Invasive Insects From Abroad - Part Four

The good news about invasive foreign insects is that like indigenous species, invasive pest infestations can be curtailed or prevented altogether with some pest proofing know-how.

Homeowners should inspect the outside of their home and identify potential pest entry points. Any cracks or crevices on the outside of the home – including around windows, doors and utility pipes – should be sealed with a silicone caulk. Torn or damaged window screen should be repaired, and screens should be installed on attic and crawl space vents.

In addition, homeowners should take steps to reduce moisture in and around their homes, which attracts many pest species. Divert water away from the home’s foundation with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces, attics and basements with proper ventilation.

To prevent Formosan termites, store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and 5 inches off the ground. Maintain a one-inch gap between soil and wood portions of your home, and routinely inspect the foundation of a home for signs of mud tubes, cracked or bubbling paint and wood that sounds hollow when tapped.

If you suspect an invasive pest infestation contact Dave at 1-800-400-6009 right away. Our trained professionals will be able to identify the species and recommend a course of treatment to control the infestation before it becomes a major problem.

Remember that some invasive pest species, especially Formosan termites, should always be left to the professionals to handle.

Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
Worcester County Pest and Rodent Exterminators
www.davespestcontrol.net  

Reference: www.pestworld.org

Insects From Abroad - Part Two

Earlier I shared some information on foreign invasive species from an article by Missy Henriksen for Pest World. Here are a few more highlights.

Some invasive species pose threats to American homeowners and families. Formosan termites, for example, is one of the most destructive termite species of the more than 2,000 termite species known to science. Originally from China, Formosan termites were brought into the U.S. through military cargo shipments after World War II.
They pose a greater threat than their native counterparts because they form larger colonies and tend to be more aggressive, thus consuming more wood at a much faster rate. Formosan termites are heavy contributors to the $5 billion in annual U.S. property damage caused by all species of termites.

Another problematic invasive pest is the red imported fire ant (RIFA). This ant, native to Brazil, was first introduced to the U.S. in 1933. Today, they can be found throughout the South and in parts of California and other western states.

RIFAs get their common name from their ability to inflict painful bites and stings, which form into raised welts that become white pustules. RIFAs will attack humans who disturb or threaten their nests, and often a person stung by a RIFA receives multiple painful stings from more than one of the ants. Those allergic to insect stings will react more severely. Red imported fire ants and their telltale mound nests should be carefully avoided.

If you suspect an invasive pest infestation contact Dave at 1-800-400-6009 right away. Our trained professionals will be able to identify the species and recommend a course of treatment to control the infestation before it becomes a major problem.

Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
Worcester County Pest and Rodent Exterminators
www.davespestcontrol.net Reference: www.pestworld.org

Bug Facts And Trivia

Formosan Termites

• The largest Formosan termite colony found in America had infested a public library in Algiers, La. It weighed 600 pounds and contained 70 million termites.
• 10% of the world's animal biomass is composed of termites.
• Male mosquitoes do not bite humans, but rather live on plant juices and other natural liquids from plants and decomposing organic material.
• Silk comes from the cocoons of the true Silk Moth. More than 25,000 cocoons must be unraveled to make a single pound of silk thread.

Dave's Pest Control
1-800-400-6009
A Central Massachusetts Extermination and Pest Control Company
www.davespestcontrol.net

Reference: www.pestworld.org

Termite FAQS - Part 2

Formosan subterranean termite

1. When does a homeowner see termites? Termites swarm in the early spring, depending on their geographical location.Add caption

2. What can a homeowner do to prevent termites? The most important thing is to remove the conducive conditions termites need to survive. Termites love moisture; avoid moisture accumulation around the foundation of your home.

Prevent termites by diverting water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. Prevent shrubs, vines and other vegetation from growing over and covering vents. Be sure to remove old form boards, grade stakes, etc., left in place after the building was constructed.

Remove old tree stumps and roots around and beneath the building. Most importantly, eliminate any wood contact with the soil. An 18-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building is ideal. It doesn't hurt to routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of termite damage.

If you're concerned that you have termites in your home or place of business, give Dave a call at 1-800-400-6009.

Dave's Pest Control
A Central Massachusetts Pest Control Company
www.davespestcontrol.net

Reference: www.pestworld.org