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How to Keep Bugs Out of Your Home

If there’s one thing Floridians know, it’s that the heat outside can be brutal. If there are two things Floridians know, the second is usually that bugs are abundant. While there may not be much you can do about the heat – aside from staying in the A/C – there are some tips and tricks you can use to help make sure bugs won’t be bothering you inside of your home.

Tips for Pest Exclusion in Your Home

If you want to prevent pests in your home, you need to get good at pest exclusion. Pest exclusion is the practice of anticipating the factors that attract pests and working to eliminate them before they lead to infestations. Here are some measures you can take that will help set you up for success.

Dispose of your garbage regularly, and make sure it’s sealed

One of the more common pests you’re likely to encounter is the ant. It comes in many different varieties, and each species has its own set of problems it can cause your home. There are a couple of different ways you can reduce the likelihood they’ll find a great food source in your home; the first of which is getting rid of your garbage. It’s not a bad idea to take it out a little more often during the warmer months and always make sure it’s sealed properly so nothing can get in.

Properly store pet food

Along the same lines, we often forget our pet’s food can be a great source of nutrition for critters other than our furry friends. To make sure Spot doesn’t have to share his food with a colony of ants, store pet food in a sealed container. This will take away the temptation for bugs and will keep the food fresh.

Give common entry points a once-over

Pests, like these ants, often find their way into homes the same way we do – through doors and windows. At least once a year it’s important to check up on these common entryways. Replace any weather stripping on doors, and look to see if there is any loose mortar around your windows in need of repair.

Make sure foliage isn’t overgrown

Pests are sneaky and use anything they can to find a way into our homes, and that includes foliage. Trim back tree limbs and any other plants or shrubs that might be touching the side or roof of your house. This will reduce the chances of pests climbing the branches and eventually getting inside.

Check for humid areas and give them ventilation

If pests do make it inside, we surely don’t want to make it cozy for them. Check crawl spaces and in your attic for humid areas. It’s good to dry them out and keep them well-ventilated. Moisture is a breeding ground for any number of things, so you definitely want to get rid of it as well as you can.

Even with these defense mechanisms, pests can continue to be a problem, and when that’s the case, it’s time to call in the professionals. We’ll help you build a home defense plan to ward off these pests once and for all. If you’d like to schedule a no-obligation consultation, give Florida Pest Control a call today.

What You Need to Know About Bee Stings

bumblebee on pollenating a flower - keep bees away from your home with florida pest control

How many times have you seen a crowd of people scatter for cover at the mere sight of a single buzzing bee? Perhaps you were even one of those people. After all, nobody likes a bee sting. And with good reason – they hurt. For some people, bee stings can even be deadly! But this is very rare. With so much variance, it’s important to understand bee stings and the associated risk factors.

What Causes Bees to Sting?

Bees aren’t winged terrorists maliciously searching for their next victims. In fact, they are generally quite passive. Bees only sting when they feel their hive or themselves are being threatened. So, getting too close to or disturbing a hive or trying to physically assault a bee are really the only things likely to trigger their defense mechanism. Left alone, bees go innocently about their business, collecting nectar and spreading pollen. They are actually very beneficial insects that account for the pollination of many of our food crops, as well as producing delicious honey and several by-products that are useful to people.

For as passive as these little pollinators are most of the time, they do have a barbed stinger and will sting you if they’re provoked. When bees sting, they inject a small amount of toxin while simultaneously releasing alarm pheromones. These pheromones tell other bees to come quick, there’s danger in the area. This is where things can get dicey, as there can be 50,000 or more bees in just one beehive.

How Dangerous Are Bee Stings?

A single bee sting won’t cause much more than minor pain, irritation, and itching for most people. Multiple stings, on the other hand, can spell trouble. According to the USDA, the average healthy person can receive 10 bee stings per pound of body weight and live to tell the tale. What this means, in theory, is that a 180-pound adult could be stung 1800 times and potentially walk away from it with their life.

Multiple bee sting incidents are thankfully rare, as are deaths due to bee stings. On average, 40 people die each year from bee stings. In most of these cases, the victim had a pre-existing allergy to bee venom. For these people, a single sting can lead to anaphylactic shock, requiring emergency treatment. Often, people with known bee allergies carry injectable epinephrine to counteract the effects of a possible bee sting. If you are stung by a bee and it elicits a severe allergic response, seek medical attention immediately!

How to Treat a Bee Sting

For most people, however, one bee sting is not life-threatening, and treating it is fairly simple. The first thing to do is to determine whether the stinger is still embedded in the skin (it most likely will be). You can scrape it out with your fingernail, the edge of a credit card, or something similar. Never pull it out by pinching it with your fingers or tweezers. Doing so will squeeze more venom into your body. Once you’ve removed the stinger, wash the area with mild soap and cool water. Then ice the affected area in order to control swelling. If the amount of pain is still uncomfortable for you, spray an anesthetic on the wound that contains benzocaine to help numb the area. You may also want to take over-the-counter pain medication, but the pain really shouldn’t last long. And if you know you’re vulnerable, talk to a bee control specialist ASAP!

So, the next time you see a bee, remain calm and give her some space. Odds are, if you don’t mess with her (or her hive), she won’t mess with you. If you have any questions about bees or other stinging insects on your property, give us a call.

The Twolined Spittlebug

With Florida’s mild temperatures and abundant rainfall, life is spawning everywhere, especially when it comes to plants and insects. For example, when conditions are favorable you may notice an invasion of small black insects in your lawn which are about 1/4 inch long with two red lines across their backs. These invaders are called Spittlebugs.

Generally, Spittlebugs do not pose a major threat to Florida lawns. However, during abundant spring and summer rainfall along with high humidity, their population may increase considerably. Another factor that may contribute to their increase is excessive turf thatch.

The nymphs are white to yellow in color with a brown head. For protection, they surround themselves with a mass of white frothy spittle, hence the name Spittlebug.

Although both nymphs and adults feed on the turf, damage is unlikely. Feeding may cause a purple or white stripe along the grass blades. Because adult Spittlebugs are strong fliers, some may fly in from neighboring lawns. However, this does not indicate an infestation.

Although there is nothing you can do to prevent abundant rainfall, you can minimize infestation by reducing your irrigation. Also, thatch can be greatly reduced through Florida Pest Control’s Turf Aeration Program.

Black Flies – The Tiny Biting Menace!

These troubling little flies plagued us in the Spring of 1998, 2004, 2005, and 2014. You may even be seeing these pests now due to the excessive rainfall we’ve experienced in parts of Florida. They fly around our heads, get into our eyes, nose, and ears and crawl around in our hair. They’re known by several names like Turkey Gnats, Buffalo Gnats and they’ve been called a few other names that won’t be repeated here!

Black Flies are rather small, ranging from 1/8”-1/4” in length. The thorax, which is the middle section of the body, is hump-shaped (hence the name Buffalo Gnat), shiny and ranges in color from black to gray to yellow.

Population peaks are associated with heavy rainfall. Abundant rainfall causes creeks and rivers to flow producing a more oxygenated water source which is needed for the development of the immature stages. This is what happened during the Winter of 1997-1998 and recently during the Spring of 2014.

Although they need the above mentioned conditions to develop, an adult may fly as much as eight miles from the breeding site to find a host. After feeding, they return back to the breeding site to lay eggs. While the male is mainly a nectar feeder, the female will feed on just about any warm blooded animal from birds to humans. Simulium slossonae, the main species found in Florida, is primarily a bird feeder. Although large swarms are attracted to people, most do not bite us. This is a good thing for us humans but aggravating nevertheless. However, we don’t want to downplay the severity of this pest. Anyone showing a strong allergic reaction from this fly’s bite should consult a physician for immediate treatment.

Recently, most of Florida has received abundant rainfall. This would account for the increase of Black Flies in several areas of the state and the problem could get even worse!

So how do we keep them from attacking us? Well, from personal experience, those repellents containing “DEET” are not much help. According to one article, Avon’s “Skin So Soft Bath Oil” may give you about 10 minutes or more of relief. Testing by the University of Florida has shown that a product called “Quantum Buzz Away” has shown some protection.

There are many repellents available and care should be taken when applying them. Read the entire label before using these products.

Now, go enjoy the great Florida outdoors!

How to Prepare for Tent Fumigation

Tent fumigation can be a scary thought, but we’re here to demystify fumigation and tell you that it really isn’t as scary as it may seem. In fact, it’s a safe and effective way to get rid of Drywood termites and other pests that nestle in your home. We take fumigations seriously, so all Florida Pest Control fumigations are performed by State Certified Pest Control Operators who are as knowledgeable as they come.

With the right preparation, tenting your house doesn’t need to cause a lot of stress and heartache. So what do you need to do to properly prepare? In the event your home needs to be fumigated, you will be provided with a checklist of items that should be addressed before the fumigation occurs.

Some of these items are as follows:

Trim shrubbery and tree branches to prevent damage. Allow 18” to 24” of space for the tent to fall freely to the ground. Tree limbs growing over the roof must be trimmed back. Dig up flower bulbs and plants within 2 feet of the foundation. Any vines attached to the structure must be removed.
Water heavily all vegetation located alongside the foundation of the structure. This will help to protect the plants during the fumigation.
All foods and medicinal products must be removed prior to the fumigation. Factory Sealed cans, jars, and bottles do not need to be removed.

Some additional items to consider are:

Don’t purchase extra or unnecessary food in the days leading up to the fumigation. This will only create more work for you in the event these items must be removed before the fumigation.
Remove all plants from inside your home before the day of the fumigation. These include any plants on outdoor patios.
Make overnight arrangements for you and your pets with the intention of staying at least 48 hours. Be sure that whatever plans you make have the flexibility of being re-scheduled. In the event of bad weather, your fumigation may be delayed as a safety measure.
Contact your pest control professional with any questions you may have prior to the fumigation. It’s even a good idea to meet with your expert before the fumigation so they can make sure your home is properly prepared.

After the fumigation, it won’t be necessary to wash dishes, linen, or clothing. The gas used in the house will dissipate, and will not linger.

To ensure the safety of you and your family, do not attempt to enter the house before your fumigators have given you the all-clear. Ask any questions you may have, because the more informed you are about the process, the easier it will be. If you feel ready and think you may need tent fumigation, click here to schedule your no-obligation inspection today.

The Facts about Cockroaches

Cockroaches are one of the pests almost guaranteed to give anyone the creepy crawlies and for good reason. Other than simply being pretty gross, cockroaches often cause disease or trigger allergies and can be a sure sign of a dirty environment.

But other than the fact that you want to smack the cockroach that appeared in your kitchen, what do you actually know about cockroaches? Learn the facts about these pests below.

7 Facts About Cockroaches You May Not Know

Most roaches aren’t pests. As hard as it is to believe when you have a roach problem, only about 1% of cockroaches are pests to humans. Of the more than 4,000 species of roaches found around the world, only about 35-40 infest human homes. Most live outside.
According to popular belief, cockroaches can survive a nuclear war. Even though cockroaches have been around since before the dinosaurs they may not be that durable, but cockroaches can survive for 1-2 weeks without its head. Cockroaches breathe through holes in their bodies, and will only die because they need a mouth to drink water. However, cockroaches can withstand far more radiation than humans.
Diseases are spread and allergies are triggered by cockroaches. Roaches are a major contributor to allergies and asthma, especially in children. Studies have shown that 45% of children may be allergic to cockroaches, and many develop asthma from continued exposure. Additionally, cockroaches have been found to carry the pathogens that cause tuberculosis, cholera, leprosy, and more.
BUT cockroaches might be used to fight disease in the future. We know that cockroaches are survivors, and scientists have shown that the brain matter and nerves of cockroaches can kill germs, including MRSA and E. coli with no harm to human cells. Scientists conducting this research believe the fact that roaches live in such filthy conditions has made their bodies adapt and create these antimicrobial particles.
Cockroaches will eat just about anything. One of their only beneficial roles is to break down organic matter, and cockroaches will eat just about anything they can find, such as paper, glue, leather, and more. This is why thoroughly cleaning areas like the kitchen and bathroom are so important to keep cockroaches at bay. Crumbs, trash, and even hair offer an irresistible feast for cockroaches!
Cockroaches are generally active at night. Most cockroaches prefer to stay hidden during the day. If you’re seeing cockroaches regularly during daylight, you probably have a significant population hidden somewhere in your home.
The American cockroach is highly attracted to alcoholic beverages. The American cockroach is especially attracted to beer. Many people will often spot these roaches near their recycling bins, but you can help control populations by rinsing all glass and aluminum recycling before placing it outside.

Roach Infestations Often Require Professional Help

If you catch a roach problem early on, it’s often a problem you can solve with store-bought treatments and some persistence. However, if you’re being overrun with roaches, that may not be enough and you may need professional roach control services.

Contact Florida Pest Control today to schedule your appointment or for a free quote!

Do I Need Termite Coverage Where I Live?

It’s probably not the first thing that you think of when buying a home, but if you get a termite infestation, it’s the only thing you’ll be able to think about. The cost to repair termite damage could be $10,000, $50,000, or more.

When you consider that kind of financial impact, it’s easier to understand the value of termite coverage. Before we dive into the details, however, let’s learn more about these little buggers that can cause so much damage.

Types of Termites

There are three types of termites in the United States that feed on building structures:

Native Subterranean – Need contact with soil to survive and are most active in the spring
Drywood – Need no connection to the ground so typically found in attics
Formosan Subterranean – Largest colonies and consume wood fastest
Native Subterranean termites are the most common and widespread in the United States, so statically speaking, they cause the most damage.

Where They Dwell

The biggest factor when evaluating if you need termite coverage is your climate. Since most termites live in the ground, they can’t survive when the ground freezes, so naturally the farther south you go, the more likely it is that you’ll find termites. In fact, Florida is one of the most termite-prone states in the country.

Each type of termite is partial to a particular region. Native Subterranean termites can survive the broadest range of temperatures, which is why they’re the most common type in the United States.

Native Subterranean – Can survive in every state but Alaska
Drywood – Primarily along the east coast, the Mid-Atlantic, and along the Gulf Coast
Formosan Subterranean – Most common in New Orleans, but also found in some areas of the Southeast, Hawaii, and southern California
If you live in one of these areas, it makes sense to protect your biggest investment.

There’s a Fungus Among Us

A healthy lawn with patches of brown and white fungus - keep pests away from your hoe with florida pest control

During the cooler weather, your lawn may begin screaming out to you, “There’s a fungus among us!” Mind you, a lawn can’t talk with words but it can tell you something is wrong in other ways – namely, by showing symptoms of the disease. One commonly seen disease this time of year is Large Patch fungus.

What is the Large Patch Fungus?

This fungus affects all warm-season turfgrasses. It’s active when nighttime temperatures range from 60-75 degrees and daytime temperatures don’t exceed 85-90 degrees. These temperatures are usually seen in the Spring and Fall, but can also occur during mild Winters. Like other fungi, Large Patch also requires adequate moisture in its environment to thrive, so be careful of your irrigation practices.

This disease affects the blades of the grass and will not kill the entire grass plant. It typically begins as small patches that turn yellow, then brown, as the grass blades die. Just like the blob seen in sci-fi movies, Large Patch starts out small but can spread to create large damaged areas if not controlled. An interesting display of Large Patch fungus in a lawn is the “donut effect” it may create. In diseased areas, you may see a ring of rotten grass with some green grass in its center; hence, looking somewhat like a large unsightly donut pattern in your lawn.

As ugly as Large Patch can look, it’s important to remember this disease does not kill the entire grass plant. Over time, the rotten grass left in the wake of Large Patch fungus will naturally decompose and new grass blades will grow. Mowing will also remove the dead grass blades. It must be mentioned, though, that active Large Patch fungus can be spread mechanically. In the event an area with an active Large Patch is mowed, recommendations are for those areas to be mowed last and mowing equipment rinsed to prevent further spread of the pathogen.

In order to stop the spread of Large Patch in your lawn, a fungicide application should be made. This will only stop the spread of the disease though; it will not cause the grass to grow faster or green-up. New grass will grow in eventually, but this can be a slow process in the Fall and Winter, as turfgrass is heading toward its dormant period.

Keep in mind, there may be other causes for brown patches in a lawn. Insect damage and improper lawn maintenance practices could also be a culprit, as well as many other variables. If you see discoloration in a lawn and aren’t sure what the cause is, contact us for a complimentary lawn inspection.

Please Pass The Turkey – You Can Hold The Pests

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The holiday season is upon us! This is the time of year we gather with friends and family to give thanks for our blessings. Hopefully, we can all be thankful to have a pest-free home. Nothing is more unnerving than knowing you share your domicile with invaders (no, we are not talking about pesky family members). Here are some tips to keep your holiday celebrations pest-free:

If you are traveling, be alert for bed bugs. These hitchhikers have been found in all modes of transportation, as well as hotels and restaurants. Check your luggage, purse, and other personal items to make sure you do not bring these pests back home with you.

The best pest control method is prevention. Your warm home is not only inviting to guests, it’s also where many pests will try to seek refuge as temperatures drop. Take time to inspect the outside of your home for pest entry points. Check seals around windows and doors, including door sweeps. Look for areas where pipes, wiring, conduit, etc., enter the building. Any entry points you find should be sealed to prevent pests from easily entering your home.

The fewer pests you have living around your home, the fewer you have trying to get into your home. Remove pest hiding places outside. Trim tall vegetation. Remove yard debris and fallen leaves. Make sure the gutters on your home are clean. Trim shrubs to create a gap between them and your home. Keep trash can lids on tight. Pretty much, you want to remove any food, water, and hiding places for pests from around your home.

Sometimes, the pests sneak their way in, right under your nose. Christmas trees are notorious for helping their tenants crash your Christmas party. Dried food items (flour, pasta, rice, grits, cereal, etc.) can also be culprits for sudden pest sightings. Make sure you check any pantry items for small beetles, moths, webbing, or holes in the packaging. This is especially true if the items are not used frequently and have been sitting for some time.

You may find yourself crashing a secret pest party in your own home. Be prepared to find pest activity in those cardboard boxes of holiday decorations and wrapping paper you had stowed in the attic or garage since last year. Pests such as silverfish, roaches, and even rats love to make their home in cardboard boxes, especially when those boxes have remained undisturbed for an extended period of time. Whenever possible, use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to store items.

The previous tips should help you reduce the likelihood that your home will be invaded by creepy pests this holiday season. If you are concerned that pests may crash your festivities, contact us for help. We want to keep you from having the “bah humbugs.”

Feeling a Bit Batty?

bat in the attic of a building - keep bats away from your property with florida pest control

When people hear rustling noises coming from their attic, their first response is that they may have a rat or squirrel problem. Rarely do people think they may have a problem with bats. From time to time, bats become displaced from their natural home (a dead tree or a cave, for example) and end up residing in manmade structures where they can become a nuisance.

Bats are protected animals in the state of Florida. With this being said, what can be done to remove bats if they are in a building? The Florida Bat Conservancy and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommend exclusion of bat entry points and the use of one-way devices that allow the bats to exit the building, but not re-enter.

Bat exclusions cannot be performed year-round. From April through August, mothers may be rearing young. If a building were sealed with pups (baby bats) enclosed and no way for their mother to take care of them, they would die. For this reason, there is a window from Fall until Spring when bats can be excluded from buildings.

So, how do you know if you have bats in the belfry? Because bats are nocturnal, you won’t see them flying about during the day, but you may notice them emerging from openings at dusk. Rustling noises and squeaking coming from ceilings and walls may be heard. Staining may be seen around the openings that the bats are using to enter and exit the structure. Guano may also be found by the openings on ledges, sidewalks, patios, attic woodwork, etc.

In the event you suspect you have bats in a building, this is the time of year to address the issue. Contact us today! We can help.