. Heart pounding, you slam the window shut and bolt it tight, hoping whatever’s out there stays out.
With the window locked tight, the chill slowly lifts from the room, though a lingering shiver continues to dance across your skin. Convinced it’s just the patio door still standing open, you make your way through the quiet house. The faint rustle of the evening air grows louder as you near the screen door. Your fingers barely brush the handle when a sudden sense of something close—just beyond the mesh—makes your breath catch. You slam the door shut and twist the latch, the metallic click loud in the stillness. When you flip on the porch light, it floods the yard in pale gold, just in time to glimpse what looks like a small hand slipping back from the garden gate as it creaks slowly in the breeze.
You shake your head, brushing off the unease as nothing more than exhaustion. It’s been a long day, after all. Climbing into bed, you pull the blankets close and let the warmth settle over you. The house is still—almost peaceful—until a faint scraping drift down from somewhere overhead. You hold your breath, listening, telling yourself it’s just the house settling… or at least, you hope it is.
Sleep doesn’t come easily. Shadows flicker behind your eyelids, chasing through restless dreams until you wake just before dawn. The pale gray light seeps through the curtains as you glance at your phone—no alerts, no reason to be awake. You’re about to settle back into bed when a heavy thump echoes overhead, followed by the unmistakable sound of movement. Heart pounding, you toss aside the covers and stare at the ceiling, waiting. Silence. Seconds stretch into minutes. Just when you convince yourself it was nothing, another thump lands—this time, directly above where you’re standing.
Heart hammering, you throw on a coat over your pajamas and grab a flashlight, convincing yourself it’s just something that fell onto the roof—anything but what your mind is imagining. The narrow beam of light cuts a small, weak circle through the gray predawn gloom, barely piercing the mist. Nothing seems large enough up there to make the kind of noise that woke you. As you circle toward the back of the house, you freeze. The soil glistens with what look like dozens of tiny hand-prints pressed into the damp earth. That chill you thought you’d shaken returns in full, crawling down your spine as you pull your coat tighter. You swing the flashlight toward the yard just in time to find your trash can toppled over, a bag ripped open and its contents scattered across the driveway. Each crunch and clatter underfoot makes you wince as you step carefully through the mess, the trembling beam of light stretching into the thick morning haze ahead.
Rounding the back of the house, you hear the garden gate groaning softly on its hinges. A shiver slips through you as you cast the flashlight in wide, sweeping arcs across the yard. Nothing moves. Stepping closer, you spot more of those tiny hand-prints stamped in the dirt—and the shredded remains of your garden, stalks snapped and flowers stripped bare. You push the gate closed with a sharp click just as a sudden rustling sounds above you. Spinning around, you catch sight of a dark shape shifting along the edge of the roof. Your chest tightens as the shadow seems to swell, spreading into something larger. Then it moves—quick, sure, alive—scampering across the shingles and down the side of the house.
You follow the motion, flashlight trembling in your hand, until the beam catches a flicker of gray. Slowly, the shape comes into focus: gray fur, nimble little hands, and a black mask stretched across curious eyes. A raccoon. The creature pauses, almost smug, before sauntering off into the darkness. You exhale, half laughing, half relieved, and head back inside to do the only sensible thing—call your exterminator.
Don’t let nocturnal nuisances keep you up at night!
Fast Facts About Raccoons:
Average Size: 2 to 3 feet long, weighing 7-23 lbs.
Lifespan in the Wild: 2 to 3 years
Appearance: gray fur, black mask around the eyes, black rings around the tail, pointy snout, and nimble hands
Diet: omnivorous and opportunistic
Habitat:
In the Wild: den in tree hollows and ground burrows (made by other animals) in heavily wooded areas near water and vegetation
In a Home: attics, crawlspaces, chimneys, sewers, barns, and sheds
Active Times: nocturnal with greatest activity in spring, summer and fall
Reproduction: females usually give birth to 1 to 6 kits in April or May; these babies will stay with the mother for about a year
Skills: highly dexterous and clever, they can open doors, jars, lids, latches, etc. They are also excellent climbers and swimmers.
Dangers: raccoons can carry and transmit several highly dangerous organisms:
Rabies – this virus infects the central nervous system and can be fatal
Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) – in humans this parasite can invade the eye, organs, and brain, and can cause death
Leptospirosis – without treatment this bacteria can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress, and death.
Salmonella – this bacteria can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, and can be severe enough to require hospitalization
Signs of Raccoon Damage:
Raided & tipped over trash cans
Trash strewn around a yard
Damaged/eaten gardens or crops
Torn shingles
Uncapped chimneys
Pillaged bird feeders
Tracks with front paws that look like human hands, and rear paws with five long toes
Loud noises at night from the attic, chimney, or crawlspace
Damaged insulation, shingles, and wiring
Build up of nesting materials accompanied by droppings and/or urine stains
Raccoon Removal If you suspect a raccoon is living in or around your home, it’s important to contact The Bug Dude at 1-800-310-BUGS (2847) for a professional inspection. Our experienced technicians will assess the situation, identify potential entry points, and develop a safe, effective plan to remove the animal. Using humane live traps, we’ll capture and relocate the raccoon before it can cause further damage. We can also perform exclusion work—repairing and securing access points—to help prevent future intrusions and schedule this work at the right time to ensure no animals are left inside.
Raccoon removal is best left to professionals for three key reasons.
1) Safety – raccoons can carry harmful diseases and parasites, and trained technicians know how to handle them safely.
2) Effectiveness – our team has the experience, tools, and techniques to trap and remove wildlife efficiently.
3) Humaneness – professionals understand raccoon behavior and will check for kits, ensuring that mothers and babies are removed together.
Raccoon Prevention Whether you’ve already had a raccoon issue at your home or you just want to mitigate your chances of having one in the future, here are some tips to prevent these animals from invading your space.
Regularly inspect and repair any potential entry points: broken vents, holes, uncapped chimneys, loose siding, and loose shingles
Install a mesh cover over chimneys
Store trash and pet food in sealed areas that a raccoon cannot get into (remember, they are very clever and have nimble fingers)
Remove bird feeders
Keep your yard free from debris (like leaf litter) and brush
Keep firewood away from the house, ideally 20 feet or more
This fall as Halloween approaches, don’t let raccoons make your home into a haunted house; keep the scary stories and bumps in the night relegated to the realms of movies and campfires, and call The Bug Dude @ Mid-Cities Pest control, Inc. as soon as you suspect you might have a problem. 1-800-310-BUGS (2847).
With June’s arrival in Texas, your mind likely turns—aside from the rising heat—to Father’s Day and the many enjoyable ways to honor dad. One classic option is a laid-back evening in the yard, once the sun dips low and the air becomes just cool enough for a refreshing drink and good conversation. That is, unless a few unexpected “fathers” (yes, quite literally) show up and spoil the fun.
If you’ve ever spent a summer evening outdoors in Texas, especially near a porch light, chances are you’ve crossed paths with the bumbling June bug. These medium-sized beetles are well-known for swarming around lights during early summer nights, often crashing into windows—or people—with their erratic flight patterns. While no one’s entirely sure why they’re so drawn to light, research shows that most of the ones flitting around your fixtures are male. And since June marks peak mating season, there’s a good chance these uninvited guests are literally fathers. So, how do you keep these “dads” from spoiling your own Father’s Day plans? Keep reading to learn more about these pests—and then call The Bug Dude at 800-310-BUGS (2847) to make sure your celebration stays bug-free.
What do June Bugs Look Like? June bugs are reddish-brown beetles measuring about 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch long. They feature glossy wing covers—known as elytra—that create a hard shell when not in flight, along with three pairs of legs that are notably sticky, helping them cling to a wide range of surfaces. As larvae, they appear as white grubs up to an inch long, curled into a “C” shape, with cream-colored bodies and brown heads. While adult June bugs are the ones you’ll most often notice buzzing around your yard, it’s actually the larval stage that causes the most damage.
Why are they Called “June Bugs”? The names “June bug,” “May beetle” (another common label), and “white grub” (referring to the larval stage) are broad terms used for more than 100 species of scarab beetles found across Texas. Some species, like Phyllophaga crinita, are more commonly encountered than others. These insects earn their seasonal nickname due to the noticeable increase in adult activity during late spring and early summer. Adults begin emerging from the soil in spring, with peak activity typically hitting in mid to late June. During this period, mating occurs, and females lay between 75 to 100 eggs about 2 to 5 inches below the soil’s surface, while males often continue circling lights. Within 3 to 4 weeks, the eggs hatch into small white grubs, which will spend the next 1 to 2 years underground developing through multiple stages before finally surfacing as adults.
Where do June Bugs Live? June bugs are found across the United States, and as adults, they’re nocturnal feeders that are naturally drawn to light—making them hard to avoid around your home. By day, you might spot them clinging to window screens, resting on porches, or near outdoor lights, though many you encounter in daylight are often already dead. In their grub stage, they live 3 to 6 inches below the surface of the soil and are especially common in Texas lawns. Bermudagrass and St. Augustine grass are frequent targets, making these turf types particularly vulnerable.
What do June Bugs Eat? June bugs feed on vegetation during both their adult and larval stages. As adults, they have a strong appetite for leaves and will munch on grass, flowers, fruits, and various food crops. While adult feeding can lead to visible damage in your yard, the most serious harm comes during the larval stage. White grubs consume the roots of grasses, weeds, garden vegetables, crops, and ornamental plants—causing extensive underground damage that often goes unnoticed until the plants begin to suffer.
Are June Bugs Dangerous? Throughout their life cycle, June bugs pose no threat to humans or pets, but adult beetles can become a real annoyance—especially during outdoor evenings. Your lawn, on the other hand, isn’t so lucky. In the larval stage, these pests can cause serious damage to turf and plants. When white grub populations exceed five per square foot, they can devastate grass and roots. If you notice your lawn turning yellow or brown in patches during spring or fall—and the turf can be lifted like a piece of carpet—that’s a clear sign grubs have taken hold beneath the surface.
White grubs also happen to be a favorite snack for a variety of animals, and when grub populations are high, your yard can quickly become a feeding ground for pests like skunks, raccoons, armadillos, and moles. These critters will tear up your lawn as they dig for grubs and may become a problem themselves if they decide to stick around. Curious about how to handle these nuisance animals? Check out our articles on raccoons, armadillos, and moles for more information.
Green grass is growing in the sand during the rainy season, allowing water to nourish the green grass in the sand that is used to build country roads.
How do you Eliminate June Bugs? When it comes to getting rid of June bugs, the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be more accurate. The most effective way to stop a June bug problem isn’t by targeting the adults—it’s by eliminating them at the source: their larvae. Controlling white grub populations is key to preventing the growth of a full-blown infestation and protecting your lawn from serious damage. Alongside expert help from The Bug Dude, maintaining a healthy, resilient yard is a crucial defense. Here are a few tips to help keep white grubs from settling in your lawn:
Overseed thinning patches of turf to promote dense, healthy grass growth
Dethatch your lawn regularly to reduce buildup that can shelter grubs
Ensure proper irrigation and fertilization to keep grass strong and resilient
Aerate your soil routinely to improve root development and discourage grubs
Avoid mowing your lawn too short during summer, as longer grass offers better protection
If you’re noticing signs of white grub damage in your lawn—or spotting the grubs themselves—or if adult June bugs are swarming around your home in large numbers, don’t wait. Call The Bug Dude right away at 800-310-BUGS (2847), and let one of our experienced professionals assess the situation and provide the right solution.
Spring has arrived in North Texas, ushering in its familiar mix of heavy rains and rising temperatures. Gardens are thriving, and fresh greenery is bursting forth just as May kicks off and Mother’s Day approaches. It’s a wonderful season to appreciate the outdoors and give mom a well-deserved break in her beautifully kept yard. Unfortunately, all that rain and early lawn watering—meant to get ahead of the brutal Texas summer—also creates perfect conditions for pests. One moisture-loving intruder to watch out for is the springtail, a tiny insect known not only for its distinctive jumping ability but also for the overwhelming numbers it can bring into homes, putting a damper on any Mother’s Day peace.
Amanita vittadinii mushroom gills with springtails insect, Collembola
What do Springtails Look Like? Springtails are among the tiniest insects you’re likely to come across in your home or garden, measuring only about 1mm in length. These nearly microscopic pests have soft bodies and mid-length antennae, making them hard to spot without close inspection. Though their shapes and colors can vary widely—from slender to stout and black to white, yellow, green, or red—most appear to the naked eye as tiny gray flecks. Springtails don’t have wings and can’t fly, but they’re known for their signature jump, made possible by a tail-like structure called a furcula. Tucked beneath their body, the furcula acts like a spring-loaded lever, flinging the insect several inches into the air. This sudden movement often leads people to mistake them for fleas, though fleas are typically larger. Because of this common confusion, it’s essential to call 1-800-310-BUGS (2847) for The Bug Dude at the first sign of an infestation—ensuring you get the correct diagnosis and treatment plan without wasting time or resources on ineffective solutions.
Where do Springtails Live? These minuscule insects are incredibly resilient and can be found all across the United States—even in frigid regions. In fact, their ability to remain active during the winter months has earned them the nickname “snow fleas,” thanks to sightings of them scurrying across snowy surfaces. More commonly, though, they inhabit dark, damp environments such as moist soil, rotting wood, and even swimming pools. When they end up in pools, their numbers can be staggering—sometimes forming a floating layer that looks like a film of dust, with many still alive and kicking. Springtails are primarily outdoor pests, and their populations can skyrocket into the millions within a single yard. While that number might sound alarming, their tiny size keeps them hidden—at least until they decide to migrate in large groups toward your home.
When springtail populations explode or outdoor conditions turn harsh—especially when it’s hot and dry—they begin searching for new, more hospitable environments. This often results in waves of springtails swarming the exterior of your home and slipping inside through tiny openings around windows, doors, or brickwork. Seemingly overnight, you can go from a pest-free space to one invaded by hundreds—or even thousands—of these tiny, bouncing intruders. Once indoors, springtails gravitate toward humid, damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, or the soil in potted plants. Spotting them inside is often a red flag indicating a moisture issue in your yard, home, or both. At the first sign, reach out to the experts at TheBugDude.com for help identifying and eliminating the root of your springtail infestation.
What do Springtails Eat? Springtails are part of an ancient group of insects known as Collembola and differ from most other insects by having internal chewing structures rather than visible mouthparts. They also have a tubular organ beneath their abdomen that helps them absorb moisture. Their diet mainly includes algae, decaying plant material, bacteria, and fungi. In moderate numbers, they can actually be beneficial by supporting natural decomposition in soil. But when their population booms, they quickly shift from helpful to harmful, becoming a serious nuisance—and even posing a threat to delicate, young plants.
Shady corner of a garden with containers full of colorful flowers
Are Springtails Dangerous? Considering how massive their populations can grow in a single yard; it’s a relief that springtails are generally harmless. They don’t bite, sting, or cause any structural damage to homes. Their biggest drawback—aside from the unsettling experience of witnessing swarms of tiny, leaping insects—is the potential harm they can inflict on young or fragile plants, leading to stunted growth and visible damage. That’s why it’s especially important to manage their numbers in the spring, when new plant life is emerging and gardens are starting to flourish.
Modern sprinkler working on grass irrigation. Multiple sprinkler system watering the fresh lawn
How do you Prevent Springtails? When it comes to keeping springtails at bay, the key is identifying and eliminating sources of excess moisture and humidity in both your home and yard.
Indoors:
Inspect houseplant soil for signs of overwatering, and let overly damp soil dry out fully before watering again.
Seal any cracks or gaps along the exterior of your home to block potential entry points.
Ensure door sweeps and window weatherstripping are intact and functioning properly.
Examine areas around plumbing for moisture buildup or fungal growth, and repair and treat as needed.
Look for signs of water damage or dampness along interior walls.
Outdoors:
Check that gutters are clean and functioning, and confirm that downspouts divert water away from your home’s foundation.
Monitor low-lying areas of your yard for pooling water or persistently soggy soil.
Modify landscaping to prevent water from draining toward your foundation.
Minimize mulch buildup near the foundation, as it can trap moisture.
Avoid overwatering your lawn—give it time to dry thoroughly between waterings.
Adjust sprinkler systems so they don’t spray directly onto the house or foundation areas.
How do you Eliminate Springtail Infestations? Whenever you notice an unusual number of insects in or around your home, your first step should be to call The Bug Dude at 1-800-310-BUGS. Having a professional identify the pest is crucial, as each type of insect requires a unique treatment approach. The Bug Dude’s skilled technicians can quickly pinpoint the issue, trace its source, and apply the right solutions to remove the unwelcome visitors. This is especially important with springtails, which can multiply rapidly and are often mistaken for other tiny insects that require entirely different treatments. Don’t let springtails disrupt the calm—this Mother’s Day, give mom the gift of peace and relaxation by calling The Bug Dude at the first sign of an infestation.
Further Reading:
“Springtails” -Michael Merchant, Ph.D., Professor and Extension Urban Entomologist, Texas AgriLife Extension Service – Insects in the City – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension “Springtail” – Field Guide to Common Texas Insects – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension “Springtails” – Michael Merchant & Mark Muegge – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension “Springtails 101” – PestWorld.org – National Pest Management Association “Springtails In Your Home Could Mean You Have A Moisture Problem” – By Laura Rice, Written By Shelly Brisbin – Texas Standard
Saturday, March 01, 2025 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
March in Texas carries a deep significance—not just because of the warmer temperatures, longer days, and blooming bluebonnets—but also because it marks a key moment in Texas history: the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence. On March 2, 1836, sixty delegates from Texas’ revolutionary government gathered at Washington-on-the-Brazos to officially break ties with Mexico. At the same time, nearly 170 miles away, the Battle of the Alamo was raging, having begun on February 23 and ending in tragedy on March 6. Just six weeks after the declaration, General Sam Houston led Texan forces to a pivotal victory, securing the young republic’s independence. Texas remained a sovereign nation for nine years before joining the United States in 1845.
All across Texas, folks will mark Texas Independence Day with the full flavor of Lone Star pride—Shiner beer, smoky barbecue, rodeos, country tunes, and that unmistakable Texas charm and grit. In the spirit of the celebration, we’re turning our attention to a creature so deeply tied to Texas identity that it appears on countless souvenirs and holds the title of the official small mammal of the state: the nine-banded armadillo. While many Texans hold this quirky animal in high regard as a state icon, it still manages to cause headaches for homeowners from one end of Texas to the other.
What do Armadillos Look Like? While there are roughly 20 different species of armadillos in the world, only one makes its home in the United States: the nine-banded armadillo. About the size of a house cat or a small dog, these animals typically weigh between 8 and 17 pounds. Their bodies stretch around 16 inches long, with tails nearly equal in length and short, sturdy legs. The armadillo’s tough, bony shell—leaving only the belly exposed—serves as natural armor against predators. The “nine-banded” name refers to the number of flexible bands across their midsection, usually around nine, though the actual count can vary from seven to eleven. Despite a common misconception, these armadillos cannot curl into a perfect ball when threatened; only two three-banded species have that ability. They also come equipped with strong claws, ideally suited for digging.
Nine-banded armadillos are primarily nocturnal and, because they have very little hair, they aren’t great at regulating their body temperature. As a result, they’re most active on warm summer nights or during milder afternoons and evenings in the winter. Starting in March, sightings typically increase, as this is the time of year when armadillos begin to give birth. Interestingly, female nine-banded armadillos almost always produce four genetically identical offspring—quadruplets that arrive with eyes open and bodies fully formed, though their protective armor is still soft at birth.
What do Armadillos Eat? Nine-banded armadillos primarily feed on invertebrates such as grubs, beetles, cockroaches, wasps, fire ants, spiders, and scorpions. When necessary, they’ll also eat small reptiles and amphibians, bird eggs, fruits, seeds, fungi, and other types of plant material. They rely heavily on their keen sense of smell to locate prey just beneath the surface, then use their strong claws to dig and their sticky tongues to snatch up their finds. While this foraging strategy is effective for the armadillo, it’s bad news for homeowners—these animals can quickly tear up lawns and gardens, leaving behind numerous holes and causing costly damage to landscaping.
Are Armadillos Dangerous? If you’re wondering whether armadillos pose a threat to people or pets, the short answer is “not really.” They aren’t known to bite or act aggressively—though they are capable of using their claws to defend themselves if absolutely necessary. More often than not, when startled, they won’t fight at all. Instead, they’ll jump straight into the air—an instinctive reaction meant to spook a potential predator and buy time to make a quick escape. Despite having more teeth than any other mammal, their nature is decidedly defensive. So, does that mean they’re harmless? Unfortunately, not entirely.
The most significant risk associated with armadillos is their unique ability—shared only with humans—to contract and carry leprosy. While the chances of transmission to people are very low, it is still possible for the disease to be passed from an infected armadillo to a human.
But leprosy isn’t the only concern. Armadillos frequently dig to create burrows for shelter, and if they choose spots beneath decks, foundations, sidewalks, or other structures, they can compromise the stability of those areas. This kind of damage can lead to expensive repairs and potentially hazardous conditions around your home.
Another issue is what happens after the armadillo moves out. Their empty burrows often attract other unwelcome guests—such as snakes, opossums, rats, and skunks—all of which can bring their own set of problems when it comes to pest control and safety.
How do you Prevent Armadillos from Getting in your Yard? Unlike many other pests, where a variety of risk factors can be managed to help prevent problems, armadillos offer only a few viable preventive options. First, keep your lawn as free of insects as possible by staying on top of pest control treatments and quickly addressing infestations—especially grub worms (check out our article on that topic). Second, consider using rocks or wood chips in your landscaping to make digging more difficult and less appealing for armadillos. Lastly—and most expensively—you can install a durable fence around your property that extends at least two feet underground. Because these animals are skilled diggers, any effective barrier must block access both above and below the surface.
How do you Handle an Armadillo Problem? You call Mid-Cities Pest Control. We handle armadillo issues using humane live trapping methods. Our experienced technicians assess the situation and strategically place traps to maximize the chances of a successful capture. Since armadillos are notoriously difficult to lure into cages, professional help can make a big difference. Once the animal is caught, it’s safely relocated far enough away to prevent it from returning. This approach allows the armadillo to continue its peaceful life as a symbol of Texas, while giving your yard the chance to recover and look its best once again.
This March, don’t let armadillos put a damper on your spring festivities. Take action at the first sign of trouble by calling The Bug Dude at 1-800-310-BUGS and declare your own independence from pests.
Wednesday, February 05, 2025 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
“Love is like the wind; you can’t see it, but you can feel it.” – Nicholas Sparks
Valentine’s Day has a rich and somewhat mysterious past, with its true origins shrouded in history. The holiday could be linked to any of at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, and some historians believe its mid-February celebration was strategically chosen to “Christianize” the ancient Roman fertility festival, Lupercalia. Dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, Lupercalia was all about fertility—making it the perfect time to spotlight a tiny yet prolific creature known for its staggering reproductive abilities: the aphid. These small but mighty insects play a significant role in agriculture and horticulture, and their fascinating life cycle includes both traditional mating and a form of solitary reproduction. So, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a partner or flying solo, aphids prove that love—and life—finds a way.
How Many Kinds of Aphids Are There? With over 4,000 species of aphids found across the globe, these tiny insects are more diverse than many realize. Of those, more than 250 species specifically feed on horticultural and agricultural crops, making them a common concern for growers. Here in Texas, a variety of aphid species thrive, particularly those that target landscape plants. Some of the most common include the Cotton or Melon Aphid, the Green Peach Aphid, the Crape Myrtle Aphid, and the Oleander Aphid. As their names suggest, many aphid species are named after their preferred host plants—but no matter what they feed on, they all share a less flattering nickname: “plant lice.”
What do Aphids Look Like? With thousands of aphid species across the world, it’s no surprise that their appearance can vary widely. Depending on the species, they may be pear-shaped, oval, globular, or slender-bodied, and their colors range from black and gray to red, orange, yellow, green, brown, or even blue-green. Some have distinct markings or a waxy coating that gives them a frosted appearance.
Despite these differences, all aphids share a few key traits: they are small, typically measuring between 1/16″ and 1/8″ long, with soft bodies, antennae, and a specialized mouthpart called a stylet, which they use to pierce plant tissue and extract sap. Most aphids also have two small tubes on the rear of their abdomen, known as cornicles, which secrete a waxy substance. Additionally, some aphids develop wings while others remain wingless—something we’ll explore further in the section, “How Does an Aphid Infestation Happen?”
How Does an Aphid Infestation Happen? Understanding how an aphid infestation takes hold in your landscape or garden starts with recognizing their complex and highly efficient reproductive cycle. Aphids reproduce faster than any other insect, thanks to their ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually. Many aphids follow a traditional life cycle, mating to produce fertilized eggs that overwinter, hatch into nymphs, and mature into winged or wingless adults. However, they also have an extraordinary ability to reproduce via parthenogenesis—a process in which females give birth to live, genetically identical daughters without mating. This means new generations of aphids can be born rapidly, allowing populations to grow at an astonishing rate.
Aphids reach maturity in as little as 4 to 10 days and can continue reproducing for up to three weeks, meaning multiple overlapping generations are constantly at work. This rapid turnover not only leads to overwhelming infestations but also accelerates the development of resistance to insecticides, making control efforts even more challenging.
To make matters more difficult, aphids have yet another survival trick: the ability to produce winged offspring when conditions demand it. Winged aphids emerge for two primary reasons—either in response to overcrowding, allowing them to disperse and colonize new host plants, or as part of their natural reproductive cycle in certain species. Some aphids rely on multiple host plants throughout their life cycle, requiring wings to travel between them. This mobility can make infestations seem to disappear temporarily, only for the aphids to return in even greater numbers after relocating and reproducing elsewhere.
Peach tree completely infested with aphids. Aphid attacks can lead to death of the peach tree.
Are Aphids Dangerous? While aphids pose no direct threat to humans—they don’t bite or sting—they can be incredibly destructive to the plants they infest. Their damage falls into three main categories: feeding damage, secondary damage, and viral transmission.
Feeding Damage – Aphids feed by piercing plant tissue and extracting sap (phloem), which weakens the plant and can lead to stunted growth, deformed or discolored leaves and fruit, leaf drop, and even gall formation. To make matters worse, some aphid species inject toxic saliva into plants as they feed, compounding the damage and making plants more susceptible to stress and disease.
Secondary Damage – Aphids excrete a sugary substance called honeydew (or more specifically, cornicle wax), which coats leaves and plant surfaces. This sticky residue creates the perfect environment for sooty mold, a fungal growth that spreads over the plant, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. Left unchecked, this can significantly weaken plants and impact their overall health.
Viral Transmission – Perhaps the most serious threat aphids pose is their ability to act as efficient disease vectors. These pests can transmit plant viruses in just seconds while feeding, rapidly spreading infections between plants. Some viruses even undergo a latency period inside the aphid, making them capable of spreading disease long after they leave their initial host. Worse still, many of these plant viruses are incurable, making viral transmission one of the most devastating consequences of an aphid infestation.
How can you Prevent Aphids? When it comes to aphids, a little proactive effort can go a long way in keeping these pests from settling in and multiplying. By taking preventative measures, you can reduce the likelihood of an infestation before it becomes a serious problem. Here are some effective strategies to discourage aphids:
Eliminate potential breeding grounds – Regularly remove weeds that could serve as reproduction sites for aphids.
Use protective barriers – Cover crops with insect netting to block aphids from reaching your plants.
Limit excessive fertilizer use – Avoid overusing nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as rapid plant growth can attract aphids and provide them with ample feeding opportunities.
Keep your garden clean – Clear away plant debris and waste to remove hiding spots and overwintering sites.
Use companion planting – Grow banker plants around valuable crops. These are plants that aphids can feed on without spreading harmful viruses, reducing the risk to your primary plants. Additionally, interplant aphid-repellent species such as garlic, chives, leeks, marigolds, and catnip to help naturally deter them.
By integrating these methods, you can create an environment that is far less inviting for aphids, helping to protect your plants from damage.
Spraying with Professional Equipment
How do you Eliminate Aphids? If you’ve spotted aphids taking over your plants, it’s time to act fast. These pests reproduce at an astonishing rate, so the sooner you tackle the problem, the better. Mid-Cities Pest Control is here to help—call 1-800-310-BUGS to have a professional technician assess the infestation and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Since aphids feed by extracting sap from plants, the damage they cause can impact how well treatments work. That’s why having an experienced professional is key—not only to select the right products but also to apply them effectively for maximum impact.
Aphids may be fascinating insects, but when it comes to your garden and landscape, they’re nothing but trouble. Keep your plants healthy and thriving by staying vigilant, and at the first sign of an infestation, show your garden some love—call The Bug Dude to take care of the problem before it spreads!
Friday, January 10, 2025 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
With Christmas behind us and 2024 officially underway, it’s time to pack up the decorations and settle into the coziness of winter evenings indoors. As long nights and cold weather take hold in Texas, it might be tempting to think pests are no longer a concern. While it’s true that many bugs go dormant during this time (making it an ideal moment to protect your trees and shrubs from pests that will resurface in the warmer months—check out our May blog for tips), some remain active and can disrupt even the calmest winter nights.
One of the most common culprits during winter is spiders. Texas is home to over 900 spider species, so it’s no surprise they’re a pest you’re likely to encounter. While some are mostly a nuisance, weaving webs in unused corners of the house, others pose serious risks with potentially harmful bites. As you climb into attics, crawlspaces, or closets to put away holiday decorations, it’s essential to stay mindful of the hidden dangers’ spiders may present. Taking precautions can help ensure your new year doesn’t begin with an unwanted visit to the doctor.
The three spiders that draw the most concern in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are the brown recluse, the black widow, and the wolf spider. To protect yourself from these stealthy invaders, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with their characteristics. Understanding how to recognize these spiders can help you avoid a bite before it happens.
Quick Facts About Brown Recluse Spiders:
Size: With thin legs, they cover an area about the size of a quarter to a half-dollar.
Appearance: Golden-brown in color, they feature a distinctive dark violin-shaped marking on their back between the eyes and abdomen.
Habitat: Found in warm, dry areas in and around buildings, especially in spots that are rarely disturbed.
Active Times: Primarily active at night, with increased activity in the spring. Dangers: Their venom can cause tissue decay and necrosis around the bite area.
How to Avoid: Always shake out shoes before wearing them and use gloves when working in areas with cobwebs or limited visibility.
If You See One: Avoid disturbing it; they typically bite only when trapped, threatened, or provoked.
If Bitten: Seek medical attention immediately.
Black widow spiders are another dangerous species to watch for. Recognized by their glossy black bodies and the iconic red hourglass marking on their underside, these spiders often hide in dark, sheltered areas like garages, basements, or woodpiles. Their venom is highly toxic and can cause severe muscle pain, cramping, and other systemic symptoms, especially in children and older adults. While they’re not aggressive, black widows will bite if they feel cornered, so caution is key when working in places where they might be lurking.
Quick Facts About Black Widow Spiders:
Size: Females measure about 3/8″ in body length, while males are smaller at approximately 3/16″.
Appearance: Female black widows are shiny black with a distinctive red hourglass pattern on the underside of their abdomen. Males, on the other hand, are brown and less noticeable.
Habitat: They favor sheltered outdoor areas like portable toilets and unused sheds but can also be found indoors in warm, dry locations.
Dangers: The venom of female black widows causes intense pain, usually felt in the abdomen and back within hours of a bite. Symptoms can persist for up to 48 hours. Male spiders are not harmful to humans.
How to Avoid: Shake out shoes and gloves stored in dark or unused areas before wearing them, and always use gloves when handling wood piles, mulch, or similar materials.
If You See One: Avoid disturbing it; black widows typically bite only when they feel threatened, trapped, or provoked.
If Bitten: Seek medical attention immediately, especially for children, the elderly, or individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Wolf spiders, unlike the other two, are not venomous to humans but can still deliver a painful bite. These spiders are larger and often mistaken for tarantulas due to their hairy appearance and size. They prefer outdoor environments like gardens, yards, and woodpiles but occasionally wander indoors seeking shelter. Known for their speed and hunting skills, wolf spiders don’t spin webs but instead actively stalk their prey. While their bites are not medically significant, encountering one can still be an unsettling experience. To avoid wolf spiders, keep outdoor areas tidy and seal any cracks or gaps that might allow them to enter your home.
Quick Facts About Wolf Spiders:
Size: These spiders range in size from 1/2 inch to 2 inches in length.
Appearance: They are hairy and come in shades of orange-brown to gray and black, often with a mottled, camouflage-like pattern. In addition to their eight legs, they have two small, arm-like appendages at the front of their bodies.
Habitat: Typically found outdoors in open, grassy areas, wolf spiders may also wander indoors, often near doors, windows, and garages, or anywhere they can hunt insects.
Dangers: While their bites aren’t inherently dangerous, they can cause pain similar to a bee sting. There’s also a potential for an allergic reaction, as with any spider bite.
If You See One: Do not squish it! Female wolf spiders carry their eggs on their backs, and squishing them could release hundreds of spiderlings into your home. Avoid disturbing them, as they usually bite only when they feel trapped or threatened.
Tips for Spider Prevention:
Eliminate Their Food Source: Reduce the number of insects inside and around your home.
Dim/reduce bright outdoor lights: It can attract insects.
Consider a regular pest control plan: It helps manage insect populations.
Maintain Landscaping: Trim weeds, grass, and shrubs near buildings to minimize spider-friendly environments.
Seal Entry Points: Use caulk or other sealants to close cracks, gaps, and openings where spiders might enter.
Remove Webs and Egg Sacs: Regularly check for and remove any spider webs or egg sacs you find.
Declutter Your Space: Minimize clutter, especially in undisturbed areas, to reduce potential spider hiding spots.
Use Glue Boards: Place glue traps in strategic areas to capture spiders, particularly wolf spiders.
Keep It Clean: Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and dusting can help discourage spiders from settling in your home.
As you pack away the holiday decorations and dive into your New Year’s resolutions, consider making regular pest control a priority. It’s a simple step that can help protect your home and keep lurking spiders at bay all year long.
Monday, December 16, 2024 | Mid-Cities Pest Control
On the first day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me A hole in my attic ceiling.
On the second day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the third day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the forth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the fifth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the sixth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the seventh day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Seven dug-up gardens, Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the eighth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Eight gnawed-up fences, Seven dug-up gardens, Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the ninth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Nine stripped-down tree limbs, Eight gnawed-up fences, Seven dug-up gardens, Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the tenth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Ten days of trapping, Nine stripped-down tree limbs, Eight gnawed-up fences, Seven dug-up gardens, Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the eleventh day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Eleven shredded ducts, Ten days of trapping, Nine stripped-down tree limbs, Eight gnawed-up fences, Seven dug-up gardens, Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
On the twelfth day of Christmas the squirrels gave to me Twelve attic disasters, Eleven shredded ducts, Ten days of trapping, Nine stripped-down tree limbs, Eight gnawed-up fences, Seven dug-up gardens, Six shredded curtains, Five chewed-up wires, Four empty feeders, Three torn-up vents, Two ruined cushions, And a hole in my attic ceiling.
Fast Facts About Squirrels:
Tree Squirrel Species Native to Texas: fox squirrel, gray squirrel, and flying squirrel
Most Common Squirrel Species in the Metroplex: fox squirrel
Lifespan: 4 to 7 years
Average Size: 18 to 27 inches long, 1.5-2.5 lbs
Appearance: brown-gray with orange underbelly and 7 to 14 inch long bushy tail
Diet: tree nuts, fruit, bark, tree buds, insects, tubers, bulbs, roots, bird eggs, mushrooms, and seeds
Habitat:
In the Wild: tree dens (natural cavities & crotches in trees) and leaf nests, ideally in an area of open forest with mature shade trees
In a Home: nests are most often built in attics and chimneys
Active Times: daytime
Reproduction: 1 to 2 litters per year: 1 in Spring, 1 in Fall.
Babies are born blind & furless and are weaned for approximately 12-14 weeks
Behavior:
Caching of food: they bury shelled foods that are high in fat, such as nuts
Often these buried nuts are forgotten and will later grow into trees
Solitary and asocial other than during breeding season
Large vocabulary consisting of clucking and chucking sounds
Can jump 15 feet horizontally and 8 feet high
Can land safely from 20 feet high
Have 4 front teeth that will continue to grow throughout their lives and are kept in check via gnawing on nuts and other items
Can run up to 20 mph
Will inhabit a range of about 10 acres per season
Signs of Squirrel Damage:
Holes chewed in soffits/eaves
Torn up insulation
Urine and feces in the attic
Chewed wiring
Gnawed tree bark
Dug up and eaten flower bulbs
Noises coming from the attic or chimney during the daytime
Squirrel Removal:
If a squirrel has moved into your attic or chimney, the best course of action is to call a professional for a thorough assessment and live animal trapping. This process ensures the squirrel can be safely captured and relocated. A technician will also inspect your home for entry points, such as areas where the squirrel may have chewed through siding, eaves, or soffits, and discuss repair and prevention options. Since baby squirrels require a significant weaning period, it’s crucial to have a professional handle the trapping and exclusion to avoid separating mothers from their young.
Squirrel Prevention:
If you spot squirrels in your yard or hear them scampering across your roof, it’s wise to take preventive steps to keep them out of your chimney or attic. This can help you avoid costly repairs and extensive cleanup caused by their intrusion.
Here are some tips to help successfully prevent squirrel infestations:
Trim tree limbs back at least 8 to 10 feet from your roof.
Install sheet metal bands around tree trunks to discourage squirrels from climbing.
Ensure attic vents are properly screened to block entry.
Remove bird feeders located close to your home.
Install a chimney cap and confirm it’s in good condition.
This winter, don’t let squirrels crash your Christmas festivities. At the first signs of squirrel damage, call in a professional to handle the issue. That way, the only sounds on your rooftop will be Santa and his reindeer, and you can focus on keeping your celebrations merry and bright.
