ANTS
Ant control must begin with correctly identifying the particular pest that has
invaded a home, business, school or other building. Below are only a few of the
most popular ones found in our area
Crazy Ant: These small, dark colored ants get their name from the habit of meandering
around, not following trails as often as other ants. Instead of looking focused (following
distinct trails), they often are found wandering around countertops, floors, etc., as if they
are lost. All workers in a crazy ant colony are the same size and all have only one node
between the thorax and abdomen. When viewed with a magnifying glass or microscope,
these pests are easily recognized by their long antennae (which contains 12 segments) and
extremely long legs. The crazy ant's diet can vary from grease, sweets , and even other
insects. Once a colony locates a desired food source, hundreds of workers will be found
crawling all over the food. In a very short time period, they will take all of the food, making it
disappear quickly.
Odorous House Ant: This ant is very opportunistic, living a variety nesting sites, moving
constantly (on average every 13 days) to avoid the different weather conditions. If found
inside structures, these ants will eat many available foods but prefer to feed on sweets.
When crushed, the workers of this species give off an odor which resembles that of rotten
coconut. There is only one size worker in their colonies; they are usually about 1/8 inch in
length. The odorous house ant is dark brown to black in color, has 12 segments in its
antennae, no circle of hairs on tip of abdomen, no club on the antennae, one node, and
has an uneven thorax when viewed from the side. This ant infests structures in certain
areas of the country, especially in the mid South regions such as Alabama, Tennessee,
Mississippi and Arkansas.
Fire Ant: Fire ants are a nuisance and a painful pest to anyone unlucky enough to come
across their nesting grounds. It is unlikely we will eradicate these pests any time soon, but
we can remove the problem associated with them by good integrated pest management
(IPM) practices. This involves reducing their populations to tolerable levels by using safe
and effective methods of control.
The fireant is an insect that bites and stings but the bite is not what inflicts pain. They only
use the bite to latch on to the victim and then they begin to sting injecting a toxin into them.
The sting site can become inflamed and start to burn which is where these ants get their
name from. When disturbed this social insect will emit a powerful pheromone that will
attract and alarm other members of the colony. These pheromones call the colony
members to the attack. Once the fireant locates and contacts what it believes to be its
enemy, it first bites its victim or attacker. The pain and danger lies in the multiple stings
delivered by a single ant and (most important) the fact that fireants rarely attack alone.
Their powerful pheromones tell their colony members that help is needed. The real pain of
fireants comes from the combination of hundreds of angry insects - and each one stings
numerous times.
These ants can be easily identified by their unique nesting sites. Typically their nesting
sights are large mounds of loosely packed dirt that has been excavated from inside the
colony. These mounds are much larger than other ants and are unmistakeable when
compared to other ant mounds. Great care should be taken not to disturb these mounds
and if one is disturbed, you should vacate the area immediately. Severe reactions can
place a person in the hospital, especially young children and the elderly.
Carpenter Ant: In some areas of the country, carpenter ants (wood ants) cause more
damage to structures than termites. They are difficult insects to control and can cause
extensive damage to wood members in a fairly short period of time. Carpenter ants do not
actually eat wood but excavate galleries within it to use as nesting sites. Foraging activity
can occur at any time of day but usually peaks at night. When foraging inside houses,
carpenter ants are attracted to sweets, meat, grease and fat. The first sign of a carpenter
ant infestation is usually the sighting of numerous workers throughout the home; occupants
often complain of Big Black Ants
Pavement Ant: The pavement ant earns its name well, building nests beneath and along
the sides of pavement: patios, driveways, sidewalks, foundations of homes. These pests
can also be found inside of homes (and other structures) in wall voids, beneath toilets and
water heaters. They also will readily nest in and beneath insulation in walls and attics. This
ant removes dirt from the nest and places it on pavement to warm the dirt before placing it
back on the eggs at night. Although seeing dirt on the pavement close to an ant mound
does not automatically mean you are dealing with pavement ants. Outdoors, you will see
pavement ants nesting beneath mulch, landscaping, stones and logs, and also along
curbs.Pavement Ants are small pests (ranging from 1/10 to 1/16 inches in length) that can
be found in many parts of the United States, as far north as Canada and as far south as
Florida. These pests also thrive in parts of California, Mid-West and Southeastern United
States. Each individual colony contains thousands of workers, multiple queens and is
usually located at one particular site. This is a two-node ant (has two segments or nodes
on its pedicel) and is dark brown in color. Its antennae has 12 segments (which ends in a
3 segmented club) and its thorax has one set of spines. The first physical characteristic
noticed (when viewed under a microscope or 30x lens) is the lines which seem to have
been sculptured on the ant's head.
Argentine Ant: The Argentine ant is a one node, small, shiny, brown ant with only one size
of worker. Workers are usually about 1/12 to 1/8 inch long. The queen ants are much
larger, sometimes reaching 1/4 inch in length. This ant is found throughout the
Southeastern United States and Southern California. Eliminating these pests should be
done by combining chemical and non-chemical pest control in an Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) program. During the winter months the Argentine ant are known to
move their colonies into man-made structures. When crushed, these ants release a musky
smell. This is one of the best ways to identify this particular species.
Pharaoh Ant: The Pharaoh ant can be found throughout the United States but is most
common in the southern states. In the South, this ant can be a common pest in homes as
well as other buildings. In temperate climates such as the United States, the Pharaoh ant
cannot survive outdoors year-round and so is found in close association with heated
buildings. Nest locations include wall voids, cabinet voids, behind baseboards and window
moldings, behind insulation of appliances, inside hollow curtain and shower rods, boxes and
expansion joints in slabs. They may even be found in areas such as folded paper sacks
and newspapers. Outside, these ants can be found in leaf litter, flower pots and in the
debris of rain gutters. Pharaoh ants are small, yellow ants about 1/16-inch long. They
have two nodes and the workers are all one size. It is often confused with the thief ant
which is also a small, yellow ant with two nodes. The Pharaoh ant's antenna has 12
segments and ends in a three-segmented club. the thief ant's antenna has only 10
segments and a two-segmented club.
Back to Top
Ant control must begin with correctly identifying the particular pest that has
invaded a home, business, school or other building. Below are only a few of the
most popular ones found in our area
Crazy Ant: These small, dark colored ants get their name from the habit of meandering
around, not following trails as often as other ants. Instead of looking focused (following
distinct trails), they often are found wandering around countertops, floors, etc., as if they
are lost. All workers in a crazy ant colony are the same size and all have only one node
between the thorax and abdomen. When viewed with a magnifying glass or microscope,
these pests are easily recognized by their long antennae (which contains 12 segments) and
extremely long legs. The crazy ant's diet can vary from grease, sweets , and even other
insects. Once a colony locates a desired food source, hundreds of workers will be found
crawling all over the food. In a very short time period, they will take all of the food, making it
disappear quickly.
Odorous House Ant: This ant is very opportunistic, living a variety nesting sites, moving
constantly (on average every 13 days) to avoid the different weather conditions. If found
inside structures, these ants will eat many available foods but prefer to feed on sweets.
When crushed, the workers of this species give off an odor which resembles that of rotten
coconut. There is only one size worker in their colonies; they are usually about 1/8 inch in
length. The odorous house ant is dark brown to black in color, has 12 segments in its
antennae, no circle of hairs on tip of abdomen, no club on the antennae, one node, and
has an uneven thorax when viewed from the side. This ant infests structures in certain
areas of the country, especially in the mid South regions such as Alabama, Tennessee,
Mississippi and Arkansas.
Fire Ant: Fire ants are a nuisance and a painful pest to anyone unlucky enough to come
across their nesting grounds. It is unlikely we will eradicate these pests any time soon, but
we can remove the problem associated with them by good integrated pest management
(IPM) practices. This involves reducing their populations to tolerable levels by using safe
and effective methods of control.
The fireant is an insect that bites and stings but the bite is not what inflicts pain. They only
use the bite to latch on to the victim and then they begin to sting injecting a toxin into them.
The sting site can become inflamed and start to burn which is where these ants get their
name from. When disturbed this social insect will emit a powerful pheromone that will
attract and alarm other members of the colony. These pheromones call the colony
members to the attack. Once the fireant locates and contacts what it believes to be its
enemy, it first bites its victim or attacker. The pain and danger lies in the multiple stings
delivered by a single ant and (most important) the fact that fireants rarely attack alone.
Their powerful pheromones tell their colony members that help is needed. The real pain of
fireants comes from the combination of hundreds of angry insects - and each one stings
numerous times.
These ants can be easily identified by their unique nesting sites. Typically their nesting
sights are large mounds of loosely packed dirt that has been excavated from inside the
colony. These mounds are much larger than other ants and are unmistakeable when
compared to other ant mounds. Great care should be taken not to disturb these mounds
and if one is disturbed, you should vacate the area immediately. Severe reactions can
place a person in the hospital, especially young children and the elderly.
Carpenter Ant: In some areas of the country, carpenter ants (wood ants) cause more
damage to structures than termites. They are difficult insects to control and can cause
extensive damage to wood members in a fairly short period of time. Carpenter ants do not
actually eat wood but excavate galleries within it to use as nesting sites. Foraging activity
can occur at any time of day but usually peaks at night. When foraging inside houses,
carpenter ants are attracted to sweets, meat, grease and fat. The first sign of a carpenter
ant infestation is usually the sighting of numerous workers throughout the home; occupants
often complain of Big Black Ants
Pavement Ant: The pavement ant earns its name well, building nests beneath and along
the sides of pavement: patios, driveways, sidewalks, foundations of homes. These pests
can also be found inside of homes (and other structures) in wall voids, beneath toilets and
water heaters. They also will readily nest in and beneath insulation in walls and attics. This
ant removes dirt from the nest and places it on pavement to warm the dirt before placing it
back on the eggs at night. Although seeing dirt on the pavement close to an ant mound
does not automatically mean you are dealing with pavement ants. Outdoors, you will see
pavement ants nesting beneath mulch, landscaping, stones and logs, and also along
curbs.Pavement Ants are small pests (ranging from 1/10 to 1/16 inches in length) that can
be found in many parts of the United States, as far north as Canada and as far south as
Florida. These pests also thrive in parts of California, Mid-West and Southeastern United
States. Each individual colony contains thousands of workers, multiple queens and is
usually located at one particular site. This is a two-node ant (has two segments or nodes
on its pedicel) and is dark brown in color. Its antennae has 12 segments (which ends in a
3 segmented club) and its thorax has one set of spines. The first physical characteristic
noticed (when viewed under a microscope or 30x lens) is the lines which seem to have
been sculptured on the ant's head.
Argentine Ant: The Argentine ant is a one node, small, shiny, brown ant with only one size
of worker. Workers are usually about 1/12 to 1/8 inch long. The queen ants are much
larger, sometimes reaching 1/4 inch in length. This ant is found throughout the
Southeastern United States and Southern California. Eliminating these pests should be
done by combining chemical and non-chemical pest control in an Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) program. During the winter months the Argentine ant are known to
move their colonies into man-made structures. When crushed, these ants release a musky
smell. This is one of the best ways to identify this particular species.
Pharaoh Ant: The Pharaoh ant can be found throughout the United States but is most
common in the southern states. In the South, this ant can be a common pest in homes as
well as other buildings. In temperate climates such as the United States, the Pharaoh ant
cannot survive outdoors year-round and so is found in close association with heated
buildings. Nest locations include wall voids, cabinet voids, behind baseboards and window
moldings, behind insulation of appliances, inside hollow curtain and shower rods, boxes and
expansion joints in slabs. They may even be found in areas such as folded paper sacks
and newspapers. Outside, these ants can be found in leaf litter, flower pots and in the
debris of rain gutters. Pharaoh ants are small, yellow ants about 1/16-inch long. They
have two nodes and the workers are all one size. It is often confused with the thief ant
which is also a small, yellow ant with two nodes. The Pharaoh ant's antenna has 12
segments and ends in a three-segmented club. the thief ant's antenna has only 10
segments and a two-segmented club.
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We get up everyday with the mission to give you the
best service at the best price we can. Give us a try
and you'll see why we've been in the pest control
business for over 15 years!
- Nazih Mcsharie, Owner
best service at the best price we can. Give us a try
and you'll see why we've been in the pest control
business for over 15 years!
- Nazih Mcsharie, Owner
Get to Know the Pests
| Absolute Services. Absolute Results. Call us today at 220-1933 |
SPIDERS
Spiders are the largest group of arachnids. There are more than 35,000 named
species worldwide, including about 3,000 in North America, but probably most
spider species are still awaiting identification. Few creatures are as feared and
misunderstood as spiders. For the most part, spiders are harmless and generally
beneficial by keeping the insect populations in check. Spiders are seldom
aggressive and bite only when threatened or injured. Few spiders bite people
and the venom of most is harmless. However, the bite of the hobo spider, black
widow, and the brown recluse (also known as the Recluse or Fiddle Back) can be
quite dangerous. Beneficial or not, if spiders become a pest they need to be
eliminated.
Brown recluse: Brown recluse spiders belong to a group of spiders commonly known as
violin spiders or fiddle backs. This is due to the characteristic fiddle-shaped pattern they
have on their head region. The spider is golden brown with the fiddle being dark brown or
black. This spider is not hairy and the fiddle pattern is often shiny. They are about 1/4 to
3/4 inch long. These spiders spin small, irregular webs under bark, stones or other
secluded areas. They are known for their poisonous venom. When bitten you may become
ill and find that the wound does not heal quickly. The severity of the bite may vary. The
symptoms may vary from none to a reaction that is quite severe. Usually, the brown recluse
spider bite is not felt and the pain sets in from six to eight hours later. A typical bite area
may resemble a pimple or blister formation within six to 12 hours later. Mild to severe pain
accompanied by swelling may occur during this time. The surrounding tissue begins to
darken, is irregular in shape with sharply raised edges resulting in a sunken area which
may be several centimeters in diameter. Often there is a systemic reaction within 24-36
hours characterized by restlessness, fever, chills, nausea, weakness, and joint pain. Where
the bite occurs there is often tissue death and skin is sloughed off. In some severe cases,
a wound may develop that lasts several months. In all cases, a physician should be
notified. If at all possible, kill and take the spider to the physician for positive identification.
For more about elimination and control of recluse spiders contact a trained technician at
Absolute Pest Control.
Black Widow: Of all spiders, the Black Widow is the most feared. The female’s venom is
especially poisonous to people. Despite its reputation, this spider often attempts to escape
rather than bite, unless it is guarding an egg mass or if it is cornered and pressed. The
male black widow will not bite you. After mating, the female sometimes eats the male
(remember, she only has to mate once in her life), earning the name "widow." The bite of
this spider is a nerve and respiratory toxin. The bite of the female black widow spider may
not always be felt at first and besides slight local swelling, there is usually little evidence of
a lesion. Two tiny red spots can sometimes be observed in the center of the swollen area.
Most of the time, pain at the site of the bite occurs immediately and becomes most intense
after about three hours. An overall aching of the body, especially the legs, are common
reactions. Headache, elevated blood pressure, nausea and profuse perspiration may occur
in severe cases In a lot of cases the victim of the bite reports having breathing problems.
One single bite should not be deadly to a healthy adult but may be to small children and the
elderly. Regardless, immediate medical attention needs to seeked if a bite occurs
regardless of age and condition. The condition is self-limiting and in most cases symptoms
disappear in two or three days. Be very careful when working around areas where black
widow spiders may be established. Take proper precautions, wear gloves and pay attention
to where you are working. Black widow bites are sharp and painful, and the victim should go
to the doctor immediately for treatment.
House Spider: House Spiders are the most frequently found spiders in most homes and
dwellings. House spider webs are typically funnel-shaped and can be located in various
places within a home, including windows, wall and ceiling corners and above or beneath
fixtures. House spider webs can become rather large and are constructed of thin silk
threads. They serve both as dwelling places and as traps for their prey. Although their
presence is usually unwanted they can actually prove useful, as they consume other
unwanted household insects. Some known species are the common, domestic, brown,
black, southern, and aggressive house spider.
Wolf spider: Wolf spiders are members of the family Lycosidae, from the Greek word
"λύκος" meaning "wolf". They are robust and agile hunters with good eyesight. They live
mostly solitary living and hunting alone. Some are opportunistic wanderer hunters,
pouncing upon prey as they find it or chasing it over short distances. Others lie in wait for
passing prey, often from or near the mouth of a burrow. Wolf spiders can be found in a
wide range of habitats both coastal and inland. These include shrublands, woodland, wet
coastal forest, alpine meadows, and suburban gardens. Wolf Spiders are large, hairy
spiders which are usually patterned with a mixture of black, gray, and brown. In most cases,
wolf spiders benefit humans by feeding on all sorts of insects, including crop pests. Wolf
spiders are rarely pests, but they sometimes wander into houses, where their large size
often frightens homeowners. Wolf spiders can bite, but their bites are extremely rare and
no more dangerous or painful than bee stings.
Garden Spider: There are many different types of garden spider, most of the time these
spiders are found in the lawn or garden but can also be found within the home as well.
Garden spiders include the following: meshweb spiders, crab spiders, running crab
spiders, wolf spiders, nursery web spiders, comb-footed spiders, stretch spiders, orb-web
spiders, sheet web spiders, dwarf spiders, sac spiders, and buzzing spiders. Most all of
garden spiders are orb weaving, which basically means that they are known for their orb
looking webs. The Garden Spiders is not aggressive and they are not poisonous to
humans. Because they are not aggressive spiders, it is rare that one would actually bite a
human. In some circumstances if they feel threatened or if they are pressed up against
human skin, in that rare occasion they might bite a human. Even though garden spiders are
not poisonous it is still important to seek medical attention, just in case the species of the
spider is not identifiable.
Jumping Spider: The jumping spider is from the family Salticidae. The name jumping
spider really refers to most any group of hunting spiders that have the ability to jump or
leap anywhere from 10 all the way to 40 times their own body length. There are around
4,000 described species for the jumping spider alone making it the largest of all other
spider species. More than 300 of those species are found in the United States. The jumping
spider is often mistaken for being dangerous, but in reality they are not. The jumping spider
is not poisonous to humans. Like a wolf spider, the jumping spider typically does not attack
humans unless they feel threatened or in danger. The only way a jumping spider bite may
be hazardous is if the person bitten is allergic to spider venom, and because of that it is
extremely important to consult medical attention when bitten by a spider, especially if the
spider is unidentified.
Back to Top
Spiders are the largest group of arachnids. There are more than 35,000 named
species worldwide, including about 3,000 in North America, but probably most
spider species are still awaiting identification. Few creatures are as feared and
misunderstood as spiders. For the most part, spiders are harmless and generally
beneficial by keeping the insect populations in check. Spiders are seldom
aggressive and bite only when threatened or injured. Few spiders bite people
and the venom of most is harmless. However, the bite of the hobo spider, black
widow, and the brown recluse (also known as the Recluse or Fiddle Back) can be
quite dangerous. Beneficial or not, if spiders become a pest they need to be
eliminated.
Brown recluse: Brown recluse spiders belong to a group of spiders commonly known as
violin spiders or fiddle backs. This is due to the characteristic fiddle-shaped pattern they
have on their head region. The spider is golden brown with the fiddle being dark brown or
black. This spider is not hairy and the fiddle pattern is often shiny. They are about 1/4 to
3/4 inch long. These spiders spin small, irregular webs under bark, stones or other
secluded areas. They are known for their poisonous venom. When bitten you may become
ill and find that the wound does not heal quickly. The severity of the bite may vary. The
symptoms may vary from none to a reaction that is quite severe. Usually, the brown recluse
spider bite is not felt and the pain sets in from six to eight hours later. A typical bite area
may resemble a pimple or blister formation within six to 12 hours later. Mild to severe pain
accompanied by swelling may occur during this time. The surrounding tissue begins to
darken, is irregular in shape with sharply raised edges resulting in a sunken area which
may be several centimeters in diameter. Often there is a systemic reaction within 24-36
hours characterized by restlessness, fever, chills, nausea, weakness, and joint pain. Where
the bite occurs there is often tissue death and skin is sloughed off. In some severe cases,
a wound may develop that lasts several months. In all cases, a physician should be
notified. If at all possible, kill and take the spider to the physician for positive identification.
For more about elimination and control of recluse spiders contact a trained technician at
Absolute Pest Control.
Black Widow: Of all spiders, the Black Widow is the most feared. The female’s venom is
especially poisonous to people. Despite its reputation, this spider often attempts to escape
rather than bite, unless it is guarding an egg mass or if it is cornered and pressed. The
male black widow will not bite you. After mating, the female sometimes eats the male
(remember, she only has to mate once in her life), earning the name "widow." The bite of
this spider is a nerve and respiratory toxin. The bite of the female black widow spider may
not always be felt at first and besides slight local swelling, there is usually little evidence of
a lesion. Two tiny red spots can sometimes be observed in the center of the swollen area.
Most of the time, pain at the site of the bite occurs immediately and becomes most intense
after about three hours. An overall aching of the body, especially the legs, are common
reactions. Headache, elevated blood pressure, nausea and profuse perspiration may occur
in severe cases In a lot of cases the victim of the bite reports having breathing problems.
One single bite should not be deadly to a healthy adult but may be to small children and the
elderly. Regardless, immediate medical attention needs to seeked if a bite occurs
regardless of age and condition. The condition is self-limiting and in most cases symptoms
disappear in two or three days. Be very careful when working around areas where black
widow spiders may be established. Take proper precautions, wear gloves and pay attention
to where you are working. Black widow bites are sharp and painful, and the victim should go
to the doctor immediately for treatment.
House Spider: House Spiders are the most frequently found spiders in most homes and
dwellings. House spider webs are typically funnel-shaped and can be located in various
places within a home, including windows, wall and ceiling corners and above or beneath
fixtures. House spider webs can become rather large and are constructed of thin silk
threads. They serve both as dwelling places and as traps for their prey. Although their
presence is usually unwanted they can actually prove useful, as they consume other
unwanted household insects. Some known species are the common, domestic, brown,
black, southern, and aggressive house spider.
Wolf spider: Wolf spiders are members of the family Lycosidae, from the Greek word
"λύκος" meaning "wolf". They are robust and agile hunters with good eyesight. They live
mostly solitary living and hunting alone. Some are opportunistic wanderer hunters,
pouncing upon prey as they find it or chasing it over short distances. Others lie in wait for
passing prey, often from or near the mouth of a burrow. Wolf spiders can be found in a
wide range of habitats both coastal and inland. These include shrublands, woodland, wet
coastal forest, alpine meadows, and suburban gardens. Wolf Spiders are large, hairy
spiders which are usually patterned with a mixture of black, gray, and brown. In most cases,
wolf spiders benefit humans by feeding on all sorts of insects, including crop pests. Wolf
spiders are rarely pests, but they sometimes wander into houses, where their large size
often frightens homeowners. Wolf spiders can bite, but their bites are extremely rare and
no more dangerous or painful than bee stings.
Garden Spider: There are many different types of garden spider, most of the time these
spiders are found in the lawn or garden but can also be found within the home as well.
Garden spiders include the following: meshweb spiders, crab spiders, running crab
spiders, wolf spiders, nursery web spiders, comb-footed spiders, stretch spiders, orb-web
spiders, sheet web spiders, dwarf spiders, sac spiders, and buzzing spiders. Most all of
garden spiders are orb weaving, which basically means that they are known for their orb
looking webs. The Garden Spiders is not aggressive and they are not poisonous to
humans. Because they are not aggressive spiders, it is rare that one would actually bite a
human. In some circumstances if they feel threatened or if they are pressed up against
human skin, in that rare occasion they might bite a human. Even though garden spiders are
not poisonous it is still important to seek medical attention, just in case the species of the
spider is not identifiable.
Jumping Spider: The jumping spider is from the family Salticidae. The name jumping
spider really refers to most any group of hunting spiders that have the ability to jump or
leap anywhere from 10 all the way to 40 times their own body length. There are around
4,000 described species for the jumping spider alone making it the largest of all other
spider species. More than 300 of those species are found in the United States. The jumping
spider is often mistaken for being dangerous, but in reality they are not. The jumping spider
is not poisonous to humans. Like a wolf spider, the jumping spider typically does not attack
humans unless they feel threatened or in danger. The only way a jumping spider bite may
be hazardous is if the person bitten is allergic to spider venom, and because of that it is
extremely important to consult medical attention when bitten by a spider, especially if the
spider is unidentified.
Back to Top
FLIES
Flies in general are usually found breeding in and feeding on damp organic
matter or the organisms that grow in such materials. Locating and eliminating
these breeding grounds/food sources is the heart and soul of fly control,
especially small flies which infest homes and other structures. There are useful
tools and procedures to help eliminate flying insects but are only successful
when used with other integrated pest management (IPM) procedures. These
procedures include careful inspection, breeding site elimination and other
ongoing sanitation programs. Remember Absolute Pest Control technicians are
trained to identify the correct Flying Insect and the Best way to help in the
elimination of such insects.
A few of the most common:
House Fly: The common House fly is medium sized (1/6 to 1/4 inch long,) generally gray in
color with the female usually large than the male. The thorax bears four narrow black
stripes.The House Fly also is categorized under Filth Flies because of the filthy habits of
each fly. They are also easy vectors of diseases such as hookworm, whipworm, tapeworm,
pinworm, roundworm, cholera, bacillary dysentery, infantile diarrhea, typhoid and
paratyphoid are disease-causing organisms with which these flies are associated. Filth flies
pick up pathogenic organisms from sewage, garbage, manure, decaying bodies and other
such sources. These flying pests initially pick up dangerous organisms with their mouth
and other body parts. The organisms are then passed on to humans and animals through
the feces and vomitus of the fly.
Drain Fly: also known as Moth Fly: Moth fly adults can be quite annoying in homes,
appearing from sinks and bathtub drains. These pests breed in tremendous numbers in
sewer plants and are easily blown towards homes by the wind. Their small size enables
them to penetrate ordinary fly screens. There have been noted cases of bronchial asthma
caused by inhaling the dust resulting from the disintegration of such small flies.
Fruit Flies: D.melanogaster are the most common species encountered in homes and
other structures Fruit flies are also known as pomace flies or vinegar flies. These pests
can be found throughout the world, in homes, food processing plants, warehouses, grocery
stores, wineries, restaurants and other structures. They are small flies measuring about 1/8
inch in length, including their wings. The identifying characteristic of the fruit fly is its eyes,
which are red in color, tan head, and a tan thorax, with the abdomen somewhat darker.
This fly is commonly mistaken for the phorid fly which has very similar markings but lacks
red eye color. They are very common in and around drains, garbage cans and organic
debris surrounding legs of appliances. The fruit fly breeds in and feeds on ripened fruits
and vegetables, as well as moist, decaying organic matter. Fruit fly larvae living in fruit
which is eaten can cause intestinal discomfort and diarrhea. In vinegar-producing facilities,
the fruit fly is responsible for infecting tanks of vinegar with a tiny nematode called the
vinegar worm.
Phorid flies: The phorids, also known as humpbacked flies, are small to minute flies that
resemble fruit flies in appearance. The Phorid fly lacks the red eye color that is the classic
trademark of the fruit fly. Phorid flies are in the small category of flies, measuring up to 1/8
inch in length, including the wings. The most prominent feature of this fly is the
humpbacked shape of its thorax. Like the Fruit flies The phorid fly breeds primarily in and
feeds on moist decaying organic matter. They are concern especially to hospitals, health
care facilities and restaurants because of it’s frequents unsanitary areas (with the ability to
spread disease causing bacteria onto food products).
Fungus Gnats: These tiny pests belong to the families of flies called Fungivoridae and
Sciaridae. Most species are black in color and very small (less than 1/16 inch) in size,
although a few species may reach 1/4 inch long. Key identifying characteristics include
long legs and long thin wings. Adult Fungus Gnats prefer to lay their eggs in moist potting
soil, which is why buildings containing potted plants or atriums. Soon after the eggs are
laid, the larvae emerge to feed on fungus growing in damp potting soil.
Back to Top
Flies in general are usually found breeding in and feeding on damp organic
matter or the organisms that grow in such materials. Locating and eliminating
these breeding grounds/food sources is the heart and soul of fly control,
especially small flies which infest homes and other structures. There are useful
tools and procedures to help eliminate flying insects but are only successful
when used with other integrated pest management (IPM) procedures. These
procedures include careful inspection, breeding site elimination and other
ongoing sanitation programs. Remember Absolute Pest Control technicians are
trained to identify the correct Flying Insect and the Best way to help in the
elimination of such insects.
A few of the most common:
House Fly: The common House fly is medium sized (1/6 to 1/4 inch long,) generally gray in
color with the female usually large than the male. The thorax bears four narrow black
stripes.The House Fly also is categorized under Filth Flies because of the filthy habits of
each fly. They are also easy vectors of diseases such as hookworm, whipworm, tapeworm,
pinworm, roundworm, cholera, bacillary dysentery, infantile diarrhea, typhoid and
paratyphoid are disease-causing organisms with which these flies are associated. Filth flies
pick up pathogenic organisms from sewage, garbage, manure, decaying bodies and other
such sources. These flying pests initially pick up dangerous organisms with their mouth
and other body parts. The organisms are then passed on to humans and animals through
the feces and vomitus of the fly.
Drain Fly: also known as Moth Fly: Moth fly adults can be quite annoying in homes,
appearing from sinks and bathtub drains. These pests breed in tremendous numbers in
sewer plants and are easily blown towards homes by the wind. Their small size enables
them to penetrate ordinary fly screens. There have been noted cases of bronchial asthma
caused by inhaling the dust resulting from the disintegration of such small flies.
Fruit Flies: D.melanogaster are the most common species encountered in homes and
other structures Fruit flies are also known as pomace flies or vinegar flies. These pests
can be found throughout the world, in homes, food processing plants, warehouses, grocery
stores, wineries, restaurants and other structures. They are small flies measuring about 1/8
inch in length, including their wings. The identifying characteristic of the fruit fly is its eyes,
which are red in color, tan head, and a tan thorax, with the abdomen somewhat darker.
This fly is commonly mistaken for the phorid fly which has very similar markings but lacks
red eye color. They are very common in and around drains, garbage cans and organic
debris surrounding legs of appliances. The fruit fly breeds in and feeds on ripened fruits
and vegetables, as well as moist, decaying organic matter. Fruit fly larvae living in fruit
which is eaten can cause intestinal discomfort and diarrhea. In vinegar-producing facilities,
the fruit fly is responsible for infecting tanks of vinegar with a tiny nematode called the
vinegar worm.
Phorid flies: The phorids, also known as humpbacked flies, are small to minute flies that
resemble fruit flies in appearance. The Phorid fly lacks the red eye color that is the classic
trademark of the fruit fly. Phorid flies are in the small category of flies, measuring up to 1/8
inch in length, including the wings. The most prominent feature of this fly is the
humpbacked shape of its thorax. Like the Fruit flies The phorid fly breeds primarily in and
feeds on moist decaying organic matter. They are concern especially to hospitals, health
care facilities and restaurants because of it’s frequents unsanitary areas (with the ability to
spread disease causing bacteria onto food products).
Fungus Gnats: These tiny pests belong to the families of flies called Fungivoridae and
Sciaridae. Most species are black in color and very small (less than 1/16 inch) in size,
although a few species may reach 1/4 inch long. Key identifying characteristics include
long legs and long thin wings. Adult Fungus Gnats prefer to lay their eggs in moist potting
soil, which is why buildings containing potted plants or atriums. Soon after the eggs are
laid, the larvae emerge to feed on fungus growing in damp potting soil.
Back to Top
TERMITES
Termites are social insects. Their workers are best described as "little white things" or "little
white ants" that are often found in damp, rotting wood. Termites have a strict caste system,
which consists of worker termites, soldiers, winged reproductive termites, and a queen and
king termite. The two most common types of termites are "drywood" and "ground"
subterranean termites. Both types of termites eat cellulose for nutrition. Cellulose is found
in wood and wood products. Both types of termites have the "flying termite" or "winged
reproductive". These winged termites are new kings and queens attempting to establish a
new colony. They may also be referred to as "swarmers". Ant colonies also send
swarmers, which have nearly the same appearance as termites, but may be identified upon
closer inspection.
Subterranean Ground Termites are the Most Common Found in the Tennessee Area:
Subterranean Ground Termites require three things to survive:
-food (wood or other cellulose material)
-a consistent source of moisture
-moderate to tropical environment
Subterranean Ground Termites can consume over 15 pounds of wood in a single week.
Subterranean Ground Termites can create secondary nests above the ground called
"aerial colonies". These independent nests may survive independently of the ground if a
water source is available. Common interior water sources include; roof leaks, plumbing
leaks, leaky showers or tubs, toilet leaks, etc... Aerial infestations must be located for
effective control.
Subterranean Ground Termites die rather quickly from dehydration when exposed to the
environment due to their thin exo-skeleton. To maintain the needed humidity and protect
them from predators they build protective mud tubes and remain unseen most of the time.
Subterranean Ground Termites produce a chemical odor called a pheromone, which other
termites, in the colony follow to find food and water.
A well established colony may contain over 7 million termites. Some species have
numerous smaller colonies of several thousand termite members.
EVIDENCE OF ACTIVITY:
1) Mud Tubes ascending from the ground to the structure or protruding from
walls and/or trim.
2) Heavy termite swarming within the structure
3) Slits in the wood (flight slits)
4) Uncharacteristic waviness in the wood.
Back to Top
Termites are social insects. Their workers are best described as "little white things" or "little
white ants" that are often found in damp, rotting wood. Termites have a strict caste system,
which consists of worker termites, soldiers, winged reproductive termites, and a queen and
king termite. The two most common types of termites are "drywood" and "ground"
subterranean termites. Both types of termites eat cellulose for nutrition. Cellulose is found
in wood and wood products. Both types of termites have the "flying termite" or "winged
reproductive". These winged termites are new kings and queens attempting to establish a
new colony. They may also be referred to as "swarmers". Ant colonies also send
swarmers, which have nearly the same appearance as termites, but may be identified upon
closer inspection.
Subterranean Ground Termites are the Most Common Found in the Tennessee Area:
Subterranean Ground Termites require three things to survive:
-food (wood or other cellulose material)
-a consistent source of moisture
-moderate to tropical environment
Subterranean Ground Termites can consume over 15 pounds of wood in a single week.
Subterranean Ground Termites can create secondary nests above the ground called
"aerial colonies". These independent nests may survive independently of the ground if a
water source is available. Common interior water sources include; roof leaks, plumbing
leaks, leaky showers or tubs, toilet leaks, etc... Aerial infestations must be located for
effective control.
Subterranean Ground Termites die rather quickly from dehydration when exposed to the
environment due to their thin exo-skeleton. To maintain the needed humidity and protect
them from predators they build protective mud tubes and remain unseen most of the time.
Subterranean Ground Termites produce a chemical odor called a pheromone, which other
termites, in the colony follow to find food and water.
A well established colony may contain over 7 million termites. Some species have
numerous smaller colonies of several thousand termite members.
EVIDENCE OF ACTIVITY:
1) Mud Tubes ascending from the ground to the structure or protruding from
walls and/or trim.
2) Heavy termite swarming within the structure
3) Slits in the wood (flight slits)
4) Uncharacteristic waviness in the wood.
Back to Top
OTHER INSECTS
Mites: Mites, along with ticks, belong to the subclass Arcania (also known as Acari) and the
class Arachnida. Mites are among the most diverse and successful of all the invertebrate
groups. Because of their small size (most are microscopic) they go largely unnoticed. Many
live freely in the soil or water, but there are also a large number of species that live as
parasites on plants, animals, and some that feed on mold.
There are over 45,000 described species of mites. Scientists believe that we have only
found 5% of the total diversity of mites. Mites are believed to have existed for around 400
million years., The majority of mites measure less than one millimeter in length. Although
most mites are not harmful to animals, some species are parasitic in nature. Parasitic mites
that attack animal hosts can cause severe skin irritation known as mange. Some parasitic
species are more dangerous than others, as they reside within the respiratory tracts of their
hosts. Others, such as chiggers, can transfer dangerous diseases.
Ticks are by far the most harmful of mites, to animals and humans alike. They transmit a
variety of diseases, such as Lyme disease and encephalitis. They are also capable of
transmitting more than one disease at a time. Perhaps the best-known mite, though, is the
house dust mite (family Pyroglyphidae). They are a common cause of asthma and allergic
symptoms worldwide. Another known species and known as an indoor pest are the Clover
mites. Their populations grow rapidly, as females lay up to 70 eggs, each of which matures
within 30 days. As there are many species and Identification can be a problem our trained
technicians are always on hand to help in properly identifying and eliminating all forms of
mites.
Hornets and Yellow Jackets: Hornets and yellow jackets prey on many insects that are
considered to be pests, so they are actually beneficial. They do also prey on bees, but
unlike honey bees, hornet and yellow jacket colonies die out every winter. Yellow jackets
are generally smaller than hornets and are bright yellow and black, whereas hornets may
be darker in color.
Another major difference between yellow jackets and hornets is each of their food choices
and aggression towards humans. In autumn, yellow jackets may be attracted to human
foods and food wastes, increasing potentially aggressive contact between yellow jackets
and humans. Hornets, on the other hand, tend to stick to live insects.
Pest control professionals should be consulted before attempting to treat any Hornet or
Yellow Jacket infestation as they are both typically aggressive and some individuals may be
allergic to their sting. Although these two insects do have alot in common as far as their
aggresiveness, they do vary greatly in their nesting habits and appearance. Yellow jackets
are often mistaken for honey bee's due to the similar body types. The major difference in
their appearance is the honey bee is a dark orange in color and appears to have hair on
the body. The yellow jacket on the other hand is bright yellow in appearace and appears to
be hairless on the nody giving it a sleek and shiny appearance. Hornets can vary in
appearance as far as design go's. These flying insects are typically rather large in size and
do pack a powerful punch. They are very quick and very aggressive when disturbed.
Hornet nest's are typically fairly reclusive in nature. They like to build paper combs that are
enclosed and the actual nest is not visible from outside. Their nest are sometime's
mistaken for a bee's nest. They are usually built high up in tree's and they will generally
avoid contact with humans. The hornet will also nest in decaying stumps in the ground or
rotting trees. Yellow jackets are somewhat the opposite. These opportunistic nester;s will
invade wall voids, naturally made holes in the ground, holes in the sides of trees, and any
other area that will provide a suitable nesting site for them. This is what brings them into
close contact with humans. Both of these insects will attack if disturbed. They are lightning
fast and attack in great numbers which can cause severe injuries of possibly death. Great
caution should be taken when coming into contact with the nest's of these insects and they
should not be disturbed. Contact us if you think you may have a problem with either one of
these insects for a free visit from one of our certified professional's to determine the best
what to deal with these insects.
Wasps: Wasp can either be considered a pest to be eliminated or a beneficial insect to be
encouraged. Their primary food source are caterpillars that damage crops, ornamentals or
gardens. Paper wasp can be helpful in eliminating other pests as well. However, this wasp
that stings prefers to build its nest under eaves, porches, piers, in open barns or other
areas that put them in close contact to man.
Belonging to the Family Vespidae, the paper wasp does have some of the same
characteristics of Yellowjackets and Hornets. Nests are developed by female wasps who
use a unique blend of saliva and wood to form single layer nest containing individual cells.
An egg is laid in each cell. Larvae hatch from these cells and are fed by worker wasps.
The size (diameter) of a wasp nest can vary from one inch to 18 inches or more. Size of
the paper nest will depend on length of warm season, supply of caterpillars used as food
for larvae, temperatures and other such factors.
During warm weather, wasp nests can appear at any time. Simply killing existing colonies
leaves the area open for another nest to appear close by.
Moths: Moths are from the Lepidoptera order of insects. The two basic types of moths that
are of interest to those responsible for pest control in homes, warehouses, museums or
other structures are the ones that feed on fabrics and the ones that feed on grains.
Grain moths have the ability to feed on and/or breed in grains and other such materials.
Fabric moths are most commonly known as Clothes Moths and has the distinguished ability
to digest keratin. Simply put, they feed on and can digest skin, fur, hooves, feathers -
animal parts.
When most people see moths in their homes they immediately think that they have been
infested with clothes moths that might be feeding on their woolens, carpets, rugs, etc. In
most cases they have misidentified their pest and actually have an infestation of a type of
grain moth. When there are several moths in the home they are almost always a type of
grain infesting moth.
Evidence of clothes moths is usually found by the damage they do to different fabrics in our
homes.
Silverfish: Silverfish are small primitive insects that are found in dark, damp, warm places
throughout our homes. They prefer starchy materials such as cereals, wallpaper and book
bindings as food but in large populations they may do damage to cotton and linen fabrics.
They are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing. Commonly found in stored boxes
in garages and sheds. Silverfish feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches.
Cellulose, shampoos, glue in books, linen, silk and dead insects may be food sources.
Some experts classify silverfish as most destructive pest of stored food. Have been found
in un-opened food packages.
Millipedes: As a household pest, millipedes are more of an annoyance or nuisance, rather
than an indoor-breeding pest that causes destruction. Millipedes normally are found
outdoors where they feed on damp and decaying wood, organic material, and will also feed
on tender roots and green leaves that have fallen to the ground.
Millipedes are not poisonous, but many species have repugnatorial glands capable of
producing mild acids which can produce allergenic reactions in sensitive individuals. There
are at least 1,000 species of millipedes in the United States, a few of which are capable of
squirting their unpleasant fluids over a distance of several inches. Persons handling
millipedes will notice a lingering odor on their hands and the fluid can be dangerous to the
eyes.
Centipedes: Centipedes are flattened , elongated animals with one pair of legs on most of
their body sections. This easily distinguishes them from millipedes which have two pair of
legs per body section. The total number of legs varies from 10 to more than 100,
depending on the species.
Centipedes many times will crawl into homes and conceal themselves in various articles,
such as shoes, diaper pails, laundry baskets, boxes and damp towels left on bathroom
floors. It is not unusual for someone to tell us that they discovered the presence of
centipedes while turning over in bed, only to be bitten by the wandering pest! Although they
are not considered aggressive towards humans, centipedes do not like to be cornered or
touched and will respond defensively in such situations.
Because of their poison glands and ability to bite, centipedes do pose an occasional threat
to man. The bite of a centipede, even the largest species found in the United States, is not
sufficiently toxic to be lethal to man, or even small children. The poison in a centipede’s bite
usually produces only a moderate reaction similar to that of a bee sting, but if you are bitten
and have a significant reaction, do not hesitate to call your physician.
Box Elder Bugs: Box Elder bugs do not bite, but their piercing-sucking mouthparts can
sometimes puncture skin, causing slight irritation. Their droppings make quite a mess and
these pests can accumulate in great numbers in your home if left unchecked.
Warm temperatures interfere with their natural cycles and biology, causing them to
reproduce year-round in unwanted areas such as your home! The boxelder bug is a
common pest over much of the United States. These insects pests feed principally by
sucking juices from the boxelder tree, but are sometimes found on many other plants. In
most cases, boxelder bugs cause no major damage inside homes, but their droppings stain
curtains and other resting sites. This bug also emits a foul odor when crushed.
Adult boxelder bugs will enter homes in the Fall, seeking winter shelter often in wall voids or
in attics. They will then emerge in the spring to seek out host trees on which to feed and
lay eggs.
Lice: There are over 3,000 known species of lice, with only certain species relying on
human hosts. Lice that feed on the human body may also be found in the folds and seams
of clothing. The two most common in homes are the Head lice and the Body Lice.
Head Lice are the most common of human infestations, and do not indicate a lack of
cleanliness. Lice can be present in short or long hair, though they do require some hair.
Human head lice are often found behind the ears or near the hairline, at the base of the
neck. Their eggs, known as nits, thus the term "nit-picking," are attached to a host's hair
with specialized saliva. Nits are white in color and are located near the scalp on individual
strands of hair.
Body lice resemble head lice, though they make their homes usually in clothing rather than
on the scalp. Body lice infestations are noticed by severe itchiness and red marks on the
body and can result in skin infection. Body lice have also been known to transmit diseases.
Ticks: Ticks are the only members of the order Acarina that can be recognized without a
microscope. Ticks feed only on the blood of vertebrates, making them one of the least
favorite visitors in our homes. Hard ticks and soft ticks are the two major groups that are
pests.
Most ticks spend the bulk of their life on or near the ground, waiting for a suitable host
animal. Since they cannot run, hop, fly or move quickly, ticks must climb onto an
appropriate object such as tall grass or weeds or up onto fences and siding of buildings. It
is from these advantageous positions that they wait for a suitable host to pass by. When
they detect vibrations and chemical cues such as host odors or exhaled carbon dioxide,
ticks will fall from their perch or stretch out (holding on to their perch with only 2 or 4 of their
rear legs) and hope to snag or attach onto a passing host (e.g., a mammal with a fur coat
or pants and socks worn by humans.)
Certain ticks carry the causal organisms of such diseases as Rocky Mountain spotted
fever, Lyme disease, typhus, rickettsial pox, relapsing fever, tularemia, Colorado tick fever
and Texas cattle fever. Another health threat posed by certain ticks attacking humans and
other animals involves a poorly understood condition called "tick paralysis." This occurs
during the feeding process when the host is afflicted with a paralytic condition, which
develops gradually and may result in death. Paralytic symptoms disappear rapidly upon
removal of the tick and there seem to be no serious after effects. Most of the tick problems
which you might encounter are in and around homes, and do not involve the disease-
carrying species.
Proper identification of the tick and timely treatment is of utmost importance when dealing
with organisms associated with ticks.
Crickets: Adults about 3/4-inch long with three dark bands on the head and thin
antennae. Body is yellowish-brown. They are active at night and are attracted to lights.
Their diet is considered Omnivorous which means they eat almost anything available. Their
Reproduction is very closely related to cockroach reproduction.
Crickets, or "True Crickets" are related to grasshoppers but more closely related to bush
crickets because they have slightly flattened bodies and long antennae. Male crickets are
the only ones that chirp. They have ridges on their wings that they rub together that act like
a comb and file to form an instrument. Their left forewing contains 50-300 teeth that are
raised and angled. This wing is rubbed against the upper hind edge of the right forewing, or
scraper. There are two types of songs that the male cricket produces. The calling song
attracts females and repels other males and is very loud. The courting song is used when
the female is near and is a very quiet song. Once courted, the mating process begins and
the female lays her eggs usually during the late summer to early fall.
There are 900 different species of the cricket. They are nocturnal insects and again many
times confused with grasshoppers. They feed on organic material like decaying plants,
fungi and seedling plants.
Bed Bug: An adult bed bug is not very large; it is usually about 1/4 an inch long. The small
body size helps this pest to hide in areas that make their elimination difficult. The bed bug
nymph succumbs to pest control products easier than their adult counterparts but (just like
adults) can go for long periods without food. Blood taken from humans is the preferred
food of young and adult common bed bugs.
A bed bug's secretive nature makes it a difficult pest to identify and eliminate. These
insects are not seen crawling around in the daylight hours where they would be easily
identified. They hide in various areas during the day and come out at quiet times of the
night to feed on human blood. Since they usually wait for their host to go to sleep, the host
does not see or feel their presence. The obvious sign that a bed bug infestation is in a
room is the presence of small drops of blood on sheets and pillows or pillow cases.
Fleas: Adult Cat Fleas are one of the most important pests of homes, lawns and pets in
the United States. There are other flea species but the Cat Flea is the one most often
encountered. Surprisingly, adult fleas make up only a minor portion of the total flea
population in an infested area such as inside a home. Most of the time the eggs and larvae
compose about 80% of the fleas in a home. Fleas prefer to spend their entire adult life on
their host but obviously are shaken loose during the activities of the host animal (jumping,
running, scratching, grooming.) Inspection and vacuuming of a home should always be
thorough. Hotspots that often require extra attention are usually where pets frequent.
Adult fleas, flea eggs and future food for larvae all fall off of the host in the same general
area. Being sensitive to light, the larvae are usually close by but underneath or behind
objects. When putting together an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to flea
prevention knowledge of all flea cycles and stages are very important so contact an
Absolute Pest Control trained Technician if you need any further information.
Springtails: Springtails are minute, wingless insects that get their name from the fact that
they have an unusual locomotor organ. The main locomotor organ is a forked, tail-like
structure (called a furcula) which is folded forward under the abdomen when the insect is at
rest.
The usual habitat of these small insects is in soil of woodlands, in decaying vegetative
matter, or on the surface of stagnant water. They are mostly innocuous creatures and go
usually unnoticed. Most soil-inhabiting springtails feed on decaying plant material, fungi
and bacteria. They tend to thrive in an environment that is moist or high in humidity. While
they do not injure living plants they can become a nuisance in greenhouses infesting
decaying organic matter and infesting soil of potted plants..
Because these insects do not cause any real injury, a person faced with a springtail
infestation can try to reduce the population by eliminating moisture and humidity in the area
that they are found. Outside, they cause no problem and are an important component of
the ecosystem.
Back to Top
Mites: Mites, along with ticks, belong to the subclass Arcania (also known as Acari) and the
class Arachnida. Mites are among the most diverse and successful of all the invertebrate
groups. Because of their small size (most are microscopic) they go largely unnoticed. Many
live freely in the soil or water, but there are also a large number of species that live as
parasites on plants, animals, and some that feed on mold.
There are over 45,000 described species of mites. Scientists believe that we have only
found 5% of the total diversity of mites. Mites are believed to have existed for around 400
million years., The majority of mites measure less than one millimeter in length. Although
most mites are not harmful to animals, some species are parasitic in nature. Parasitic mites
that attack animal hosts can cause severe skin irritation known as mange. Some parasitic
species are more dangerous than others, as they reside within the respiratory tracts of their
hosts. Others, such as chiggers, can transfer dangerous diseases.
Ticks are by far the most harmful of mites, to animals and humans alike. They transmit a
variety of diseases, such as Lyme disease and encephalitis. They are also capable of
transmitting more than one disease at a time. Perhaps the best-known mite, though, is the
house dust mite (family Pyroglyphidae). They are a common cause of asthma and allergic
symptoms worldwide. Another known species and known as an indoor pest are the Clover
mites. Their populations grow rapidly, as females lay up to 70 eggs, each of which matures
within 30 days. As there are many species and Identification can be a problem our trained
technicians are always on hand to help in properly identifying and eliminating all forms of
mites.
Hornets and Yellow Jackets: Hornets and yellow jackets prey on many insects that are
considered to be pests, so they are actually beneficial. They do also prey on bees, but
unlike honey bees, hornet and yellow jacket colonies die out every winter. Yellow jackets
are generally smaller than hornets and are bright yellow and black, whereas hornets may
be darker in color.
Another major difference between yellow jackets and hornets is each of their food choices
and aggression towards humans. In autumn, yellow jackets may be attracted to human
foods and food wastes, increasing potentially aggressive contact between yellow jackets
and humans. Hornets, on the other hand, tend to stick to live insects.
Pest control professionals should be consulted before attempting to treat any Hornet or
Yellow Jacket infestation as they are both typically aggressive and some individuals may be
allergic to their sting. Although these two insects do have alot in common as far as their
aggresiveness, they do vary greatly in their nesting habits and appearance. Yellow jackets
are often mistaken for honey bee's due to the similar body types. The major difference in
their appearance is the honey bee is a dark orange in color and appears to have hair on
the body. The yellow jacket on the other hand is bright yellow in appearace and appears to
be hairless on the nody giving it a sleek and shiny appearance. Hornets can vary in
appearance as far as design go's. These flying insects are typically rather large in size and
do pack a powerful punch. They are very quick and very aggressive when disturbed.
Hornet nest's are typically fairly reclusive in nature. They like to build paper combs that are
enclosed and the actual nest is not visible from outside. Their nest are sometime's
mistaken for a bee's nest. They are usually built high up in tree's and they will generally
avoid contact with humans. The hornet will also nest in decaying stumps in the ground or
rotting trees. Yellow jackets are somewhat the opposite. These opportunistic nester;s will
invade wall voids, naturally made holes in the ground, holes in the sides of trees, and any
other area that will provide a suitable nesting site for them. This is what brings them into
close contact with humans. Both of these insects will attack if disturbed. They are lightning
fast and attack in great numbers which can cause severe injuries of possibly death. Great
caution should be taken when coming into contact with the nest's of these insects and they
should not be disturbed. Contact us if you think you may have a problem with either one of
these insects for a free visit from one of our certified professional's to determine the best
what to deal with these insects.
Wasps: Wasp can either be considered a pest to be eliminated or a beneficial insect to be
encouraged. Their primary food source are caterpillars that damage crops, ornamentals or
gardens. Paper wasp can be helpful in eliminating other pests as well. However, this wasp
that stings prefers to build its nest under eaves, porches, piers, in open barns or other
areas that put them in close contact to man.
Belonging to the Family Vespidae, the paper wasp does have some of the same
characteristics of Yellowjackets and Hornets. Nests are developed by female wasps who
use a unique blend of saliva and wood to form single layer nest containing individual cells.
An egg is laid in each cell. Larvae hatch from these cells and are fed by worker wasps.
The size (diameter) of a wasp nest can vary from one inch to 18 inches or more. Size of
the paper nest will depend on length of warm season, supply of caterpillars used as food
for larvae, temperatures and other such factors.
During warm weather, wasp nests can appear at any time. Simply killing existing colonies
leaves the area open for another nest to appear close by.
Moths: Moths are from the Lepidoptera order of insects. The two basic types of moths that
are of interest to those responsible for pest control in homes, warehouses, museums or
other structures are the ones that feed on fabrics and the ones that feed on grains.
Grain moths have the ability to feed on and/or breed in grains and other such materials.
Fabric moths are most commonly known as Clothes Moths and has the distinguished ability
to digest keratin. Simply put, they feed on and can digest skin, fur, hooves, feathers -
animal parts.
When most people see moths in their homes they immediately think that they have been
infested with clothes moths that might be feeding on their woolens, carpets, rugs, etc. In
most cases they have misidentified their pest and actually have an infestation of a type of
grain moth. When there are several moths in the home they are almost always a type of
grain infesting moth.
Evidence of clothes moths is usually found by the damage they do to different fabrics in our
homes.
Silverfish: Silverfish are small primitive insects that are found in dark, damp, warm places
throughout our homes. They prefer starchy materials such as cereals, wallpaper and book
bindings as food but in large populations they may do damage to cotton and linen fabrics.
They are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing. Commonly found in stored boxes
in garages and sheds. Silverfish feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches.
Cellulose, shampoos, glue in books, linen, silk and dead insects may be food sources.
Some experts classify silverfish as most destructive pest of stored food. Have been found
in un-opened food packages.
Millipedes: As a household pest, millipedes are more of an annoyance or nuisance, rather
than an indoor-breeding pest that causes destruction. Millipedes normally are found
outdoors where they feed on damp and decaying wood, organic material, and will also feed
on tender roots and green leaves that have fallen to the ground.
Millipedes are not poisonous, but many species have repugnatorial glands capable of
producing mild acids which can produce allergenic reactions in sensitive individuals. There
are at least 1,000 species of millipedes in the United States, a few of which are capable of
squirting their unpleasant fluids over a distance of several inches. Persons handling
millipedes will notice a lingering odor on their hands and the fluid can be dangerous to the
eyes.
Centipedes: Centipedes are flattened , elongated animals with one pair of legs on most of
their body sections. This easily distinguishes them from millipedes which have two pair of
legs per body section. The total number of legs varies from 10 to more than 100,
depending on the species.
Centipedes many times will crawl into homes and conceal themselves in various articles,
such as shoes, diaper pails, laundry baskets, boxes and damp towels left on bathroom
floors. It is not unusual for someone to tell us that they discovered the presence of
centipedes while turning over in bed, only to be bitten by the wandering pest! Although they
are not considered aggressive towards humans, centipedes do not like to be cornered or
touched and will respond defensively in such situations.
Because of their poison glands and ability to bite, centipedes do pose an occasional threat
to man. The bite of a centipede, even the largest species found in the United States, is not
sufficiently toxic to be lethal to man, or even small children. The poison in a centipede’s bite
usually produces only a moderate reaction similar to that of a bee sting, but if you are bitten
and have a significant reaction, do not hesitate to call your physician.
Box Elder Bugs: Box Elder bugs do not bite, but their piercing-sucking mouthparts can
sometimes puncture skin, causing slight irritation. Their droppings make quite a mess and
these pests can accumulate in great numbers in your home if left unchecked.
Warm temperatures interfere with their natural cycles and biology, causing them to
reproduce year-round in unwanted areas such as your home! The boxelder bug is a
common pest over much of the United States. These insects pests feed principally by
sucking juices from the boxelder tree, but are sometimes found on many other plants. In
most cases, boxelder bugs cause no major damage inside homes, but their droppings stain
curtains and other resting sites. This bug also emits a foul odor when crushed.
Adult boxelder bugs will enter homes in the Fall, seeking winter shelter often in wall voids or
in attics. They will then emerge in the spring to seek out host trees on which to feed and
lay eggs.
Lice: There are over 3,000 known species of lice, with only certain species relying on
human hosts. Lice that feed on the human body may also be found in the folds and seams
of clothing. The two most common in homes are the Head lice and the Body Lice.
Head Lice are the most common of human infestations, and do not indicate a lack of
cleanliness. Lice can be present in short or long hair, though they do require some hair.
Human head lice are often found behind the ears or near the hairline, at the base of the
neck. Their eggs, known as nits, thus the term "nit-picking," are attached to a host's hair
with specialized saliva. Nits are white in color and are located near the scalp on individual
strands of hair.
Body lice resemble head lice, though they make their homes usually in clothing rather than
on the scalp. Body lice infestations are noticed by severe itchiness and red marks on the
body and can result in skin infection. Body lice have also been known to transmit diseases.
Ticks: Ticks are the only members of the order Acarina that can be recognized without a
microscope. Ticks feed only on the blood of vertebrates, making them one of the least
favorite visitors in our homes. Hard ticks and soft ticks are the two major groups that are
pests.
Most ticks spend the bulk of their life on or near the ground, waiting for a suitable host
animal. Since they cannot run, hop, fly or move quickly, ticks must climb onto an
appropriate object such as tall grass or weeds or up onto fences and siding of buildings. It
is from these advantageous positions that they wait for a suitable host to pass by. When
they detect vibrations and chemical cues such as host odors or exhaled carbon dioxide,
ticks will fall from their perch or stretch out (holding on to their perch with only 2 or 4 of their
rear legs) and hope to snag or attach onto a passing host (e.g., a mammal with a fur coat
or pants and socks worn by humans.)
Certain ticks carry the causal organisms of such diseases as Rocky Mountain spotted
fever, Lyme disease, typhus, rickettsial pox, relapsing fever, tularemia, Colorado tick fever
and Texas cattle fever. Another health threat posed by certain ticks attacking humans and
other animals involves a poorly understood condition called "tick paralysis." This occurs
during the feeding process when the host is afflicted with a paralytic condition, which
develops gradually and may result in death. Paralytic symptoms disappear rapidly upon
removal of the tick and there seem to be no serious after effects. Most of the tick problems
which you might encounter are in and around homes, and do not involve the disease-
carrying species.
Proper identification of the tick and timely treatment is of utmost importance when dealing
with organisms associated with ticks.
Crickets: Adults about 3/4-inch long with three dark bands on the head and thin
antennae. Body is yellowish-brown. They are active at night and are attracted to lights.
Their diet is considered Omnivorous which means they eat almost anything available. Their
Reproduction is very closely related to cockroach reproduction.
Crickets, or "True Crickets" are related to grasshoppers but more closely related to bush
crickets because they have slightly flattened bodies and long antennae. Male crickets are
the only ones that chirp. They have ridges on their wings that they rub together that act like
a comb and file to form an instrument. Their left forewing contains 50-300 teeth that are
raised and angled. This wing is rubbed against the upper hind edge of the right forewing, or
scraper. There are two types of songs that the male cricket produces. The calling song
attracts females and repels other males and is very loud. The courting song is used when
the female is near and is a very quiet song. Once courted, the mating process begins and
the female lays her eggs usually during the late summer to early fall.
There are 900 different species of the cricket. They are nocturnal insects and again many
times confused with grasshoppers. They feed on organic material like decaying plants,
fungi and seedling plants.
Bed Bug: An adult bed bug is not very large; it is usually about 1/4 an inch long. The small
body size helps this pest to hide in areas that make their elimination difficult. The bed bug
nymph succumbs to pest control products easier than their adult counterparts but (just like
adults) can go for long periods without food. Blood taken from humans is the preferred
food of young and adult common bed bugs.
A bed bug's secretive nature makes it a difficult pest to identify and eliminate. These
insects are not seen crawling around in the daylight hours where they would be easily
identified. They hide in various areas during the day and come out at quiet times of the
night to feed on human blood. Since they usually wait for their host to go to sleep, the host
does not see or feel their presence. The obvious sign that a bed bug infestation is in a
room is the presence of small drops of blood on sheets and pillows or pillow cases.
Fleas: Adult Cat Fleas are one of the most important pests of homes, lawns and pets in
the United States. There are other flea species but the Cat Flea is the one most often
encountered. Surprisingly, adult fleas make up only a minor portion of the total flea
population in an infested area such as inside a home. Most of the time the eggs and larvae
compose about 80% of the fleas in a home. Fleas prefer to spend their entire adult life on
their host but obviously are shaken loose during the activities of the host animal (jumping,
running, scratching, grooming.) Inspection and vacuuming of a home should always be
thorough. Hotspots that often require extra attention are usually where pets frequent.
Adult fleas, flea eggs and future food for larvae all fall off of the host in the same general
area. Being sensitive to light, the larvae are usually close by but underneath or behind
objects. When putting together an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to flea
prevention knowledge of all flea cycles and stages are very important so contact an
Absolute Pest Control trained Technician if you need any further information.
Springtails: Springtails are minute, wingless insects that get their name from the fact that
they have an unusual locomotor organ. The main locomotor organ is a forked, tail-like
structure (called a furcula) which is folded forward under the abdomen when the insect is at
rest.
The usual habitat of these small insects is in soil of woodlands, in decaying vegetative
matter, or on the surface of stagnant water. They are mostly innocuous creatures and go
usually unnoticed. Most soil-inhabiting springtails feed on decaying plant material, fungi
and bacteria. They tend to thrive in an environment that is moist or high in humidity. While
they do not injure living plants they can become a nuisance in greenhouses infesting
decaying organic matter and infesting soil of potted plants..
Because these insects do not cause any real injury, a person faced with a springtail
infestation can try to reduce the population by eliminating moisture and humidity in the area
that they are found. Outside, they cause no problem and are an important component of
the ecosystem.
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RODENTS
In order for any rodent control program to be effective (as well as efficient) on a long term
basis, four basic steps should be implemented. Inspection, Sanitation, Exclusion, and
Population reduction and/or elimination.
The Three most common in this are:
House Mouse: The (Mus musculus) or house mouse is a small, slender rodent that has a
slightly pointed nose; small, black, somewhat protruding eyes; large, scantily haired ears,
and a nearly hairless tail with obvious scale rings. The adult mouse weighs about 2/5 to 4/5
ounces. They are generally grayish-brown with a gray or buff belly. House mice live in and
around homes, farms, commercial establishments, as well as in open fields and agricultural
lands. The cold weather very often cause mice to move into structures in search of shelter
and food. A typical house mouse is capable of fitting through an opening as small as 1/4
of an inch making it rather easily for them to fain access into a structure. They do this by
the ability they have to be able to dislocate their joints and manipulate their body through
amazingly small openings.
A single mouse eats only about 3 grams of food per day (8 pounds per year) but because
of their habit of nibbling on many foods and discarding partially eaten items, mice destroy
considerably more food than they consume
Norway Rat: The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) is a stocky burrowing rodent. Also called
the brown rat, house rat, barn rat, sewer rat, gray rat, or wharf rat, it is a slightly larger
animal than the roof rat. When distinguishing the Norway rat from the Roof rat, pull the tail
back over the body. The tail of the Roof rat will reach the nose. The tail of the Norway rat
will not reach beyond the ears. Adult Norway rats weigh an average of about 1 pound. Their
fur is coarse and usually is brownish or reddish-gray above, and whitish-gray on the belly.
Blackish individuals occur in some locations. Norway rats live in close association with
people. They burrow to make nests under buildings and other structures, beneath concrete
slabs, along stream banks, around ponds, in garbage dumps, and at other locations where
suitable food, water, and shelter are present. Norway rats will eat nearly any type of food.
Food items in household garbage offer a fairly balanced diet and also satisfy their moisture
needs.
Roof Rat: The roof rat (Rattus Rattus) is one of two introduced rats found in the
contiguous 48 states. The other being the Norway Rat. This rat has a long record as a
carrier of plague. Roof rats range along the lower half of the East Coast and throughout
the Gulf States and upward into Arkansas. The roof rat is apparently not quite as adaptable
as the Norway rat, which is one of the reasons it has not spread throughout the country. Its
geographic distribution suggests it is more suited to tropical and semi-tropical climates.
Some isolated populations are reported from areas not within their normal distribution
range; however, these instances are rare. Like the Norway rat, they are omnivorous and will
feed on most anything if necessary. Roof rats usually require water daily, though their local
diet may provide an adequate amount if high in water content.
Both of the rats metnioned above are capable of entering through an opening of as little as
1/2 inch. This is possible by the ability to dislocate their joints and squeeze their body
through small openings. This ability once again makes it possible for them to enter our
structures rather easily while foraging for food and water.
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In order for any rodent control program to be effective (as well as efficient) on a long term
basis, four basic steps should be implemented. Inspection, Sanitation, Exclusion, and
Population reduction and/or elimination.
The Three most common in this are:
House Mouse: The (Mus musculus) or house mouse is a small, slender rodent that has a
slightly pointed nose; small, black, somewhat protruding eyes; large, scantily haired ears,
and a nearly hairless tail with obvious scale rings. The adult mouse weighs about 2/5 to 4/5
ounces. They are generally grayish-brown with a gray or buff belly. House mice live in and
around homes, farms, commercial establishments, as well as in open fields and agricultural
lands. The cold weather very often cause mice to move into structures in search of shelter
and food. A typical house mouse is capable of fitting through an opening as small as 1/4
of an inch making it rather easily for them to fain access into a structure. They do this by
the ability they have to be able to dislocate their joints and manipulate their body through
amazingly small openings.
A single mouse eats only about 3 grams of food per day (8 pounds per year) but because
of their habit of nibbling on many foods and discarding partially eaten items, mice destroy
considerably more food than they consume
Norway Rat: The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) is a stocky burrowing rodent. Also called
the brown rat, house rat, barn rat, sewer rat, gray rat, or wharf rat, it is a slightly larger
animal than the roof rat. When distinguishing the Norway rat from the Roof rat, pull the tail
back over the body. The tail of the Roof rat will reach the nose. The tail of the Norway rat
will not reach beyond the ears. Adult Norway rats weigh an average of about 1 pound. Their
fur is coarse and usually is brownish or reddish-gray above, and whitish-gray on the belly.
Blackish individuals occur in some locations. Norway rats live in close association with
people. They burrow to make nests under buildings and other structures, beneath concrete
slabs, along stream banks, around ponds, in garbage dumps, and at other locations where
suitable food, water, and shelter are present. Norway rats will eat nearly any type of food.
Food items in household garbage offer a fairly balanced diet and also satisfy their moisture
needs.
Roof Rat: The roof rat (Rattus Rattus) is one of two introduced rats found in the
contiguous 48 states. The other being the Norway Rat. This rat has a long record as a
carrier of plague. Roof rats range along the lower half of the East Coast and throughout
the Gulf States and upward into Arkansas. The roof rat is apparently not quite as adaptable
as the Norway rat, which is one of the reasons it has not spread throughout the country. Its
geographic distribution suggests it is more suited to tropical and semi-tropical climates.
Some isolated populations are reported from areas not within their normal distribution
range; however, these instances are rare. Like the Norway rat, they are omnivorous and will
feed on most anything if necessary. Roof rats usually require water daily, though their local
diet may provide an adequate amount if high in water content.
Both of the rats metnioned above are capable of entering through an opening of as little as
1/2 inch. This is possible by the ability to dislocate their joints and squeeze their body
through small openings. This ability once again makes it possible for them to enter our
structures rather easily while foraging for food and water.
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ROACHES
GERMAN COCKROACHES
German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.), are the most common roaches found in
houses and restaurants. Most cockroaches have a flattened, oval shape, spiny legs, and
long, filamentous antennae. Immature stages are smaller, have undeveloped wings and
resemble the adults. They eat food of all kinds and may hitchhike into the house on egg
cartons, soft drink cartons, sacks of potatoes or onions, used furniture or appliances, beer
cases, etc. Produce departments, pawn shops, nursing homes and other such places are
constantly fighting German roaches (as a general rule) and are notorious for being the
source of residential infestations.
The German roach produces more eggs and has more generations per year (three to four)
than other roaches, and only a few individuals are needed to develop into troublesome
infestations.
AMERICAN COCKROACH
Blattaria: Blattidae, Periplaneta americana Due to the large size and slow development of
American cockroaches, large infestations of these insects are not common within houses.
However, during certain times of the year, these cockroaches may move inside a house
from outside sources. For example, in winter these cockroaches may move indoors,
seeking warmer temperatures and food. Cockroaches may enter houses via sewer
connections, under doors, around utility pipes, air ducts, or other openings in the
foundation. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year, during which females produce an
average of 150 young.
SMOKEYBROWN COCKROACH
Reported in Florida as early as 100 years ago, this roach has become a major pest in many
parts of the United States. It is most prevalent in the moist regions, Gulf Coast states and
southern and eastern portions of Mississippi. Due to its large size and the speed at which it
moves, this is not one of the most popular visitors in any home. This pest is most likely
found in areas which are protected, moist, dark, relatively warm and free from the
desiccating effects of air flow.
ORIENTAL COCKROACH
The Oriental cockroach is dark reddish brown in color, so dark that it is sometimes referred
to as the "Black Beetle" in Europe and some parts of the United States. These cockroaches
are common in basements, crawl spaces, cracks and crevices of porches, foundations, and
walkways adjacent to buildings. They feed on a wide variety of plant and animal material.
The Oriental cockroach breeds well in unventilated crawl spaces or basements where
humidity is high. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year, during which females produce
an average of 150 young. This cockroach prefers to feed on starchy foods but (like other
roaches) will adapt to survive.
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GERMAN COCKROACHES
German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.), are the most common roaches found in
houses and restaurants. Most cockroaches have a flattened, oval shape, spiny legs, and
long, filamentous antennae. Immature stages are smaller, have undeveloped wings and
resemble the adults. They eat food of all kinds and may hitchhike into the house on egg
cartons, soft drink cartons, sacks of potatoes or onions, used furniture or appliances, beer
cases, etc. Produce departments, pawn shops, nursing homes and other such places are
constantly fighting German roaches (as a general rule) and are notorious for being the
source of residential infestations.
The German roach produces more eggs and has more generations per year (three to four)
than other roaches, and only a few individuals are needed to develop into troublesome
infestations.
AMERICAN COCKROACH
Blattaria: Blattidae, Periplaneta americana Due to the large size and slow development of
American cockroaches, large infestations of these insects are not common within houses.
However, during certain times of the year, these cockroaches may move inside a house
from outside sources. For example, in winter these cockroaches may move indoors,
seeking warmer temperatures and food. Cockroaches may enter houses via sewer
connections, under doors, around utility pipes, air ducts, or other openings in the
foundation. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year, during which females produce an
average of 150 young.
SMOKEYBROWN COCKROACH
Reported in Florida as early as 100 years ago, this roach has become a major pest in many
parts of the United States. It is most prevalent in the moist regions, Gulf Coast states and
southern and eastern portions of Mississippi. Due to its large size and the speed at which it
moves, this is not one of the most popular visitors in any home. This pest is most likely
found in areas which are protected, moist, dark, relatively warm and free from the
desiccating effects of air flow.
ORIENTAL COCKROACH
The Oriental cockroach is dark reddish brown in color, so dark that it is sometimes referred
to as the "Black Beetle" in Europe and some parts of the United States. These cockroaches
are common in basements, crawl spaces, cracks and crevices of porches, foundations, and
walkways adjacent to buildings. They feed on a wide variety of plant and animal material.
The Oriental cockroach breeds well in unventilated crawl spaces or basements where
humidity is high. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year, during which females produce
an average of 150 young. This cockroach prefers to feed on starchy foods but (like other
roaches) will adapt to survive.
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