Bed bugs are parasitic insects of the cimicid family that feed exclusively on blood. In the 1940s, cases of bed bugs were mostly eradicated in the developed world, but infestations have been on the rise since about 1995. Thoughts on the resurgence of bed bug population vary from complacency, increased resistance, bans on pesticides, and increased international travel. No one really knows why for sure there are more cases and why they are occurring more often, but detection and mitigation are widely known and understood now to help keep the population from getting severe.

Bed bugs are flat, reddish-brown, oval insects up to 4-5mm long and they prefer to be more active at night when the host is asleep. They can lie dormant and hidden for up to a year without a meal and are found in cracks and crevices, most commonly mattress seams, sheets, furniture, or on luggage. This is why bed bugs are found commonly in hotels because of the frequency of travelers, with many personal belongings occupying rooms.

Females can deposit 1-5 eggs a day, and may lay 200-500 eggs in a lifetime. Under normal room temperatures and with an adequate supply of food, they can live for more than 300 days.

Detection of bed bugs usually comes in the form of itchy bug bites on the face, neck, hands, or arms overnight. A rash, blood stains on sheets, or dark brown marks on the mattress are other signs of bed bugs. If you think you might have a bed bug infestation in your home, check the common places that they may show up and see if you can identify any of the clues we’ve discussed. Look behind frames, under wallpaper, in couches and other furniture. Even if signs confirm there were bed bugs at one time, this may not mean there is still an active infestation. Getting rid of bed bugs is not an easy process and most cases will require treatment by a pest-control expert.

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We’ve all been there… You’ve spent time and money planning a BBQ celebration. You have guests arriving, food on the grill, toys out for kids, everything is set. What comes next in many outdoor festivities is annoying, can be a health hazard, and unfortunately is all-too common: mosquitoes. It can quickly take the wind out of the sail of any outdoor gathering that otherwise would be a special time with friends and family. Once the sun starts to set and the summer air cools a bit, the mosquitoes come out to feast. This can happen especially after a rain. What can you do to prevent and control these mosquito infestations? There’s actually a lot you can do for mosquito pest control.

Mosquitoes go through four stages in their lifecycle: egg, larvae, pupa, and adult. All but the last stage occur in water. Without water, mosquitoes can’t reproduce. However, if you think your yard is clear of all standing water, you may be surprised. The smallest amount of water, even that little piece of trash with puddled water sitting on it can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Here are a few mosquito pest control tips:

• Empty any standing water you find. Bird baths, flower pot saucers, pet dishes, old tires, unused swimming pools, buckets, and anything else you find can catch water and be a suitable breeding ground. Make sure rain barrels are covered and keep your gutters cleaned.
• Trim back vegetation. Mosquitoes feast on plant nectar when they aren’t out searching for blood, so they spend a lot of time in tall grass or around shrubs and bushes. Also, keep your lawn mowed and remove yard debris like piles of leaves and grass clippings.
• Use mosquito-repelling plants. Citronella plants are the scent used in the citronella candles commonly used to deter mosquitoes. They also avoid catnip, lavender, marigolds, basil, and peppermint.
• Hire professional mosquito pest control. Professionals can target specific areas and gain ground over these common pests. Ask about chemicals used, licenses, and application schedule.

Then sit back and know that your yard will be protected and you can start planning your next BBQ worry-free.

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Any way you look at it, fleas are not fun. And despite common belief, they don’t exclusively feed on only animals. They can actually show up in pet-free areas and structures as well, surprising homeowners! Doing your best to prevent a flea infestation is the best way to go. Cleaning habitually, especially in areas that pets eat, sleep and play is mandatory. You should also regularly vacuum drapes, carpet, rugs, and furniture. To aid in prevention, either cut up a flea collar and stick it in the vacuum bag or dispose of the bag every time you use it to kill the flea eggs and larvae. Use washable pet bedding, put a flea or ultrasonic collar on your pet, and obviously bathe them regularly. These methods should go a long way in flea prevention.

If you find your home infested regardless of preventative measures, it’s time to prepare for flea extermination. There are some sites that offer DIY solutions for flea problems, but fleas are pesky, hard to find, and can be virtually anywhere. You’ll need to rent the proper equipment and measure out the right chemicals in the right way or it can be very dangerous to your furniture, your family, and your pet.

Hire a professional to do the work for you. They are knowledgeable, reliable, and have done this before. Your infestation won’t shock them a bit. Another advantage is the time commitment. A pro can treat an entire house and yard in only a few hours, where a DIY solution could eat up many more hours and not be as thorough. The last thing you want is a relapse infestation. Ensure your property and hire a professional to take care of your flea extermination. You’ll be happy you did.

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Summer Wasp Extermination

This time of year, wasps and other critters make their way around and into homes, businesses and other areas, claiming their spot to make their nests. Wasp nests can be dangerous to remove, as many wasps carry disease or a painful sting. If you are allergic to wasp stings, consult a professional before attempting wasp extermination or before removing a wasp nest.

The best way to deter wasp nests is to knock them down as soon as you find them. This will encourage the wasps to build elsewhere and the nests will be less populated. Insecticide is another option to remove the wasp nest. Find a product that is designed specifically for wasp extermination. Be sure to wear proper clothing, covering all skin areas and especially the eyes. Wasps are less active at night, making it the perfect time for wasp extermination. It is also important not to stand directly under the wasp nest. Most sprays say to wait overnight before trying to take down the nest. This will allow any wasps that are away from the nest an opportunity to return and be killed at the sprayed nest. Another option is to carefully wrap the wasp nest in a heavy plastic bag and knock the nest down. This is the most dangerous and definitely poses the greatest risk for stings.

If you happen to discover a wasp inside your home, chances are a hibernating female found her way into a safe crack or crevice in an attic, chimney, or in the eaves of the house over the winter and found her way in when the weather warmed. The easiest way to deal with this kind of wasp extermination is with a vacuum cleaner, fly swatter, or broom. To inhibit this from happening again, spray your eaves with insecticide in the spring and then again in the fall.

Overall, use caution when dealing with any kind of wasp extermination. Wear proper clothing, know your species, and if there is concern, call a professional to do the job.

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Texas Rodent Exterminator

No one is ever thrilled to realize that rodents are invading their home or office. While it’s true, it may be possible to do away with some rodents without the help of a professional, there are many cases where your best bet is going to be contacting a rodent exterminator.

Ignoring a rodent problem, in hopes that it will disappear can leave you with a mess of shredded wood, or torn up insulation. Rodents will chew through carpet, plastic or cardboard. They chew through cords and wires causing power outages and even electrical fires, and their urine and feces left behind can spread disease. As rodents create long and elaborate tunnels underneath a home, soil becomes damaged and foundations weakened. As you can see, rodent infestations need to be dealt with swiftly and promptly.

Many people get squeamish at the mere thought of having to deal with rodents like mice, rats and squirrels. That is one of the reasons individuals often contact a rodent exterminator: for peace of mind. A rodent problem usually isn’t something people want to be experimenting with what may or may not work. When rats are present, people want them gone and gone quick. When you utilize a rodent exterminator, you’re getting someone who deals with these critters day in and day out. On top of knowing what to do to rid you of your infestation, they will be able to inform you about what not to do. Additionally, some infestations are quite large. Even with good intentions of dealing with the problem on your own, the task may just be too overwhelming.

A rodent exterminator will have the skill and expertise to properly and safely protect your children and pets from poison and traps. Your family’s safety is too important to risk. A knowledgeable professional will be able to analyze points of entry, offering repair and ways to seal your home or business, eliminating future infestations. Rodent free along with the security of prevention is the way to completely rid yourself of any rodent stress you’re experiencing!

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Of all household pests, termites are probably the most dreaded by home-owners. This is because the damage brought on by termites actually ranges in the billions of dollars every year. Most of us are aware that termites feast on wood, but we can be shocked to realize they also damage books, paper, insulation, and believe it or not, even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Termites will attack living trees and shrubs, causing damage and injury to them, but more often they are a secondary invader of woody plants that are already in a vulnerable state of decline. When thousands of winged termites are discovered in your home, it’s not only just an expensive problem; it’s one that can be an emotionally trying experience. Our largest investments, in most cases, are our homes. The thought of a pest quietly feasting on that investment can take its toll.

Consequently, termite control is an extremely important issue for home-owners and business owners alike. Eliminating termites from your investment is not as simple as reading an article, it does require unique skills. There are specific areas in a structure where termites are likely to gain entrance. Unfortunately, these entry points are hidden and quite tricky to access. Because of this, someone who has knowledge of building construction is going to be needed to identify the termites’ entry areas.

Termite control requires specialized equipment like masonry drills, pumps, large-capacity tanks and soil treatment rods. Not quite the typical tools we have laying around in our garage. A common treatment might utilize hundreds of gallons of a liquid pesticide. It is injected into the ground right next to the foundation, underneath concrete slabs and inside foundation walls.

In conclusion, termite control is going to be a job limited to professionals. Quick fixes and do-it-yourself treatments sold in retail stores, or over the internet, will most likely leave you with frustration, expense, and remaining infestation. The key is to hire a reputable pest control firm employing experienced, conscientious technicians.

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There are 22,000 species of ants that inhabit the earth. Ants are everywhere, and Texas is by no means exempt. In fact, there are 250 ant species who are native to Texas. The very reasons that ants thrive are the exact reasons we experience ant problems in our every-day lives. Believe it or not, ants are intelligent creatures. Beyond that they are extremely adaptable and actually have social cooperation to boot.

Again, to point out the positives or negatives of ants, will undoubtedly give us the opposite connected right with it. For instance, ants are nature’s most industrious workers. They play such a crucial role in the much needed soil aeration, to produce healthy crop growth, and in the decomposition and recycling of dead organic material. Yet, in spite of this, we experience ant problems, when they invade Texas homes, businesses and yards. It’s their persistent nature, miniature size, and great numbers that make ants a tough opponent as those very traits tend to rob our comfort.

When seeking to avoid ant problems, there are two prominent attractors we need to avoid. The first is easy access to food and the second is dampness. Water damage in the home will attract ants, and food left exposed for an excessive length of time might as well be called “ant bait”. Another red flag that simply invites ant problems is tree limbs, overgrown bushes, and even pipes. These “bridges” allow ants to have a pathway or even a type of invitation right into our homes.

Surprisingly enough, there are even ants in Texas that are attracted to computer systems and electrical equipment. They can cause short circuits and failure in computers and electrical equipment. So when the professionals tell you that your computer has a “bug”, you just may need to ask them if they could be a bit more specific.

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Texas is a unique state in so many ways. From its size, to its critters to its unique climate, Texas comes with fun, adventure….and challenges. One of those challenges can unfortunately be: pest control.

Pest control in Fort Worth, finds homeowners seeking to prevent armadillos, raccoons, skunks, squirrels, rats, snakes and more. When the heat rises in Texas, ants and insects multiply, which draws armadillos into yards hunting for grubs. Even the most exquisite, landscaped and cared for lawns aren’t off limits.

Because reptiles are drawn to water, having a pool or a pond in such a dry place as Texas, can definitely be an attraction for snakes. It’s a catch 22 because of the heat. Who wouldn’t desire the relief of a pool, and yet, who wants to beckon a snake? Although most Texas snakes aren’t venomous, pest control in Fort Worth can assist you of ridding your yard of these usually unwelcome guests.

The raccoon is an adorable animal and quite common in Fort Worth. However, they can be trouble. Raccoons will ransack trash cans and get into pet food, and also set up camp in your attic or chimney.

Pest control in Fort Worth inevitably involves our squirrel friends. Such active little creatures, who are thrilled to live in our attics, will gnaw right through wood and even electrical wires. They are unlike the opossum, who will be most likely be found residing under your porch, feasting on your pet’s food.

Bats, rats and even skunks can and will do more than visit, they tend to infest, and when looking for a remedy, home and business owners are looking to be completely free of them once and for all.

Pest control in Fort Worth is best left to those who know the area and its resident pests. Whether ground hogs, beavers, or insects; birds, coyotes or foxes, even living or dead, pests are pests and are always much better when “controlled”.

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You saw it, but you can’t believe it—a termite crawling across the top of your desk. Immediately, the frantic internal questioning begins. Was that the only termite or the first of many? Are there termites in the area? Or, worst of all, are there termites living in my house? If you are suspicious that you may have a termite problem, don’t ignore it! The sooner you find the truth, the sooner you can take action to protect your hard-earned home. Obviously, the best step to take would be to call a company offering pest control in Fort Worth. However, there are a few things you can do to determine whether you may need termite pest control in Fort Worth.

The first tip may seem a little obvious: look for termites. Poke around your home to see if you can find the ant-looking creatures. You’ll especially want to check damp places near wood surfaces. Termites are often very small, usually no bigger than a grain of rice, so be sure to check carefully. Also, if you notice that a swarm of little ant-like insects seem to appear after a rainfall, then you need to call for pest control in Fort Worth immediately. Termites can do a lot of damage in a relatively short period of time; so, the earlier you can find them, the more effective termite pest control in Fort Worth can be.

Another tell-tale sign to search for is the appearance of mud holes. Mud holes look like tiny tunnels (roughly equivalent to a pencil in diameter) that lead directly into the center of the wood. The termites use these tunnels to access new wood sources and continue expansion. If you happen upon some of these tunnels, check to see if any of them are filled-in with mud. If it is, you need pest control in Fort Worth as soon as possible. The mud walls are a sign that the termites are preserving their old tunnels to move on to new ones.

Wood decay is a tantamount indication that you need termite pest control in Fort Worth. The end result of many hours of termite infestation is ruined wood and usually rotting. If, during your investigation, you find rotting wood, you’ll want to solicit the opinion of an expert.

Dealing with termites is never an enjoyable experience. However, keeping an eye out for these signs will help you determine whether you need termite pest control in Fort Worth or just a little bug spray. If you even suspect that termites may be living in your house, it’s always best to call-in a professional in pest control in Fort Worth. Remember, the earlier the detection, the sooner you can stop the destruction of your home.

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Finding the Best Pest Control in Arlington, Texas

Many people can recall that terrifying moment when they discovered ants in the cabinets, beetles in their bedroom, or termites in the woodwork. Discovering an insect problem can be an awful experience, but dealing with it doesn’t have to be. There are many companies that, for a small fee, offer pest control in Arlington, Texas and will help you with your problem. However, with so many companies soliciting pest control in Arlington, Texas, how can you know which ones are the professionals and which ones are simply going to spray your baseboards? Here are some helpful hints to finding professional pest control in Arlington, Texas.

1. Search for awards. Though it may seem like an unnecessary piece of paper, awards for excellence in business go a long way in establishing a company’s credibility. Being recognized by a third party as having exemplary customer service is an honor for a business to receive. However, more importantly, awards show a distinction from subpar businesses and inexperienced startups. When a company offering pest control in Arlington, Texas, has no awards, it likely means the company is inexperienced or incapable.
2. Listen for recommendations. Satisfied customers are one of the greatest endorsements a company can have. The next time you hear someone talking about pest control in Arlington, Texas, ask them about the company that they used. Were they on time, courteous, and effective? The information that they give you can often be a very valuable guide to selecting a company.
3. Investigate their reputation. In an age of unprecedented connectivity, customer reviews are generally not hard to find. Often, a quick query on a search engine or a customer review site like Angie’s List will reveal a host of valuable information. Remember: a good company will have satisfied customers. When looking for pest control in Arlington, Texas, expect to see some good reviews.
4. Go local. It may be tempting to choose a large national exterminating company for your needs, assuming that size equals quality. However, many times, choosing a company that specializes in your region’s pests and insects is a far better choice. Local companies have likely dealt with the exact problems you are dealing with and have experience handling them. So, when choosing pest control in Arlington, Texas, don’t just go for size. Go for results.

Going through a pest problem is generally never enjoyable. However, if you choose the right pest control, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Just do a little research and ask around; you may be surprised at what kind of deals you can get.

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