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What happens to pests during winter?

Bears go into hibernation when it gets cold. Birds migrate south, and humans layer up by the fire to keep warm in the winter months. What happens to termites, ants, and mosquitoes? While many people believe they die, the truth is that termites and other insects have strategies to survive the winter. Find out how pests can survive harsh weather conditions.

ANTS

It’s not often that you see an army of ants marching over the kitchen counter in winter. They are still very close to us, however. Even in our backyards, overwintering in the great outdoors is a familiar feat for ants. They eat a lot of food in the fall to become fat enough to live for several weeks without eating. Their body temperature and productivity decrease as the winter chill approach. They seal up their colonies and hide under rocks or in deep soil until spring. When the temperature rises, the ants will be ready to take over their overwintering areas and shop at the next backyard barbecue.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are a species that has been around for millions and evolved into one of the most adaptable animals in the world. Are they capable of surviving the cold? Most cockroaches can survive year-round if they have access to warm and moist environments. For example, the German cockroach prefers to live in an indoor environment with moisture and food sources. This species is comfortable in bathrooms and kitchens, particularly during winter. The American Cockroach will, however, live outside in warmer climates. Once the temperature drops, this cockroach breed will migrate to larger buildings, such as homes, supermarkets, and food processing plants.

Termites

The climate and species of termites that live in winter will significantly impact what happens to them. To stay warm in colder climates, subterranean termites dig deeper into the soil to keep warm. Other species, such as dry wood termites, will look for shelter in dry wood. The last freeze occurs in springtime when temperatures reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit. After that, the young male and female termites swarm emerge from the nests to search for a mate. Termites can live year-round in warmer climates and heated homes where temperatures are controlled.

You now know that many household pests can survive winter, so it is essential to take steps to pest-proof your home.

Mosquitoes

When you spend time outside during summer, it is almost inevitable to encounter mosquitoes and their itchy bites. You might be surprised to learn that mosquitoes do not disappear when Old Man Winter arrives. Contrary to popular belief, these biting insects hibernate in protected areas like hollow logs rather than overwintering. When the weather improves, mosquitoes awaken to seek food and develop eggs.

Bed Bugs

Temperatures as low as 122° Fahrenheit can be used to kill bed bugs, and they can die after just a few days of exposure to temperatures below 32°F. Unfortunately, winter is a time when bed bugs thrive in warm homes.

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Top 10 Termite Prevention Tips

Many people can’t wait for spring after the cold, long winter that swept across most of the country. Soon, daylight will return, flowers will bloom, and children will spend more time outside. As the weather warms, some people might notice an unwelcome sign of spring – the appearance of termites, or Swarmers.

Spring is the prime termite season. Swarmers are active in spring to mate and form new colonies. These colonies often include residential properties that are vulnerable. Termites can literally destroy a home without the owners even realizing it. They can chew through wood, flooring, wallpaper, and even wallpaper without being detected. They can cause structural damage to a home in as little as a year, depending on which species they are. Termites are responsible for $5 billion in property damage each year.

There are several steps homeowners can take in order to prevent termites from infesting their property. These are 10 tips from National Pest Management Association to help protect your most valuable investment against termites.

• Reduce or eliminate moisture from the home for termites to thrive.
• Leakage of water pipes, faucets, and exterior AC units can be repaired.
• Repair Fascias, soffits, and rotted roof tiles.
• Weatherstripping and lose mortar should be replaced around the basement foundation and windows.
• Water can be diverted away from your house by properly functioning downspouts.
• Routinely inspect the foundation for any signs of termites, such as mud tubes (used to reach food sources), uneven or bubbling paint, and hollow wood.
• For any changes, monitor all wood exterior surfaces, including doorframes and skirting boards.
• Keep a gap of 18 inches between your soil and any wood parts of your home.
• It is worth scheduling an annual professional inspection. Homeowners’ insurance does not cover wood-boring insect damage.
• Keep firewood at least 20 feet from your home.

Do-it-yourself treatments are not effective in controlling termites. To determine the extent and recommend the best treatment, call a licensed pest control professional as soon as you suspect termite infestation. Find a qualified local pest professional.

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How to spot Rats and Mice in Your Home

Common Signs of Rodent Infestation

People often associate cold weather with high heating bills and power outages. However, rodent infestations are another winter problem. According to the National Pest Management Association, 45 percent of rodent problems are caused by rodents in winter and fall. Because rodents are more likely to seek shelter and food indoors, this is the best time to recognize signs of an infestation. To help you determine if your house is infested, the National Pest Management Association has put together this list.

What to look for

Nests Rodents like to nest in dark, quiet areas with little disturbance. Particularly, house mice love to make their nests from shredded paper, cotton, packing material, wall insulation, and fabrics. You might need to have an inspection done by a licensed pest control professional if you find these materials around your home.

Rub marks or tracks

Rats leave dark grease marks on walls and floorboards because they travel in a path between their nests and food. These rub marks are caused by rats’ oily fur.

Gnaw marks Rodents can cause property damage by chewing on almost any material, including plastic and lead pipes, to get food or water. Norway rats and House mice have been known to chew on wires behind walls. This can increase the danger of a home being set on fire. You should be vigilant for signs of rats and rodent infestations such as gnaw marks on the walls.

Rat droppings: A rodent infestation is a sign of its presence. These pellets, which measure approximately 1/8-1/4″ (3-3 mm) in length, are often found around food storage areas, such as pantries or kitchen cabinets. You may also find mouse droppings in sinks, on top of baseboards, and inside chewed cardboard boxes. The feces of mice can contain harmful bacteria and transmit serious diseases like salmonella and Hantavirus. They also trigger allergies. The droppings of mice can be more than 50 per day. Protective gloves are essential to keep your family safe from potential health risks. It is indeed infested by rodents.

Strange sounds

Hearing unusual noises from the walls at night can be alarming. These sounds could be caused by a family rodent running around the house between walls or up in attics. Attics are a great place for rodents to nest because they offer a dark and private area where they can build their nests. Attics are often overlooked in pest-proofing. This area should be kept dry and ventilated. You can also store family heirlooms in plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes.

A real rodent

Mice breed quickly so it’s possible that there are other mice hiding in your house. A female house mouse in Maryland can have up to 35 mice children per year and can give birth to as many as a dozen babies in three weeks. This is a lot of mice!

These are signs that you should be concerned about a rodent infestation. Rodents can be a nuisance, but they can also multiply quickly and spread more than 35 diseases. Rodents can also chew through walls and electrical wiring, increasing the chance of a home being set on fire. Contact a licensed Maryland pest control professional immediately to inspect your home and determine the best course of action.

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Executive Summary 2022 Bugs Without Borders

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) surveyed a national sample of pest management professionals. Similar research was done and. The current summary summarizes the results of the study. It also refers to earlier surveys, which can be useful for comparing.

The pest management industry once again has taken up a topic that is very troubling for most Americans: bed bugs. Although bed bugs are feared by the public, there is much that can be learned from people who treat and eliminate them in their homes, workplaces, and leisure areas. Pest management professionals (PMPs), from across the country, participated in an online survey that was conducted on a bi-annual basis by the National Pest Management Association and the University of Kentucky. The key findings are included in this report.

Bed bug infestations remain a problem. Nearly two-thirds of pest management professionals (PMP), (64%) say that bed bug infestations are on the rise. Bed bug infestations can occur all year. Six out of ten PMPs (61%) noted seasonal variations in frequency. Summertime is the peak season. This could be due to an increase in travel, during which people may unknowingly bring home bed bugs.

Bedbugs can be found anywhere there are people. More than 90% of professionals encountered bed bugs in their apartments, condos, single-family homes, and condominiums in 2015. Three-quarters (74%) also experienced infestations in hotels or motels in 2015. Infestations have increased in nursing homes, offices, and public transport since 2013. Respondents have also reported infestations in shelters and college dorms. Specifically:

1. Nursing homes – 58 % (46 % in 2013).
2. Office buildings – 45 % (36 % in 2013).
3. Daycare centers and schools – 43% (41%) in 2013
4. Hospitals – 36% (33%) in 2013
5. Outpatient services/doctors’ offices – 33 percent (26 percent in 2013).
6. Transport (train/bus/taxi/taxi) – 29 percent (21 per cent in 2013).
7. Retail stores – 20% (15 percent in 2013).
8. Movie theatres – 16% (10 percent in 2013).

Many people have shared stories of bed bugs being found in unusual places. One PMP discovered them in a club, another in a casket, and another found them in a bathtub vent. Pest management professionals often encounter bed bugs in unexpected places.

Public Attitudes: Customers are more concerned about bed bugs this year than they were in previous years, according to two out of five PMPs (43%). Only 6 percent of PMPs claim that customers are more concerned today than they were in the past, with 51 percent stating that little has changed.

Treatment of bed bugs

Professionals still use visual inspection to find bed bugs. Because of their complex nature, professionals are increasingly using other methods to find bed bugs. These include traps that can be used to capture and intercept them on their way to the next meal.

Nearly all PMPs (95%) will treat bed bugs once they are discovered. Many professionals (84%) also use mattress encasements and have their clients wash infested items (79%). Fewer PMPs are using vacuums (62%), heat treatment (40%), and steam (38%). Notably, the disposal of infested objects has fallen in popularity. 47% recommended disposal in 2011, compared to 62% in 2011.

Nearly eighty-seven percent of PMPs (77%) conduct preventive bed bug treatment, up from six of ten (60%) back in 2012. These proactive services typically involve monitoring and inspection to identify infestations early so that they can be managed more easily. According to 68 percent of respondents, bed bugs are still the most difficult pests to control. 21 percent of respondents identify ants as their most challenging pest, while 9 percent name cockroaches, 2 percent list termites, and 9 percent name cockroaches.

80 percent of respondents cited homeowner clutter as the greatest customer-oriented problem in dealing with bed bugs. Next came customers who didn’t follow the advice (62%), and re-infestation (24%). A mere 29 percent of the respondents claimed that employees from their company have accidentally brought bedbugs to their house or office from a treatment area.

These findings, as in previous years show that bed bugs need to be educated and made more visible to the public. Although professional pest management companies can eradicate infestations, they can also be expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive for consumers. Although bed bugs seem to be here to stay in the United States, they can be stopped by vigilant citizens who take steps to stop them from spreading wherever they travel.

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7 Pest Bug Species Right in Your Backyard

Many invasive species have entered the United States over the years, either intentionally or accidentally. Continue reading to learn about seven of the most invasive species in the United States and the dangers they pose for human health and property.

Formosan Termites

This invasive termite species can be difficult to control once they have infested a structure due to their aggressive nature. In just six months, a mature Formosan termite colony could cause serious structural damage to a house.

Red Imported Fire Ants

Imported Red Fire Ants can be found in the southern half of the United States. These ants and their distinctive mound nests should be avoided. Interfering in a nest of fire ants can result in them stinging En masse, which can lead to painful welts.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

Invasive species that arrived from Asia in 1996 to the United States and have since spread rapidly throughout the country. They pose a serious threat to agriculture and have been known to infiltrate homes in large numbers.

Asian Tiger Mosquitoes

Although this invasive species of mosquito can be found all over the United States, it is more common in the southern regions. They can transmit diseases such as the West Nile virus and Chikungunya viruses, as well as dengue fever. They feed during daylight hours, which is a departure from native mosquito species.

Africanized “Killer” Bees

The Africanized “killer bee“, a dangerous stinging insect that can chase people for up to a quarter-mile, is known to be aggressive. Although their venom is not as potent as regular honeybees’, they are more aggressive and can attack humans in greater numbers.

European Starlings

Shakespeare lovers who wanted to bring every bird in Shakespeare’s plays to America introduced starlings to New York more than 100 years ago. Since then, they have spread all over the country. Their droppings can cause serious structural damage to buildings and promote fungal growth in the soil, which can lead to disease.

Norway Rats

Norway rats are thought to be Asian in origin but can now be found all over the globe. They can damage structures by their gnawing and are vectors of serious diseases such as plague, jaundice and rat-bite fever.

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Cockroach Identification Guide

How to distinguish between different types of cockroaches

Are you familiar with the symptoms of pest infestations in your home? You know that effective pest control begins with identifying the problem. This is difficult for homeowners, as they lack the skills and knowledge to identify the rodent or bug in question. It is even more difficult because the exact species must be identified and not just the pest to determine the best course of action. They all have different living habits and appearances.

Learn more about what to do in case of an infestation.

Cockroaches are one example. There are over 4,000 species of roaches worldwide, with about 70 being found in the United States. Only a small number of these cockroaches live in commercial and residential properties. The most common are Americans. brown-banded. German. Oriental.

Learn the habits of cockroaches.

Cockroaches are known to enter homes looking for food and water. However, each species has its own preferred hiding places. German cockroaches love warm and humid environments. They can be found in kitchens and bathrooms. American cockroaches are more common in commercial buildings, such as restaurants and grocery stores. They are known to infest food storage areas and food preparation areas as well as basements and yards, and alleyways.

Other species of cockroaches, such as the oriental cockroach, can also survive outdoors. They can be found under leaves, stones, debris, and porches. They prefer to hide in crawl spaces and basements, as well as around utility pipes. Brown-banded Cockroaches prefer to live in dry areas and are more comfortable living in warmer climates than 80 degrees. They are more likely to be found in bathrooms and kitchen cabinets at higher elevations than other cockroach species.

Take note of the size of the cockroach

The largest cockroach in the world is 6 inches long and has a 1-foot wingspan. However, it lives only in South America. The size range of cockroaches in the United States is typically between 1/2″ and 2″.

Brown-banded cockroaches, the smallest common roaches, only reach 1/2 inch in length. This is about the same size as a penny. German cockroaches can grow to be slightly larger than brown-banded ones and range in size from 1/2″ to 5/8″. Oriental cockroaches are slightly larger, measuring approximately 1″. American cockroaches are among the most destructive roaches. They can reach up to 2 inches in length.

You should look for different colors on the body of the roach

Although most cockroaches have an oval shape, they can be distinguished from each other by their slightly different body colors. American cockroaches, for example, are reddish-brown with a yellowish figure-8 design on their backs. Brown-banded cockroaches, however, are brown with prominent banding across their wings. German cockroaches in Maryland are light brown or tan in color with two dark stripes. Oriental roaches are shiny, black.

In the case of an infestation

Get in touch with a licensed pest expert. They can help you assess the situation and determine the species. Find a pest expert near you Maryland.

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How to stop mosquito bites from itching

Summer is full of sunshine and fun. The mosquito saliva triggers an immune response that causes red bumps and itching. Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your summer plans. Read on to learn how to prevent them from biting you.

Common symptoms of a mosquito bite are:

1. Itches A red bump appears on the skin.
2. Itching, swelling, and pain
3. Redness around a bump
4. While most people experience a mild reaction to a mosquito bite or an allergic reaction, some may have more severe reactions.
   “Skeeter Syndrome” (papular Urticaria) refers to a localized allergic reaction when a mosquito bite causes inflammation and fever.
5. Allergenic proteins cause it in mosquito saliva.
6. Contact a doctor immediately if you experience severe headaches, fever, body aches, nausea, vomiting, or trouble breathing.

Mosquito Bite Treatment What to Do When You See a Mosquito Bite?

To prevent mosquito bites, you should first clean the bite with soap water. You can apply ice to reduce swelling and itching temporarily. Some over-the-counter creams and ointments can be used to soothe the itching.

When it comes to getting rid of a mosquito bite, the most important thing is not to scratch it. By rubbing it, you can only mark the bite site and increase your histamine response. Over-scratching can also lead to skin breaks that could cause an infection.

The use of antihistamines, steroids, and NSAIDs can relieve the symptoms and help to get rid of mosquito bites. For severe itching or more significant reactions, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream of one percent may be prescribed. You may need antibiotics if you have symptoms of infection.

How can you prevent mosquito bites?

While most mosquito bites are not dangerous, infected mosquitoes can transmit serious diseases like the West Nile virus to humans. It is important to avoid mosquito bites this summer.

1. The best way to avoid mosquito bites is to use an insect repellent that contains at least 20% DEET. It would help if you also got rid of any standing water in your home, as this could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
2. Because mosquitoes need only a tiny amount of water to reproduce, it is a good idea to get rid of any baby pools, tarps, or flowerpots that are filled with water. Screen all windows and doors to keep mosquitoes away.
3. Avoid sweet-smelling perfumes, dark colors, and colognes. Also, avoid spending too much time outside at dusk or dawn, as these are the most active times for mosquitoes.
4. For more information about how to prevent mosquito bites, or if you have any questions about the treatment of mosquito infestations on your property, contact a licensed pest control professional.

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Structural Property and Termite Damage

Termites: Although they are as small as ants, they can cause damage to more than $5 billion annually in the United States, According to the National Pest Management Association. Worse, homeowner’s insurance policies rarely cover termite damage. It can be hard to see the signs to spot an infestation of termites, as they are usually hidden from view. How can you tell if these little creatures are causing damage and what signs to look out for?

Termites are not just a nuisance. They can cause structural property damage to the structure of your home, including the support beams and floor joists, ceiling joists, posts, wall studs, ceiling joists, and ceiling joists. If termites are found in superficial damage, your inspector will likely see more. If termites colonize your home and cause damage to its supporting structures, it can be unlivable for a while. Wood structures can also cause termite damage. Termites love insulation, plaster, and metal siding.

How can you tell if your home is infested? Swarming is one of the easiest ways homeowners can find out if they have termites. When winged termites appear inside homes, swarming occurs in spring. These termites will swarm when the temperature rises. Although they can’t eat wood, termites swarm indoors, and they aren’t dangerous. What are other signs of termites? Other symptoms include termite droppings, termite wings that have been discarded, bubbling wallpaper, buckling wallpaper, visible mazes on walls and furniture, holes in firewood piles or stumps, and termite droppings that look like small piles of sawdust. Termite damage DC can look a lot like water damage in many cases. Water damage can attract specific types of termites. It is important to have a professional termite inspector assess the problem.

Imagine where you have termites. What if you can fix the damage and not file for bankruptcy? There’s a good chance you can. Although termites can cause irreparable damage to a home, it is rare. There are two options when it comes to repairing termite-damaged wood.

1) Removing damaged wood can be done by replacing it with new.

2) To provide support, attach new wood to the wood that is damaged. This will be more cost-efficient if it’s possible. Don’t make any repairs until the termite problem is resolved. You should consult a contractor if the termite infestation is affecting the structure of the building.

3) It is vital to keep termites away from your home.

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Buying a House with Termite Damage

It can be called a natural disaster due to the fear it causes to homeowners. In severe cases, termite infestation may destroy a home. Even a minor attack by the wood-eating insects can cause significant inconveniences and costly pest control treatments and work. A termite infestation damages can cost thousands of dollars. They might return.

Then why would you even consider buying a home with termite damage? Some people won’t. Some people will not. Others will continue to look at the options and maybe negotiate a considerable discount. It’s not a bad idea. Termites can be treated in most cases. If the bugs or their damage are discovered, the seller will pay for the extermination and repair. Preventive measures can help reduce the chance of termites returning.

Regardless of whether repairs or prevention are made, this is a buyer-beware scenario. Termites can cause structural damage that may not become apparent until after the sale. They can resurface, so you may have to deal with them for a long time. You might have to do it for as long as your house is in existence.

It is wise to do more than the standard due diligence when considering buying a home with termites. Choose an inspector who is experienced in termites. Your average home inspector will miss signs and damage that are less obvious. Check that the contract clearly states that repairs and treatment are the seller’s responsibility and reliability. If possible, have the termite exterminator come back for a post-repair inspection to ensure that the job was done correctly.

This is smart you need to do before you sign the contract. Once everything is signed, do all you can to prevent another infestation. This includes fixing leaks, fixing roofs that collect water, and conducting regular inspections to ensure you catch any problems early. Although buying this house will require extra maintenance, it can help you save a lot of money, time, and effort in the long term. You can also protect your investment by doing this. If the roof falls, you won’t be able to sell that house.

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Termite Flooring Damage

Squeaky floors are as typical as old houses. Sometimes laminates can bubble. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have termites. You might.

Termites can cause damage to a house’s floors and walls, as well as its foundation. Termites will attack flooring structures when they find food. Hardwoods are less attractive than floor joists or sub-floors and are easier to find than backings for laminate or tile floors. They can cause extensive structural damage to substructures by the time they reach the surface flooring.

Squeaking, slight lifting, and floorboards that appear to have lifted a little are all signs you can overlook. The symptoms become more apparent, and When the sagging becomes worse, the boards and tiles begin to pull away from the subfloor. Tap a screwdriver onto a buckled hardwood floor to make it sound hollow. The wood might crack under pressure.

You may also notice signs of termite infestations such as laminates that bubble-like water-damaged but no water damage, spots of discoloration (which can be overlooked if you spill too much), blistering and inexplicable piles or sawdust.

If you suspect that something is wrong, it is essential to call a professional to confirm the diagnosis immediately. It would help if you first eliminated the cause of the infestation before you can repair the flooring. Once your home has been rid of termites, you can begin the repairs.

While wood and tile floors are often repairable, laminate flooring needs to be torn up and replaced. This is not necessarily a bad thing. It allows for easier access to wooden substructures that may need to be replaced, repaired, or treated with termiticides to prevent another occurrence.

This is not something that most people can do on their own. Substructure damage can be hard to determine and may require hydraulic equipment to lift the entire house from the ground. This is a costly and challenging task, but it’s worth it if you don’t want termites ruining your floors and home. The good news is that you won’t have the squeaking to deal with anymore. Although it may not be worth the effort, this is still a nice perk.

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