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Meet the Bug(s) There are over 12,000 + species of ants in our world, found in every climate possible. Of these 12,000 + species, there are 5 common species that every homeowner or renter should be aware of: Argentine Ants Carpenter Ants Odorous House Ants (also known as sugar ants) Pavement Ants Red Imported Fire Ants Argentine Ants Originating from Argentina and Brazil, it is theorized that this species was brought to the United States in the 1890s via freight ships. Argentine Ants can be found in southern states, California, Missouri, Illinois, Washington, Oregon, and Maryland. In appearance, Argentine Ants tend to be a dark brown to black in color, are shiny, and are found with or without wings. They enjoy sweets like the common house ant but will eat just about anything. Argentine Ants leave pheromones wherever they forage, and in this species, the Queen will help the workers find food. Argentine Ants do not carry diseases; they leave behind their waste, thus contaminating surfaces and food. This ant species prefers areas where moisture is abundant and will nest and reproduce in standing water just like mosquitoes will. Therefore, removing any source of standing water will significantly improve the chances of not attracting this species of ants. Carpenter Ants Named so because they burrow into wood structures and build their nests within moldy and rotting wood, Carpenter Ants pose one of the greatest threats to facilities and homes of the species available. They do not eat the wood they remove but adjust it into piles at the entrances of their nest. As a result, they will create tunnel systems throughout wood frames, significantly weakening the structure and causing irreversible damage that will cost a lot of money to replace. In appearance, Carpenter Ants can range in color from black to red and are often mistaken for fire ants. The chosen diet of Carpenter Ants is anything sweet, fruits, meats, and other insects, and they do not carry diseases, though they do cause damage to wherever they have located their nests. Odorous House Ants (Sugar Ants) So-called due to their odd scent of rotten coconuts when crushed, the Odorous House Ant, or Sugar Ant as we tend to call them, are native to the United States and tend to live in very social colonies of 100,000 + members. Talk about not having any privacy! Their appearance is much like other species, brown to black in color, with six legs, antennae, and an oval and tapered-shaped body. They can also produce ants with and without wings based on the caste system. As for diet, Odorous Ants prefer dead insects and sugary-sweet items, particularly any type of melon. They nest in just about anywhere, preferring rich and moist soil, but can be found in cracks in pavement or walls/floors, logs, mulch, and other debris. This species also do not carry diseases, but they contaminate food and surfaces from the waste they leave behind. Pavement Ants Their namesake was gifted by their unusual nesting habits, choosing to build their colonies in the cracks in the pavement on driveways, roads, patios, etc. Typically, they are found in the Eastern U.S., California, and Washington. The colors of Pavement Ants are like their cousin species, browns, and blacks, with six legs, antennae, and oval/tapered-shaped bodies. They also have some winged and some un-winged castes in their social hierarchy. Their dietary restrictions aren't strict, and as a result, they eat just about anything from grease to other insects, along with their fallen brethren. They will eat sweets, meats, and fruit as well. These disease-less insects impose no health risks, but they will contaminate surfaces and food with the waste they leave behind. Red Imported Fire Ants The warriors of the ant world, Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA or just Fire Ants), are an extremely aggressive species and are known for their burning sting that hurts quite a bit. RIFA are found in almost every client; they are adaptable and intelligent. Their mounds are easily noticeable and should be avoided by anyone who isn't a pro at bug extermination. Their intelligence level is unmatched in the ant world, and when they notice a rise in moisture or water, they curl up together in a tight ball and will float, protecting the Queen and their young. RIFA are a dark reddish-brown and has a segmented, oval shape with or without wings, six legs, and antennae. They build their nests outdoors in soil, occasionally indoors, but prefer moist soil for their mounds, and their go-to sustenance is the vegetation around them. Are Ants Good for Anything? By destroying decaying or moldy wood and vegetation, ants help the environment. The problem is that they reproduce so quickly and move into areas, such as homes, that they become pests and are eradicated on site. Out in nature, in their natural habitats, ants are essential to our ecosystem. Social Structures of Ant Colonies All ants have a social caste system consisting of the Queen(s); some species have multiple Queens, the reproductive males whose job is only to mate with the emerging Queens, dying shortly after, and the female workers who, well, do the work. How Do You Get Rid of Ants? There are several over-the-counter remedies to get rid of ants that often work short-term. However, to get to the heart of a colony, you need more robust, commercialized chemicals that a trained exterminator should only wield for long-lasting pest control. Check out the link below for more information! https://www.pestworldforkids.org/pest-guide/ants/ All information was extracted from Pest World for Kids; all credit for research and information accumulation should go to them.

Meet the Bug The Subterranean Termite, or Reticulitermes Coptotermes ( Formosan ), is the largest concentration of termite species in the United States and can be found in all 50 states except Alaska due to its frigid climate. Termites are more commonly found in the warmer southern states and are the most destructive of wood-loving pests, nesting in the soil and then attacking wood structures from the base up. Subterranean Termites (and most species) feast on and attack wood and wood-built structures. Wood is their primary source of nutrients and food, and they will build tubes or protective shelters that will go around any obstacle in their way, funneling straight to the source of wood in the ground around them. Infestations are generally brought on by the homeowner/renter, creating the perfect environment to incubate the termite population; a warm and moist area is preferred. It is estimated that Subterranean Termites cause around 1 - 7 billion dollars in damages each year, depending on the area. However, it is thought that most damages and costs associated go unreported, meaning the number could be even more vast than we are aware. Are Termites Good for Anything? Like spiders, termites have their uses in our world, but controlling and isolating any insect is near impossible. When left to their natural habitats, termites will target and destroy dead or decaying (dying) plant-based elements, such as wood, ridding the soil of the toxicity of these materials. Termites play an essential role in the nutrient cycle. Social Structure of a Termite Colony Termites are an extremely social species that live in organized colonies. Each termite has its place and job within the colony caste system, and their physical appearance represents this caste. There are three main castes within a termite colony: Workers, Soldiers, and Reproductives (who may or may not have wings). Termites vs. Ants Many people confuse termites and ants, as they have a similar look at first glance. However, when studying the two insects side-by-side, one would note that winged termites have equal wings, whereas winged ants have unequally sized wings. In addition, an ant's body is also tapered in more at the "waist," whereas a termite's is typically devoid of tapering. How Do You Get Rid of a Subterranean Termite Infestation? New construction builders often employ tactics that will severely reduce the possibility of an infestation by applying termite pesticides to the ground during the initial construction phases. It is advised to homeowners or property managers to have a local pest control company come out periodically to maintain a pest-free location. In the case of an infestation in an older home, a licensed and skilled pest control company will send a technician out to apply commercial strength insecticide to the entirety of the building, concentrating on the areas where the termite population is most substantial. This should effectively reduce and hopefully eradicate the infestation. Thank you for reading our blog, for more information on Subterranean Termites, please click the link below. https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/misc_hg064.pdf All summarized information found in this blog post came directly from the United States Department of Agriculture; all credit is given to them.

It’s better to be able to identify what is buzzing around your yard rather than finding out the hard way – ouch! Learn the key differences between yellow jackets and honey bees so you can identify and deal with these insects appropriately. Yellow Jackets Black and bright yellow Shiny, hairless and have distinctive wasp-like waist Do not make honey Feeds on insects, fruit, sugars and meats Legs hang down when flying Helps humans by eating other insects Will sting if provoked or threatened Can sting repeatedly Often nests in the ground Can be controlled by a pest control professional Honey Bees Amber/brown and a duller yellow Are fatter and look fuzzy Make honey Feeds mostly on flowers Legs are usually hidden when flying Helps humans by pollinating plants Will sting if swatted or stepped on Stings only once Doesn’t nest in the ground Should be removed by a beekeeper In summary, yellow jackets and honey bees differ in their physical appearance, nesting habits, behavior, size, and coloring. Honey bees are generally more gentle and less aggressive, while yellow jackets are known for their aggressive behavior and predatory nature. Understanding these differences can help in identifying and dealing with these insects buzzing around your home or property. Learn more about our treatment for yellow jackets, bees and hornets here .

Yellow jackets are a type of wasp that are common in Arkansas and can be aggressive when their nest is disturbed. Since they tend to build their nests partially underground, we recommend that you inspect your yard for these nests, especially if you have children and pets. Learn the signs to identify their nests as well as prevention tips to keep your family and pets safe. How to Spot a Yellow Jacket Nest Here are some tips on how spot a wasp nest in or around your property: Look for aerial nests: Yellow jackets often build their nests hanging from the eaves of houses or garages, trees, or electric or light poles. This is one of the most obvious signs of having wasps. Check the ground: Yellow jackets tend to build nests partially underground, usually in old gopher holes, wood piles, and dense vegetation. Walk your property, looking for holes, as well as other ground areas where nests might exist. If you see yellow jackets flying near such areas, or a large number of yellow jackets crawling around protecting a certain area, you’ve probably found a nest. Observe their flight pattern: Yellow jackets usually fly in a straight line rather than flying in curves or circles. Stand still and look across an area of yard that is in full, bright sun. Yellow jackets tend to zip quickly by on a straight path. Use bait: You can try to locate the nest by placing a piece of meat on the ground and waiting for a yellow jacket to take a piece. They do not fly far from their nest, so if you see one, it is likely that the nest is nearby. Tips to Deter Yellow Jackets To prevent yellow jackets from becoming a nuisance in your yard or home, here are some effective methods: Locate and remove the nest: If you have a yellow jacket nest on your property, it's important to locate and remove it. This is best done by calling a professional pest control service, as they have the expertise and equipment to handle the situation safely. Prevent with peppermint oil: Yellow jackets are repelled by the smell of peppermint oil. You can create a natural deterrent by mixing peppermint oil with water and spraying it around areas where yellowjackets are likely to be present, such as garbage bins or outdoor dining areas. Maintain a clean yard: Yellow jackets are attracted to sugary sweets and sources of protein. To reduce their access to food, keep trash bins sealed and clean up outdoor spills promptly. Additionally, pick fruits from your garden as soon as they ripen or cover them to prevent yellow jackets from feeding on them. Avoid attracting yellow jackets: Yellow jackets are attracted to certain scents and colors. To minimize their presence, avoid wearing perfumes, sweet-smelling shampoos or other scented body care products. Also, refrain from wearing bright-colored clothing, particularly yellow, or floral patterns, as yellow jackets seem to be attracted to these colors. Use lure traps: Lure traps can be set up to discourage yellow jackets from foraging in your yard. These traps contain attractants that lure the insects away from your living areas. However, it's important to place the traps away from high-traffic areas to avoid attracting more yellow jackets. By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of yellow jackets becoming a problem in your yard or home. However, if you spot or suspect a yellow jacket nest, it's best to call a professional pest removal company to handle it. They’ll know how to find the nest and exactly how to treat it to keep you and your home safe. Learn more about yellow jackets, bees and hornets here .

Trying to control fleas without professional help can pose several risks, including: Ineffectiveness: Over-the-counter flea control products may not be effective in eliminating a flea infestation. Fleas can develop resistance to certain products, and some products may not be strong enough to kill all fleas and their eggs. Health risks: Fleas do not pose a direct health risk to humans, but their bites can cause intense itching and irritation that can lead to infection. Fleas can also exacerbate allergies and asthma in some people. Misuse of pesticides: Misuse of pesticides can be dangerous and can lead to health risks for you, your family, and your pets. Overuse or misuse of pesticides can also lead to pesticide resistance in fleas and other pests. Reinfestation: Without proper treatment, fleas can quickly reproduce and reinfest your home. Fleas can lay up to 50 eggs per day, and their eggs can hatch in as little as two days. Wasted time and money: Trying to control fleas without professional help can be time-consuming and expensive. If over-the-counter products are not effective, you may end up spending more money on multiple products and treatments. It is important to consider the risks of DIY flea control. With the help of a pest control professional, you can receive effective treatment and ensure that the products used are safe for you, your family and your pets. A professional can also provide preventative measures to help prevent future flea infestations. Learn more about fleas and treatment here .

Arkansas definitely has its share of spiders. Here are the most common types of spiders known to invade homes and buildings in our state: Black Widow The most venomous spider in Arkansas and is probably the most popular and recognizable spider in the world due to its shiny black color and red hourglass-shaped mark. Brown Recluse Another poisonous spider native to Arkansas. Prefer dimly lit locations, like dark corners in a basement, closets, cluttered areas or inside shoes and clothing. Common House Spider Commonly found in homes, buildings and garages throughout the state. Beneficial by eating other small insects and pests in your house like flies, ants and mosquitos. Daddy Long Legs Are characterized by having extremely long, skinny legs and a small body. Known for hanging around in dark, damp places like basements, cellars and attics. Fortunately, their fangs are too short to bite humans. It's important to note that while some of these spiders are venomous, they are not typically aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. If you are concerned about a spider infestation or have been bitten by a spider, it is recommended to seek professional pest control assistance or medical attention if necessary. Learn more about our spider control services .

Signs of a Spider Infestation Common signs of a spider problem include: Spider webs: One of the most common signs of a spider infestation is the presence of spider webs. These webs can be found in corners, along ceiling beams, chandeliers, and other hard-to-reach areas. Egg sacs: Spider egg sacs are another indication of a potential spider infestation. These sacs are usually found within or near spider webs and can contain numerous spider eggs. Live or dead spiders: Spotting live or dead spiders in your home is a clear sign of a spider infestation. If you consistently come across spiders in various areas of your house, it may indicate a larger infestation. Increased spider activity: If you notice an increase in spider sightings, such as seeing more spiders than usual or encountering them frequently, it could be a sign of a spider infestation. Spider Infestation Prevention Tips To prevent a spider infestation, you can take the following steps: Clean regularly: Spiders are less likely to inhabit clean homes with fewer hiding places. Sweep down or vacuum up spider webs and egg sacs whenever you see them. Keep your home tidy and free of clutter, as spiders like to hide in piles of old magazines, dirty clothes and other items that provide cover. Seal entry points: Close off potential entry points for spiders by sealing cracks and crevices in your home. Use caulk to seal gaps around doors, windows, wires, cables and faucets. Patch holes in door or window screens, and make sure your vents and chimney are covered with insect-proof screens. Remove outdoor hiding spots: Spiders can enter your home from the outside. Move piles of leaves, grass clippings, vegetation, compost or woodpiles away from the exterior of your house. Trim bushes, trees and shrubs so that they are several feet away from the siding of your home. By reducing outdoor hiding spots, you can prevent spiders from finding their way indoors. Use natural deterrents: There are several natural substances that spiders dislike and can be used as deterrents. Some options include: Vinegar: Fill a spray bottle with half white vinegar and half water. Spray this mixture in corners, cracks, and crevices to ward off spiders. Be careful to avoid varnished surfaces, as vinegar can cause damage. Essential oils: Spiders are repelled by certain essential oils, such as peppermint, tea tree, and lavender. Dilute a few drops of these oils in water and spray the mixture in areas where spiders are likely to be present. Eliminate other pests: Spiders are attracted to places with abundant insect prey. Take measures to control other pests in your home, such as ants, roaches and flies. Keep food stored in tightly sealed containers and address any other insect problems you may have. By reducing the food source for spiders, you can discourage their presence. Consider professional help: If you have a severe spider infestation or are unsure how to effectively prevent spiders, it may be beneficial to consult with a professional pest control service. They can provide expert advice and assistance in addressing the issue. It's important to note that the presence of a few spiders in your home is normal and not necessarily indicative of an infestation. However, if you observe multiple signs mentioned above or have concerns about a potential infestation, it may be wise to seek professional pest control assistance to assess and address the situation. Learn more about spider control here .

Crawl space vents serve two significant purposes. They allow outside air to circulate under the floor in summer to prevent moisture buildup that encourages mildew and rot. And in the winter, when the air is drier, the vents are closed to reduce the chance that the pipes in the crawl space might freeze. When these crawl space vents are not operating properly, your home is at risk of the following: High humidity and water damage: Open crawl space vents can introduce humid air under the home, which can be absorbed by wooden structures such as floor joists, causing them to soften and rot over time, leading to sagging or uneven floors inside the home. Mold growth: Open crawl space vents can allow moist outside air to enter and cause mold growth. Structural instability: Moisture and mold can weaken the structural integrity of the home. Pest invasion: Open crawl space vents can provide easy access for insects and pests, especially during cold weather. Energy loss: Open crawl space vents can lead to increased energy bills. Corrosion, rusting, and wood rot: Open crawl space vents can promote corrosion, rusting, and wood rot. Open crawl space vents can cause a variety of problems as listed above. Properly operating crawl space vents were once believed to be necessary, but there is now evidence to support the benefits of sealing, closing, or eliminating them in conjunction with a crawl space vapor barrier. But if your home has them, routine inspection and maintenance should be performed. For evaluation and repair of your crawl space and vents, contact a professional with expertise. Learn more about our ventilation services .

Pets can be affected by a variety of pests, some of which can be harmful to their health. Here are some of the most harmful pests to pets: Ticks: Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that can transmit diseases to pets, such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis. They can be found in grass or bushes and can jump on passing animals. Fleas: Fleas are a common issue for pets and can cause itching, irritation, and even anemia in severe cases. They can also transmit tapeworms to pets. Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm to pets, which can be fatal if left untreated. They can also cause itching and irritation. Mice and Rats: Mice and rats can carry diseases that can be transmitted to pets, such as leptospirosis and hantavirus. Stink Bugs: Stink bugs can release a foul odor when threatened, which can cause vomiting and other symptoms in pets if ingested. Bees and Wasps: Stinging pests like bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets can cause severe allergic reactions in pets, which can be life-threatening. It's important to keep pets away from these pests and to take preventative measures, such as using flea and tick prevention products and keeping the home clean and free of pests. If a pet does come in contact with a harmful pest, it's important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Oh yes they can! Squirrels can cause a variety of damage when they infest an attic. Some of the most common types of damage include: Chewed wires: Squirrels have a natural instinct to chew on objects to sharpen and control the growth of their teeth. In an attic, they may chew on electrical wires, which can lead to service interruptions, fires, or electrocution. Damage to insulation: Squirrels may tear up or compress attic insulation to create nests, which can reduce the effectiveness of the insulation and increase energy costs. Structural damage: Squirrels have constantly growing teeth and may chew on wood framing, support beams, or joists in the attic. Over time, this can weaken the structure of the home. Water damage: Squirrels may chew through roofing materials, such as shingles or soffits, which can lead to water leaks and damage to the interior of the home. Fire hazard: Squirrels may carry branches, leaves, and other flammable materials into the attic for nesting, which can increase the risk of a fire if they come into contact with exposed wires. Health risks: Squirrel urine and feces in the attic can create a foul odor, stain the ceiling, and potentially spread parasites or diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. Damage to personal belongings: If you use your attic for storage, squirrels may chew on or damage your belongings, such as furniture, boxes, or clothing. To prevent squirrel damage in your attic, it is important to seal any gaps or openings that may allow them to enter the home and to keep trees trimmed away from the roof to prevent easy access. If you see, hear or suspect a squirrel infestation, it is best to contact a professional to safely and humanely remove the squirrels and repair any damage they may have caused. Learn more about our rodent control services .

In Arkansas, temperatures can vary greatly throughout the winter months of December through March, ranging from below freezing to spring-like weather. While many think the winter weather kills off many pests, it is still necessary to maintain pest control during the winter for several reasons: Certain pests are active year-round: Some pests, such as cockroaches and rodents, remain active throughout the year, including winter. These pests continue to pose problems for residents, making it important to maintain pest control efforts. Pests seek shelter from the cold: As the weather gets colder, pests look for warm places to shelter, and homes often provide the ideal environment. This can lead to an increase in pest activity inside homes during the winter months. Preventative measures are effective: Pest control services often recommend quarterly visits throughout the year to ensure complete protection. These visits can help prevent certain seasonal pests from thriving in or around your home as seasons change. Pests can cause health hazards: Some pests, like rodents and cockroaches, can carry diseases such as Salmonella and Hantavirus. Certain spiders can bite, causing serious side effects, and cockroaches can be a trigger for asthma and allergies. Therefore, maintaining pest control during winter can help reduce these health risks. Pests can enter homes through small openings: Rodents, for example, can get into your home through small holes. Attics can act as a shelter for spiders and other pests. Therefore, winter pest control can help identify and seal these entry points, reducing the likelihood of infestation.   In conclusion, while some pests may become less active or go into dormancy during the winter, others continue to pose a threat. Therefore, maintaining pest control efforts during the winter is crucial to prevent infestations and protect your home. Learn more about our rodent and pest control services.

Yes you do! Termites often go unnoticed until the damage is already done. A termite contract can prevent your home from falling down around you. Here is why you should have a termite contract: Mortgage requirement: Mortgage companies require an inspection to ensure the home is termite free and remains free from infestation. This protects the lender as well as the homeowner. Financial protection or damage control: The sooner the termites are found, the sooner the treatment can be given, and therefore, the less likely chance of damage and costly repairs. Peace of mind: With a contract, regular inspections will be done. If, during inspection, termites are found, the crew can treat on the spot to stop the damage from worsening.   Termites can cause significant damage to your home or other buildings. They often go unnoticed until the damage is already done. Having a termite contract can give you peace of mind whether you are buying/selling your home, or you just want to protect your investment.   Termite contract or not, it is best to bring in a professional to inspect and treat your home if you see or suspect termite damage. Learn more about our termite control services.