Ask the Orkin Man

Avoid Sharing Your Spring Break with Bed Bugs

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:17:56 -0500

Travel Tips to Help Avoid Bed Bugs on Spring Break

Spring breakers want sun, fun and relaxation – not bed bugs – on vacation. Check out these travel tips from Orkin to help you avoid bringing bed bugs home as souvenirs:

-- Inspect the mattress for bed bugs or black, ink-like spots. Alert hotel management if you find either.
-- Check your luggage rack. If it’s clear of bed bugs, store luggage on the rack instead of the floor.
-- Inspect your luggage for bed bugs before check-out and once you return home.

Watch this video for more helpful tips before you travel.

Still want more info? Click here.

Does Orkin use IPM pest control methods?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:56:05 -0500

Question: Does Orkin use IPM pest control methods?

ANSWER Yes. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program is comprised of an effective combination of non-chemical and chemical treatment methods such as sanitation, inspection and exclusion – key elements of an integrated pest management strategy – to identify and minimize pest entry points. When applying treatment, Orkin uses the safest and least amount of product possible to achieve effective results. We partner with our customers to create and provide a treatment plan that is right for them.

What is the best time for termite treatment?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:49:55 -0500

Question: What is the best time for termite treatment?

ANSWER Now. A home is a major investment that you want to protect, and protection starts with termite prevention. Almost all homes should have a termite treatment and be inspected by a licensed pest control company like Orkin. The company should not only treat but evaluate the environmental factors around the home looking for attractive conditions for termites such as woodpiles, water leaks, and foundation penetrations.

How do I get rid of moths?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:45:33 -0500

Question: How do I get rid of moths?

ANSWER The appropriate treatment for moths depends on the type of moth present in your home. Some moths infest dried food, some attack fabrics, and others may simply fly inside after being attracted to lights. Identification is extremely important when dealing with moths as there are several thousand different species. If you notice these pests in your home, call your local pest control expert who can identify the type of moth and suggest appropriate treatment methods.

How do I keep spiders out of my home?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:26:08 -0500

Question: How do I keep spiders out of my home?

ANSWER It is important to note that if you have a spider problem, you likely have a pest problem. Spiders are predators and make a living eating pests such as bugs. They may wander in your home searching for these pests. If you want to rid your home of spiders, a great first step is to contact a licensed pest management professional to first rid your home of the spider’s food source which is other pests. In addition the specialist can employ spider control tools to catch or repel the spiders. Finally there are some highly effective strategies Orkin recommends you can do to make your home less attractive to spiders:

• Seal off potential entries like cracks and crevices, spaces under doors (install door sweeps), holes in screens, etc.
• Inhibit their ability to create webs by cleaning, dusting, removing clutter etc.
• Reduce lights on the outside which may attract other pests.

What should I look for when choosing a pest control company

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:16:52 -0500

Question: What should I look for when choosing a pest control company / professional?

ANSWER There are several important qualities a pest control company / professional should possess, such as:

• A pest control license
• Ability to provide a free on-site inspection before providing a quote for treatment
• Expert knowledge of pest identification and treatment
• A guarantee of service from a stable company with a reputation for providing effective pest prevention, treatment and control

I have a clean house but still have bugs – why?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:12:42 -0500

Question: I have a clean house but still have bugs – why?

ANSWER Pests want what we have – food, water and shelter. Many pests such as roaches and even rodents can fit through tiny cracks and crevices in search of these resources. This can happen no matter how clean your house may be. Other pests like bed bugs are not related to cleanliness at all. They are hitchhikers in search of a blood meal that people can easily – and often unknowingly – provide. It is best to have a trusted professional conduct a thorough inspection to identify pest risk factors around your home. For tips on protecting you and your family from unwanted pests, please visit HiddenHomeThreats.pdf

How do I know if I have a termite swarm?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:09:28 -0500

Question: How do I know if I have a termite swarm?

ANSWER In some cases, homeowners have no idea there is an infestation until they see hundreds to sometimes thousands of winged termite swarmers or they see their discarded wings on windowsills, floors or in spider webs. Another sign a homeowner may notice is the termite damage, such as eaten pieces of wood, or sand-grain like droppings.

While termite colonies are extremely difficult to see, there are several signs of termite infestation/activity that every homeowner should know.

Subterranean Termites: Mud Tubes - Subterranean termites usually invade the home from the ground. Mud tubes are built above ground so termite workers can reach wood or cellulose areas of a structure from their underground nests. The purposes of the mud tubes are to protect the termites from predators like ants and to prevent them from drying out since they need high relative humidity.

Drywood Termites: Frass (Termite Droppings) - Drywood termites don’t usually attack from the ground. They invade by the swarmers entering structures through cracks in the structure and then boring directly into the wood, sealing the hole and mating. As they eat their way through wood, they produce frass, or droppings, that are all the same size and shape though they may vary in color from tan to brick red to black depending on the color of the wood.

The Fight the Bite campaign?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:46:52 -0500

Question: What is the Fight the Bite campaign?

ANSWER Orkin created its Fight the Bite campaign to help save lives in Africa and help American homeowners reclaim their yards by waging war on mosquitoes and the deadly diseases they can carry. In cooperation with Nothing But Nets, a non-profit group dedicated to malaria prevention in Africa, Orkin and its sister pest control companies have donated over $125,000 in 2008 and estimates at least another $120,000 in 2009. For every new mosquito customer Orkin contributes $10 for 10,000 long-lasting, insecticide-treated mosquito bed nets to be delivered to the areas of greatest need in Africa.

One hundred percent of each $10 contribution goes directly toward purchasing and distributing a net and teaching the recipient to use it properly.

Is there financing available for termite control services?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:43:03 -0500

Question: Is there financing available for termite control services?

ANSWER Convenient financing is offered for up to 100% of the agreement. Benefits include:
-- No penalty for early payoff
-- No collateral requirements
-- 90 days same as cash
-- Affordable monthly payments
-- Immediate approval at your home

Does Orkin help with raccoons, rats, varmint or wildlife?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:39:05 -0500

Question: Does Orkin provide service for raccoons or rats? Do you do varmint & wildlife control?

ANSWER Orkin recently launched a Wildlife Management Service in some parts of the country to assist customers with birds, squirrels, raccoons and other wildlife control. This program includes capture and relocation, as well as exclusion services. For details regarding Orkin’s Wildlife Management Service and to find out if it is available in your area, call your local branch.

Why do I need ongoing pest treatment?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:21:51 -0500

Question: Why do I need ongoing pest treatment?

ANSWER In any pest control program, ongoing maintenance is necessary to ensure control of any infestations and to help prevent future ones from occurring. Pests want three things: food, water and shelter – all things that are inside your home. They often are relentless in looking for ways to get inside your home, so we must be vigilant in keeping them out. Also, different pests are active as the weather changes, requiring different treatments as the seasons change. We partner with our customers, encouraging them to take simple steps in addition to the appropriate pest treatment provided by a licensed professional, to help keep potential pests in their place all year round, and to help keep your home protected.

What if I buy termite control services and still get termites?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:15:45 -0500

Question: What if I buy termite control services and still get termites?

ANSWER Orkin delivers the world's best value in termite control. If termites happen to return following your termite treatment, we will re-treat the problem at no additional charge. If at any time you have questions regarding pest activity, contact your local branch, call the Orkin Customer Care Center at 1-800-800-ORKIN, or refer to your contract for additional details, terms and limitations.

What is the difference between a regular ant and a carpenter ant?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:10:40 -0500

Question: What is the difference between a regular ant and a carpenter ant?

ANSWER Carpenter ants can be black, brown, red, or a combination of these colors. They can be easily distinguished from most other pest ants by the carpenter ant’s “heart-shaped” head. Carpenter ants can be found throughout the U.S. and are named for their ability to excavate nests in wood, creating smooth tunnels or galleries. In the U.S. few other ant species have this behavior. Carpenter ant damage is sometimes confused with that of termites, which also damage wood. Unlike termites that eat wood, carpenter ants hollow out wood, leaving behind small piles of sawdust. Carpenter ants prefer to build nests within decaying, moist wood – sometimes creating multiple nests in a single area. They are commonly found in porch pillars, roofs, windowsills, dead trees and dead parts of living trees.

What kind of training do Orkin technicians go through?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:08:09 -0500

Question: What kind of training do Orkin technicians go through?

ANSWER Orkin’s pest and termite specialists are the best trained in the industry. The Orkin Training Center is one of the industry’s only hands-on training facilities in the country. The Training Center includes a fully functional house which provides Orkin experts with real-life pest, rodent and termite control experience. Orkin TV, a one-of-a-kind satellite television network, links to our 8,000 employees across the country to provide ongoing training on pest control products and service methods.

Additionally, all Orkin employees undergo rigorous drug screenings and criminal background checks prior to being hired. These screenings are followed by annual motor vehicle report checks and random employee drug testing.

Orkin’s thorough training and screening measures are what set Orkin pest control specialists apart from the average exterminator.

Does Orkin treat for pests inside

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:04:16 -0500

Question: Does Orkin treat for pests inside?

ANSWER Pest treatment methods, which may include targeted product application inside, outside or both. The specialist will review pest control recommendations with the customer to confirm a program that is right for them and takes into account any special circumstances that may exist.

I have killed 3 of these insects since Christmas. I think it's a spuedo scorpion.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 22:07:47 -0500

Question: I have killed 3 of these insects since Christmas and finally
catured one alive. This insect has very large crab-like pinchers for its
hands and its length is around 1/8". I think it's a spuedo scorpion. What
should I do?

ANSWER What you have sounds like a pseudoscorpion--as you suspected. A bad name for this animal, since it is only a distant relation to scorpions!. Pseudoscorpions are predators on mites and small insects. They will not bite people or pets. They live in wooded areas and they are usually brought into house on the fur of pets or the pant cuffs of people that have been in the woods.

No need to worry, they will not infest the house and can be removed by hand or using an aerosol (but no need for a broad spectrum treatment).

We have noticed in the last several days small black bugs.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:26:16 -0500

Question: I live in Arlington, Virginia. We have noticed in the last
several days small (about the size of a small pepper flake) black bugs in
our bathtub below the ceiling fan/vent (not near the drain or faucet), and
around some of our windows. Any idea what they could be? How to get rid
of them? I did not see anything like them in your pest library on the web
site.

ANSWER Probably what you have are psocids (soo - cids) or booklice (an unfortunate name, since they are not really lice nor always associated with books).

These very small, pale yellow to brown insects live in humid areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, but they can occur in other locations in the house (especially in humid weather). Most psocids feed on microscopic mold and mildew, but some are associated with stored food materials. There are a few psocids that are associated with cereals and are not usually found in humid areas; in fact, may be found in quite dry kitchen cabinets.

Solving a psocid problem usually starts with solving the moisture or humidity. This will eliminate the mildew that the psocids eat. Many times there is a plumbing leak or clogged drain. In the bathroom you can check the sink drain for leaks. Check the tub trap too - there is often a trap door in a wall near the front of the tub.

In the kitchen, check the pipes under the sink for leaks. If there is moisture, be sure to dry the cabinet thoroughly before replacing everything that is stored there.

When you find psocids on rugs or pieces of furniture, the best control is to lower the humidity, that is, to dry out whatever or wherever these insects have been found. This may mean taking items outside to dry in the sun. When the item is dry, the mildew will die and so will the psocids. A de-humidifier may be necessary in a damp basement.

Can moskitos pass aids from person to person by biting them?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:17:08 -0500

Question: Can moskitos pass aids from person to person by biting them? If
so or not please explain.

ANSWER This was researched many years ago and found not to be true. The virus is not sustained in the body of the mosquito, so it is not transmitetd when the mosquito bites another host.

We have carpenter ants I think, can they be removed?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:08:56 -0500

Question: We have carpenter ants I think, can they be removed, and is it
safe to have those chemicals in the house if we are going to be bringing
home a baby with in a few weeks, and the fact I am pregnant? I don't want
to do anything to harm his health.

ANSWER There are several species of carpenter ants across the U.S. Most are large black ants, but some are red and some are red and black. Most of the species produce swarms (winged males and female ants) in the spring. Carpenter ants feed on other insects and honeydew from aphids on plants and trees.

Carpenter ants try to find sources of water. When possible, they make their nest in moisture-damaged wood, but do not eat the wood. Many times carpenter ants find moisture problems that the homeowner hasn't noticed. It may be in the bathroom where the tub or shower are not draining properly (or have overflowed and wet the wood). It might be a porch that is holding moisture, a roof leak, or a door frame that gets wet from rain. Many times the moisture comes from a downspout or gutter that is clogged or draining toward the house

When carpenter ants are found in the house, it can mean that the nest is outdoors and they are simply foraging for food indoors. However, many times carpenter ants make a satellite nest indoors near a supply of food or water. Watching the trail of ants will give a clue where they have made their nest.

The first step in controlling carpenter ants is to locate the nest. A thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood is also very important. Often, while correcting the moisture problem, the ant nest can be removed or sprayed directly.

Baits are best when the nest can not be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but many baits will work if you locate them near the foraging trails. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

Either approach - removing the nest or treating the ants with bait - will eliminate the carpenter ant problem with minimum risk of harm to you and your family.

We have a beetle type bug that is all over our home.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 20:52:29 -0500

Question: We have a beetle type bug that is all over our home, and
is swarming around certain windows. It looks like a skinny beetle, black
with orange markings on the back,and can have wings. Approx 1/2 inch
long. Any idea what this is, and if it can cause any damage? Live in
Chicago suburbs.

ANSWER Probably what you have found are boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. The milkweed bug is similar, but they are found on flowers and not on trees, and they have orange markings. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant-feeding insects that usually utilize the seeds of trees (for food. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees, and are there in the fall when the seeds are ripe. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation overwinters in protected places. This sometimes includes sites around and in houses, which makes them a nuisance. They have some chemicals (called pheromones) that help them to gather in large numbers, so oftentimes thousands of them will be in one place .

Outside: It might be best to use an insecticide that is recommended for treating ornamental plants, so if some of the spray contacts shrubs around the house it will not damage the leaves. Treat around the outside perimeter, including doorways and windows. Follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Inside: They can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they can become active during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

I found some a few bugs in my bathroom and I wanted to know if you could help me figure out what it is.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 14:06:54 -0500

Question: I found some a few bugs in my bathroom and I wanted to know if
you could help me figure out what it is.
It is approximately no bigger than 1/8", oval shape and tan and black
strips any idea?

ANSWER Probably what you have found are carpet beetle larvae. They are characteristically brown, they may look banded with brown and pale stripes, and with long 'hairs' at the tail end. They are slow moving across walls and floors. The molted skins of these larvae are often found in cabinets and in closets, and are an indication of an ongoing infestation of carpet beetles. The adults are often seen indoors in the spring.

The larval stage can feed on a variety of material, but most often it attacks woolens, skins, leather, feathers and stored food materials (from birdseed to spices, and flour), and when these are not available it can live on dead insects that are scattered about.

The best control for these beetles is to vacuum thoroughly, have the woolens dry cleaned and stored in a sealed container, and check on the other likely infested items. Regular vacuuming and removing food materials will keep them in control-but there will likely always be a few in the house.

I am experiencing small black flies in my home. Can you help me identify what type of flies I may have?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:51:31 -0500

Question: I am experiencing small black flies in my home. I notice them
in the bathroom and on the window sills. We recently bought two new house
plants and it seems that most of the flies are in the same room. I have
done research, I think they are gnats or fruit flies (no fruits laying
exposed). Can you help me identify what type of flies I may have? Also,
what measures can I take to get rid of them?

ANSWER Gnats in the house usually means the presence of one or more of two species of small flies.

Fungus Gnats. If they are small, black, and weak flyers, and may be around windows or potted plants, then they are probably fungus gnats. These flies live as larvae in the moist to wet soil in house plants (they don't damage the plants). To control these you can simply let the soil of the house plants completely dry before the next watering time.

Fruit Flies. If the flies are small, light brown and seem to be attracted to places in the kitchen, then they are probably fruit flies. To control these flies you have to start with the removal of over ripe fruit or vegetables, this is where the larvae live. To remove the adults, which can live for a few weeks, you can place a small amount of vinegar in a shallow pan, and place this pan in locations where the flies are common. They will be attracted to the vinegar and some may get trapped in the liquid, and you can use an aerosol for flying insects to spray the other flies that are waiting there.

I have a pest that reresembles the smokey brown cockroach.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:43:10 -0500

Question: I have a pest that reresembles the smokey brown cockroach, but
the lines bordering its back are a little more red and defined a little
more crisp if you will. They are everywhere outside in every room in the
house and basement if you can tell me what they are and how to get rid of
them it would be greatly appreciated. If I can't do it myself I would like you
guys to do it for me.

ANSWER Probably what you have found are boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. The milkweed bug is similar, but it is found on flowers and not on trees, and it has orange markings. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects that feed on the seeds of boxelder and maple trees. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species. They may use these trees when there are few boxelders in the area.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation spends the winter in protected places. This sometimes includes spaces inside of houses, which makes them a nuisance. They produce chemical odors (called pheromones) that help them to cluster together in large numbers. Thousands of them can gather in one place to spend the winter.

Outside: It might be best to use an insecticide that is recommended for treating ornamental plants, so if some of the spray contacts shrubs around the house it will not damage the leaves. Many lawn and garden insecticides are registered for use to control boxelder bugs. Be sure to follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Repair any damaged screens on windows and vents -- check the attic vents too. Make sure exterior doors close properly and replace missing weather-stripping. Caulk any cracks around doors and windows that insects could use to enter the home.

Inside: Boxelder bugs can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they can become active during warm and sunny days. They come out of their hiding places and gather near windows. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs inside the house, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

When treating for fleas, how often should there be a treatment or is it the first time treatment?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:34:41 -0500

Question: When treating for fleas, how often should there be a treatment
or is it a 1 time treatment? Does it take care of the eggs that could
hatch in a couple of weeks too?

ANSWER Household flea control begins with treating the animal, treating the house, and sometimes treating the yard. All of the steps have to be done and they have to be done together.

Pet. There are some very effective on-animal flea control products, some come from the veterinarian and some are over-the-counter products. The pet or pets must be treated first before you can hope to rid the house (carpeting) of fleas. The pet's bedding should be washed or replaced at the same time.

House. Vacuuming the carpet can help to remove some of the eggs that drop from the fleas on the pet. Vacuuming will pick up a few flea larvae. Vacuuming removes the organic material that flea larvae eat. It also makes the adult fleas come out of their cocoons while the treatment is fresh and effective.

The most effective carpet treatment is an insecticide that also contains an insect growth regulator. This will kill active fleas and prevent new ones from developing. The product should state that it can be used on carpet. The product label will explain how to mix and apply the product. The label will also explain how many treatments will be needed. Do not allow people or pets to walk on the carpet until it is dry. Vacuum frequently after the carpet has been treated.

Outdoors: Fleas seldom survive in sunny areas, so the shady places should receive treatment if the pet goes outside. Follow label directions for mixing and applying all insecticides.

I have never had an insect problem.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:49:03 -0500

Question: I have never had an insect problem. Recently, I found a few tiny
black pellets on the kitchen counter & in the silverware drawer. Please
tell me this is not roaches, because I'll move!!

ANSWER These may be mouse droppings.

The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps. Be sure to use a lot of them-the theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, scraps of cloth, or pieces of string. Put the traps agains a wall or the side of a cabinet. Make sure that children and pets cannot reach the traps.

Baits may be effective, but many times the mouse eats the bait and dies behind the wall. This causes a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they leave the building after eating the bait is simply not true!

Look around outside. Seal up any cracks that mice could be using to get inside. It may take a careful inspection because mice can get through very small openings.

I have wasps that are either in my siding or in my attic.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:43:42 -0500

Question: I have wasps that are either in my siding or in my attic. Both
of these are inaccessible places. What solutions can you provided to rid
me of them?

ANSWER Wasps or other yellowjackets in the house or attic this time of year are probably queens that will be founding nests the following spring. This may be a sign that there was a nest in the house (maybe in the attic) last year, and these queens are becoming active and will be looking for a place to leave and begin the process of founding new nests.

A single colony of yellowjackets does not continue from year to year. Workers and the original queen die when winter comes. Queens for the next year are formed in the colony at the end of the season (August and September). With the onset of winter these new queens seek a place to spend the winter, and they often more under shingles, in chimneys, wall voids, and attics.

In the fall and during a winter warm spell, sluggish queens can begin emerging inside. Yes, they may sting when they become active this time of year.

The local Branch Office can provide you service, please contact them directly.

After it rains I have been noticing numerous small, flat charcoal gray colored bugs that come in.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:37:15 -0500

Question: After it rains I have been noticing numerous small, flat
charcoal gray colored bugs that come in. We have a slab home and they
crawl in from under the baseboards. I have been using indoor spray, but
they keep coming back. Can you tell me what these bugs are and how to get
rid of them?

ANSWER You may have sowbugs. Sowbugs or pillbugs, or 'rolly pollys' to some people, are not actually insects. They are crustaceans, so they are related to crayfish. There is a slight difference between sowbugs and pillbugs. Sowbugs can not roll up into a ball when disturbed, and pillbugs can! They both live and breed in moist, decaying organic material and are usually found in areas around the perimeter of the house. A favorite location is under the bottom logs of the wood pile, under potted plants, or in wet mulch.

These animals usually remain outside, but may come inside when their habitat become too wet or too dry. They enter under doors and around ground-level windows. They don't survive in houses or basements because it is too dry and there is no food there for them. They are usually found dead just inside the door they have entered. This is often the case when the habitat is very dry, and they can not find a protected and humid harborage.

Control begins with the removal of mulch and dead leaves around the house. Make sure the gutters are clean and the downspouts drain away from the houndation. Check to see that door thresholds and windows are well sealed.

I am moving in a couple of months and was curious if the roaches. Is there a way to kill the roaches?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:26:52 -0500

Question: I am moving in a couple of months and was curious if the roaches
I have will travel with me in the appliances I am taking such as the
Television, Microwave, Computer monitor, etc? If so, is there any way to
kill the roaches in the appliances before I move?

ANSWER You can avoid taking cockroaches with you when you move by doing some simple things to control them now and when you get to the new location.

The plastic cockroach bait stations can be effective here. While you are packing, place a station in each box you pack from the kitchen or bathroom, close the box and seal it.

Before you move into the new place, put out some of the plastic stations or gel cockroach baits in the kitchen and bathroom. If you use the plastic stations, put them in corners -- on the shelves of the cabinets or under the sink. If you use the gel, put small drops of it it into cracks where the roaches would go to hide.

We have small bugs (like ants) with wings on the back of them.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:16:59 -0500

Question: We have small bugs (like ants) with wings on the back of them.
They are in our basement. What would they be?

ANSWER Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. It helps to have a magnifying glass to make the distinction. There are three body parts that are different - waist, wings, and antennae. You'll have to look closely.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow waist, three distinct body segments. Termite swarmers seem to have a long slender body.

Winged ants have two pair of uneven-length wings -- the front wings are larger than the back wings. Winged termites have identical front and back wings.

Ants' antennae are usually bent or elbowed. Termite antennae are straight, with no bends.

The local Orkin branch can send an Inspector to help with this identification. You can call the branch directly to schedule an inspection.

I was wondering about daddy long legged spiders.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:10:39 -0500

Question: I was wondering about daddy long legged spiders. We have a lot
of them outside of our house and it seems that where they hang out there
are now tiny brown spots on our siding. Do they leave marks or feces
behind?? Or is it from digestion? It just seems to be wherever the daddy
long legs are or hang out.

ANSWER The spots from daddylong legs are fecal deposits.

Daddy longlegs are not actually spiders, but close enough to be disliked by most people. They don't bite people or pets and are rather harmless.

They are predators like spiders, feeding on small insects. However some may eat plant material. They are usually found outdoors hiding under the eaves or in garages. Sometimes they gather near the porch light because of the insects that are attracted there.

Control of daddy longlegs can begin by reducing the outdoor lights at night, then using a broom to move them away form the door.

For the last few years the side of our house has been a playground for Box Elder bugs and Ladybugs.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 10:58:48 -0500

Question: For the last few years the side of our house has been a
playground for Box Elder bugs and Ladybugs. How can they be
eliminated/controlled?

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy because they often occur in large numbers.

Outside: Many products list boxelder bugs on the label. The treatment should be made to the outside of the home where the bugs gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Inside: They can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they can become active during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

Ladybird Beetles. What you have is the Asian ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis). These insects make a nuisance of themselves throughout the country. They usually make their presence known in the fall and winter when they collect in large numbers around the perimeter of houses and buildings. A large number of them make their way inside.

These beetles were introduced into the U.S. several times to control aphids in some southern states. Adult beetles and the larvae can eat hundreds of aphids each day and are considered beneficial insects.

Asian ladybird beetles overwinter in protected places. Sometimes this includes coming inside the house. These beetles live outdoors during the summer feeding on aphids on ornamental and vegetable plants. They are naturally found in trees, but here in the U.S. they are found in nearly all plants, from field crops, to vegetable gardens, and ornamental plants. The adult beetles often return to the same sites year after year to spend the winter, and they can live for 2 to 3 years. So a problem this year may mean that you will have a similar problem in years to come.

Inspect the outside of the home and caulk any openings around doors and windows. Repair any damaged screens on windows and vents -- check the attic vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping.

The best control strategy for the beetles that have come indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from the windows and walls. They are harmless, but if crushed indoors they can leave a stain on carpeting or drapes.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the cluster of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water (to discourage them).

We have a farmhouse that is a little over 100 years old and we are infiltrated with Box Elder Bugs.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 10:37:11 -0500

Question: We have a farmhouse that is a little over 100 years old and we
are infiltrated with Box Elder Bugs and the 'orange' ladybugs - inside and
out. Is there an indoor and outdoor treatment that Orkin offers to
control these pests? If so, I would like to schedule a free inspection to
get an idea of the options available and costs associated.

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy because they often occur in large numbers.

Inspect outside carefully and caulk any cracks around windows and doors. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check the attic vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping.

Outside: Many garden insecticides list boxelder bugs on the label. The treatment should be made outside where the bugs gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

I have tons of bugs in my house. What are they?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 10:25:04 -0500

Question: I have tons of bugs in my house. We live in the country and
they are black/brown with red lines on them. They are on the front of the
house in piles and I believe they fly as well. What are they?? We also
have tons of ladybugs! I need a quote as well.

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy, because they often occur in large numbers. Inspect carefully and caulk any cracks around the doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping.

Outside: Many insecticides list boxelder bugs on the label. The treatment should be made outside where they gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Inside: Boxelder bugs and ladybugs can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they can become active during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs inside of houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

While it seems easy to make a quote for pest control service by e-mail, it is actually very difficult. Pest problems are different and each home is unique in construction, landscaping, and decor.

Pest control quotes are best done with an inspection by a technian. Please call your local Orkin branch to schedule an inspection and schedule service.

I think they are the things you call water bugs.

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 10:18:37 -0500

Question: I think they are the things you call water bugs. I found 3 in my
house in the last 2 weeks . please tell me about them and what to do about
them. I have never seen this in my house before. why do they come in side?
and where did they come from? I found one on the papertowel holder one in
the basket I keep notes and the last one in my daughters room.

ANSWER The household pest that many people call "waterbugs" are actually cockroaches. The common name is "Oriental cockroach". The habits of this roach are similar to the other, more common outdoor species.

Outdoors they live in watermeter boxes, under logs, and under mulch. When they come indoors, they generally live in basements, crawl spaces, or other cool areas. If there is a problem in apartments it will usually be on the ground floor. They may be found in bath tubs, but they do not come in through the drain pipes. They lack the sticky pads on their feet that other cockroaches have, so once they get into the tub they can not crawl out because of the smooth sides.

Preventing these pests starts with inspecting the outside of the home. Look for cracks the waterbugs might be using to enter the home. Make sure basement windows or crawl space vents have screens. Secure the door to the crawl space. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping. Rake mulch and dead leaves away from the foundation. Move firewood away from the house and store it on a rack.

Control of waterbugs can be achieved with the use of baits. There are plastic bait stations and gel baits. The best bait for waterbugs is the gel formulation. The gel usually comes in a plastic syringe so it can be applied into cracks where the roaches hide. Place small amounts of gel in the places where you have seen these cockroaches; re-apply the gel when it is eaten. Give this control method a few weeks to work.

How much it is to usually get rid of roaches?

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:04:00 -0500

Question: Would it be possible for you to give me a ballpark figure of how
much it is to usually get rid of roaches? we live in a 2 story house.
[main floor and unfinished basement.] just a price range would be great.
thanks for your time.

How do you know if you have termites?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 23:56:06 -0500

Question: How do you know if you have termites? Had some winged insects
that came out after a heavy snow day between sidwalk and brick patio.

ANSWER Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different -- the waist, the wings, and the antennae. You'll have to look closely. It helps to have a magnifying glass to make the distinction.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow waist. The ants have three distinct body segments. Winged termites seem to have a long slender body that is made of one segment.

Winged ants, called swarmers, have two pair of uneven-length wings. The front wing is much larger than the back wing. Termite swarmers have two pair of identical wings - the front wings and the back wings are the same.

Ants have antennae that are bent or elbowed. Termites have straight antennae.

If you are still not sure what the insects are, call the local Orkin branch. An ins-pector can come by and help with the the identification.

I have roaches, I do not know exactly what kind they are, they are rather large.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 23:22:01 -0500

Question: I have roaches, I do not know exactly what kind they are, they
are rather large, and there are not many of them, I only see a couple
every day, I mostly spot them, in the kitchen, and in the bathroom. I
would like to know the price for someone to come out and spray, and I
would also like to know how many times it would take to get rid of the
roaches.

ANSWER The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. This type of control strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners -- in cabinets or under the sink. They can also go by the motors of appliances like refrigerator. If the roaches do not eat the bait, the stations can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection.

The gel formulation is best when it is applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so it may have to be replaced if there are a lot of roaches. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the gel bait.

German cockroaches (the small roaches) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Give this method a few weeks to work.

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and perhaps with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Orkin branch office for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

For the past week, we keep getting hordes of giant houseflies flying out of our laundry room.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:54:59 -0500

Question: For the past week, we keep getting hordes of giant houseflies
flying out of our laundry room. We can't find where they're coming from
or why. They always appear on the flourescent light fixtures and
everytime we kill them all, a few hours later there are more. How do we
figure out where these are coming from??

ANSWER What you have seen are probably cluster flies. They are sometimes mistaken for house flies. Cluster flies look similar to the common house fly but they have a completely different life cycle. Cluster flies are common inside houses, especially during the fall and spring.

The life cycle of the cluster fly (Polenia rudis) begins in the spring when they leave the overwintering sites (attics and wall voids of houses) and lay their eggs in the soil. The larval or maggot stage of this fly attacks and eats earthworms. There are several generations of cluster flies during the summer, and each time the female returns to lay eggs in the soil.

However, the adult males and females of the last generation (mid to late August) will spend the winter in a protected location. Cluster flies spend the winter relatively inactive in attics and wall voids. They come out and start the life cycle over again in the following spring.

Cluster flies begin searching for a place to spend the winter during the last months of summer, usually in late August and early September. They will seek out the sides of houses that are warmed by the afternoon sun, and collect there by the hundreds or thousands. If they find openings, they move inside and hide in the wall voids or the attic.

Getting rid of these flies is not easy. To prevent them from coming inside, incpect outside for cracks and openings. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check the attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace missing weather-stripping.

Many garden insecticides include cluster flies on their label. A treatment can be made outside to the areas where the flies gather Be sure to follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticide.

If cluster flies have gotten into the attic, a flying insect fogger might help eliminate them. A vacuum cleaner can be used to remove them from windows and walls inside the home.

How to do mosquito repellent?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:39:59 -0500

Question: How to do mosquito repellent?

ANSWER Mosquitoes around the house or yard are not easy to control. You have to start by locating their breeding site and eliminate it.

Most common species of mosquito use standing water as the breeding site. The female mosquito lays eggs in almost any standing water -- tin cans, old tires, clogged gutters, birdbaths, and similar items that hold water. The adult mosquitoes often stay fairly close to the breeding site. If there is a problem in the yard or around the house, look first in the yard or adjacent property for standing water.

Fogging the yard or the use of electronic devices may not provide long term control (or even immediate relief). Try to avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn -- this is when many mosquitoes bite. If you must be outdoors during these times, use repellents and wear light-colored clothing. Lighting citronella candles might help. A slowly rotating fan may keep biting mosquitoes away from porches or patios.

My house is infested with boxelders

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:32:36 -0500

Question: My house is infested with boxelders. Where are they coming from?
Do I need to eliminate any specific trees outside? Does anything kill
them? I think we have ash and a tobie tree closest to my house. I also
have shrubs. Any suggestion would be appreciated.

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy. They get their name from their habit of attacking boxelder trees. They also attack maples and many other tree species. They seem to favor the female (seed-bearing) trees. If the trees are in your yard, you may be able to spray the trees. The insecticide label will tell if the product is designed to control boxelder bugs. Follow the label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Many people get boxdelder bugs around their house in the fall. The trees are often in a neighbor's yard, so the bugs may not be a problem during the summer. However, when the bugs start looking for a place to spend the winter, they often gather at light-colored houses. If they find cracks or openings in the walls of the house, they move inside. They hide in the wall voids or in the attic during the winter.

You can prevent boxelder bugs from getting inside by sealing cracks and openings that they might try to use. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace missing weather-stripping.

When boxelder bugs become a problem on the outside: Many home insecticides include boxelder bugs on the label. The treatment on the outside of the house should be in the areas where the bugs gather. Be sure to follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

When boxelder bugs come nside: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any boxelder bugs that get inside. . You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they come out of hiding during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

have a small hard shelled bug that feeds off of blood. How do I kill them? I've tried everything.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:11:43 -0500

Question: I have a small hard shelled bug that feeds off of blood, its in
my furniture and beding. How do I kill them? I've tried everything.

ANSWER Probably you have bed bugs. They are not a common problem, but there is always the possibility of having these blood-feeding insects. In some regions of the country the frequency of bed bugs has been increasing. While bed bugs are a nuisance , they can be controlled with some careful cleaning and a little insecticide.

These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day. They emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping. The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. Many people do not feel the bites at first. After they have been bitten over a long period of time, some people have a skin reaction to the bites.

Control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible. Treat all the cracks and crevices with an aerosol insecticide. Treat the cracks and crevices of the headboard as well.

Once the frame is treated , then inspect and vacuum the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and vacuum the seams of the mattress. Wash all of the bedding while the bed is being treated.

With what is left in the aerosol you can treat cracks behind the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. Picture frames on the walls can be bed bug hiding places too, so be thorough.

Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests close to the room (check the attic), since birds and bats can be hosts and bring these blood-feeders from place to place.

I live in South-East Michigan and I found a common beetle.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 22:01:16 -0500

Question: Hello, I live in South-East Michigan and I found a common
beetle, but I do not know what it is. Can you tell me? It has a long,
black back with a vivid Red-orange outline and two red-orange V-shape on
it's back if it were facing you. It has long antennae and red eyes. I
usually find it on my front porch or on a window. Thanks for your help.
P.S. I could provide a picture if needed.

ANSWER Probably what you have found are boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. The milkweed bug is similar, but it is found on flowers and not on trees, and it has orange markings. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects. They usually feed on the seeds of boxelder or maple trees. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees. They come in the spring when the seeds start to develop and they are there in the fall when the seeds are ripe. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species, and may use these trees when there are few boxelder trees in the area.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation spends the winter in protected places. This sometimes includes sites around and in houses, which makes them a nuisance. They produce chemical odors (called pheromones) that help them to cluster together in large numbers.

Many times thousands of them will gather on a house for warmth. If they find openings, they move inside. Boxelder bugs often spend the winter in the wall voids or the attics of homes.

To prevent them from coming in, do a thorough inspection outside. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check the attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace missing weather-stripping. .

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so pick a product that lists them on the label. The treatment should be done in the outside areas where the bugs gather. Follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Inside: Boxelder bugs can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they come out of hiding during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

Last fall we had lots of ladybugs. Any idea what they are or how we can get rid of them?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:45:01 -0500

Question: Last fall we had lots of ladybugs and also a larger bug with a
reddish orange on underside of body and a stipe on the wings. These seemed
to be all over the front of our house. Now whenever we get a warm sunny
day we are seeing the larger ones on the house again. We also have had
some inside. Any idea what they are or how we can get rid of them?

ANSWER Probably what you have found are boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. The milkweed bug is similar, but it is found on flowers and not on trees, and it has orange markings. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects. They usually feed on the seeds of boxelder or maple trees. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees. They come to the trees in the spring when the seeds start to develop and they are there in the fall when the seeds are ripe. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species, and may feed on these trees when there are few boxelder trees in the area.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation spends the winter in protected places. This sometimes includes sites around and in house -- this is when they become a nuisance. They produce chemical odors (called pheromones) that help them to cluster in large numbers. It is common to see thousands of them gathered in one place.

In late summer and fall, boxelder bugs gather on the sunny side of houses for warmth. If they find an opening, they move inside the house. Many boxelder bugs spend the winter in the wall voids or the attics of homes. They become active on warm days and many times they come out into the living space.

Preventing boxelder bugs from invading the home starts with an inspection outside. Some repairs may be needed. Check the caulk around doors and windows. Look at the condition of the screens on wondows and vents -- check the attic and eave vents too. Exterior doors should close tightly and there should be no damaged weather-stripping.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so pick a product that lists them on the label. The treatment should be made outside in the areas where they gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Can anything be about box elder bugs?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:34:48 -0500

Question: Can anything be done about box elder bugs? Now that the weather
is warming up, we are finding more in our home.

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy, but they are susceptible to most garden insecticides. A product that lists boxelder bugs on the label should be effective. The treatment should be made outside to the area where the bugs gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

Outside: It might be possible to prevent next year's boxelder bugs from invading the house. Inspect the outside of the home to see where they are getting in. Caulk any cracks around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check the attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and have weather-stripping.

There seem to be a lot of flying ants around the outside of my home.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:29:02 -0500

Question: There seem to be a lot of flying ants around the outside of my
home is there anything I can do to correct this problem?

ANSWER In the spring there are many species of ants and flies that emerge in large numbers and fly around for a day or so. There is little that you can do about this, and they usually pose no threat.

I would like to know what kind of bugs that we have at my home they are black with red on them?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:16:41 -0500

Question: I would like to know what kind of bugs that we have at my home
they are black with red on them.

ANSWER Probably what you have found are boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. The milkweed bug is similar, but it is found on flowers and not on trees, and it has orange markings. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects. They usually feed on the seeds of boxelder or maple trees. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees. They come in the spring when the seeds start to develop and they are there in the fall when the seeds are ripe. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species, and may feed on these trees when there are few boxelder trees in the area.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation spends the winter in protected places. This sometimes includes sites around and in houses, which makes them a nuisance. They produce chemical odors (called pheromones) that help them to cluster together in large numbers. It is common to see thousands of them gathered in one place.

In the late summer and fall, boxelder bugs gather on the sunny side of houses for warmth. If they find openings, they move inside. Many boxelder bugs spend the winter in the wall voids and attics of homes.

Preventing boxelder bugs from invading starts with an inspection outside. Look for openings and seal any entryways. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and doors -- check the attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any damaged weather-stripping.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so a product that lists them on the label should work. The treatment should be made outside where the bugs gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

How or where do the infestations originate?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:10:08 -0500

Question: Hello, I am a 8th grader attending the middle school I.S.119.
We are doing a feature article and I had picked the topic on Bed Bugs. I
was wondering if you could answer some question for me so I could include
them in my article.

You do not have to answer all of the questions I have listed, however, I
would appreciate it if you answer as many as possible.

-How or where do the infestations originate? How do I prevent it?
-Would their bites cause any concern?
-How do I know whether I have been bitten?
-How do I knoe whether or not I have bed bugs?
-What do you think the worst effect from bed bugs are?
-Are there techniques to get rid of bed bugs?
-What was the worst case of bed bugs you've encountered?

Answer: These small, reddish-brown, wingless insects hide during the day. They emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping. Nymphs (immature bed bugs) are whitish until they take a blood meal. Adult bed bugs resemble watermelon seeds.

The bed bug takes several minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. Most people do not notice the first few bites. If a person is bitten repeatedly (over a long period of time), he or she might develop skin irritation at the bite sites. The good news is that there have not been any documented cases of bed bugs transmitting diseases to humans.

Bed bugs hide in cracks and crevices. They produce a "sweet" odor This odor can be obnoxious if there are a lot of bed bugs present. Since bed bugs bite people while they are asleep, there are often blood stains on the bedding. People also often find dark stains where the bed bugs hide. These dark stains are the bed bugs' droppings.

Infestations can be brought in with luggage, back packs, or gym bags. People also bring bed bugs home in items that they buy at thrift shops and yard sales. There have even been cases of bed bugs in the seats of a movie theater. People brought bed bugs home in their clothing.

Bed bug control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame and disconnect as many parts as possible. Treat all the cracks and crevices with an aerosol insecticide. Treat all of the cracks and crevics of the head board too.

Once the frame is clean, then turn to the box spring. Vacuum the cracks and crevices, then vacuum the seams of the mattress. Be sure to wash the bedding while you are treating the bed.

With what is left in the aerosol you can treat the cracks behind the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so treat the entire room. Night stands and picture frames on the wall can also be bed bug hiding palces, so be thorough.

I bougt this house at Thanksgiving and have had 4 bats in the living area since them. Can you help?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:01:08 -0500

Question: I bougt this house at Thanksgiving and have had 4 bats in the
living area since then. Can you help.

ANSWER Bats are beneficial because they control insects and so they should not be killed. Many states have specific laws protecting bats. There are no pesticides registered to control bats. Bat removal should not be undertaken when there are young that might be left behind in the roost, usually from May until mid-August.

Check with the local Fish and Game Dept. for the best timing for excluding bats. They will know whether bats are a seasonal animal in your area or if they live there throughout the year. They can also advise whether a license is required for bat control or exclusion.

The best time to exclude bats might be when they have left for the winter. In many areas, bats reproduce during the spring and summer, so there will be a risk of trapping the offspring at those times. Bats leave their overwintering sites to form 'nursery colonies' in early spring. Attics and dead space between ceilings and the roof are the kind of locations that they choose. The young are cared for until they can fly in 3-7 weeks. The best time for bat exclusion is probably between September and February.

Seal up any interior openings and any secondary holes before sealing the primary entrance. Little brown bats can go through a chimney screen with mesh larger than 1/2 inch, or can enter an opening that is only the size of a dime! An inspection at dusk will identify the primary opening that they bats use. If the bats have already gone, stains on the siding might indicate where their primary opening was. Seal up the primary openings used by the bats.

After the bats are excluded, you may need to treat the site with a residual insecticide to kill mites and bat bugs which may be there. If there is an accumulation of droppings, you will need to use rubber gloves and respiratory protection to prevent inhaling fungal spores that cause respiratory diseases. The fungus may be found in areas contaminated with bat droppings that have been accumulating. Consider gently wetting the droppings with disinfectant before trying to remove them.

I was wondering if cockroaches are a problem in Wheaton, IL?

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 20:52:34 -0500

Question: I was wondering if cockroaches are a problem in Wheaton, IL.
Specifically, Sunn Apartments. 720 Crescent Street. I am moving to that
apartment buidling. It's a first floor apartment. Are cockroaches more
likely to get in on the first floor?

ANSWER Well, I don't know if there are cockroaches there...but it is certainly possible that there might be some.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits. There are two types, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These baits are generally available in large home stores and many garden centers. This bait strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where the cockroaches have been active. The plastic stations are best placed in corners. They can go in cabinets, under the sink, and by the motors of appliances like the refrigerator. If they are not eaten, they can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation is designed to be applied into cracks and crevices in the places where the cockroaches have been active. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several weeks.

German cockroaches (the small roaches) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

We have just found powder post beetles in our french doors.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:15:56 -0500

Question: We have just found powder post beetles in our french doors -
given their location in an enclosed courtyard, we are trying to figure out
where they came from (doors are new as well). Any ideas and how do you
prevent them?

The damage produced by these beetles becomes visible when the adult beetles come out of the wood. The frass often pours out of the exit holes. The adults normally come out during the spring and summer. However, indoors, they can emerge throughout the year. The exit holes may be small round holes (about the size of pencil lead), or large (quarter of an inch in diameter)oval holes in the wood surface.

The first signs of an infestation (past or present) is usually a small amount of frass or sawdust or powder in or around a piece of furniture, drawer, or cabinet. If the powder is a little gritty when rubbed between your fingers, then it is anobiid beetle damage; if the frass is soft and not gritty, then it is lyctid beetle damage. If there is frass next to an oval hole in softwood (pine, spruce, fir), then the damage is probably caused by the old house borer.

Lyctid Powderpost Beetles (Family: Lyctidae). The damage from these small (1/8 inch) beetles may be found in various places in the house, such as kitchen cabinets, baseboard trim, hardwood flooring (all hardwoods), and in ornamental pieces of wood such as picture frames. Lyctid beetles infest only hardwoods, and generally infest only new wood, usually less than 5 years old. They can re-infest, but this is not always the case. The life cycle takes 1-2 years.

Anobiid Powderpost Beetles (Family: Anobiidae). The damage from these small (1/8 inch) beetles may be found in floor joists in crawl spaces of houses, sometimes in attic joists and wall studs. They infest primarily softwood, but will also attack hardwoods. Their life cycle is 1-2 years and they will continually re-infest structural wood, sometimes causing structural damage.

Cerambycid or Old House Borer (Family: Cerambycidae). The old house borer is one of the wood borers that feed only on softwood. The feeding of the larval stages of this beetle can be heard, the sound is a scraping noise. These beetles infest structural wood, such as floor and attic joists, wall studs, and shelving. The life cycle extends form 3 to 7 years normally, but can extend to more than 10 years. They will re-infest wood, and may cause structural damage.

Control of these beetles depends on first determining that there is an active infestation. The holes and the powder (called frass) that falls from the holes may exist for many years, but is NOT an indication that there are beetles alive in the wood at this time. The best way to tell if the infestation is active is if there are recent exit holes or the sound of feeding is heard.

The solution to a powderpost beetle infestation depends on the item that is infested. It is often easiest to simply replace the infested pieces of wood with new wood. Other treatment options include the application of liquid insecticide to the surface of the infested wood; or the injection of insecticide below the surface, into the feeding galleries or tunnel. Small items, like furniture, can sometimes be fumigated in a vault. Structural fumigation, the tenting of the entire structure, is reserved for severe infestations.

The insecticides used for control will kill the larval stage inside the wood or the adult stage when it emerges form the wood. Painting or varnishing wood might help protect the item from powderpost beetle attack. The film will often prevent adult beetles from depositing their eggs into the wood .

We are having the problem of drain fly in one of our building in mumbai, India.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:48:58 -0500

Question: We are having the problem of drain fly in one of our building in
Mumbai, India. But this problem is only at one particular flat. No
other flar is affected by this fly. Please tell us the solutions for
this. and can we find the product in India which you will suggest.

ANSWER The immature stages of drain flies live in the slimy organic matter on the inside of the drain. The larvae feed on this material, and are usually 'buried' in it. This makes them quite resistant to chemical control methods. Drain and pipe cleaners normally do not eliminate these larvae.

The best (only!) control for these flies is to remove the breeding site, which is the organic material that collected in the drain. If these flies are present in the house it may be a sign that there is a clogged drain. Find the drain and physically clean it out. You've got to physically remove the material causing the clog. Scrub away the slimy residue on the inside of the pipe. A stiff-bristle bruch can help with this.

Once the material is removed (along with the larvae) the problem is solved, except for the adult flies. They will live about 20 days. A flying insect killer can help eliminate the adults.

I live in a heavily wooded area, and I am not sure where to begin with pest management.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:30:44 -0500

Question: I live in a heavily wooded area, and I am not sure where to begin
with pest management. During my home inspection I was advised I would have
to take measures for prevention of carpenter ants and termites. Where do I
start?

Carpenter ants are most active at night and on cloudy days. They move around in trails. The lines of workers ants usually lead to the nest locations.

To prevent them from invading, make a thorough inspection for entryways. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair any damaged screens on windows and vents. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and have weather-stripping. Trim any shrubs or tree limbs that touch the house. Move firewood piles away from the house. Keep gutters clean and make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation. Check any tree stumps around the property for signs of carpenter ant activity.

The best control for carpenter ants indoors is to find the nest. This is a good time to make a thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood. Correcting the moisture problem is the first step in the process. While the damaged wood is being repaired, the ant nest can be removed or sprayed.

Baits are the best control tools when the nest can not be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but most baits will work if you place them near the foraging trail. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

I have recently discovered that there are very small white colored bugs in my bedroom.

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:06:42 -0500

Question: I have recently discovered that there are very small white-colored bugs
in my bedroom. They are as small as a dot. I am wondering if you know what
they are and how to get rid of them in a safe way without disrurpting
funiture, electronical equipment, etc.

ANSWER Probably what you have are psocids (soo - cids). Some people call them booklice. It is an unfortunate name since they are not lice nor always associated with books.

These very small, pale yellow to brown insects live in humid areas. They often appear in bathrooms and kitchens, but they can occur in other locations in the house (especially in humid weather). Most of the time they are wingless, but sometimes you can encounter winged forms.

Psocids feed on microscopic mold and fungi, and some are associated with stored food materials which may also have some mold. There are a few psocids that are associated with cereals and are not usually found in humid areas; in fact, may be found in quite dry kitchen cabinets.

Controlling psocids is usually as easy as finding the source of the moisture. When the moisture is eliminated, the mildew and fungus will go away and so will the psocids.

The best control in the kitchen and kitchen cabinets is to remove everything from the cabinets. Examine the drain pipe and other plumbing for leaks. Repair any leaking pipes and dry out the cabinets. While the cabinets are empty, vacuum them very well. The vacuuming will remove some insects. It will also remove small particles that can be food for insects.

In the bathroom inspect under the sink for leaks. Check the trap behind the tub as well. There should be an access door in a wall near the front of the tub. If there is a pipe leaking in there, make sure everything is completely dry before closing it up.

If there are psocids in other places in the house, or when you find them on pieces of furniture, the best control is to lower the humidity. Dry out whatever or wherever these insects have been found. This may mean taking items outside to dry in the sun. In a damp basement, it may be necessary to use a dehumidifier.

If psocids persist, check for other moisture sources. Make sure crawl space vents are open to allow ventilation. Make sure gutters are clean and down spouts are draining away from the foundation.

I'm having a problem with german roaches. What can I do?

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 20:55:29 -0500

Question: I own a restuarant, and I'm having a problem with German roaches.
I have been seeing them during the daytime, whitch makes me feel like I have
an infestation. What can I do?

ANSWER The best control strategy for the control of in businesses is to use baits.There are two types of cockroach bait, either the plastic bait stations or the gel bait that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large home stores and many garden centers. This bait strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners -- on the shelves of cabinets and under the sink. They can also go by the motor of appliances like the refrigerator. The stations can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The stations may be more effective in areas of high temperature or humidity.The product label will have more information and directions for use.

The gel bait should only be applied into cracks and crevices in the areas that the label directs. If there are a lot of roaches, the small gel placements may be eaten quickly. Be sure to replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. Be sure to follow label directions in food areas.

German cockroaches will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

Are there indian meal mothes in PA?

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:02:00 -0500

Question: I think I have identifyed my bug problem, but want to make sure
I'm correct.
Are there indian meal mothes in PA? I really noticed them flying in the
house tonight It appears as if they are a red color under their wings. They
cling to light. I see them during the day near my plants & climbing the
sunlight filled windows.

ANSWER Probably what you have are Indian meal moths--yes they are in PA. The adult moth is brown and tan colored, and the caterpillars can range from green to pink. The caterpillars may appear to be maggots because of their crawling habit and their pale color. Many people think they have a maggot problem when they first encounter Indian meal moth caterpillars.

The caterpillars of these moths infest stored food materials, such as flour, meal, mixes, cereal, spices, birdseed, dry pet food, dry flowers, and other similar material. You can identify the infested material by the silken webbing over the surface. The caterpillars often climb out of the food package and crawl on walls and the ceiling when they are ready to change into adult moths.

The adult moths live for about three weeks, and can persist after the caterpillars have been controlled.

The best control method is to empty and inspect all kitchen cabinets. Discard all of the food that is infested. Then vacuum the cabinet shelves very well. Vacuuming will remove any insects that are hiding. It will also remove any food particles. After vacuuming, replace the material, and vacuum again in about a week.

Be sure to check the screens on the windows and repair any tears. Inspect food packages at the store. Try not to buy anything in a broken package. Whenever possible, store food in containers with lids that fit tightly.

I have noticed over the last year or so many little bugs on the walls.

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:42:54 -0500

Question: I live in Denver CO and noticed over the last year or so many
little bugs on the walls and lino floor in several rooms of my house,
bathroom, dining room. Size is 1/8" or smaller, move very slowly, very
flat, dark gray/black color. When squished they leave a brown mark. Many
of them so I'm not sure where they came from, I have 4 plants but no pets
or children. Curious what the bug is.

ANSWER Probably what you have found is one of the several carpet beetle species that can occur in houses. One of the most common of these is the furniture carpet beetle, Anthrenus flavipes. This is a small beetle (a little larger than the head of a pin). It is somewhat oval in shape and its color is a mixture of black and gray patches. It is characterized by moving very slowly, and rolling over as if dead when touched.

The larvae of these beetles have brown bands and long 'hairs' at the end of their body. The adults are most often seen on walls moving very slowly. They are active in summer and relatively inactive in the winter. A closely related and similar looking species is Anthrenus verbasci. It is a little larger than the furniture carpet beetle, but occurs in the same places and is active in the spring and summer.

Carpet beetles are one of the most common household pests. They can feed on a wide variety of things including wool, leather, and other animal products. They also attack noodles and flour, pet food, and other stored food and plant products. This feeding habit also makes them difficult to control. They can infest any part of a house.

The best control strategy is to do a thorough inspection. Look for all the material that could be infested. In the bedroom, dry clean woolens. Then store them carefully.

In the kitchen, inspect all of the food packages. Throw away anything that is infested. Vacuum the pantry and cabinet shelves. This will remove small food particles. It will also remove insects that might be hiding.

Look at dried flowers, animal trophies, and other items that contain fur or feathers. Look around the outside to be sure there are no bird or squirrel nests in or on the home.

I was wondering if you heard of a bug called boxelder?

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:07:37 -0500

Question: Was wondering if you heard of a bug called boxelder and was
wanting to know where they came from and can you get reid of them.

ANSWER Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects. They usually feed on the seeds of boxelder and maple trees. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees. They come to the trees in the spring when the seeds start to develop and they are there in the fall when the seeds are ripe. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species, and may use these trees when there are few maples in the area.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation spends the winter in protected places. This sometimes includes sites in houses, which makes them a nuisance. They produce chemical odors (called pheromones) that help them to cluster together in large numbers. It is common to see thousands of them gathered in one place.

In late summer and fall, boxelder bugs gather on the sunny sides of homes for warmth. If they find openings, some of them move inside. Every year, thousands of boxelder bugs spend the winter in the wall voids and attics of homes.

To prevent them from entering, inspect the outside carefully. Caulk any cracks around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- don't forget the vents in the attic and the eaves. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so any product that lists them on the label should work to control them. The insecticide application should be made outside where the bugs gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticide.

I heard the noise right under the the shower floor.

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:57:57 -0500

Question: I heard the noise right under the the shower floor( the drain),
something is chewing things down there. What can that be? What should I
do?

ANSWER There are several possibilities for the noise. It might be a wood infesting beetle chewing on the floor joists. It might be a rodent gnawing the pipes or the sub-floor. Or it could simply be the sound of the floors expanding. A pest control professional can do an inspection to find out whether there are insects or rodents. After the inspection, the Inspector can discuss the treatment options with you.

What do I need to do to keep my home from getting termites.

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:54:42 -0500

Question: What do I need to do to keep my home from getting termites. My
neighbors have them and I am concerned .

ANSWER The best strategy is to have your house inspected by a pest control professional. This way you can find out if the termites have moved to your home. After the inspection, you can consider a preventive treatment. The pest control professional who makes the inspection will be able to explain the treatment options.

I am having a major problem with boxelder bugs.

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:49:43 -0500

Question: I am having a major problem with boxelder bugs and need some
resolution. They are driving me nuts. Could you please help with this
problem.

ANSWER The local Branch Office can provide this service, please call them directly.
They can explain the details of the service and schedule service.

Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy, but they are susceptible to insecticides, so it is usually possible to kill a lot of them. Because they often occur in large numbers, several treatments may be necessary.

Outside: It is possible to prevent these insects from moving inside the home. Inspect the outside of the house and look for any openings that the bugs might use. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check the vents in the attic and the eaves too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping.

Our subdivision seems to have a huge infestation of red spider mites. Can it be delt with?

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:45:49 -0500

Question: Our subdivision seems to have a huge infestation of red spider
mites. They are on the inside and outside of several houses, my mother's
seems to be the most affected and the inside of her house is literally
"crawling" with the pests. Is this common? Can it be dealt with? How
long will it take to get rid of them?

ANSWER What you have seen are probably clover mites. They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin. They usually move around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in the fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not lay eggs inside the house and will not bite people or pets. They can be a nuisance and they can leave a reddish stain if they are stepped on or crushed.

A temporary control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose. You can vacuum them from floors and walls indoors. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping. The local Orkin branch can provide the service to control these pests. Please call the branch office directly to learn the details of the service and to schedule service.

I have an infestation of Carpenter Bees.

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:40:35 -0500

Question: I have an infestation of Carpenter Bees, but they are not listed
on your website anywhere. Does Orkin take care of carpenter bee problems
or what do i have to do to get rid of them?

ANSWER The Local Orkin Branch will be able to provide this service, call them directly.

Carpenter bees can be a serious problem for owners of conventional houses and log houses. Carpenter bees are the large insects that look like bumble bees. Carpenter bees have shiny abdomens. Bumble bees are covered with tiny hairs, so they look fuzzy.

Carpenter bees create holes in wood around homes. They will make holes in siding, soffits, decks, posts, and the painted and bare wood of barns and sheds. They have evn been found making holes in wooden lawn furniture. These bees make holes in the wood, they do not eat it. They use the holes for nests and for places to deposit their eggs.

Carpenter bees are solitary bees, but often occur in large numbers. Sometimes several female bees may use the same entrance hole into a piece of wood, but have separate galleries inside. The female bees can sting, but they are not usually aggressive,. The males will threaten if you get too close--but they have no stinger!

The treatment involves placing dust insecticide at the nest opening so the bees will contact it when they move in and out. In the fall, plug the holes with caulking or a dowel. Paint or a surface sealer might make the wood less attractive to carpenter bees.

My apartment currently has cockroaches.

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:35:29 -0500

Question: My apartment currently has cockroaches. I am moving soon and
don't want to risk taking them with me. What's the best way to get them out
of my couches, chairs, and stuff that can't go into the washer?

ANSWER You can avoid taking cockroaches with you when you move by doing some simple things. You can control them now and when you get to the new location.

The plastic cockroach bait stations will be the primary tools for this project. They are available at many garden centers and most home stores. While you are packing in the kitchen and bathroom, place a plastic bait station into each box that you pack. Close the box and seal it. Any furniture or appliances that might have roaches can be dismantled and washed or vacuumed thoroughly. Throw away the vacuum bag at the old location.

Before you unpack at the new place, put out some of the plastic stations in the kitchen and bathroom. Put the stations in the corners of cabinet shelves and under sinks. The plastic bait stations can also be placed near the compressors or motors of appliances like the refrigerator.

What is the best way to elimate ants from my pasture without harming my animals?

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:53:52 -0500

Question: I live in a rural area, and have a dog & horses. I have 2
questions,. 1st: in a few colonies I have found ants with wings. Are they
flying ants? or termites? 2nd: what is the best way to eliminate ants from
my pasture (5 acres) without harming my animals?

ANSWER Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different -- the waist, the wings, and the antennae. You'll have to look closely. It might help to have a magnifying glass to make the identification.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow waist. Ants have three distinct body segments. Winged termites have a slender body that seems to be just one segment.

Winged ants have two pair of uneven-length wings -- the front wing is much larger than the back wing. Winged termites have identical front and back wings.

Ants have antennae that are bent or elbowed. Termites have straight antennae.

There are ant control products that can be applied to pasture lands. The label may require that the animals be gone during treatment. Bait products are very effective against ants, but they can take time to produce results. Always follow label directions for mixing or applying insecticides.

How do I get rid of, some people call them "sewer roaches".

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:45:09 -0500

Question: How do I get rid of, some people call them "sewer roaches", and
others call them "water bugs", they come out in the summer time, from
drains in homes, and drains in the streets. I get them bad out side my
home especially when it rains. They come in from under the doors, they're
huge, and run fast , so its hard to catch them and kill them. Even if you
do , you hate to step on them , cause of how big they are.

ANSWER The pest that people call "Waterbugs" are actually cockroaches. The common name is Oriental cockroach. The habits of this species are not much different from the habits of the other, more common outdoor species.

Outdoors these roaches like cool, damp places. They hide under dead leaves, under wood piles, or in water meter boxes. When they come indoors, they generally live in basements, crawlspaces, or other cool areas. If there is a problem in apartments, it will usually be on the ground floor.

Waterbugs may turn up in bath tubs, but they do not come in through the drain pipes. They lack the sticky pads on their feet that other cockroaches have, so once they get into the tub or sink they can not crawl up the smooth sides.

Control of waterbugs can be achieved with the use of cockroach baits. There are two main types of cockroach control baits, the plastic stations and the gels. The best for waterbugs might be the gel formulation. The gel roach bait usually comes in a plastic syringe. It is available at most home stores and garden centers.

Place small amounts of gel in the places where you have seen these cockroaches; re-apply the gel when it is eaten. Give this control method a few weeks to work. Always follow label directions for applying insecticides.

I have found this bug that is oval in shape.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:29:17 -0500

Question: I have found this bug that is oval in shape, 6 legs, goes from a
light brown to a dark brown towards the end, and is banded horizontally
across it's back. I've noticed about 6 in the last two weeks in various
places of my home. Could you please tell me what kind of bug this is?

ANSWER There are several species of beetles that are called larder beetles. They are all in the family Dermestidae. The actual 'larder beetle' (Dermestes lardarius) is a common household pests. It is about one-quarter inch long or a little smaller, blackish brown and with a pale yellow, horizontal stripe on the back. These beetles are usually found in kitchen cabinets or places where food is stored. The larvae and adults feed on a variety of plant and animal material. After the adults finish laying eggs, they might wander around and they can appear almost anywhere.

The best control is to remove everything from the cabinets, inspect it all and discard what is infested. Then vacuum the cabinets very well. Vacuuming will remove a lot of the tiny food particles. It will also remove any insects that are hiding in the cracks and crevices.

I have recently discovered a small portion of my carpet has been chewed away.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:21:08 -0500

Question: I have recently discovered that a small portion of my carpet has been
chewed away. It is located under a window and there is a hole that leads
down to the cement. the hole is maybe an inch wide. There are no signs or
droppings. There is a small garden outside of the window and there are
often holes in the dirt. what could have done this, would it be in the
house?

ANSWER Well, I suspect that this is damage caused by rats.

The best control for rats indoors is to use snap traps. It will help if you use a lot of them--the theory of one trap for one rat rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, scraps of cloth, or pieces of string.

Rats are shy of new things, so it may help to leave the traps un-set for a day or two. After the rats get used to the traps, you can set them. Rat traps are very strong, so use care handling them. Make sure that children and pets cannot reach the traps.

Baits may be effective, but many times the rat dies behind the wall. The result is a lingering odor for several weeks. (Rats do not leave the house after they eat the bait.)

The best control program for rats is prevention. Preventing rats access to buildings begins with an inspection. Rats can enter through a hole as small as a quarter (25¢ coin). All potential access points for rats should be inspected and sealed.

Repair screens on attic, eave, and crawl space vents. Keep the grass mowed and trim any tree limbs that hang over the house. Move wood piles away from the house. Make sure exterior doors close tightly. Keep bird feeders as far from the house as possible. If there are outdoor pets, pick up any un-eaten pet food after the pet has finished eating. Pet food that is stored in the shed or the garage should be in a sturdy container with a tight lid.

I have scheduled a termite inspection with OrkinMan next week.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:14:09 -0500

Question: I have scheduled a termite inspection with the OrkinMan next week.
What should I expect and what specials do you have? What protection
measures should we take in the interim?

ANSWER The Inspector will check the outside of the home's foundation. The Inspector will also inspect the inside of the home, so the exterior walls should be as accessible as possible. The Inspector will also want to check the garage and the crawl space, so these areas should be accessible too.

When the Inspector arrives, he will explain the inspection process in more detail and answer any questions that you might have. Feel free to go along on the inspection. If there are any areas of concrn, the Inspector can point them out as you come to them.

If your home is going to be treated to control termites or to prevent them, the Inspector will explain any preparation that is needed. Treatment often involve the application of insecticides around the perimeter of the house and inside the basement or crawl space.

To help make your home less attractive to termites, remove any wood scraps that might be on the ground or in the crawl space. Make sure the gutters are clean and the down spouts drain away from the foundation. Store firewood on a rack and move it as far from the foundation as possible.

Just wanted to get a price for a yearly home plan.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:07:16 -0500

Question: Just wanted to get a price for a yearly home plan to take care
of basic bugs, such as, ants & spiders.

Are your treatments at all harmful to animals?

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 21:03:29 -0500

Question: Are your treatments at all harmful to animals?

ANSWER Pesticides for household insects are designed to be applied at very low concentrations. They are usually applied to specific sites in the house. For example, dust insecticides are usually applied into cracks and crevices or into voids like the inside of walls. Aerosol insecticides are designed to be applied into cracks and crevices where insects hide. This way the insects are exposed to the treatment, but people and pets are not.

Liquid products and products that are used for fleas in carpets are sometimes used in "general treatments". The product labels require that people and pets stay off of the treated surface until it is dry.

Since most pest problems come from the outdoors, many homeowners prefer to have their technician treat only the outside of their home. During the regular service visit, the technician would always treat the outside of the home. If there is a particular problem inside, the technician can treat it during the service visit.

This approach keeps most pests from invading the home. It also reduces the amount of insecticide that is applied inside the home. If this approach would fit your needs, talk to your Orkin technician.

I have chipmunks around my house.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 20:27:45 -0500

Question: I have chipmunks around my house - I have seen them going under
the dirt around the foundation. Is this something you can assist me with?

The local Orkin branch office may be able to help with this. Please call them directly for information about the service or to schedule a service visit.

I am interested in having my back yard treated for ticks.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 20:21:15 -0500

Question: I am interested in having my back yard treated for ticks-what
are the precautions for tick treatment with dogs and children-I mean, is
there a certian amount of time that people and pets have to wait after the
treatment before they can go into the treated area?? And is tick
treatment needed to be re-ocurring?

ANSWER Ticks are difficult to control in the area around the house. They can continue to re-infest from outside this area. They are easily carried in on small animals, such as mice and rabbits.

The first step in reducing the ticks around the outside of the house is to limit the presence of small animals, so keep the grass cut short, and remove plants that may be attractive for food.

The yard can be sprayed for tick control. Most insecticide labels require that people and pets stay off of the treated surface until it is dry. Because of the effect of weather, the treatment may have to be re-applied periodically. The local Orkin branch office can explain the details of the service. Please call them directly for more information.

The blacklegged tick (formerly known as the deer tick) is the primary vector of Lyme disease. Managing these ticks involves keeping the grass cut and reducing activity along edge environments. Most cases of Lyme disease are from infected blacklegged nymphs. Their habits are somewhat different from those of adult ticks. The nymphs spend most of their time on the ground, in the duff of turfgrass or the ground cover in the wood or the forest edge. This is the same habitat as their host, the white-footed mouse. Treating these areas may be an effective control for blacklegged tick nymphs (and adults).

Use insect repellent on pants and socks during the time ticks are active (spring), and be certain to inspect small children for ticks when they play in areas known to be infested.

We have roaches in our apartment.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 19:57:04 -0500

Question: We have roaches in our apartment. We can not get the lanlord to
call a proper exterminator. I know that in a multi-unit building there is
really nothing we can do for just our apartment so we are moving. What can
I do to stop the roaches from coming with me?

ANSWER The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large home stores and some garden centers. This bait strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners. They can go in cabinets and under the sink and by the motor of appliances like refrigerator. The stations can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied into cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (baby roaches) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several weeks.

German cockroaches (the small roaches) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

A bug that looks like a lady bug but orangish brown in color.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 19:31:08 -0500

Question: A bug that looks like a lady bug but orangish-brown in color. They
bite, stink, and stain when smashed. How do I get rid of them and what are they?

do I

ANSWER What you have is the Asian ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis). These insects can be nuisance pests throughout the country. They usually make their presence known in the fall and winter when they collect in large numbers around the perimeter of houses and buildings. A large number of them make their way inside.

These beetles were introduced into the U.S. to control aphids in some southern states. Adult beetles and the larvae can eat hundreds of aphids each day and are considered a beneficial insect.

Asian ladybird beetles overwinter in protected places. Sometimes this includes coming inside the house. These beetles live outdoors during the summer feeding on aphids and perhaps some other pests of ornamental and vegetable plants. They are naturally found in trees, but here in the U.S. they are found on nearly all plants, from field crops, to vegetable gardens, and ornamental plants.

The best control strategy for the beetles that have come indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from the windows and walls. They are harmless, but if crushed indoors they can leave a stain on carpeting or drapes.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the cluster of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

Preventing them from coming indoors starts with an outside inspection. Look for openings that they could use to get in. Caulk around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace missing weather-stripping.

I have a type of bug in my house and I don't know what kind it is.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:53:53 -0500

Question: I have a type of bug in my house and I don't know what kind it
is. It is light brown with black spots on its shell. It kinda looks like a
tick. It has a hard beetle-like shell and has wings under it. And has a
small head they are about the size of a pencil eraser. They are crawling
on the couch that is built into the wall. I can't find anything that looks
like it we have sprayed twice and some of them are still alive. The bigger
one are about the same but bigger heads and the shell is black with the
little bit of light brown on it. If you could please help me to figure
this out. And I live by woods if that helps any.

ANSWER Probably what you have found is one of the several carpet beetle species that can occur in houses. The most common of these is the furniture carpet beetle, Anthrenus flavipes. This is a small beetle (a little larger than the head of a pin), that is somewhat oval in shape. Its color is a mixture of black and gray patches. It is characterized by moving very slowly, and rolling over as if dead when touched. The larvae of these beetles have brown bands and long 'hairs' at the end of their body. The adults are most often seen on walls moving very slowly. They are active in summer and relatively inactive in the winter. A closely related and similar looking species is Anthrenus verbasci. It is a little larger than the furniture beetle, but occurs in the same places and is active in the spring and summer.

Carpet beetles are very common household pests. They can feed on a wide variety of things including wool, leather, and other animal products. They also attack noodles and flour, meal, and other stored food and plant products. This feeding habit also makes them difficult to control. They can infest almost any part of a house.

The best control strategy is to do a thorough inspection. Look for all the material that could be infested. In the bedroom, send infested woolens to the dry cleaners. When they are cleaned, store them carefully.

In the kitchen, look for infested food packages. Throw away any packages that have signs of insects. While the shelves are empty, vacuum thoroughly. This will remove small food particles and any insects that are hiding. Inspect in other rooms. Look at dried flowers, animal trophies and any other items that contain feathers or fur.

I found one flea on my dog last night.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:47:14 -0500

Question: I found one flea on my dog last night. I know that the odds of
there being just one are slim to none. Since it is winter time, what is
my best bet to control the problem before it becomes a total infestation?

ANSWER Household flea control begins with treating the animal, then treating the house. Both steps have to be done and they have to be done together.

Pet. There are some very effective on-animal flea control products. Some are available from the veterinarian and some are over-the-counter products. The pet or pets must be treated first before you can hope to rid the house (carpeting) of fleas. Follow the label directions for the product. Be sure to wash or replace the pet's bedding at the same time.

House. Vacuuming the carpet can help to remove some of the eggs that drop there from the fleas on the pet. Vacuuming will also remove a few larvae. Vacuuming will also remove a lot of the organic material that the larvae eat. The vibration of the vacuum will cause the adult fleas to come out of their cocoons while the carpet treatmnt is fresh and effective.

Treat the carpet with a combination of insecticide and insect growth regulator. This will get rid of active fleas and prevent future fleas. Be sure the product label states that it is designed for use on carpet. Follow label; directions for application. People and pets should stay off the treated carpet until it is dry. Vacuum regular;y after the carpet has been treated.

I'm working in a granite shop and we have a lot of rats.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:39:14 -0500

Question: I'm working in a granite shop, and we have a lot of rats. They are big
and ugly. I wonder if there exists any spray or some thing simillar which can kill rats. Please let me know.

ANSWER The best control for rats indoors is to use snap traps. Use a lot of them--the theory of one rat one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, quickly. Bait the traps with a small amount of food, scraps of cloth, or pieces of string.

Rats are shy of new things, so leave the traps un-set for a day or two. After the rats get used to them, set the traps. Rat traps are very strong, so be careful. Be sure that children and pets cannot reach the traps.

Baits may be effective, but oftentimes the rat dies behind a wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks.

The best control program for rats is prevention. Preventing their access to buildings is less expensive and easier than trying to get rid of them once they have arrived. Rats can follow utility lines or tree branches to get onto the roof, and they can climb up downspouts. Once on the roof they can enter the attic through vents. They can move from room to room and apartment to apartment in the attic by following pipes.

Rats can enter through openings as small as a quarter (25¢ coin). All potential access points for rats should be inspected and sealed. Trim tree limbs that hang over the building. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any missing weather-stripping.

I am not sure what type of pest I have, but I suspect the condo I recently purchased has bed bugs.

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:31:47 -0500

Question: I am not sure what type of pest I have, but I suspect the condo
I recently purchased has bed bugs (or similar type). I moved in and
noticed I was getting bit up only at night. I am not sure if they were
already there or came in with stuff from my storage unit. I have been
researching various pest control services and none mention bed bugs or
similar. What are my options to get rid of these pests?

ANSWER Probably you have bed bugs. They are not a common problem, but there is always the possibility of having these blood-feeding insects. In some regions of the country the frequency of bed bugs has been increasing. While bed bugs are a nuisance , they can be controlled with some careful cleaning and a little insecticide.

These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day, and emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping. The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. Most people do not notice the first few bites. After being bitten over a period of time, some people develop skin irritation at the bite sites.

Bed bugs feed until the blood runs out of their body. Victims sometimes find blood stains on the bedding. Since bed bugs hide in cracks and crevices during th day, they leave dark fecal stains at the entrances to the hiding places. Bed bugs produce a "sweet" odor. It can be obnoxious if there are a lot of bed bugs in the area.

Once the frame is done, then clean the box spring: vacuum the cracks and crevices, then vacuum the seams of the mattress. Be sure to wash the bedding while the bed is being treated.

With what is left in the aerosol you can treat the cracks behind the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to treat the room. Night stands and pictures on the walls can be hiding places too, so be thorough.

Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests close to the room (check the attic), since there are insects that are related to bed bugs that live in these nests and can move from there to feeding on people.

How much would it cost to spray a two bedroom apt.?

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:22:41 -0500

Question: How much would it cost to spray a two bedroom apt.?

Do you have any programs for eliminating boxelder bugs?

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:14:03 -0500

Question: Do you have any programs for eliminating boxelder bugs from the
house that you can guarantee?

ANSWER Please contact the local Orkin Branch office for the service they provide.

Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy, but they are susceptible to most insecticides' Because they often occur in large aggregations, the biggest risk is that some of them will manage to get inside. You can take steps to prevent them from invading.

Outside: Caulk any cracks around doors and windows. Repair damaged screens on windows and vents -- check the attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace missing weather-stripping.

Inside: They can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they come out of hiding on warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

I have very tiny red bugs in my basement.

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 21:03:23 -0500

Question: I have very tiny red bugs in my basement window tracks any idea
on what they may be.

ANSWER What you have seen are probably clover mites. They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin. They usually move around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in the fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not lay eggs inside the house and will not bite people or pets. They can be a nuisance. If they are stepped on or crushed, they usually leave a red stain.

A quick control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose. You can vacuum them from walls and windows indoors. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any damaged weather-stripping.

We had ants problem at our home. They look like carpenter ants.

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:54:13 -0500

Question: We had an ant problem at our home. They look like carpenter ants
according to the pictures on your web site. Since it is still winter
time, the ants are not that much (we found 1 or 2 every 2 or 3 weeks.).
But during the warm season, there are so many they give us headache (even
after we put in different ant-baits). We are just wondering when it is a
good time to start the ant-control treatment. Right now when they are
still not that much or wait for the warm season when they become active?

ANSWER Probably what you have is one of the carpenter ant species (Genus: Camponotus). There are several species of carpenter ants across the U.S. Most are large black ants, but some are red and some are red and black. Most of the species produce swarms (winged males and female ants) in the spring. Carpenter ants feed on other insects and honeydew from aphids on plants and trees.

Carpenter ants nest in wood, but do not eat the wood. If there is a moisture problem in the house, the ants will seek out wood that has been damaged. They prefer this damp wood over dry, solid wood. Carpenter ants find damaged wood, whether it is in the bathroom where the tub or shower are not draining properly (or have overflowed and wet the wood) or a porch that is holding moisture. They find wood that has been damaged by moisture from a roof leak, a door frame that gets wet from rain, or a downspout or gutter that is not working.

Carpenter ants come into the house for food or water. Many times workers come into the house, get food, and go back outside. Sometimes the ants move the entire colony into the house. And once in a hile, the ants make a satellite colony inside the house and leave the main colony outside.

Carpenter ants are active at night and on cloudy days. They move around in trails. It is often possible to follow the line or worler ants to find the nests.

The ideal control for carpenter ants is to locate the nest. A thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood is necessary. Correcting the moisture problem is the first step in the process. When the ant nest is located, it can be removed or treated with insecticide.

Baits are best when the nest can not be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but most baits will work if you locate them near the foraging trail. When the ants start to eat the bait, keep checking to make sure they do not run out of bait. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

My land lord had been spraying for roaches inside and outside.

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:46:42 -0500

Question: my land lord had been spraying for roaches inside and outside
but it doesn't seem to help. I actually see more! And its getting worse-- they
are getting in my fridge and cereal. What is she doing wrong?

ANSWER The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits. There are two types, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These baits are generally available in large home stores and some garden centers. This bait strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners -- in cabinets and under the sink and by the motors of appliances like the refrigerator. The stations can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection.

The gel formulation should be applied into cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches. It will be necessary to replace the gel when you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several weeks.

German cockroaches (the small roaches) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

I keep seeing these bugs in my bathroom, particularly around my sink.

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:40:59 -0500

Question: I keep seeing these bugs in my bathroom, particularly around my
sink. They have a lot of legs, are long, and move pretty fast. Can you
tell me what kind of bug I could be seeing, and possibly how to take care
of the problem?

ANSWER Probably what you have seen is a house centipede. They can vary in size and color (from light brown to pale brown) depending on their age and the region of the country. Their many legs, and their rapid movements can be a little scary , but they usually do not cause harm to humans. The spiders and insects in the house have something to worry about since they are the preferred food for centipedes!

The house centipede lives outdoors, but is often found around the foundation of houses and other buildings. They prefer to rest in secluded places during the day. They seem to like ivy growing on the side of the house or thick, loose mulch against the side of the house. From these sites the centipedes may enter ground level rooms. They may use door thresholds or gaps in the foundation. They do not come through drains.

Centipedes are predators of spiders and insects.There are no nests of centipedes; they are independent hunters and do not gather together in one place. The young forage for themselves; they are smaller than the adults and about the same coloration (and speed).

House centipedes are not easily controlled because they move around mostly at night or during the day in dark basements. You can try spraying a crawling insect aerosol insecticide behind baseboards where you have seen them. It might also help to place sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in the corners in dark areas.

Hobo spiders can't be killed, by anything but traps.

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:32:18 -0500

Question: I love Orkin, I also love the men who have helped me. I read an
article last night on the internet that said, Hobo spiders can't be killed
by anything but traps, and all chemicals do is make the spiders angry,
nothing else. Please tell me that is not true.

ANSWER The group of spiders that make up the yellow-sac spiders and Hobo spiders are responsible for a large number of spider bites indoors in the U.S. Hobo spiders are not good climbers, so when they come indoors they are more common on lower floors.

These two spiders are small, yellowish brown. They eat insects which they trap in funnel-lik webs. The hobo spider is concentrated in the Northwest and the yellow-sac spiders are found nearly throughout the U.S.

The first step in controlling spiders is to eliminate the insects around the home. Inspect the outside and seal any openings that they could use to get in. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace any damaged weather-stripping. Repair any damaged screens on vents and basement windows. Make sure the access door to the crawl space closes tightly.

Eliminate insect hiding places wherever possible. Rake mulch away from the foundation. Move firewood away from the house. Trim the grass that grows next to the foundation.

Inspect carefully, especially in basements. Remove any spider webbing with a vacuum. Sticky traps are a quick way to remove hunting spiders and males that are seeking mates. Place the traps in corners in dark areas like closets or basements. Make sure children and pets cannot get into the traps. Insecticide will kill spiders, but the treatment must be made to the areas where the spiders hide during the day. Dust insecticide can be effective when it is applied into cracks and crevices. Dust is also an effective treatment for the void inside of a wall.

How much does it cost to get rid of an infestation of mice and cockroaches in an apartment?

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:14:57 -0500

Question: How much does it cost to get rid of an infestation of mice and
cockroaches in an apartment? It has already been inspected but they didn't
give me any price quotes.

Place the traps near walls or cabinets where the mice have been active. Be sure children and pets cannot reach the traps. Re-set the traps until no more mice are caught.

Baits may be effective, but many times the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they leave the building after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits. There are two types, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large home storesand some garden centers. This type baiting strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets and under the sink . They can also go by the motors of appliances like the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection.

The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait when you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for a few weeks.

German cockroaches (the small roaches) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. The large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

I have ants in my car, how do I get rid of them?

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:09:50 -0500

Question: I have ants in my car, how do I get rid of them? I park in
different spaces at work and at home. I have put down ant baits, but the ants are still there.

ANSWER Keep the baits in place (it may take some time), and vacuum the car thoroughly--get rid of any food scraps that may sustain them.

We are being invaded by black beetle-like insects with an orange-red marking.

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:03:13 -0500

Question: We are being invaded by black beetle-like insects with an
orange-red marking on their backs. Can you help me identify them?

ANSWER Probably what you have found are boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. The milkweed bug is similar, but it is found on flowers and not on trees, and it has orange markings. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects. They usually feed on the seeds of boxelder or maple trees. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees. They come in the spring when the seeds start to develop and they are there in the fall when the seeds are ripe. Boxelder bugs have been reported on oak trees and some other tree species, and may feed on these trees when there are few boxelder trees in the area.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation spends the winter in protected places. This sometimes includes sites around and in houses, which makes them a nuisance. They produce chemical odors (called pheromones) that help them to cluster together in large numbers. It is common to see thousands of them gathered in one place.

In late summer and fall, boxelder bugs gather on the sunny side of houses for warmth. Some of them find openings and move inside. Every year, thousands of boxelder bugs are able to spend the winter in the wall voids and attics of homes.

Preventing them from invading starts with an inspection outside. Caulk any cracks around doors and windows. Repair screens on windows and vents -- check the attic and eave vents too. Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace missing weather-stripping.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so choose one that lists them on the label. The treatment should be made outside in the area where the bugs gather. Always follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticides.

I have ants all over the lower level of my house!!! What do I do to get rid of them?

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 19:58:30 -0500

Question: I didn't have any ants in my house this summer. Now at the end of winter I have ants all over the lower level of my house!!! What do I do to get rid of them?

ANSWER Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different -- the waist, the wings, and the antennae. You'll have to look closely. It might help to have a magnifying glass to make the identification.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow waist. Ants have three distinct body segments. Winged termites have a slender body that seems to be a single segment.

Winged ants have two pair of uneven-length wings. The front wings are larger than the back wings. Winged termites have fronmt and back wings that are identical.

Ants have antennae that are bent or elbowed. Termites have straight antennae.

Maybe what you have is one of the carpenter ant species (Genus: Camponotus). There are several species of carpenter ants across the U.S. Most are large black ants, but some are red and some are red and black. Most of the species produce swarms (winged males and female ants) in the spring. Carpenter ants feed on other insects and honeydew from aphids on plants and trees.

Carpenter ants nest in wood, but do not eat the wood. If there is a moisture problem in the house, the carpenter ants will seek the damaged wood. They prefer to nest in wood that has been damaged by moisture rather than dry, solid wood. The damaged wood may be in the bathroom where the tub or shower are not draining properly (or have overflowed and wet the wood), or a porch that is holding moisture. Carpenter ants will find damaged wood whether it was due to a roof leak, a door frame that gets wet from rain, or a downspout or gutter that is not working.

Carpenter ants forage in houses for food or water. Sometimes there are only workers that come and get food and then leave. Sometimes the ants move the entire colony into the house. At some times, the ants make a satellite colony inside the house and leave the main colony outside.

Carpenter ants are active at night and on cloudy days. They move around in trails. It is often possible to follow the lines of workers ants to locate the nests.

The best control for carpenter ants is to locate the nest. A thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood is necessary. Correcting the problem is the first step. While the wood is being replaced, the ant nest can be removed or sprayed.

Baits are best when the nest can not be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but most baits will work if you locate them near the foraging trail. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. When the ants have started eating the bait, check often to make sure they do not run out of bait. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

I have been getting flea bites and actually seen fleas in the house. Can they survive in the house and how are they getting in?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:27:48 -0400

Question: We have no pet in the house and never have had. There are stray
cats which frequently sleep in our garden or under the house. I have been
getting flea bites and actually seen fleas in the house. Can they survive
in the house and how are they getting in? My orkin man has sprayed all the
rugs more than two weeks ago.

ANSWER   It is possible to have a flea problem in the house, and people receive bites even though you do not have a pet. There are a few possibilities for this:

1) The previous owner or tenant may have had animals.  If those animals had fleas, when they vacated they left fleas behind in the carpeting or some other floor covering.  Now those flea larvae have become adult fleas and those fleas are looking for a meal.Without a dog or cat available, people become the host.

2) Stray animals can bring flea problems to porches, decks, crawlspaces, and around doors of houses. Skunks, squirrels, raccoons, opossums, and, of course, stray dogs and cats can leave behind adult fleas or flea eggs when they spend time around the house.

Controlling fleas indoors (when you don't have a pet) begins with vacuuming. Vacuuming removes some flea larvae and eggs. It also causes adult fleas to come out of their cocoons, so the carpet treatment will work better. Continue to vacuum for several days after the carpet has been treated.

Contact your technician to arrange a carpet treatment. If there are any other preparations, he or she will tell you before the treatment.

The past two summers I have noticed what appear to be wasps getting into my home.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:25:50 -0400

Question: The past two summers I have noticed what appear to be wasps
getting into my home, most are already dead when I find them, near the
front picture window; however, some are still alive. I was out of town
this past week and when I returned home on Sunday, April 2nd. I found 9
dead ones. The problem appears to be getting worse and I don't know where
they are coming from. Would Orkin be able to investigate the situtation
and find out where they are coming from?

ANSWER This may be a sign that there was a nest in the house (maybe in the attic) last year, and these queens are becoming active and will be looking for a place to leave and begin the process of founding new nests.

A single colony of wasps does not continue from year to year. Workers and the original queen die with the onset of winter. Queens for the next year are formed in the colony at the end of the season (August and September). With the onset of winter these new queens seek a place to spend the winter, and they often more under shingles, in chimneys, wall voids, and attics.

Contact the local Orkin branch. They will be able to explain the service in more detail and to schedule service.

I am writing to get a quote, I have the tiny black/brown ants, the sugar eating kind. How much would it cost for you guys to get rid of them?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:14:30 -0400

Question:
I am writing to get a quote, I have the tiny black/brown ants, the sugar
eating kind. I have been finding them all over my house. I have cleaned
and tried many other options to get rid of them. My question for you is
how much would it cost for you guys to get rid of them? I do have a dog
and a cat, so I also want to make sure they are safe. I have an 1100sq
foot house on a crawl space. Can you help?

ANSWER The small black ants you have seen may be 'odorous house ants'. They typically nest outdoors. They make trails along the outside of windows and eaves of houses to enter kitchen areas to forage for various food materials. They are strong trail followers, so you may be able to see them outside and see where they are coming into the house.

If you can locate the nest site, then a liquid insecticide can be applied for control. If not, then the use of baits can be effective. Place several baits near the trail where they will find them. Leave the baits undisturbed for a week or more (try to tolerate the ants moving in and out of the bait). Liquid baits are more attractive to the ants.

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and perhaps with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Orkin branch office for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

This the second year that I have has wasps in our house. Please help!

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:12:30 -0400

Question: This the second year that I have has wasps in our house. They
are red with black wings. Last year one stung my 1 year old in our living
room. We can't figure out where they are coming from. I think there is a
nest somewhere in our home. Please help

ANSWER In the late summer, wasps in the house or attic may be queens that will be founding nests the following spring. They may be looking for shelter for the coming winter.

In the early spring, wasps inside may be a sign that there was a nest in the house (maybe in the attic) last year. They may be new queens that are becoming active and will be looking for a place to begin founding new nests.

A single colony of wasps does not continue from year to year. Workers and the original queen die with the onset of winter. Queens for the next year are formed at the end of the season (August and September). With the onset of winter these new queens seek a place to spend the winter, and they often more under shingles, into chimneys, wall voids, and attics.

This the second year that I have had wasps in our house. Please help!

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:12:30 -0400

Question: This the second year that I have had wasps in our house. They
are red with black wings. Last year one stung my 1 year old in our living
room. We can't figure out where they are coming from. I think there is a
nest somewhere in our home. Please help

ANSWER In the late summer, wasps in the house or attic may be queens that will be founding nests the following spring. They may be looking for shelter for the coming winter.

In the early spring, wasps inside may be a sign that there was a nest in the house (maybe in the attic) last year. They may be new queens that are becoming active. They will be looking for a way to get outside so they can begin founding new nests.

In most parts of the U.S., a colony of wasps does not continue from year to year. Workers and the original queen die with the onset of winter. Queens for the next year are formed at the end of the season (August and September). With the onset of winter these new queens seek a place to spend the winter, and they often move under shingles, into chimneys, wall voids, and attics.

Look around outside to see whether there are any wasps flying in and out of the house somewhere. This will confirm whether there is an active colony or if these were a few new queens. While you are outside, look for any openings that wasps could use to get into the house or the attic.

What causes very tiny mites (red in color) to come into your home?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:10:48 -0400

Question:
What causes very tiny mites (red in color) to come into your home? Do you
have any treatment for these? Can you give me an idea for your pricing range? How do you compare with Terminex in terms of effective solutions, service
and pricing?

ANSWER What you have seen are probably clover mites. They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin and usually moving around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in the fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not reproduce in the house and will not bite people or pets. They can be a nuisance and if they are crushed, they will leave a stain.

A quick control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose. You can vacuum them from sites indoors.

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and perhaps with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Orkin branch office for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

Every late spring/summer, my apt. gets invaded with what I've heard call camel crickets. Can Orking take care of those BEFORE they show up?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:08:56 -0400

Question: I live in an apt. in an old house with a storm cellar. Every late
spring/summer, my apt. gets invaded with what I've heard call camel
crickets. They are horrible looking. Can Orking take care of those
BEFORE they show up? Also, will the spraying be harmful for me and my
pet?

ANSWER Camel crickets live in dark and moist areas, and are often found in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. They don't do any significant damage to household materials, they feed on fresh and dead plant material. They can be a nuisance by their habit of forming large aggregations and surprising the unsuspecting homeowner when he or she moves a box or gets into the crawl space under the house.

The best control would be to remove as much of the stuff they use to hide in.

Contact the local Orkin branch office to discuss the service or to schedule a service. Check the crawlspace doors and vents to be sure they close properly or have screens.

Every late spring/summer, my apt. gets invaded with what I've heard called camel crickets. Can Orkin take care of those BEFORE they show up?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:08:56 -0400

Question: I live in an apt. in an old house with a storm cellar. Every late
spring/summer, my apt. gets invaded with what I've heard called camel
crickets. They are horrible looking. Can Orkin take care of those
BEFORE they show up? Also, will the spraying be harmful for me and my
pet?

ANSWER Camel crickets live in dark and moist areas, and are often found in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. They don't do any significant damage to household materials. They feed on fresh and dead plant material. They can be a nuisance because of their habit of appearing in large numbers. They often surprise the unsuspecting homeowner when he or she moves a box or gets into the crawl space under the house.

The best control would be to remove as much of the stuff they use to hide in. Check to see if the basement has vents or windows. Reducing the dampness may make it less inviting to the camel crickets.

Contact the local Orkin branch office to discuss the service or to schedule a service.

I have caught some mice in my home; they appear to be deer mice. I would like to know roughly how much does it cost for follow up visits?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:07:10 -0400

Question: I have caught some mice in my home; they appear to be deer mice.
I have been using glue traps and this does not seem to be solving the
problem. I understand that there is a free home inspection; I would like
to know roughly how much does it cost for follow up visits?

ANSWER The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps. Use a lot of them-the theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, little pieces of string, or bits of cotton or cloth.

Baits may be effective, but oftentimes the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they leave the house after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and perhaps with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Orkin branch office for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

I was wondering if bed bugs can could live within the wood of the bed.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:05:41 -0400

Question: I was wondering if bed bugs can could live within the wood of
the bed. I am doing an interior design project dealing with innovations in
furniture in the 1800's and they had bed bug problems as well. However by
changing furniture styles and bedding styles they were able to discourage
these bugs almost completely and with much success. I honestly don't know
why I am telling you this and you might now even care but I think that if
people of the past could get rid of these bugs by merely changing from
wooden beds to metal beds then maybe our population might want to try a
simple change like that, if these things are as bad as the media is making
them out to be. Now back to the wood question so I can corrilate to this
story...if bed bugs live in wood (wood framed bed) then getting a metal
bed would be way worth the while in order to try to get rid of the
problem. I would like an answer to my question and some feedback on my
crazy idea if you don't mind.

ANSWER Bed bugs do not have a preference for wood or metal. They hide in narrow harborages close to where the potential host sleeps. This might be anywhere within several feet of the bed (baseboards, dressers, nightstand). Bed bugs were probably not eliminated after the 1800s by changing furniture style, nor will they be eliminated now by changing to metal beds.

Some people suspect that the resurgence of bedbugs is due to the increase in international travel in the last few years.

I only see bugs from April through maybe the middle of September. How can I keep them from coming in during the summer months or for any time for that matter?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:03:49 -0400

Question: I only see bugs from April through maybe the middle of
September -- ususally centipedes, spiders, ants, and some kind of bug that
looks like a roach but is much bigger and not a roach. How can I keep
them from coming in during the summer months or for anytime time for that
matter?

ANSWER That is a rather broad list of insects, and they may not all occur at the same time. A perimeter application would probably help. You should contact the local Branch office for their service plans.

General ant control begins with trying to locate the nest , then using baits. Some ants make trails from their nest to a food supply. It should be possible to follow the worker ants from the food back to the nest, then apply some liquid insecticide directly to the nest. Other species do not make strong trails, so locating the nest is more difficult.

In general, baits are the best method of ant control.  This takes time and patience. There are some dry or granular baits available, but the seem to prefer liquids. Place the baits beside the ant trail where you have seen the most activity. Ant feeding behavior depends on the time of year, whether they are rearing young in the colony or not, and in the availability of other food sources. You may need to use several different kinds of ant bait, and switch them periodically. Control does take time.

Spraying a liquid insecticide around the perimeter of the house or structure can be used for control. It may help by placing a residual insecticide on the surfaces that the ants will walk on as they try to enter the house.  Granular insecticides can be effective when applied to the ground around the perimeter of the house.

There are a few species of centipedes that can be in houses. Perhaps the most common is the house centipede. It is gray, with very long and bent legs, and very long 'antennae' at the front and long legs at the back. They move very quickly, and may climb walls as easily as they walk on the floor. There is another species that is dark brown, flattened, and stays close to the ground, it moves slowly and stays on the floor .
Probably what you have seen is the second one, the brown centipede. It is about 1 to 2 inches long and will usually be found in rooms at ground level. These like the house centipede will come indoors on occasion. If they appear often you may be able to stop them by using sticky traps near the doors and windows. They are relatively harmless, will not bite humans , and they are predators of spiders and insects.

Spiders are predators of insects, so the start of a control program is to limit their food supply. If outside, it might be best to reduce the use of outdoor lights, which attract nsects.

Spiders indoors can be controlled by a regular vacuuming program. Be certain to get the webs and the egg sacs in the webs, and get the spider when you see them. Sticky traps (like the ones for cockroaches) can help reduce the number of spiders indoors. Put the traps in dark areas where spiders have been active. Spraying outdoors on the foundation can help reduce the number of insects that try to enter the home. Make sure exterior doors close securely -- weatherstrip if necessary.

I had a termite inspection of my home for potential resale

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:53:36 -0400

Question: Recently I had a termite inspection of my home for potential
resale. The inspector found past evidence of subterranean termites in our
garage. This evidence consists of three small areas on the brick
foundation on the inside of the garage and it did not reach the wood
walls. This inspector gave me two options. One is to treat the area by
drilling holes into the concrete floor, applying liquid treatment, and
then closing the holes. Second options is to install a baiting system
around the entire house. Because I'm planning to sell the house, I am not
going to purchase the baiting system. Do you have other suggestions?
Maybe liquid treating the ground outside of the garage?

ANSWER Liquid application may be the best strategy for this situation, since there is no evidence of an active infestation. The pest control company you select my want to 'spot treat' just the area of concern, or do a complete perimeter treatment--I think the complete treatment is the best option.

I found a bug that is brown hard shell long and it jumps what could it be?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:06:47 -0400

Question: HI, I found a bug that is brown hard shell long and it jumps
what could it be? Do cockroaches jump?

Camel crickets live in dark and moist areas, and are often found in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. They don't do any significant damage to household materials, they feed on fresh and dead plant material; but they can be a nuisance by their habit of forming large aggregations, and surprising the unsuspecting homeowner when they move a box or get into the crawl space under the house.

The best control would be to remove as much of the stuff they use to hide in, then maybe a general spraying with a garden insecticide of the infested sites. The garden upply store may have an insecticide bait for crickets. Try to close up the entrances so new problems can't develop in the future.

Can a colony reproduce queens? Sometimes these large ants have a clearer color to them, what is that?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:04:55 -0400

Question: Live in the Bay Area... California. We have a usual
black/odorous ant infestation. Howere it's been raining alot lately and
there has been an influx of larger ant amongst the normal fair. These
larger ants seem to attract alot of attention from the regular ants. I
suppose enterage would be the word. My thought is that they are queens
driven from their nests by the rains. However I've spoted upwards of 10
of them. Web searches reveal that such colonies can have a number of
producing queens but I'm not sure these are them. Possibility they are
queens? Can a colony reproduce queens? Sometimes these large ants have a
clearer color to them, what is that?

ANSWER Yes, these are probably queens....some colonies have multiple queens (actually most do), and colonies can produce more queens as the need arises. The ants you describe may be Argentine ants, since they frequently move indoors when outdoor conditions are not favorable.

Behind my house my yard seems like it has been eaten up in a random pattern.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:01:25 -0400

Question: Behind my house my yard seems like it has been eaten up in a
random pattern. In segmnets, about an inch wide and several feet long, the
grass has been eaten away and you can see the dirt. And this problem
exists over about 7 sq feet my lawn. When I went to inspect it from
upclose. I found a bunch of little black things. Im not sure what they
are, but I think they might be pillbugs. Im worried that they might
completely destroy my lawn. What should I do.

ANSWER I'm not sure about the little black things, but the description of the damage fits an infestation of white grubs in the lawn. They live in the soil and eat the grass roots. In the spring you should consider applying a liquid or granular (probably better) insecticide once the weather warms and the ground temperature is above 55 F.

Behind my house, my yard seems like it has been eaten up in a random pattern.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:01:25 -0400

Question: Behind my house, my yard seems like it has been eaten up in a
random pattern. In segments, about an inch wide and several feet long, the
grass has been eaten away and you can see the dirt. And this problem
exists over about 7 sq feet of my lawn. When I went to inspect it from
upclose. I found a bunch of little black things. Im not sure what they
are, but I think they might be pillbugs. Im worried that they might
completely destroy my lawn. What should I do.

ANSWER I'm not sure about the little black things, but the description of the damage fits an infestation of white grubs in the lawn. They live in the soil and eat the grass roots. In the spring you should consider applying a granular insecticide once the weather warms and the ground starts to get warm. Always follow label directions for mixing or applying insecticides.

According to your site, they are from Anobiid Powderpost Beetles? How do I get rid of these?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:59:52 -0400

Question: We live in Phoenix, AZ and just bought new furniture that came from Guadalajara, Mexico. We've had it for about five weeks and this morning I noticed a couple piles of 'frass' on two different drawers. There were two round holes (that I found) with piles on either side. The holes went completely through the front panels of each drawer. According to your site, they are from Anobiid Powderpost Beetles? How do I get rid of these?

ANSWER If you think the infestation is limited to the drawers (of course, it may not be and you don't know it yet), you can try to treat the drawers separately. A local pest control company can apply (spray or brush it on) a liquid insecticide to the surface of the unfinished wood--this will penetrate a short distance and provide control of the adult beetles that might emerge in the future. Injecting the wood with a liquid insecticide (drill holes and apply below the surface) is another option. If the infestation involves more than the drawers, talk to a pest control professional for more treatment options.

Is there any way to get rid of mosquitos?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:58:06 -0400

Question: Is there any way to get rid of mosquitos?

ANSWER Mosquitoes around the house or yard are not easy to control. You have to start by locating their breeding site and eliminate it.

The common house mosquito does not move very far from its breeding site of standing water (tin cans, old tires, clogged gutters, birdbaths, and similar items that hold water). If there is a problem in the yard or around the house, look first in the yard or adjacent property for standing water. There are some products that can be added to standing water (in back yards) that will kill mosquito larvae, see the website gardeners.com (Mosquito Control Rings)and gaiam.com (Mosquito dunks).

Fogging the yard or the use of electronic devices may not provide long term control (ore even immediate relief), use repellents, and the citronella candles will help.

Do you use environmentally friendly products?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:56:32 -0400

Question: Do you use environmentally friendly products?

ANSWER The pest control products used by Orkin are registered with the EPA. The product label directs the application so the treatments are effective against pests while minimizing risk to people or pets.

I have a poinsettia on my porch. I was warned that I should get rid of it because termites are attracted to it. Is that true?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:42:42 -0400

Question: I have a poinsettia on my porch. I was warned that I should get
rid of it because termites are attracted to it. Is that true?

ANSWER That is completely NOT true!

I have noticed some mice in my apt. They are very small, dark,colored and move very fast.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:40:48 -0400

Question: Dear Orkin man,Very recently,I have noticed some mice in my
apt.they are very small,dark colored and move very fast.I haven`t had a
good look at them,but I think they are house mice.I am giong to try shock
traps to get rid of them,and try to find where they got in,But my question
is, do those sonic rodent repellers that plug into an outlet really work?

For rodent control, the data may indicate that these devices can provide some level of control for a short period of time. But rodents may easily learn to avoid the mechanisms used. Mice may be easily frightened by strange or unfamiliar noises, they quickly become accustomed to regularly repeated sounds. Ultrasonic sounds have limited use in rodent control because they are directional and do not penetrate behind objects. Testing of sound devices shows that about half the sound energy is gone within 15 feet of the device.

It might be best not to completely rely on these devices for pest control.

I have noticed some mice in my apt. They are very small, dark-colored and move very fast.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:40:48 -0400

Question: Dear Orkin man,Very recently,I have noticed some mice in my
apt.they are very small,dark colored and move very fast.I haven`t had a
good look at them,but I think they are house mice.I am going to try shock
traps to get rid of them,and try to find where they got in,But my question
is, do those sonic rodent repellers that plug into an outlet really work?

ANSWER There is limited data on how well electronic or high frequency sound devices work for household pest control. These devices may be called ultrasonic, electronic, microvibration, or electromagnetic pest repellers. The manufacturers state that they use high frequency sound waves or electromagnetic output to repel insects (cockroaches, fleas, house flies, mosquitoes), rodents, moles, and other pests.

For rodent control, the data may indicate that these devices can provide some level of control for a short period of time. But rodents seem to learn to avoid the mechanisms used. Mice quickly become accustomed to regularly repeated sounds. Ultrasonic sounds have limited use in rodent control because they are directional and do not penetrate behind objects. Testing of sound devices shows that about half the sound energy is gone within 15 feet of the device.

It might be best not to completely rely on these devices for pest control.

There is evidence of some pest bringing soil into the house

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:39:19 -0400

Question: At the interface of the sill plate and concrete wall, in our
basement, there is evidence of some pest bringing soil into the house.
There are clumps of dirt at this interface, and it has fallen down into
the floor. There is no evidence of sawdust in the soil.We live near Cincinnati.What do I have?

ANSWER The soil fragments you describe fit the characteristics of a subterranean termite infestation. This is typical of this kind of termite, but it could be something else (something less serious)-so it would be best to have a professional pest control operator look at what you have found and make a on-site determination. This can be followed with an inspection of the entire house if the damage is by termites.

What is the prevalence of Brown Recluse spiders in Western Pennsylania

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:37:49 -0400

Question: What is the prevalence of Brown Recluse spiders in Western Pennsylania. I am a nurse practitioner and just some a man who was biten by one and is now losing his finger.

ANSWER I don't think they are considered 'common' in that part of the country, not as they would be in the south and westerner states.

These spiders are NOT easy to control or eliminate from a house (personal experience!).

These spiders are found in many states, but seem to be more common in the southern and southeastern U.S. They can be confused with some other common (but relatively harmless) spiders, so be certain that it really is the brown recluse that you have in the house. The light brown color and the violin shape mark on the head-thorax region are the best means of identification. Other spiders may have similar marks. The brown recluse spider is nearly uniformly colored brown.

The best strategy for control of this spider is to start with sticky traps (those for rats and mice are probably the best). Place them in dark, secluded places in all the areas where you have seen the spiders and everywhere you don't want to see them! Use lots of sticky traps! Be sure the traps are out of reach of children and pets.

Everywhere you have seen these spiders, apply insecticide behind the baseboard or in cracks and crevices in that area. There is no need to treat exposed surfaces because the spiders spend most of the time hiding. To get the best results, treat behind, in cracks and crevices. Keep the trapping and spraying program up until you don't see any spiders, then do it another month. Be sure to find and seal up places where spiders can enter the home so tghere is not a re-infestation. People have not been known to die from a recluse spider bite, but the reaction is nasty. If someone is bitten, get to a physician immediately, the wound can be treated so that there is less chance for a scar.

What is the prevalence of Brown Recluse spiders in Western Pennsylania?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:37:49 -0400

Question: What is the prevalence of Brown Recluse spiders in Western Pennsylania. I am a nurse practitioner and just saw some a man who was bitten by one and is now losing his finger.

ANSWER I don't think they are considered 'common' in that part of the country, not as they would be in the south and westerner states. They are called "recluse" spiders because they hide during the day.

These spiders are found in many states, but seem to be more common in the southern and southeastern U.S. They can be confused with some other common (but relatively harmless) spiders. It is important to be certain that it really is the brown recluse that you have in the house. The light brown color and the violin-shaped mark on the head-thorax region are the best means of identification. There may be other spiders that have similar marks. The brown recluse spider is nearly uniformly colored brown.

The best strategy for control of this spider is to start with sticky traps (those for rats and mice are probably the best). Place them in dark, secluded places in all the areas where you have seen the spiders and everywhere you don't want to see them! Use lots of sticky traps! Be sure the traps are out of reach of children and pets.

Everywhere you have seen these spiders, apply insecticide behind the baseboard or in cracks and crevices in that area. There is no need to treat exposed surfaces because the spiders spend most of the time hiding. To get the best results, treat in cracks and crevices. Follow label directions for applying insecticides. Keep the trapping program up until you don't see any spiders. Then keep a careful watch.

Be sure to find and seal up places where spiders can enter the home so there is not a re-infestation. People have not been known to die from a brown recluse spider bite, but the reaction is nasty. If someone is bitten, get to a physician immediately. If possible, take the spider along for identification.

We either have BOTH fleas and bedbugs or just fleas.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:36:19 -0400

Question We either have BOTH fleas and bedbugs or just flea:s. We have indoor/outdoor cats & dog and fleas happen every year like clockwork. This year we've done some traveling and ran into bedbugs on the road. We took major precautions to not bring them into the house to the point of throwing out suitcases, bleaching and sani-washing items, etc. But now when we wake up and find a bite on one of us we don't know what we're dealing with. Can Orkin help us figure this out and treat it?

ANSWER Well, I think it is probably bed bugs.

Control of bed bugs begins with taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine - the product label will mention bedbugs). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed. This will drive out the bugs and kill some of them. Professional control methods include the use of an alcohol-based insecticide to treat the mattress and box spring, and the use of steam to kill bed bugs on surfaces that people will come into contact.

Once the frame is clean, do the same for the head board and the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Does orkin have tick control measures like sprays or tick tubes?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:34:40 -0400

Question: Does orkin have tick control measures like sprays or tick tubes?

ANSWER The local Branch office may have a program for treating outside for ticks.

Ticks are difficult to control in the area around the house because they can continue to re-infest from outside this area. They can be carried indoors on small animals, such as field mice and other small animals.

The first step in reducing the ticks around the outside of the house is to limit the presence of small animals, so keep the grass cut short, trim shrubs and bushes, and remove plants that may be used for food. The yard can be sprayed for tick control with a garden insecticide. This may have only a limited impact on the ticks present, and is not generally advised, since it kills things that are not harmful.

The blacklegged tick (formerly known as the deer tick) is the primary vector of Lyme disease. Managing these ticks involves keeping the grass cut and reducing activity along edge environments. Most cases of Lyme disease are from infected blacklegged nymphs. Their habits are somewhat different than those of adult ticks. The nymphs spend most of their time on the ground, in the turfgrass or the ground cover in the wood or the forest edge. This is the same habitat as their host, the white-footed mouse. Applyinginsecticide granules to these areas may be an effective control for blacklegged tick nymphs (and adults).

Use insect repellent on pants and socks during the time ticks are active (spring), and be certain to inspect small children for ticks when the play in areas known to be infested.

I worry that I may have a mouse problem.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:33:19 -0400

Question: I worry that I may have a mouse problem. I was wondering what it costs to control such a problem. Rough estimate.

ANSWER: The best control for mice indoors starts with finding their entry point. The entries must be sealed to prevent re-infestation.

Snap traps are probably most effective for getting control of mice in a home. Use a lot of them; the theory of one mouse one trap rarely
works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Mice are curious and they will go to a trap to see what it is. The traps may need to be re-set (and maybe be re-positioned) several times until the mice have been caught. If necessary, traps can be baited with small amounts of food, scraps of cloth, or pieces of string or yarn. Avoid putting traps in areas where pets might be attracted to them. Make sure children cannot reach the traps.

Mouse baits may be effective, but often the mouse
dies behind the wall and there may be an odor.

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an
estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However,
pest problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and
the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the
cost of control are best done locally and usually with an inspection by a
service technician.

Are you familiar with Indian Meal Moths and how to get rid of them?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:31:46 -0400

Question: Are you familiar with Indian Meal Moths and how to get rid of them?

ANSWER: The adult moth is brown and tan colored, and the caterpillars can range from green to pink. The caterpillars may appear to be maggots because of their crawling habit and their pale color. Many people think they have a maggot problem when they first encounter Indian meal moth caterpillars.

The caterpillars of these moths infest stored food materials, such as flour, meal, mixes, cereal, spices, birdseed, dry pet food, dry flowers, and other similar material. You can identify the infested material by the webbing over the surface. The caterpillars often move out and crawl on walls and the ceiling when they are full grown.

The adult moths live for about three weeks, and can persist after the caterpillars have been controlled.

The best control method is to inspect all kitchen cabinet and pantry areas and discard all food that is infested. Then vacuum the area very well. No need to use soap and water. Soap and water simply wets the flour and makes a paste, when it dries it continues to be food for these and other pests, but is not easily removed. After vacuuming, replace the material, and vacuum again in about a week.

There are some commercial pheromone (scent) traps for these moths. They act by attracting the male moths to a scent of the female. Control is achieved by removing the males from the population, and by preventing females from mating and reproducing. (These traps have a sticky surface, so keep them away from children and pets.) You can find these traps at the local home or hardware store or maybe the garden center.

Do you guys know how to locate the wasps' nest, in order to kill them?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:30:06 -0400

Question: Hi - I seem to have a place where yellowjackets are getting into my house, but I'm not really sure I know from where. I think I know the area but I there are no visible holes that I can see. I suspect there is a nest in this wall somewhere. c Thanks

ANSWER: The local branch office can help with this...it can take some time to locate the entry point...control is a lot more difficult.

Control should proceed with caution.

First, you will have to locate the opening to the nest; you can do this by carefully observing (not too close) the coming and going of wasps in the area. Try to pinpoint the opening; you will have to be able to find it later, in the dark.

Get one of the aerosol sprays that are designed for wasp nest control, these aerosols deliver a concentrated stream of liquid that can penetrate the nest and immobilize the wasps quickly (get two of them!). Work at night (well after dark), wear protective clothing (especially on your head); don't work alone (good luck in getting someone to help!). Use a red light to guide you (insects don't see red). If you can direct the aerosol liquid to the nest opening or even close, that may immobilize the wasps inside for a while. Give it a good dose of the aerosol liquid; it evaporates quickly and you want to soak the area around the nest.

The next day there may be wasps flying around the nest site, give them a day or so to wander off.

Please, avoid the temptation to use of gasoline or some other creative material you think would work better than the commercial aerosols and liquid insecticide. Gasoline and similar products are dangerous, do not work as well as you might think, and things can happen that are not always good.

Once the wasps have been killed you will have to remove the nest if it is in the wall or attic of a house. Leaving the nest will only attract other insects, such as carpet beetles and moths that feed on stored food.

How do I get rid of gnats?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:28:35 -0400

Question: How do I get rid of nats? I do believe they are nats they are really,really tiny and look like black dots. I bought a house spray and have been spraying about 4-6 times a week. They are only in my kitchen at the base of my back door. I can't tell where ther are coming from. What must I do? P.S. My home is new construction would this be a factor?

ANSWER: If you have gnats in the house, it usually means the presence of one or both of these small flies:

FUNGUS GNATS. If the flies are small, black, and flying around windows or potted plants; then they are probably fungus gnats. These flies live as larvae in the moist to wet soil in house plants (they don't damage the plants). To control these you can simply let the soil of the houseplants completely dry before the next watering time.

FRUIT FLIES. If the flies are small, light brown and seem to be attracted to places in the kitchen, then they are probably fruit flies. To control these flies you have to start with the removal of over ripe fruit and vegetables. They lay their eggs in the fruit and this is where the larvae live. To remove the adults, which can live for a few weeks, you can place a small amount of vinegar in a shallow pan, and place this pan in locations where the flies are common. They are attracted to the vinegar and some may get trapped in the liquid, and you can use an aerosol to spray the others that are waiting there.

PHORID FLIES. If the flies are small, light brown to black, and have a rather jerky or erratic walking behavior when there are on a surface, they run in a zig-zag rather than a straight line, then they may be phorid flies. These are sometimes called sewer flies. They are similar in size to fruit flies, but the walking separates them, and they seem to be active at night, while fruit flies are not. Phorid flies usually have a direct connection to a broken sewer line (inside or outside the house). If these are the flies you have, it is best to get the sewer or septic tank system looked at.

What pesticides do you use to treat a home for flea infestation?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:26:53 -0400

Question: What pesticides do you use to treat a home for flea infestation. How exactly do you do it - what methods? What are the dangers of the chemicals to small children. I assume you would only come once. How much would that cost?

ANSWER: It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and usually with an inspection by a service technician.

Household flea control begins with treating the animal, then treating the house. Both steps have to be done and they have to be done together.

PET. There are some very effective on-animal flea control products, either from the veterinarian or one of the over-the-counter products. The pet or pets must be treated first before you can hope to rid the house (carpeting) of fleas. Be sure to wash or replace the pet bedding at the same time.

HOUSE. Vacuuming the carpet can help to remove the eggs that drop there from the fleas on the pet, and maybe a few larvae. Vacuuming will cause adult fleas to come out of their cocoon, so the carpet treatment will be more effective. Continue to vacuum for several days after the carpet has been treated.

The local Branch office can provide the details on the application method, and the number of treatments necessary to get control.

Safe solution to my scorpion problem without hurting my birds?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:25:22 -0400

Question: I have 2 birds in my house, 1 of which is a very expensive African Grey. I also have a scorpion problem. Can you guys provide a safe solution to my scorpion problem without hurting my birds?

ANSWER Scorpions are difficult to control and difficult to keep out of houses. You can start with reducing the vegetation that is around and close to the house. Scorpions can use this vegetation as a hiding place. Move firewood as far away from the house as possible. They also hide under rocks and bury themselves in loose sand. Care must be taken when working outdoors, it is best to wear gloves!

They are most active during warm periods when temperatures are above 75 F. Most insecticides may not last long enough to have a long-term impact on scorpions. Spraying the outside foundation may help. Indoors they move around so much that there would be few predictable places to spray.

There is no easy way to keep them out of the house. The first step is to seal the door thresholds. Plastic screen can be used in the vent openings in brick exteriors - it keeps out the scorpions but allows air to circulate. Indoors, you can use a black light to periodically inspect the house. Scorpions glow a yellowish green under black light. You can use an aerosol or a vacuum to pick up the scorpions once you locate them with the light.

There are some dangerous scorpions that occur in the southwestern U.S. The species that are the least dangerous produce a local swelling, or red spot on the skin. The species that is the most poisonous (Centuroides sculpturatus) DOES NOT produce a swelling or discoloration at the site of the sting, however the location may become quite painful. The lack of any swelling following a scorpion sting should be considered a warning that a potentially serious sting has occurred. See a physician immediately.

REPLY: Thanks Bill, I greatly appreciate your response. We have had them pretty much under control in the past but since I inherited the birds I'm afraid to get the house sprayed again. If there is no safe way to get rid of them I may just have to have you guys spray every other area of the house and take my chances. These suckers are getting pretty big and I have killed 3 in the last 2 days. Again thanks for answering my email!

Wondering if you can tell me what kind of spider I have?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:23:34 -0400

Question: Wondering if you can tell me what kind of spider I have? They are black, hairy and have a small yellow spot of their back. They are about as big as a common barn spider. Any ideas?
Thank You!

ANSWER Probably one of the many (many!) wolf spiders (Family: Lycosidae). These spiders are usually large and 'hairy' (their legs will have long hairs on them). They are fast moving and will seem threatening by this rapid movement, but they are trying to get away and not chase you.

These large spiders look more dangerous than they really are. They are hunters of insects and do not build webs. They usually live outdoors, but sometime are found indoors such as around lights and in doorways, where insects are common at night.

The best control for wolf spiders is to use a vacuum. They can be picked up with a vacuum cleaner and then the bag disposed of. Spraying is generally not effective because they move around a lot and you can't predict where they will be.

My cat has fleas, and I want them out of my home.

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:21:39 -0400

Question: My cat has fleas, and I am wondering what I need to do to get them out of my home.

ANSWER: Household flea control begins with treating the animal, then treating the house. Both steps have to be done and they have to be done together.

PET. There are some very effective on-animal flea control products, either from the veterinarian or over-the-counter products. The pet or pets must be treated first before you can hope to rid the house (carpeting) of fleas. The pet's bedding should be washed or replaced at the same time.

HOUSE. Vacuuming the carpet can help to remove the eggs that drop there from the fleas on the pet, and maybe a few larvae. Vacuuming will also make adult fleas come out of their cocoons, so the carpet treatment will be more effective. Continue to vacuum for several days after the carpet has been treated.

Treat the carpet with an insecticide that is designed for carpet treatment. Follow the label directions for mixing and application. The directions will probably require that people and animals stay off of the carpet until the treatment has dried completely.

If the cat goes outside, it might be necessary to treat outside with insecticide. Follow the label directions for mixing and application. Since immature fleas cannot survive very long in direct sun, most of the fleas will be in the shady parts of the yard. Be sure the shady areas are treated thoroughly.

In my garden there appear to be smal piles of dirt...What could be the cause?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:19:58 -0400

Question: In my garden, grass and other soil areas in my yard we have
what appears to be small mounds or piles of dirt. It does not look
like a 'mud tube/tunnel' as I have seen in photos for termites. What
could be the cause?

ANSWER: There may be a variety of reasons for these mounds. They could be caused by ground-nesting ants - there are several species that make mounds. There could be somthing burrowing in the soil including moles or other small animals.There could be something digging in the soil for food. An example of this might be the skunk or the armadillo, which dig up grubs from under the soil. If there is abody of water nearby, or if there is a very high watertable, this could be crawfish. It may be helpful to contact the local Orkin branch office to arrange an inspection.

In my garden there appear to be small piles of dirt...What could be the cause?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:19:58 -0400

Question: In my garden, grass and other soil areas in my yard we have what appears to be small mounds or piles of dirt. It does not look like a 'mud tube/tunnel' as I have seen in photos for termites. What could be the cause?

ANSWER: There may be a variety of reasons for these mounds. They could be caused by ground-nesting ants - there are several species that make mounds. There could be somthing burrowing in the soil including moles or other small animals.There could be something digging in the soil for food. An example of this might be the skunk or the armadillo, which dig up grubs from under the soil. If there is a body of water nearby, or if there is a very high watertable, this could be crawfish. It may be helpful to contact the local Orkin branch office to arrange an inspection.

We have a bug that looks like a roach but its wings are light in color...What is it?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:18:14 -0400

Question: We have a bug that looks like a roach but its wings are light in color, some one said it was a flying roach, I do not see them fly and they are a light brown and are out in the day time. What is it?

ANSWER: Most household cockroaches have wings and several of them can fly...so I don't know if you have a cockroach or not....but if it 'might' be you can start control now.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, perhaps combined with liquid sprays. Use either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than an aerosol spray (fogging)treatment.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets, under the sink, and by the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so be sure to replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. Bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches (small roaches - about ½" long) can be controlled by using either bait stations or gel baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches are best controlled with the gel formulation. Re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work. Be sure to seal up any entryways to prevent a re-infestation.

Is the palmetto bug one of the many kinds of roaches listed on this site?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:16:46 -0400

Question: Is the palmetto bug really one of the many kinds of roaches that are listed on this site or is the bug actually called a palmetto bug?

ANSWER: This is the American cockroach. It is sometimes called by other names, but "Palmetto Bug" is a name that is used in many parts of the country.

Is there a way to get rid of coachroaches in your home for good?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:15:17 -0400

Question: Is there a way to get rid of coachroaches in your home for good? How much will it cost to debug a 3 bedroom 2 story home?And how long should the family wait to return to the home after insecticide spraying?

ANSWER: Cockroaches are sometimes difficult to control, and any method used takes time and patience, it is not likely to be one treatment.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, perhaps combined with liquid sprays. Use either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than an aerosol (fogging) spray treatment.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets, under the sink, and by the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. Bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches (small roaches - about ½"ong) can be controlled by using either bait stations or gel baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches are best controlled with the gel formulation. Re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

Be sure to seal up any entryways to prevent a re-infestation.

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and usually with an inspection by a service technician.

Can roaches be eliminated from a dwelling completely?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:13:27 -0400

Question: Within the last 2 weeks I have noticed roaches in my apartment. I have been here for 6 months without a single pest problem. I can't stand it. I have a few months left in my lease but I need this issue addressed before moving. Can roaches be eliminated from a dwelling completely?

ANSWER: Cockroaches are sometimes difficult to control, and any method used takes time.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, perhaps combined with liquid sprays. Use either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in many stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than an aerosol spray treatment.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets, under the sink, and by the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. Bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches (small roaches - about ½" long) can be controlled by using either bait stations or gel baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches are best controlled with the gel formulation. Re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

How can I permanently get rid of roaches and pest?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:11:55 -0400

Question: How can I permanently get rid of roaches and pest? We have sprayed and done almost everything to get rid of them. They will go away for a few months and then they start to reappear. Our neighbors have them really badly; can that make it hard for us?

ANSWER: Cockroaches are sometimes difficult to control, and any method used takes time.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, perhaps combined with liquid sprays. Use either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large department stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than an aerosol spray treatment.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets, under the sink, and by the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. Bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches (small roaches - about ½" long) can be controlled by using either bait stations or gel baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches are best controlled with the gel formulation. Re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work. Be sure to look for entryways to prevent re-infestation.

I have encountered small brownish bugs...What are they?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:10:37 -0400

Question: I have encountered small brownish bugs that resemble a speck of dirt when not moving inside & outside of our home. They are mostly on the south side of our home & seem to filter in our home when it becomes quite hot outside & the temps are cooler inside. What are they??? They do not seem to bite. I have heard they are very common in the month of June?

ANSWER: What you have are probably clover mites. They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin and usually moving around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass, and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not damage the house(but the can leave a red stain if they are stepped on) and will not bite people or pets.

A good control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose, and you can vacuum them from sites indoors. Most modern insecticides are designed for insects (theses are mites), and using a garden insecticide to control clover mites may not always be effective, or you may have to apply it several times.

Could you get rid of birds in my air vents

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:09:17 -0400

Question: Could you get rid of birds in my air vents?

ANSWER: Contact the local Branch office, they can help with this.

Any ideas on what beetle-like bug resides in my home?

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:07:44 -0400

Question: Hi, the last few days we have had very tiny beetle-like bugs crawling up through the floorboards from the basement and onto the window sills in our living room. They are very very small...the size of a small tick. Brown and cream colored. They seem to be able to fly, but not for long distances. They seem to be attracted to the light of the windows. I thought maybe they were carpet beetles but online descriptions seem to indicate they are too small to be a carpet beetle. Any ideas?

ANSWER: Well, I'm not sure about this....they may be powderpost beetles emerging from wood infested in the flooring. It would be best to get them identified to be certain.

I have a problem with ants.

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:52:37 -0400

Question: I have a problem with ants, I believe some carpenter ants and some pavement ants. I was wondering what the cost is to have the yard sprayed or treated for this problem. We do not have them in the house at this time, but all over the yard. I also believe I have found two ant hills so far.

ANSWER: A large number of ant species can inhabit the typical yard. Most of these species are associated with the aphids and other plant feeding insects on the ornamental plants and trees. Ants get most of their food from the honeydew of aphids and other insects that suck the sap of plants.

Any attempt at controlling any or all of the ants in a typical yard would not be advised or even feasible. Ants are either predators of other insects or they utilize aphid honeydew. Only a few species of ants are pests of plants, shrubs, or vegetables; they don't eat plant material.

Broad spectrum application of insecticide for ant control is not usually effective, because as soon as the existing colonies are gone, new colonies will move in and become established.

Can you explain your expertise on bugs that cause itchy bites at home?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:50:51 -0400

Question: I'm having some issues with pests in my
apartment--specifically with mosquitos and possibly other biting insects. Before I set up an inspection, can you please explain your expertise in dealing with bugs that cause itchy bites in the home?

ANSWER: How about a description of the problem, or at least of the
bites.

Question: I've been getting random bites that appear to be like mosquito bites.
Sometimes I'll realize right after I've been bitten and the area isn't
red, but is actually very pale surrounded by some red. My reaction has
been different than my girlfriend's, who is suffering as well. They
seem to be more pronounced in the morning.

ANSWER: You may have bed bugs. In some regions of the country the
frequency of bed bugs has been increasing. While they are a nuisance and deliver
some painful bites, bed bugs can be controlled with some careful cleaning and
a little insecticide. These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day, and emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping. They will also bite other
mammals. The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not
feed again for 2-3 days. The bite produces a hard swelling, and is whitish in
color; it is sometimes irritated and may continue to bleed. It may turn into
an itchy rash in a day or so.

Control of bed bugs begins with finding the source. Many times bedbugs are brought in from business trips, school, or the gym. Treatment starts with taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common
aerosols will be fine - the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an
aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks
and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them.
Once the frame is clean, do the same for the head board and the box spring: clean the
cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress.
With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room.
Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the
baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel
far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They
can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have
them. Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests
close to the room (check the attic and the area outside the window). There are 'cousins' to bed bugs that live in these nests (or are associated with bats) and can move from there to feeding on people.

Question: Thanks for the tips--I will follow these instructions.
I've suspected it might be bed bugs, but some of the symptoms don't
really align with what I've read about bed bugs.
I can't recall a single time that either of us have had multiple bites
in a row, and there has been like no carryover to my girlfriend's bed,
even though she's alternated beds dealing with this for a couple of
months now. She said she thought she saw a flea once, but we don't have any pets.
Is that a possibility as well? Does Orkin offer treatment of bed bugs (if that's what it is)? Would it make sense to have a representative come and check out my apartment to try to objectively identify the problem? I had a guy from another company come out yesterday but he had his mind made up when he walked in the door that it was bed bugs, but I'm not really convinced. I'm just looking for an objective, informed view and possible solution.

Do you use super heating, to kill bed bugs?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:39:10 -0400

Question: Do you use super heating, to kill bed bugs???

ANSWER: Probably not, but you can check with the local Branch office.

Control of bed bugs begins with making sure that no one is bringing them in - from business trips, from school, or from the gym. Treatment begins with taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine - the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them. Professional control methods include the use of an alcohol-based insecticide to treat the mattress and box spring, and the use of steam to kill bed bugs on surfaces that people will come into contact.

Once the frame is clean, do the same for the head board and the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Can bedbugs come through the walls?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:37:10 -0400

Question: I live in an apartment and there is a unit in the same building that has bedbugs. They have sprayed that apartment but will that kill them? Can they come through the walls? I have heard that they should spray the entire building at once but my apartments have not done so. My concern is them getting to my apartment through the walls. Please help!

ANSWER: They can move along and through wall voids; I don't think every apartment has to be treated, but those adjacent to the infested ones should be.

Control of bed bugs begins with taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine - the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them. Professional control methods include the use of an alcohol-based insecticide to treat the mattress and box spring, and the use of steam to kill bed bugs on surfaces that people will come into contact.

Once the frame is clean, do the same for the head board and the box spring: Clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Is there anything I can do to get rid of insects in my apartment?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:35:19 -0400

Question: I moved in an apartment that is heavily infested by ants. The owners do not care to exterminate the insects from all the building, just spray some domestic remedies in certain areas. If I ask for help from Orkin Man, they might not allow to enter the areas outside my apartment. Is there anything else I can do to get rid of insects that crawl over my electronic equipment, dishes, bed and food?

ANSWER: General ant control begins with locating the nest site, then using baits. Some ants make trails from their nest site to a food supply, so you may be able to follow the worker ants from the food back to the nest; then apply some liquid insecticide directly to the nest. Other species do not make strong trails, so locating the nest is more difficult.

In general, baits are the best method of ant control, but this method takes time and patience. There are some dry or granular baits available, but the best formulations are liquids. Place the baits near the ant trail in the areas where you have seen the most activity. Ant feeding behavior is very variable. It often depends on the time of year, whether they are rearing young in the colony, and in the availability of other food sources. Try to remove any spilled food so the bait will be the only thing they find. You may need to use several different kinds of ant bait, and switch them periodically. Control will take time.

Spraying a liquid insecticide around the perimeter of the house or structure can be used for control. It may help by placing an insecticide on the surfaces that the ants will walk on as they enter the house, but when exposed to the sun and humidity most insecticides do not last long. Granular insecticides can be effective when applied to the ground around the perimeter of the house.

The baits or liquid insecticides for household pest control are used at low concentrations and are little or no threat to house pets. It is best to keep dogs and cats away from treated surfaces until the application is dry.

Can you tell me how you treat a bed bug problem?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:31:09 -0400

Question: Can you tell me how you treat a bed bug problem? Is it safe and effective? I have children and pets. I've been treating my bedroom for the infestation and thought I had it under control for about a week now and thought it was under control and it seems there back. What do you charge for this service? I'm shocked as we keep our house so clean. Thanks.

ANSWER Control of bed bugs begins with making sure no one is bringing them into the house from schools or the gym. Treating the infestation involves several steps. Start by taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices (and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine) the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them.

Once the frame is clean, do the same for the box springand the head board: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and usually with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Branch office of Orkin for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

Question: Thanks for your prompt response. I have clean and rest matress covers on the mattress and box springs of the bed. These covers are guaranteed to trap bed bugs and dustmites. I have been using an aerosol called Pronto (it kills bedbugs and dustmites) all over the box springs where the infestation was and then I covered the box spring with the box spring cover. I then:
sprayed the frame, mattresses, walls, floor boards, around the window frames, took down pictures, washed the curtains and have completely took off the fancy bedspread and pillows that were once on my bed. These have been wrapped in plastic now for about two weeks and sitting in the hot sun everyday.

I have being washing my bedding daily for about 11 days, hanging pillows on the clothes line daily in the sun AND STILL there is at least one bed bug in our bed, I saw one black dropping this morning. I'm being persistent even though my husband thinks I've gone crazy. (actually he is pretty pissed off) The pillows go out on the clothes line, (these also have the clean and rest covers on them) I spray them with the aerosol as well and wipe down them down several times with very hot water.

I'm not sure where they are hiding - I have a king size brass bed. I heard they cannot climb up smooth surfaces with this include brass? This whole clean up has taken up most of my free time but it was worth it last night I actually slept and had one bite. I think I will try the hair dryer idea on the bed posts and bed frame of the brass bed and do the crevices on the floor. The only thing left is to tear down the walls.

How long should I continue this process? It sounds like these bugs can hide out and starve for months and then return. Is there anyway to get completely rid of them?

Thanks

ANSWER: Most bed bug control treatments by professionals in the U.S. and Europe take 3-4 treatments--so you are not doing badly, it does take time. I think you have done all there is to do, but go after the frame again, and make sure you treat along the baseboards (they may actually be finding harborage behind the baseboards and in the wall voids--but hold off on taking down the walls for now). Keep in mind that some bed bugs are resistant to some insecticides, I suggest that you switch brands and ingredients (check the back of the can). You're winning this, it just doesn't seem that way now.

Question: Maybe I should check out the Raid brand of products and see if they have something - what ingredients should I look for that would be safe for kids/pets. Not that they are in the room but just to be cautious. I've been looking for the big black pool of crap and haven't really found one. Just on the bed frame of my brass bed which was hard to get off. I think they were harboring in one of the twin box springs. I'm not giving up - my room currently mimmicks a hospital room. Nothing fancy just purely clean.

Yes I feel like I'm winning the battle and have become obsessed with this whole thing. Anyway I really do appreciate your advise and time.

I will go after the bed frame and box springs again. I heard they cannot climb up smooth surfaces with this include brass? Is this true?

ANSWER: Aerosol insecticides use one of the pyrethroids...(most of them end in - thrin such as allethrin); they are all used a low concentrations and if they are applied into cracks and crevices, there should be no threat to people or pets. If the pyrethroid in the can you are now using is not working, simply find another brand that uses another active ingredient.

Do bedbugs fly?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:29:15 -0400

Question: Do bedbugs fly? I recently seen something that looked like a bedbug but had wings and flew on the wall?

ANSWER: They do not fly.

Are red ants also known as fire ants?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:27:31 -0400

Question: is Red ant also known as Fire ants?

ANSWER: I'm not sure about this name (red ants)....but, in fact, fire ants are small and brown...not red.

The Difference between Termites and Winged Ants

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:25:25 -0400

Question: I was replacing two window screens and when I took apart the
aluminum frame, what appeared as 100s, if not 1000s, of what looked like
termites fly out from within the aluminum frames. Looking at the wood
around the window frame, could not see any evidence of termintes, only
inside the aluminum frame.

^{Winged Termite}

^{Flying Ant}

I have not taken off any other window screeens as this was two of two. I was not aware that termites would nest in an aluminum frame. No apparent tracks from the screen into the window frame was visible. Were these really termites or some other type of flying ant?

ANSWER: Sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference between winged ants and winged termites. There are three body parts that are distinctive -- waist, wings, and antennae. You have to look closely. It may help to have a magnifying glass.

Winged ants have a pinched "waist" and three distinct body segments. Winged termites do not have a "waist". Their body seems to be made up of just one segment -- long and slender.

Winged ants (swarmers) have a pair of large front wings and a smaller pair of back wings. Winged termites have two pair of same-size wings.

Ants have bent or "elbowed" antennae. Termites have straight antennae.

If you are not sure, call the local Orkin branch to have a termite specialist come and identify the insects.

Question: Thank you for your response.
I can say having the swarms within the aluminum frames of two window screens really was a puzzle to me.
I guess that means I probably have ant colonies sitting inside the aluminum frames of other window screens.
Ants were not visible around the outside of the frames, nor in the windows, nor along the inside or outside walls. I will probably put ant bait granules on the outside window frames with the hope that they are taken inside the frames.
Any other suggestions?

ANSWER: Controlling carpenter ants is only part of the task,then you have to figure out how and why the wood was moisture damaged,and solve that problem---or the ants will be back and the wood will get worse.

Do you offer some type of service that is non toxic to cats?

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:07:47 -0400

Question: Do you offer some type of service that is non toxic to cats?? Specifically for inside ant issues.
Thanks

ANSWER Most pet owners are concerned about safety during pest control service. Tehcnicians appreciate those concerns, so they make careful choices about the method of treatment and the area to be treated.

Pesticides for household pests are designed to be applied at low concentrations and to specific sites in the house. Aerosol and bait products are usually applied into cracks and crevices. This makes them effective against small insects and spiders without leaving any material on exposed surfaces. Dust applications are usually placed in cracks and crevices or inside of walls where the pests live and travel.

Most pesticide labels recommend keeping pets away from treated surfaces until the treatment has dried. This normally takes just a few minutes, but may vary depending on ventilation and the environment.

Pest control and newborn baby in the house

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:03:58 -0400

Question: Is your product safe to use if we will be having a newborn baby in the house? Can people be at home when you apply the spray? Are there any fumes?

ANSWER: Parents in households with small children are normally concerned about exposure to insecticides during treatment. Certainly, technicians appreciate those concerns and use caution in selecting the products they use and the areas where they treat.

The insecticides used for the control of household insect pests are applied at low concentrations, and are usually placed in cracks and crevices and other inaccessible locations. This way they are effective against pests with very little chamce of people or pets being exposed.

Baits are often used for cockroach and ant control, and these are used in small quantities and usually not applied on exposed surfaces. Liquid insecticides are used at very low concentrations. Many of these liquid products are applied outdoors and present little threat to people or pets.

As far as leaving the house,the insecticides used for household pest control are normally applied in inaccessible locations so there is little or no airborne material that can affect infants. Most product labels specify that people stay out of the treated area until the application is dry. Modern pesticides have very little odor and by the time the treatment has dried, any odor has usually disappeared. Each individual has a different sensitivity to odors, so technicians can often change the method of treatment to suit a particular situation.

Depending on the season and the particular pest problem, it may be possible to avoid treatment in the baby's room on most service visits. It might even be possible to treat only the outside of your home and prevent pests from entering. Talk to the local Branch office for more details about the products and treatment methods that are available in your situation.

Tiny beetle-like bugs crawling through the floorboards

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:01:39 -0400

Question: The last few days we have had very tiny bettle-like bugs crawling up through the floorboards from the basement and onto the window sills in our living room. They are very very small..the size of a small tick. Brown and cream colored. they seem to be able to fly, but not for long distances. They seem to be attracted to the light of the windows. I thought maybe they were carpet beetles but online descriptions seem to indicate they are too small to be a carpet beetle. Any ideas?

ANSWER Well, I'm not sure about this....they may be powderpost beetles emerging from wood infested in the flooring. It would be best to get them identified to be certain..

I first noticed the stinkbug last fall when they were swarming in my yard

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:57:16 -0400

Question: HI, I first noticed the stinkbug last fall when they were swarming in my yard. I had the door open and about 50 flew in. I vacuumed like crazy, but I continued to see a few over the winter. Now, I am vacuuming up 10-20 everyday. I see them outside on my soffits. We have lived here 20 years and it is the first time I have encountered this is problem. I read online that sprays do not deter them after about two weeks. Can you give me more information? Thanks

ANSWER Probably what you have is one of the common species of stink bugs. They can be pests in the fall when they enter houses, and during the winter and spring before they leave to return to the outdoors. There are several species that have become household pests in the last few years, probably because their numbers have increased in some regions of the country.

Stink bugs are one of the several species of insects that overwinter as adults in protected places, sometimes around the outside and inside houses (boxelder bugs and ladybird beetles also overwinter). The 'stink' they make is from a small gland on the abdomen, it is for defense purposes!

These insects can be removed from indoors with a vacuum cleaner; in the fall you can try spraying the perimeter of the house (the vegetation and mulch) with a garden insecticide to discourage them from moving to the house and then inside. They don't sting or bite, and they don't infest the house.

I was wondering if you have a solution for getting rid of Grounding Bees?

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:58:56 -0400

Question: I was wondering if you have a solution for getting rid of Grounding Bees. They come out every spring for about a month.

ANSWER The small bees nesting in the soil, and making the small holes in bare soil, are solitary bees. They are sometimes called sweat bees. They do not live in large colonies, but each female makes her own nest and rears a few larvae in galleries in the soil. These bees often occur together in large numbers, and give the appearance that there is one large colony. They are not usually aggressive, but they may sting when the nest site is approached.

To control these bees in a lawn or other outdoor recreation area you can use a garden insecticide and spray the surface of the soil. You may have to spray more than once. Any garden insecticide will be effective. It might be best to treat early in the morning or after sundown.

I was looking at a house that had some beam damage in the basement from some type of insect.

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:47:42 -0400

Question: I was looking at a house that had some beam damage in the
basement from some type of insect. It is in jackson MI. I had a friend
look at it and he said it was probably termite damage and I should stay
away from it. My question is could it be ants instead of termites causing
the damage. I really like the house and it is a great deal. I would kinda
hate to miss out on it because I was misinformed.

ANSWER Wood that is infested or damaged by one of the several wood-infesting insects-including subterranean and drywood termites, powderpost beetles and wood-borers, and carpenter ants has some characteristics that can be used to help identify the pest.

Subterranean termite infested wood is characterized by the presence of earthen tubes over the surface, and soil lined galleries inside the wood. Termites do not produce 'sawdust' in the wood; the primary evidence of the presence of these termites is the soil in the wood. There are few to no openings (holes) in the surface of the wood.

Wood infested with drywood termites is characterized by presence of small (rounded and seed-like) pellets that collect in one portion of the galleries. The galleries themselves may be narrow and smooth-sided, but they contain no soil and there are no mud tubes or tunnels in the wood. There are few to no openings in the surface of the wood, except for a few places where the pellets may be pushed out.

Wood infested with powderpost beetles may show signs of piles of powdery sawdust; this material is fine powder and with no fibers, it may feel a little gritty when rubbed between your fingers. The holes close to the sawdust will be small (size of pencil lead) and round.

Wood infested by a wood borer (typically the old house borer) will have large, oval holes and the sawdust coming from these holes will be a fine powder, with perhaps some barrel-shaped clumps in it.

Wood infested by carpenter ants has extensive, smooth-sided galleries, and there may be some fiber-like wood shavings in one portion of the gallery system. Sometimes this material is pushed out of the galleries at one location. The wood is also characterized as usually have some amount of wood decay evident, perhaps as dark stains.

It may be worthwhile to contact a pest control professional for an inspection and identification.

We have some kind of tiny flying ants in our basement.

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:24:39 -0400

Question: We have some kind of tiny flying ants in our basement. Twice we
have found a bunch of wings on the floor and little black looking ants on
the floor. It's mostly wings all over the floor. What is this? We live
in Calvert County, Maryland. Can they be some kind of (Florida) love bug?

ANSWER The wings scattered on the floor fit the characteristics of a subterranean termite swarm. This is typical of this kind of termite, but it could be something else (something less serious). It would be best to have a professional pest control operator look at what you have found and make an identification. This can be followed with an inspection of the entire house for evidence of infestation. .

We are having a lady bug problem in one room, I do not know what to do, could you help?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:17:01 -0400

Question: We are having a lady bug problem in one room (the bathroom) and
I don't know if I need an exterminator or if there is just a spray to buy?

ANSWER What you have is the Asian ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis). These insects make a nuisance of themselves throughout the country. They usually make their presence known in the fall and winter when they collect in large numbers around the perimeter of houses and buildings. A large number of them make their way inside.

These beetles were introduced into the U.S. to control aphids. Adult beetles and the larvae can eat hundreds of aphids each day and are considered beneficial insects.

Asian ladybird beetles overwinter in protected places, and sometimes this includes coming inside the house. The adult beetles often return to the same sites year after year to spend the winter, and they can live for 2 to 3 years.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the aggregation of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

Make sure that windows, attic vents, and crawlspace vents are all properly screened. Check weatherstripping on exterior doors.

I noticed a hole in the baseboard and found tiny insects crawling out.

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:11:30 -0400

Question: I noticed a hole in the baseboard and found tiny insects
crawling out. They are about the size of a pencil head. What are they,
what's the treatment.

ANSWER Well, there are many possibilities, but we can start with them being either ants or termites.

Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different -- waist, wings, and antennae. You'll have to look closely. It helps to have some magnification to make the distinction.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow "waist" and three distinct body segments. Winged termites do not have a "waist". Their bodies appear to be only one long segment.

Winged ants have a large pair of front wings and a smaller pair of back wings. Winged termites have two pair of same-size wings.

Ants have bent, or "elbowed" antennae. Termites have straight antennae.

If you are not sure, contact the local Orkin branch office to have a termite specialist come identify the insects. He or she can check your home for signs of infestation.

How can I try to kill spiders that are all over my porch?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:05:43 -0400

Question: How can I try to kill spiders that are all over my porch?

ANSWER Spiders are predators of insects. This is the food supply and this is where they will be most abundant and active. A program to reduce the spiders around the outside of the house should begin by reducing the presence of insects around the outside of the house.

When spiders occur in large number, such as on the porch, try to reduce the use of outdoor lights. The lights attract insects and the spiders come for the insects. If you cannot reduce the time that the lights are turned on, consider reducing the wattage or switching to "bug light" bulbs.

We have a problem with mice in our home, can they spread disease to our dogs?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:00:06 -0400

Question: We have a problem with mice in our home, can they spread disease
to our dogs?

ANSWER Although mice do not often transmit diseases directly to dogs, they often harbor ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites. These arthropods are often vectors of disease.

Fleas can be responsible for transmitting tapeworms to dogs and humans. Sensitive dogs can get Flea allergy dermatitis from flea bites.

The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps. Use a lot of them-the theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, little pieces of string, or bits of cloth or cotton.

Baits may be effective, but many times the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they leae the home after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

Do you treat for silverfish and centipedes?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:55:14 -0400

Question: Do you treat for silverfish and centipedes? What is the usual
source of these in a home? What chemicals does orkin use and where are
they applied? Are the MSDSs available for th chemicals?

ANSWER The local Branch office can provide you with the names of the chemicals used to control these two pests. The MSDS should be available from them.

The household silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) is usually found in houses and rarely in natural settings. It gets into houses in packaging material, furniture, and perhaps stored clothing. Silverfish can live in a variety of places, including kitchens, bathroom, basements, and in attics. They feed on starchy material, but can usually find food wherever they are in the house.

They can damage fabrics and paper goods. They can be a nuisance and annoy people by their presence. They don't carry any disease organisms, they don't bite, and generally stay out of the way.

Insecticide applications are often made into cracks and crevices behind baseboards in the area where silverfish have been active.Sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in these locations are also helpful. Insecticide applications on the outside foundation can help prevent them from coming into the home.

Contro of silverfish often involves removing or modifying their harborage. In cases where they have infested boxes in a garage or storage shed, it is often necessary to unpack the boxes. Removing and discarding the boxes often eliminates the infestation.

House centipede. There is basically one species, but they can vary in size and color (from light brown to pale brown) depending on their age and the region of the country. Their long and many legs, and their rapid movements can be a little threatening, but they are relatively harmless to humans.

The house centipede can is usually found around the foundation of houses and other buildings. They prefer to rest in secluded places during the day. They seem to prefer places like ivy growing on the side of the house or in thick, loose mulch against the foundation of the house. From these sites the centipedes may enter ground level rooms. They may use door thresholds or gaps in the foundation. They do not come through drains (myth).

These animals are predators of spiders and insects indoors. There are no nests of centipedes; they are independent hunters and do not gather together in one place. The young forage for themselves; they are smaller than the adults and about the same coloration (and speed).

Insecticide applications are often made behind baseboards in areas where they have been active. Sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) are also a common control tool. An insecticide application on the outside foundation can help prevent insects (and centipedes) from entering. Make sure exterior doors close snugly -- weatherstrip if necessary.

We have carpenter bees in the supports, dirt, and walls under our back porch. Is this something Orkin could take care of?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:51:13 -0400

Question: We have carpenter bees in the supports, dirt, and walls under
our back porch. Is this something Orkin could take care of?

ANSWER These are the large bumble bee looking insects that create holes in outside wood; they will nest in siding, soffits, decks, posts, and the wood of barns and sheds. These bees only nest in wood, they do not eat it.

They are solitary bees, but often occur in large groups and females may use the same entrance hole into a piece of wood, but have separate galleries once inside. Females can sting, but they are not usually aggressive. The males will threaten if you get too close--but they have no stinger!

The best control is to place dust insecticide at the nest opening so the bees will contact it when they move in and out;. In the fall plug the holes with caulking .

Call the local Orkin branch office for more information about the service or to schedule service.

Is there a safe treatment of Bed Bugs for a household with pets?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:45:23 -0400

Question: Is there a safe treatment of Bed Bugs for a household with pets?
And how long would a common Bed bug treatment take?

ANSWER There should be little or no exposure to pets from bed bug control.

Control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean the frame and treat all the cracks and crevices with an aerosol insecticide. If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them.

Once the frame is done, then do the same for the head board and the box spring: clean and treat the cracks and crevices. Next, clean and vacuum the seams of the mattress. With the aerosol treat the cracks and crevices behind the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and get the spray under or behind the baseboard where bedbugs may also be hiding. These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to treat the entire room. Night stands and even picture frames on the walls can be hiding places, so be thorough.

Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests close to the room (check the attic). There are 'cousins' to bed bugs that live in these nests and can move from there to feeding on people.

I have a major water bug problem in the basement. What can I do and how much will it cost?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:40:39 -0400

Question: I have a major water bug problem in the basement. the are huge
and starting to move to other parts of the house. What can I do and how
much will it cost? yesterday when moving my trash cans(they sit
outside)there were literally 10 of then that scattered from underneath the
trash can. I hate bugs and worry about this problem. Please instruct me on
things that can be done. Can you give me an estimate without coming out
and if you need to come out can it be treated in the same day?

ANSWER Waterbugs are cockroaches. Oriental cockroach is the official common name. The habits of this species are not different from the other, more common household species.

They generally live in basements or other cool areas. If they are a problem in apartments it will usually be on the ground floor. They may be found in bath tubs and in kitchen sinks, but they do not come in through the drain pipes. They lack the sticky pads on their feet that other cockroaches have, so once they get into the tub or sink they can not crawl out because of the smooth sides.

Control of waterbugs can be achieved with the use of baits. There are several formulations of cockroach control baits (plastic stationsand gels), but the best for waterbugs is the gel formulation. Place small amounts of gel (usually comes in a plastic syringe) in the places where you have seen these cockroaches. Re-apply the gel when it is eaten. Give this control method a few weeks to work.

An inscticide application on the outside foundation can help keep them from coming inside. Make sure exterior doors close properly -- weatherstrip if necessary.

The local Orkin branch can explain the service in more detail and set a schedule.

I have seen a type of centipede bug in my home and I am wodering if it is dangerous and how do I get rid of it?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:32:11 -0400

Question: I have seen a type of centipede bug in my home and I am wodering
if it is dangerous and how do I get rid of it.

The house centipede is usually found around the foundation of houses and other buildings. They prefer to rest in secluded places during the day. ,They seem to prefer places like ivy growing on the side of the house or thick, loose mulch against the side of the foundation. From these sites the centipedes may enter ground level rooms. They may use door thresholds or gaps in the foundation. They do not come through drains (myth).

These animals are predators of spiders and insects. There are no nests of centipedes; they are independent hunters and do not gather together in one place. The young forage for themselves; they are smaller than the adults and about the same coloration (and speed).

House centipedes are not easily controlled. You can apply an aerosol insecticide into the cracks and crevices behind baseboards where you have seen them. You can also place sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in dark corners where they might hide. (Keep the traps out of the reach of children and pets.

An insecticide application on the outside foundation can help keep insects (and centipedes) from entering. Make sure that exterior doors close properly -- weatherstrip if necessary.

I have seen a type of centipede bug in my home and I am wondering if it is dangerous and how do I get rid of it?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:32:11 -0400

Question: I have seen a type of centipede bug in my home and I am wondering
if it is dangerous and how do I get rid of it.

ANSWER Probably what you have seen is a house centipede. They can vary in size and color (from light brown to pale brown) depending on their age and the region of the country. Their long and many legs, and their rapid movements can be a little scary and threatening. They seldom harm humans, but they probably should not be handled.

The house centipede is usually found around the foundation of houses and other buildings. They prefer to rest in secluded places during the day. ,They seem to like places like ivy growing on the side of the house or thick, loose mulch against the side of the foundation. From these sites the centipedes may enter ground level rooms. They may use door thresholds or gaps in the foundation. They do not come through drains (myth).

Centipedes are predators of spiders and insects.  There are no nests of centipedes; they are independent hunters and do not gather together in one place. The young forage for themselves; they are smaller than the adults and about the same coloration (and speed).

House centipedes are not easily controlled.   You can apply an aerosol insecticide into the cracks and crevices behind baseboards where you have seen them.  You can also place sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in dark corners where they might hide. (Keep the traps out of the reach of children and pets.

An insecticide application on the outside foundation can help keep insects (and centipedes) from entering. Make sure that exterior doors close properly -- weatherstrip if necessary.

I seem to have clover mites,just wondering if you could help me with a solution to this problem.

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:26:35 -0400

Question: I seem to have clover mites,just wondering if you could help me
with a solution to this problem.

ANSWER These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not lay eggs inside the house and will not bite people or pets. They can be a nuisance. and if they are crushed, they will leave a stain.

A quick control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose. You can vacuum them from sites indoors. A pesticide treatment on the outside foundation can help prevent them from entering. Look for a product that lists clover mites on the label. Follow the label directions for mixing and application.

Check to see that exterior doors close snugly -- weatherstrip if necessary.

I noticed tiny white "mites" crawling on the front of my refrigerator/freezer.

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:03:44 -0400

Question: I noticed tiny white "mites" crawling on the front of my
refrigerator/freezer, then noticed dead clusters of them in and around the
freezer ice dispenser & door gaskets.

I found the host: A unseen muffin carton on top/back of the fridge with
live larve. I have cleaned the entire fridge with vinegar and borax but
still have a few signs.

ANSWER Probably what you have are psocids (soo - cids) or booklice (an unfortunate name, since they are neither lice nor always associated with books).

These very small, pale yellow to brown insects live in humid areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, but they can occur in other locations in the house (especially in humid weather). Most of the time they are wingless, but sometimes you can encounter winged forms. They feed on microscopic mold and fungi, and some are associated with stored food materials which may also have some mold.

The best control in the kitchen and kitchen cabinets is to remove everything from the cabinets. Vacuum them very well , then inspect carefully to see if there is a moisture problem. Two common sources are: a leaking drain pipe under the kitchen sink and a leaking icemaker connection behind the refrigerator.

In the bathroom look under the sink and in the plumbing access for the tub.

For psocids in other places in the house, or on pieces of furniture, the best control is to lower the humidity. ,Dry out whatever or wherever these insects have been found. This may mean using a dehumidifier or taking items outside to dry in the sun. Solving the moisture problem almost always solves the psocid problem.

I have spiders, crickets and roaches...but the only time I see them is in the spring. Why is that?

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:59:34 -0400

Question: I have spiders, crickets and roaches...but the only time I see
them is in the spring. Why is that?

ANSWER Outdoors, these creatures are most active in the spring. Indoors, they can be active yearround because the temperature is favorable and there is usually food.

Spiders are not easily controlled. Since they are predators of insects, the first step in spider control should be eliminating their food.

Web-building spiders are often found on porches near porch lights. Changing the bulb to a "bug light" can reduce the number of flying insects. Indoors, a broom or vacuum is a good way to discourage web-building spiders in corners or near windows.

Hunting spiders are usually active at night. Sticky traps (the ones for roaches and mice) work well for hunting spiders. If they persist, apply a thin stream of aerosol insecticide into the cracks and crevices in the areas where they have been active. An insecticide application outside can help prevent insects from invading. Make sure that exterior doors close snugly -- weatherstrip if necessary.

Field crickets are the shiny black species that often come into the house. They can be a problem throughout the house by their chirping (the males) and just being there! They have become adults in the last few weeks and are trying to mate, lay their eggs in the soil, and die.

Field crickets migrate to the edges of houses and will enter through garages, doors, and windows. Remember that they can fly and will fly to light. Keep the porch light off or switch to a "bug light" bulb. Indoors, they seem to find a dark, quiet place to hide -- then they chirp!

Control of these insects is not easy. Perimeter treatment of the house may be effective in reducing their numbers. Follow the insecticide label directions for mixing and application.

Control of these insects indoors may be accomplished by using sticky traps, such as those sold for cockroach control. Place them near doors and windows at ground level and where you have heard crickets chirping. Make sure children and pets cannot get into the traps. (Rolling the trap into a tube-shape keeps dust off and limits children and pets from getting into the glue.)There are baits available for crickets. The specialists at the garden center can probably point them out.

What can be done for Head lice infestation?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:22:57 -0400

Question: I am a school social worker and from time to time we have
families that acquire head lice and they have difficulty riding them from
the house. First is there something that you can do for this kind of
infestation. Second have you considered offering this service on a
limited basis to indigent families for low/no cost?

The reason I ask is that the children are required to go home and miss
school until the problem is resolved. (Shampoo can go just so far) Then
there is the reintroduction to the other children. As you know the
problem is cyclical and on going.

ANSWER Head lice is not something a pest control company can treat. Lice survive a very short time when they leave a host, so they do not infest buildings in the way insects like roaches do.

Head lice are often a problem with school-aged children (and sometimes with adults).
Controlling these small creatures requires the diligent use of the shampoo material and the small comb that comes with most control 'kits'. Follow the directions for the length of time the shampoo must remain on the hair, and use the comb to remove the eggs from the base of the hair (use it close to the scalp).

The directions on many products indicate that the shampooing will have to be done twice (within about 10 days), and in between the shampooing the comb should be used.

Some experts suggest that family members of persons affected by head lice should avoid sharing pillows, towels, hats, combs and brushes, and similar items. If the pharmacist cannot provide more information, it may help to consult a doctor.

What can be for Head lice infestation?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:22:57 -0400

Question: I am a school social worker and from time to time we have
families that acquire head lice and they have difficulty ridding them from
the house. First is there something that you can do for this kind of
infestation. Second have you considered offering this service on a
limited basis to indigent families for low/no cost?

ANSWER Head lice are not insects that a pest control company can treat. Lice survive a very short time when they leave a host, so they do not infest buildings in the way insects like roaches do.

Head lice are often a problem with school-aged children (and sometimes with adults).
Controlling these small creatures requires the diligent use of the shampoo material and the small comb that comes with most control 'kits'. Follow the directions for the length of time the shampoo must remain on the hair, and use the comb to remove the eggs from the base of the hair (use it close to the scalp).

The directions on products indicate how long the product should stay on the hair. The directions will also indicate how many treatments are required. In between the shampooing the comb should be used.

Many experts suspect that head lice are transmitted by contact. They suggest that when a person has head lice, family members should avoid sharing pillows, towels, hats, combs and brushes, and similar items. The pharmacist may be able to provide more information. If not, it may help to consult a doctor.

Thinkning about having our house sprayed for bugs and pests before the start of Spring.

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:18:31 -0400

Question: Thinkning about having our house sprayed for bugs and pests
before the start of Spring. Is it true that when you to have someone
spray for bugs, when they do spray it kills the majority of the bugs, but
I have also heard that other bugs then are forced out of their hiding
areas and you tend to see more bugs than before? Is that true? Thank you
for your feedback.

ANSWER Many people who do not have a pest problem use pest control service to keep their homes free of insects and other pests.

Since most pest problems begin outside, many families receive routine treatment only on the outside of their home. This helps prevent insects and other pests from entering. If a pest problem is ever found inside, the treatment for that pest can be done at that time.

The local Orkin branch can explain the service and schedule a service.

Thinking about having our house sprayed for bugs and pests before the start of Spring.

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:18:31 -0400

Question: Thinkning about having our house sprayed for bugs and pests
before the start of Spring. Is it true that when you have someone
spray for bugs, when they do spray it kills the majority of the bugs, but
I have also heard that other bugs then are forced out of their hiding
areas and you tend to see more bugs than before? Is that true? Thank you
for your feedback.

ANSWER Some pest problems need more than one treatment to get complete control. If only one treatment is done, some of the pests normally survive. In that case, the survivors have abundant food and shelter, so they reproduce faster then normal. Soon there are as many pests as there were at the beginning....making it look like the treatment failed.

Many people who do not have a pest problem use pest control service to keep their homes free of insects and other pests. Since most pest problems begin outside, many families receive routine treatment only on the outside of their home. This helps prevent insects and other pests from entering. If a pest problem is ever found inside, the indoor treatment for that pest can be done at the time of their regular service.

The local Orkin branch can explain the service and schedule a service. Please contact them directly for more information.

Do you spray for treatment of Asian Beatles? If so, how effective is it from keeping these bugs from entering the home?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:12:00 -0400

Question: Do you spray for treatment of Asian Beatles? If so, how
effective is it from keeping these bugs from entering the home?

ANSWER You'll have to call the local Branch for the service they provide for these beetles.

The best control strategy for the beetles that have come indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from the windows and walls. They are harmless, but if crushed indoors they can leave a stain on carpeting or drapes.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the aggregation of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

How to tell the difference between flying ants and termites?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:02:53 -0400

Question: How to tell the difference between flying ants and termites?

ANSWER Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish flying ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different --waist, wings, and antennae. You'll have to look closely. It helps to have some magnification to make the distinction.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow "waist" and three distinct body segments. Winged termites do not appear to have a "waist". Their bodies seem to be one segment -- long and slender.

Ant swarmers have a pair of large wings in front and a pair of smaller wings in back. Termite swarmers have two pair of same-size wings.

Ant antennae are bent, or "elbowed". Termites have straight antennae.

If you are not sure, collect some specimens and have a pest control professional examine them. The inspector can identify the insects and check your home for signs of infestation.

How to tell the difference between a flying ant and a termite.

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:02:53 -0400

Question: How to tell the difference between a flying ant and a termite.

ANSWER Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different --waist, wings, and antennae. You'll have to look closely. It helps to have some magnification to make the distinction.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by their narrow "waist" and three distinct body segments. Winged termites do not appear to have a "waist". Their bodies seem to be one segment -- long and slender.

Ant swarmers have a pair of large wings in front and a pair of smaller wings in back. Termite swarmers have two pair of same-size wings.

Ant antennae are bent, or "elbowed". Termites have straight antennae.

If you are not sure, collect some specimens and have a pest control professional examine them. The inspector can identify the insects and check your home for signs of infestation.

We are experiencing something biting us but cannot identify what it is. What can we do?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:59:49 -0400

Question: We are experiencing something biting us but cannot identify what
it is. We presume it to be microscopic since we have not seen anything.
It leaves marks similar to flea bites and involves severe itching. We are
told it could be mites. Can Orkin treat for mites in addition to fleas
and any other household biting insect? What can we do?

ANSWER It is possible that you have bed bugs. They are not a common problem, but there is always the possibility of having these blood-feeding insects. While bed bugs are a nuisance , they can be controlled with some careful cleaning and a little insecticide.

These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day, and emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping . The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. The bite sometimes produces a hard swelling. People who are bitten over an extended time sometimes report itching or irritation.

Control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can treat all the cracks and crevices with an aerosol insecticide.

Once the frame is treated, then do the same for the headboard and the box spring: clean and treat the cracks and crevices.Next, clean and vacuum the seams of the mattress. With the aerosol you can treat the cracks and crevices of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard where bedbugs may also be hiding. These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to treat the entire room. Night stands and even picture frames on the walls can be hiding places, so be thorough.

I believe I have a problem with termites.

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:50:01 -0400

Question: I believe I have a problem with termites. I live in a condo and
noticed somethings flying around sometime late October. I started to
notice them more and more. I see them flying around my condo, sitting on
the popcorn ceiling and on my walls. I tried to determine what they are
but I have never seen anything like this creature before. So I started
looking on the internet for photos of termites and I believe I have the
"swarming" type.

I have a wooden wall unit in my dining room area and there were hundreds
of dead bugs on the floor near the unit. I just looked this evening and
they appear to be more in that area than any other area of my home.

My question is, if I throw the unit out, will that help my problem? If
not, and since I live in a condo, is there a termite service that would
handle the problem in my unit only or would I need to contact my condo
association in case it is a building problem.

ANSWER I'm not certain that you have termites (and if you do it may be drywood termites).

Sometimes it is difficult for people to distinguish winged ants from winged termites. They can look very similar. There are three body parts that are different -- waist, wings, and antennae. You'll have to look closely. It helps to have some magnification to make the distinction.

Ants (winged ants) can be distinguished by the presence of a narrow "waist" and three distinct body segments. Winged termites do not appear to have a "waist". Their bodies are long and slender.

Ant swarmers have a pair of large front wings and a pair of smaller back wings. Termite swarmers have two pair of same-size wings.

Ants have bent, or "elbowed" antennae. Termites have straight antennae.

It would be best to get a professional company look at the specimens and help you make a treatment decision.

I have many ladybugs in my house and it is very irritating. How do I get rid of these pests?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:46:11 -0400

Question: I have many ladybugs in my house and it is very irritating. How
do I get rid of these pests?? or how can I prevent them from entering my
home??

The best control strategy for the beetles that have come indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from the windows and walls. They are harmless, but if crushed they can leave a stain on carpeting or drapes.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the aggregation of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

Make sure exterior doors close snugly -- weatherstrip if necessary. Check to see that all windows, attic vents, and crawlspace vents are screened properly.

I have these little tiny round bugs. They have black and brown stripes on the back. Can you help identify them for me?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:32:53 -0400

Question: I have these little tiny round bugs. They have black and brown
stripes on the back. I have only seen two of them. I have seen them on the
walls. Can you help identify them for me?

ANSWER Probably what you have found is one of the several carpet beetle species that can occur in houses. The most common of these is the furniture carpet beetle, Anthrenus flavipes. This is a small beetle (a little larger than the head of a pin), that is somewhat oval in shape and has a mixture of black and gray patches. It is characterized by moving very slowly, and rolling over as if dead when touched. The larvae of these beetles have brown bands and long 'hairs' at the end of their body. The adults are most often seen on walls moving very slowly. They are active in summer and relatively inactive in the winter.

Carpet beetles are common household pests. They can feed on a wide variety of things, from wool, leather, and other animal products to noodles and flour, meal, and other stored food and plant products. This feeding habit also makes them difficult to control. They can infest almost any part of a house.

The best control strategy is to do a thorough vacuuming of the suspected sites. Then do a thorough cleaning, which includes looking for all the material that could be infested. In the kitchen, discard all infested food packages. In the bedroom, if there are infested woolen garments, dry clean them and store them carefully.

An insecticide application on the outside foundation can help prevent new adults from coming inside. Make sure exterior doors close securely -- weatherstrip if necessary.

How do you get rid of those pesty asian bettles and boxelder bugs?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:28:54 -0400

Question: How do you get rid of those pesty asian bettles and boxcellar
bugs?

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy, because they often occur in large numbers.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so pick an insecticide that includes boxelder bugs on the label. Follow the label directions for mixung and application.

Inside: They can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they can be active during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

Ladybugs: The best control strategy for the beetles that have come indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from the windows and walls. They are harmless, but if crushed indoors they can leave a stain on carpeting or drapes.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the aggregation of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

Make sure exterior doors close securely. Weatherstrip if necessary. Check to see that windows, attic vents, and crawlspace vents all have proper screen.

How do you get rid of those pesky asian bettles and boxelder bugs?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:28:54 -0400

Question: How do you get rid of those pesky asian bettles and boxcellar
bugs?

ANSWER Control of boxelder bugs outdoors is not easy, because they often occur in large numbers.

Preventing them from coming indoors starts with an inspection. Check for cracks around doors and windows. Caulks any that you find. Windows and vents should have screens. Check the attic and eaves too and repair any damaged screens. Make sure the exterior doors close tightly and weatherstrip if necessary.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so pick an insecticide that includes boxelder bugs on the label. Follow the label directions for mixung and application.

Inside: They can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they come out of hiding during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

Ladybugs: The best control strategy for the beetles that are indoors is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from the windows and walls. They are harmless, but if crushed indoors they can leave a stain on carpeting or drapes.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the aggregation of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

My ex is paranoid over bedbugs she thinks she has them and has given them to me?

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:54:57 -0400

Question: Hi, my ex is paranoid over bedbugs. She thinks she has them and
has given them to me ? I have small marks on my skin 1/32 to 1/8 in
diameter. They look like pimples or small round red dots. None itch and I
havent seen any blood dots on my bed, a lady bug crawling on me wakes me
up. Any opinion?

ANSWER Probably you have bed bugs--there is nothing else (well, except spiders) that would give this skin reaction. They are not a common problem, but there is always the possibility of having these blood-feeding insects-and in some regions of the country the frequency of bed bugs has been increasing. While bed bugs are a nuisance and deliver some painful bites, they can be controlled with some careful cleaning and a little insecticide.

These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day, and emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping (and they will also bite other mammals). The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. The bite produces a hard swelling, and is whitish in color; it usually is irritated and continues to bleed.

Control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices (and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine) the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them.

Once the frame is clean, then do the same for the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests close to the room (check the attic), since there are 'cousins' to bed bugs that live in these nests (or are associated with bats) and can move from there to feeding
on people.

What can you do to address carpenter bee problems?

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:52:51 -0400

Question: Can you tell me what you can do to address carpenter bee problems?

ANSWER The local Branch office can help with these pests.

Carpenter bees can be a serious problem in the spring. They look like bumble bees and are often seen visiting flowers. These bees build nests in wood. They create holes in exposed wood. They nest in siding, soffits, decks, posts, and the painted and bare wood of barns and sheds. These bees only nest in wood, they do not eat it.

They are solitary bees, but often occur in large groups and females may use the same entrance hole into a piece of wood, but have separate galleries once inside. They are not usually aggressive, but the males will threaten if you get too close, but they have no stinger!

These bees are not easily controlled, and whatever is done this year will probably have to be repeated next year. The best control is to place some liquid in or around the hole. Dust insecticide can be effective if placed at the nest opening so the bees will contact it when they move in and out. You can also place a mothball in the hole. In the fall plug the holes with caulking or a dowel.

We have ants, quite small in size, redish/orange in color, backmost segment of it is of a lighter shade.

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:51:41 -0400

Question: We have ants, quite small in size, redish/orange in color, back-most segment of it is of a lighter shade.

The ants I have are the same basic coloring, and are of about 1/4 of an inch in length. I think these are Pharaoh ants. What would you say they are and what am I to do about them?

ANSWER Well, most likely they are Pharaoh ants.

General ant control begins with locating the nest site, then using baits. Some ants make trails from their nest site to a food supply, so you may be able to follow the worker ants from the food back to the nest; then apply some liquid insecticide directly to the nest. Other species do not make strong trails, so locating the nest is more difficult.

In general, baits are the best method of ant control, but this method takes time and patience. There are some dry or granular baits available, but the best formulations are liquids. Place the baits where you have seen the most activity. Ant feeding behavior is very variable. It often depends on the time of year, whether they are rearing young in the colony, and in the availability of other food sources. You may need to use several different kinds of ant bait, and switch them periodically. Control will take time.

Spraying a liquid insecticide around the perimeter of the house or structure can be used for control. It may help by placing an insecticide on the surfaces that the ants will walk on as they enter the house, but when exposed to the sun and humidity most insecticides do not last long. Granular insecticides can be effective when applied to the ground around the perimeter of the house.

The baits or liquid insecticides for household pest control are used at low concentrations and are little or not threat to house pets. It is best to keep dogs and cats away from treated surfaces until the application is dry.

We have ants, quite small in size, reddish-orange in color, back-most segment of it is of a lighter shade.

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:51:41 -0400

Question: We have ants, quite small in size, reddish-orange in color, back-most segment of it is of a lighter shade. The ants I have are the same basic coloring, and are of about 1/4 of an inch in length. I think these are Pharaoh ants. What would you say they are and what am I to do about them?

ANSWER Well, most likely they are Pharaoh ants.

General ant control begins with locating the nest site, then using baits. Some ants make trails from their nest site to a food supply. With these, you may be able to follow the line of worker ants from the food back to the nest; then apply some liquid insecticide directly to the nest. Other species do not make strong trails, so locating their nest is more difficult.

In general, baits are the best method of ant control, but this method takes time and patience. There are some dry or granular baits available, but the ants seem to prefer baits that are liquids. Place the baits where you have seen the most activity. Ant feeding behavior is very variable. It often depends on the time of year, whether they are rearing young in the colony, and in the availability of other food sources. You may need to try several different kinds of ant bait, and switch them periodically. Control will take time.

There are many queens in a pharaoh ant colony. Spraying a liquid insecticide where the ants are active will usually cause them to scatter. This will create many colonies and the problem will be much worse. Make sure there is enough bait for all of the ants. It may be necessary to refill the bait once or twice. (Do not touch the bait station if you have been smoking or handling anything that has a strong odor -- they are very sensitive.)

When this infestation has been eliminated, it may help to apply an insecticide barrier on the outside foundation. This can help prevent many pests from invading. Because of weather, the barrier will need to be re-applied periodically. Follow label directions for mixing and applying insecticide.

Make sure exterior doors close tightly and replace damaged weather stripping. Small pieces of plastic screen might help keep pests from entering through the weep holes in brick exteriors. (Bend the piece of screen slightly and gently push it into the weep hole.)

Alternative Pest Control Methods Are Not Working for Ant Problem

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:50:12 -0400

Question: I have tiny black ants in my kitchen all over the sink, cabinet, floor, and I have sprayed, cleaned, put cinnamon, boric acid, baking soda, ant hotels, and still no effect! They return 2 days later in full capacity. What can I do??

ANSWER: General ant control begins with locating the nest site, then using baits. Some ants make trails from their nest site to a food supply, so you may be able to follow the worker ants from the food back to the nest; then apply some liquid insecticide directly to the nest. Other species do not make strong trails, so locating the nest is more difficult. In general, baits are the best method of ant control, but this method takes time and patience. There are some dry or granular baits available, but the best formulations are liquids. Place the baits where you have seen the most activity. Ant feeding behavior is very variable. It often depends on the time of year, whether they are rearing young in the colony, and in the availability of other food sources. You may need to use several different kinds of ant bait, and switch them periodically. Control will take time. Spraying a liquid insecticide around the perimeter of the house or structure can be used for control. It may help by placing an insecticide on the surfaces that the ants will walk on as they enter the house, but when exposed to the sun and humidity most insecticides do not last long. Granular insecticides can be effective when applied to the ground around the perimeter of the house. The baits or liquid insecticides for household pest control are used at low concentrations and are little or not threat to house pets. It is best to keep dogs and cats away from treated surfaces until the application is dry.

Causes of a Bed Bug Infestation: Hotel? Used Furniture?

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:49:09 -0400

Question: Hello- I have a question for you about bed bugs (or bugs in that family, bat bugs for example). Eight days ago exactly, I walked into my room in the middle of the day to find what looked exactly like a bed bug (according to my internet research) on my bedroom ceiling, approximately four feet away from my bed. I killed it, and it did have some blood-like fluid in it. Please note that I have never been bitten, and know that I would react, which I'll explain why in a bit (as I'm aware some people don't). Anyway, after I found this bug, I checked my bed, headboard, linens, etc...and found nothing (no fecal matter, blood, bugs, casings). I vaccummed my room like a mad woman, checked the canister, and found nothing. I have not seen another bug since eight days ago and continue to have no bites. Can I rest a little bit (and stop freaking out), that there may be no more bugs in my room? You should also know that I recently stayed at a hotel and bought second hand furniture...doesn't make the situation look any better, I know...but I did check my bag (which was placed on a table at the hotel and not on the floor), as well as the furniture, and found nothing. About three years ago, I had found the same bugs in my room (came out of nowhere, I had not traveled at all). I had gotten a few bites (maybe two, three), but had only found about three bugs over the course of a few months. After that, they just "went away"...disappeared. To my knowledge, bed bugs don't just disappear, which is what makes me think that they may be bat or bird bugs. Help! In case you can't tell, I'm freaking about a tad over this...when I've only seen ONE bug, over ONE week ago, and have ZERO bites. Thank you so much for your help.

ANSWER Well, you have covered everything....and finally mentioned the part about the furniture and the hotel stay. I am thinking that what you found came from the furniture and/or the luggage in the hotel. This is probably a single event and the house is not 'infested'...but you should keep checking. Control of bed bugs begins with taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices (and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine) the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them. Professional control methods include the use of an alcohol-based insecticide to treat the mattress and box spring, and the use of steam to kill bed bugs on surfaces that people will come into contact. Once the frame is clean, do the same for the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them

Bed Bug Chemicals: Safety & Treatment

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:48:10 -0400

Question: Hi. I am from the Ithaca area and I just found out that I have a bed bug problem. Again. Last year, I got an exterminator to come to the house I was living in and they treated twice. I was moving out 2 weeks later, so I am guessing that the eggs traveled with me to my new place and hatched later. First, I was wondering what types of chemicals your company uses for bed bugs (there is a cat and also a woman who is pregnant who lives downstairs that I am concerned about the interaction with these pesticides). How effective it the treatment. How many re-treatments are typically used? What is the average price of a three bedroom home? Have you ever had to deal with bed bugs in this area?

ANSWER: The local Branch office can tell you what insecticides are used; the number of treatments needed to get control is (national average) 3-4 treatments. Control of bed bugs begins with taking the bed apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices (and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine) the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them. Professional control methods include the use of an alcohol-based insecticide to treat the mattress and box spring, and the use of steam to kill bed bugs on surfaces that people will come into contact. Once the frame is clean, do the same for the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Pet Friendly Pest Control: Safe for Cats, Birds, Lizards & More

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:47:03 -0400

Question: I have carpenter ants and I'm afraid to use any pest control services because I have an exotic bird, 3 cats and many lizards and other reptiles. Do you offer pet friendly control options?

ANSWER Using baits may be the best (only) strategy here....the local Branch office can help plan this control.

Carpenter ants nest in moisture damaged wood, but do not eat the wood. If there is a carpenter ant nest associated with the house, it is because there is moisture-damaged wood somewhere. It may be in the bathroom where the tub or shower are not draining properly (or have overflowed and wet the wood), or a porch that is holding moisture, a roof leak, a door frame that gets wet from rain, a downspout or gutter that is not working.

These ants are usually active indoors in the early spring. They may be found in the kitchen and some other parts of the house in February and March. This is usually an indication that there is a nest in the house. In late spring these ants will move outside and not forage of food indoors again, and this may give the false indication that control has been achieved. When carpenter ants are found in the house in late spring it is usually an indication that the nest is outdoors and they are simply foraging for food indoors.

The best control for carpenter ants is to locate the source of the nest. A thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood is necessary. Correcting the problem is the first step, in the process the ant nest can be removed or sprayed.

Baits are best when the nest cannot be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but most baits will work if you locate them near the foraging ants. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

Where do Silverfish come from, and how can I permanently remove them?

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:41:57 -0400

Question: We have what I think are "silver fish," how can I get rid of
them forever? And where do they come from?

ANSWER The household silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) is found only in houses and rarely in natural settings. It gets into houses in packaging material, furniture, and perhaps stored clothing. Silverfish can live in a variety of places, including kitchens, bathroom, basements, and in attics. They feed on starchy material, but can usually find food wherever they are in the house.

They don't do much damage indoors, but they can be a nuisance and annoy people by their presence. They don't carry any disease organisms, they don't bite, and generally stay out of the way.

Household silverfish are difficult to control. They move around a lot, which makes spraying less effective than treating other household pests, thus applying insecticides is not always effective.

You can try spraying (aerosol insecticide) behind baseboards in the area that you have seen them, and use sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in these locations.

We have little red spiders. There are piles of them on the window sill.

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:40:29 -0400

Question: We have little red spiders. There are piles of them on the
window sill. I vacummed them last week, now they are back in droves. How do I get rid of them?

ANSWER What you have seen are probably clover mites. They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin and usually moving around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in the fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while (and we don't know why!) populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not infest the house and will not bite people or pets (remember, they are plant feeders), but they can be a nuisance.

A good control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose, and you can vacuum them from sites indoors. Most modern insecticides are designed for insects (these are mites), and using a garden insecticide to control clover mites (on the outside of the house) may not always be effective, or you may have to apply it several times.

What is the definition of a residual pesticide and a non-residual pesticide?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:08:41 -0400

Question: What is the definition of a residual pesticide and a
non-residual pesticide?

ANSWER Residual insecticides remain effective where they are applied for some length of time . The length of time depends on the formulation (dust, liquid, etc.), the type of surface (soil, brick, wood, etc.), and the condition of the surface (wet, greasy, etc.). Termiticides are examples of insecticides with very long residual. They are applied in the soil under homes to prevent subterranean termites from attacking. Most homeowners hope that the termiticide will remain effective and protect their home for years.

Non-residual insecticides have no residual activity--they work now, then they are gone within a fairly short time. Pyrethrum (an extract from flowers) is an active ingredient in many non-residual insecticides. Probably the most widely-used non-residual insecticides are the aerosol sprays for flying insects.

I have many webs in my basement. Is winter a good time to have orkin come out and prevent a spring spider problem?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:00:45 -0400

Question: I have many webs in my basement. I want to finish it but I
don't want spider eggs to hatch after I am done. Is winter a good time to
have orkin come out and prevent a spring spider problem?

ANSWER Spiders are predators of insects. The webs are very likely abundant near lights or windows where insects are active.

The start of a control program is to limit their food supply. If outside, then reduce the use of outdoor lights, which attract insects and in turn attract spiders.

Spiders indoors they can be controlled (in your basement) by a regular vacuuming program. Be certain to get the webs and the egg sacs in the webs, and get the spider when you see them. A regular vacuuming will reduce the population. Remove insect hiding places like firewood (move it outside away from the house).

Make sure the basement windows have screens. Exterior doors should close securely and have weatherstripping to keep insects out. An insecticide application on the outside foundation can help prevent pests from trying to crawl inside.

I have seen 2 types of ants in my apartment. What can I do to get rid of them?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:54:33 -0400

Question: I have seen 2 types of ants in my apartment.. trails of small black ants
in my kitchen, and the occasional large black ant. What can I do to get
rid of them? Do I have carpenter ants? and about how much does a
professional solution cost?

ANSWER The local Orkin branch office can explain the service and schedule a service.

The small black ants you have seen may be 'odorous house ants'. They typically nest outdoors. They make trails along the outside of windows and eaves of houses to enter kitchen areas to forage for various food materials. They are strong trail followers, so you may be able to see them outside and see where they are coming in the house.

If you can locate the nest site, then a liquid insecticide can be applied for control. Follow the label directions. If not, then the use of baits can be effective. Place several baits near the ant trail where they will find contact them and leave the baits undisturbed for a week or more. Re-fill the bait if necessary so the ants don't run out of bait. Liquid baits are most attractive to ants.

The large black ants may be one of the carpenter ant species (Genus: Camponotus). There are several species of carpenter ants across the U.S. Most are large black ants, but some are red and some are red and black. Most of the species produce swarms (winged males and female ants) in the spring. These ants feed on other insects and honeydew from aphids on plants and trees.

Carpenter ants nest in wood, but do not eat the wood. If there is moisture-damaged wood, the ants will choose it over dry, sound wood. It is common to find carpenter ants in areas where there has been a moisture problem, such as in the bathroom where the tub or shower are not draining properly (or have overflowed and wet the wood), or a porch that is holding moisture, a roof leak, a door frame that gets wet from rain, a downspout or gutter that is not working.

Carpenter ants make a mest outdoors, then they forage indoors for food or water. If they find food or water, they often start a satellite colony indoors near the food supply. It is common to see ants in a trail moving between the nest outside, the food supply, and the satellite nest. They are most active at night.

The best control for carpenter ants is to locate the nest. A thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood is helpful. Correcting the moisture problem is the first step. The ant nest can be removed or sprayed.

Baits are best when the nest can not be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but most baits will work if you locate them near the trail of foraging ants. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

I have these tiny tan worms in my bathroom. One got in my toothbrush and I'm totally grossed out. What are they?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:46:57 -0400

Question: Hi Orkin man. I have a question. I have these tiny tan worms in
my bathroom. One got in my toothbrush and I'm totally grossed out. What
are they, how did they get in and what can I do?

ANSWER Probably what you have found are carpet beetle larvae. They are characteristically brown, they may look banded with brown and pale stripes, and with long 'hairs' at the tail end. They are slow moving across walls and floors. The molted skins of these larvae are often found in cabinets and in closets, and are an indication of an ongoing infestation of carpet beetles. The adults are often seen indoors in the spring.

The larval stage can feed on a variety of material, but most often it attacks woolens, skins, leather, feathers. They also feed on stored food materials (from birdseed to spices, cereals, and flour), and when these are not available it can live on dead insects.

The best control for these beetles is to vacuum thoroughly. Have any infested woolens dry cleaned and stored in a sealed container. Check the kitchen for infested food packages. Throw away any infested packages. Regular vacuuming and inspecting food materials will keep them under control.

Which chemical precisely do you use for flea treatment/control?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:38:00 -0400

Question: Flea control.Which chemical precisely do you use for flea
treatment/control?

ANSWER The local Orkin branch office can tell you what product they use.

Household flea control begins with treating the animal, then treating the house. Both steps have to be done and they have to be done at teh same time.

Pet. There are some very effective on-animal flea control products, either from the veterinarian or one of the over-the-counter products. The pet or pets must be treated first before you can hope to rid the house (carpeting) of fleas. The pet's bedding should be washed (or replaced) at the same time.

House. Vacuuming the carpet can help to remove the eggs that drop there from the fleas on the pet and maybe a few larvae. Vacuuming will also make adult fleas come out of their cocoons, so the carpet treatment will be more effective. Continue to vacuum for several days after the carpet has been treated.

Are there some risks with chipmunks?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:29:25 -0400

Question: I have two kind of rodents. Chipmunks in the front yard. In the
back yard I have a rodent, but I do not what kind of animal it is.
1st.Q: Are there some risks with chipmunks? For me they look like mice,
therefore, I do not like in my yard. I would not like kill them, but what
can I do for they do not live in my yard?
2nd Q: In the backyard, it isn't a chipmunk. Can you check what kind of
animal it is and how much is the cost for that service????. I hate the
idea of picking death rodents up.

ANSWER Chipmunks are not an easy animal to control when they become a nuisance. They can 'nest' in wooded areas around houses, and in stone walls around houses. They move from their nest sites to eat nuts and to dig in flower beds to eat bulbs.

They have litters in the spring (May) and again in summer (July), and overwinter in their nesting sites. If they are a serious you may be able to discourage them by removing as much of their food as possible. If there is an adequate amount of food and nesting sites, control may be limited, since other chipmunks would move into the area as soon as you removed some of the current residents.

The local Orkin branch office may be able to identify the other animal and explain the service.

My house seems to be infested with ants - black, small in thousands!

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:16:53 -0400

Question: My house seems to be infested with ants - black, small in
thousands! I have placed several ant traps and have used sprays, nothing
seems to be working.

ANSWER The small black ants you have seen may be 'odorous house ants'. They typically nest outdoors. They make trails along the outside of windows and eaves of houses to enter kitchen areas to forage for various food materials. They are strong trail followers, so you may be able to see them outside and see where they are coming in the house.

If you can locate the nest site, then a liquid insecticide can be applied for control. Follow the insecticide label directions. If you cannot find the nest, then the use of baits beside the ant trail can be effective. Place several bait stations near the ant trail. It helps if you can put the bait outdoors so you can attract the ants away from the house. Make sure that children and pets can't tamper with the stations. The bait should remain for a week or so. Re-fill the bait if necessary -- don't let the ants run out of bait. Liquid baits are most attractive to ants.

Does your service take care of Asian Beetles (the things that lool like lady bugs) and box elder bugs?

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:04:53 -0400

Question: Does your service take care of Asian Beetles (the things that
lool like lady bugs) and box elder bugs?

ANSWER The local Branch office can help you with these pests.

Boxelder bugs. There are few other insects that have this coloration. Boxelder bugs are red and black.

Boxelder bugs are plant feeding insects that usually utilize the seeds of boxelder and maple trees for food. They generally prefer to be on the female (seed-bearing) trees, and arrive there in the spring when the seeds are beginning to form.

These insects have 2 to 3 generation per year. The fall generation overwinters in protected places. The overwinter sites are often around and in houses, which makes the bugs a nuisance. They have some chemicals (called pheromones) that help them to cluster together in large numbers, so often thousands of them will gather in one place to spend the winter.

Outside: Boxelder bugs can be killed with nearly any insecticide, so an application will be made on the outside. The technician will inspect in order to point out any openings
that need to be sealed.

Inside: Boxelder bugs can be removed from inside the house with a vacuum cleaner. You may have to keep doing this for several days to get them all. During the winter they can be active during warm and sunny days. They don't bite or sting or lay eggs in houses, but if crushed they could stain fabric.

Asian ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis). These insects are making a nuisance of themselves throughout the country. They usually make their presence known in the fall and winter when they collect in large numbers around the perimeter of houses and buildings, and a large number of them make their way inside.

These beetles were introduced into the U.S. to control aphids. Adult beetles and the larvae can eat hundreds of aphids each day and are considered a beneficial insect.

Outdoors in the fall you can try spraying the aggregation of beetles that are on the side of the house with a garden hose and water to discourage them.

I have a bee or wasp nest near my home

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:39:10 -0400

Question: I have a bee or wasp nest near my home. This became evident
when I was running a drill outside my house, and they came out in full
force. However, I was unable to identify where they were coming from. Is
this something that Orkin can do for me (identify where the nest/hive is?)

ANSWER Since these bees can travel miles from the nest site, it is not practical to try to find it.

Electronic Pest Control

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:17:14 -0400

Question: I have a cricket problem, and I heard there was something I could
plug into the wall that gives off a silent sound that they don't like. Do you know of anything like that?

ANSWER There is limited data on the efficacy of electronic or high frequency sound devices for household pest control. These devices may be called ultrasonic, electronic, microvibration, or electromagnetic pest repellers. They propose to use high frequency sound waves or electromagnetic output to repel insects (cockroaches, fleas, house flies, mosquitoes), rodents, moles, and other pests.

There is little or no data available that shows these devices are effective in insect control. Research with cockroaches and fleas have shown these devices to be ineffective (see Journal of Economic Entomology 83[6]: 2306-2309).

For rodent control, the data may indicate that these devices can provide some level of control for a short period of time. But rodents may easily learn to avoid the mechanisms used. Mice may be easily frightened by strange or unfamiliar noises, they quickly become accustomed to regularly repeated sounds. Ultrasonic sounds have limited use in rodent control because they are directional and do not penetrate behind objects. Testing of sound devices shows that about half the sound energy is gone within 15 feet of the device.

It might be best not to completely rely on these devices for pest control.

I have been inundated with what looks like mosquito bites. I'm not sure what it is that's attacking me full force. Any suggestions?

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:14:44 -0400

Question: I have been inundated with what looks like mosquito bites. Are
there any other types of insects that might invade ones home that would
cause a bite that would cause red whelts and itch? I don't hear or see any
mosquitos in my home? I'm not sure what it is that's attacking me full
force. Any suggestions?

ANSWER Maybe what you have are bed bugs. They are not a common problem, but there is always the possibility of having these blood-feeding insects-and in some regions of the country the frequency of bed bugs has been increasing. While bed bugs are a nuisance and deliver some painful bites, they can be controlled with some careful cleaning and a little insecticide.

These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day, and emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping (and they will also bite other mammals). The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. The bite produces a hard swelling, and is whitish in color; it usually is irritated and continues to bleed.

Control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices (and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine) the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them.

Once the frame is clean, then do the same for the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests close to the room (check the attic), since there are 'cousins' to bed bugs that live in these nests (or are associated with bats) and can move from there to feeding
on people.

I don't see centipede listed in your other pests list. Does your treatment take care of the centipede?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:46:52 -0400

Question: I don't see centipede listed in your other pests list. Does your
treatment take care of the centipede?

ANSWER Yes, contact the local Branch office. Probably what you have seen is a house centipede. There is basically one species, but they can vary in size and color (from light brown to pale brown) depending on their age and the region of the country. Their long and many legs, and their rapid movements can be a little scary and threatening, but they are relatively harmless to humans. It's the spider and insects in the house that have something to worry about, since they are the preferred food for centipedes!

The house centipede can and does live outdoors, but is usually found around the foundation of houses and other buildings. They prefer to rest in secluded places during the day, and this may include ivy growing on the side of the house or in thick, loose mulch against the side of the house. From these sites the centipedes may enter ground level rooms. They may come in as nymphs or adults and use door thresholds or gaps in the foundation. They do not come through drains (myth).

These animals are predators of spiders and insects indoors. There are no nests of centipedes; they are independent hunters and do not gather together in one place. The young forage for themselves; they are smaller than the adults and about the same coloration (and speed).

House centipedes are not easily controlled because they move around a lot (searching for food) and are out mostly at night, or during the day in dark basements. You can try spraying an aerosol insecticide (any of the 'crawling insect' sprays will do) behind baseboards where you have seen them or placing sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in the area. These animals move fast and can be scary, but they do not harm people or pets.

Could you please tell me approximately what I could expect to pay to have cockroaches exterminated from my kitchen?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:44:00 -0400

Question: Could you please tell me approximately what I could expect to
pay to have cockroaches exterminated from my kitchen?

ANSWER It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and perhaps with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Branch office of Orkin for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large department stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets and under the sink and by the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits; large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.

What happens when a rat dies in the walls or under the house. Does it smell?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:39:32 -0400

Question: What happens when a rat dies in the walls or under the house.
Does it smell? Would it better to catch the stupid thing and kill it?

ANSWER Yes, it will smell--maybe for a long time.

The best control for rats indoors is to use snap traps, but use a lot of them. The theory of one rat one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Rats are shy of new objects, so make the traps attractive. Bait the traps with small amount of food and tie it on securely.

Baits may be effective, but as you said, the rat often dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor.

Rat-rpoofing the building is the best control program for rats. Preventing their access to buildings is less expensive and easier than trying to get rid of them after they have arrived. Make sure exterior doors close snugly and have proper weatherstripping. Rats can follow utility lines or tree branches to get onto the roof. Once on the roof they can enter the attic through un-screened vents. Trim tree limbs away from the building. Repair screens on attic vents. It has been said that a rat can squeeze through a hole as small as a quarter (25¢), so all potential access points for rats should be inspected and sealed.

Do we need to leave the apt, during the treatment and if so, for how long?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:32:24 -0400

Question: If I get treatment for bed bugs in my apt. ( my roommate has
bites and saw only one bug), Do we need to leave the apt, during the
treatment and for how long? are chemicals sprayed? if so, how long must we
wait to wash floors, etc.? I'd like to know these things before my
roommate arranges for treatment.

ANSWER Insecticide applications are effective if applied correctly. You would not have to leave the room and would not have to wash the floors.

Control of bedbugs begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can treat all the cracks and crevices with an aerosol insecticide .

Once the frame is treated , then do the same for the head board and the box spring: treat the cracks and crevices. Then clean and vacuum the seams of the mattress. With the aerosol treat the cracks and crevices of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and treat under or behind the baseboard where bedbugs may also be hiding. These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to treat the room. Night stands and even picture frames on the walls can be hiding places, so it is important to be thorough.

Does your company have a safe way to get rid of the ants in my home and still be safe for my pets.

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:24:07 -0400

Question: Hello I am written to you for information regarding ant control
and my pets. Does your company have a safe way to get rid of the ants in
my home and still be safe for my pets. If so I would like to hear back
from you because I would like to set up an appointment for service.

ANSWER General ant control begins with trying to locate the nest site. , then using baits--this is method is safe for pets.

Some ants make trails from their nest site to a food supply, so you may be able to follow the worker ants from the food back to the nest, then apply some liquid insecticide directly to the nest. Other species do not make strong trails, so locating the nest is more difficult.

In general, baits are the best method of ant control, but this takes time and patience. There are some dry or granular baits available, but the ants seem to prefer liquid baits. Place the bait stations beside the ant trail where you have seen the most activity. If you are using gel bait, apply it into cracks and crevices near the ant trail.

Ant feeding behavior often depends on the time of year, whether they are rearing young in the colony or not, and in the availability of other food sources. You may need to use several different kinds of ant bait, and switch them periodically. The bait should be kept full until the ants have stopped feeding. Control does take time.

Spraying a liquid insecticide around the outside perimeter of the house or structure can be used for control. It can help by placing a residual insecticide on the surfaces that the ants will walk on as they try to enter the house. Children and pets should stay away from this application until it has dried. The insecticide label will have more details.

Granular insecticides can be effective for ground-nesting ants when applied to the ground around the perimeter of the house. They must be watered after they are applied.

Is a house mice problem easy to get control of after Orkin treats the home and is the treatment harmful to dogs?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:07:17 -0400

Question: Is a house mice problem easy to get control of after Orkin
treats the home and is the treatment harmful to dogs?

ANSWER The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps, but use a lot of them. The theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, little pieces of string, or bits of cotton or cloth.

Put the traps in the area where you have seen the mice, but be sure children and pets cannot reach the traps. The traps may have to be re-set a few times until the mice are all caught.

Baits may be effective, but often the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they leave the house after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

Is a house mouse problem easy to get control of after Orkin treats the home and is the treatment harmful to dogs?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:07:17 -0400

Question: Is a house mouse problem easy to get control of after Orkin
treats the home and is the treatment harmful to dogs?

Put the traps in the area where you have seen the mice, but be sure children and pets cannot reach the traps. The traps may have to be re-set a few times until the mice are all caught.

What do you call the pest that you don't see and the bytes are very itchy and looks like hyves but bigger than hyves?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:00:45 -0400

Question: What do you call the pest that you don't see and the bytes are
very itchy and looks like hyves but bigger than hyves?

ANSWER Perhaps it is scabies mites.

Scabies mites are one of the most common problems among school-aged children, and sometimes adults. There is no (or shouldn't be!) social stigma attached to having a problem with these mites. They are easily passed between children and between children and adults, and schools are often the site where this occurs.

There is no need to apply pesticide to the building. These mites remain on humans. They are not like the clover mite or bird mites that wander around and can be killed with a pesticide application. The scabies mite, Sarcopties scabei var. hominis, is found on people. They are spread by direct person-to-person contact. The female mite burrow beneath the skin (usually on the fingers, wrists, elbows, and other tender places) and lay her eggs. A red rash can develop and the itching can become intense, and may persist for a long period ("seven year itch") if not treated.

These mites are easily controlled by prescription or over-the-counter materials. The pharmacist may be able to help. If not, it may be necessary to see a doctor.

What do you call the pest that you don't see and the bites are very itchy and looks like hives but bigger than hives?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:00:45 -0400

Question: What do you call the pest that you don't see and the bites are
very itchy and looks like hives but bigger than hives?

ANSWER Perhaps it is caused by scabies mites.

Scabies mites are very common problems among school-aged children as well as adults. There should be no social stigma attached to having a problem with these mites. They are easily passed between people, and schools are often the place where this occurs.

There is no need to apply pesticide to the building. These mites remain on humans. They are not like clover mites or bird mites that wander around and can be killed with a pesticide application. The scabies mite, Sarcopties scabei var. hominis, is found on people. They are spread by direct person-to-person contact. The female mite burrows beneath the skin (usually on the fingers, wrists, elbows, and other tender places) and lays her eggs. A red rash can develop and the itching can become intense. The itching may persist for a long period if not treated.

These mites are easily controlled by prescription or over-the-counter products. The pharmacist may be able to help. If not, it may be necessary to see a doctor.

I just got a new hickory wood floor. I think I have Powder post Beetles. What is the best way to get rid of them.

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:44:10 -0400

Question: I just got a new hickory wood floor. I think I have Powder post
Beetles. What is the best way to get rid of them.

ANSWER The term "powderpost beetles" may refer to several different kinds of wood-infesting insects. The term is used for beetles that only infest hardwoods (such as flooring, trim, or even ornamental pieces), or for beetles that only infest softwoods (such as wall framing and support joists), or for beetles that infest both hardwoods and softwoods. In your situation, hardwood floors, I suspect that you have lyctid powderpost beetles--but I'm not sure.

Damage: The damage produced by these beetles may be small round holes (about the size of pencil lead), or large (quarter of an inch in diameter)oval holes in the wood surface. The first signs of an infestation (past or present) is usually a small amount of frass or sawdust or powder in or around a piece of furniture, drawer, or cabinet. If the powder is a little gritty when rubbed between your fingers, then it is anobiid beetle damage; if the frass is soft and not gritty, then it is lyctid beetle damage (and probably coming from a hardwood).

Lyctid Powderpost Beetles (Family: Lyctidae). The damage from these small (1/8 inch) beetles may be found in various places in the house, such as kitchen cabinets, baseboard trim, hardwood flooring (all hardwoods), and in ornamental pieces of wood such as picture frames. They infest only hardwoods, and generally infest only new wood, usually less than 5 years old. They can re-infest, but this is not always the case. The life cycle takes 1-2 years.

Anobiid Powderpost Beetles (Family: Anobiidae). The damage from these small (1/8 inch) beetles may be found in floor joists in crawl spaces of houses, sometimes in attic joists and wall studs. They infest primarily softwood, but will also attack hardwoods. Their life cycle is 1-2 years and they will continually re-infest structural wood, sometimes causing structural damage.

Control of these beetles depends on first determining that there is an active infestation. The holes and the powder (called frass) that falls from the holes may exist for many years, but is NOT an indication that there are beetles alive in the wood at this time. If the infestation is active (= recent holes or the sound of feeding is heard), then there are several treatment options. The damaged wood may be able to be removed and replaced. Treatment may include the application of liquid insecticide to the surface of the infested wood; or the injection of liquid below the surface, into the feeding galleries or tunnel; or the tenting and fumigation of the entire structure (but this is reserved for only severe infestations). The insecticides used for control will provide control by killing the larval stage in the wood.

It would probably be worthwhile to call the supplier of the flooring to see if they have had problems in their stock. You can call the local Orkin branch to come inspect and discuss the options.

I'd like to get an idea as to how much your pest control and termite treatments cost.

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:40:15 -0400

Question: I'd like to get an idea as to how much your pest control and
termite treatments cost. I have a 1450 square foot house and I already
have the termite bait traps in place. I live in north Euless, Tx

What is the best solution for eradicating mice?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:33:34 -0400

Question: What is the best solution for eradicating mice?

Baits may be effective, but oftentimes the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they leave the building after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

I have these little bugs, mostly in the kitchen on the counters. Would you have an idea of what kind of bug these are?

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:30:34 -0400

Question: I have these little bugs, mostly in the kitchen on the counters.
The counter is covered every morning with these little (about 1/8 of an
inch)bugs. They have a hard shell, they dont move very fast and have six
little legs. I put some in a ziplock baggy at 6 a.m and at 5 p.m they
were still alive. Would you have an idea of what kind of bug these are?
I live in west central ohio.

ANSWER Probably what you have seen in the cabinets is one of the several species of beetles that infest flour and meal. As a group, they are often called Stored Product Beetles. There are several species, including the saw-toothed grain beetle, drugstore beetle, confused flour beetle, and cigarette beetle.

Stored product beetles are common in nearly all households. Sometimes their numbers increase dramatically. They will infest a variety of food material, including flour, mixes, spices, noodles, and other grain or flour-based material.

The best control is to remove everything from the cabinets. Inspect all of the food packages and discard what is infested. Then vacuum the cabinets very well.

What I have appears to be a very large ant, and I am fairly sureit would classify under Hymenoptera.

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:24:27 -0400

Question: I am sure you get this all the time, I am trying to identify an
insect. What I have appears to be a very large ant, and I am fairly sure
it would classify under Hymenoptera. This insect is black in color with
six legs well defined head, thorax, and extremely large abdomen. The
antennane and mouthparts resemble that of an ant. With the abdomen being
so large it would appear that this may be a queen of some sorts but there
are no workers around.

ANSWER Probably what you have is one of the carpenter ant species (Genus: Camponotus). There are several species of carpenter ants across the U.S. Most are large black ants, but some are red and some are red and black. Most of the species produce swarms (winged males and female ants) in the spring. These ants feed on other insects and honeydew from aphids on plants and trees.

Carpenter ants nest in wood, but do not eat the wood. If there is moisture-damaged wood the ants will choose it over dry, sound wood. It is common to find carpenter ants in areas where there has been a moisture problem, such as in the bathroom where the tub or shower are not draining properly (or have overflowed and wet the wood), or a porch that is holding moisture, a roof leak, a door frame that gets wet from rain, a downspout or gutter that is not working.

These ants make a nest outdoors, then forage inside for food or water. If they find food or water, they often start a satellite colony inside the house near the food. It is not unusual to see ants trailing between the outsidenest and the satellite colony amd the food source. They are normally active at night.

What I have appears to be a very large ant, and I am fairly sure it would classify under Hymenoptera.

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:24:27 -0400

Question: I am sure you get this all the time, I am trying to identify an
insect. What I have appears to be a very large ant, and I am fairly sure
it would classify under Hymenoptera. This insect is black in color with
six legs well defined head, thorax, and extremely large abdomen. The
antennae and mouthparts resemble that of an ant. With the abdomen being
so large it would appear that this may be a queen of some sort but there
are no workers around.

If wood gets damaged by moisture from a roof leak, a door frame that gets wet from rain, or a downspout or gutter that is not working, the carpenter ants usually find it.

These ants make a nest outdoors, then forage inside for food or water. If they find food or water, they often start a satellite colony inside the house near the food. It is not unusual to see ants trailing between the outside nest , the satellite colony, and the food source. They are normally active at night.

The best control for carpenter ants is to locate the nest. A thorough inspection of the house for moisture damaged wood is helpful. Correcting the moisture problem is the first step. The ant nest can be removed or sprayed. while the wood is being repaired.

Baits are best for control when the nest can not be located. Liquid baits are preferred by ants, but most baits will work if you locate them near the trail of foraging ants. Baiting takes time, but it will get to the queen in the colony and that is best approach. Killing the worker ants with sprays is not effective.

What kind of bug likes to hang out in wet/damp areas and has 4 or more legs on each side with 2 long crab like pintchers.

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:18:28 -0400

Question: What kind of bug likes to hang out in wet/damp areas and has 4
or more legs on each side with 2 long crab like pintchers. Is the size of
a tick and has the body of a crab.

ANSWER What you have may be a pseudoscorpion. A bad name for this animal, since it has no relation to scorpions!. Pseudoscorpions are predators on mites and small insects. They will not bite people or pets. They live in wooded areas and they are usually brought into house on the fur of pets or the pant cuffs of people that have been in the woods.

No need to worry, they will not reproduce in the house and can be removed by hand or using an insecticide. Follow the label directions for application.

What are the teeny-tiny red dot bugs that show up in my windows and near doors?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:24:24 -0400

Question: I have a 2-3 year new townhouse. What are the teeny-tiny red
dot bugs that show up in my windows and near doors? Are they dangerous to
the integrity of the house?

ANSWER What you have seen are probably clover mites. They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin and usually moving around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in the fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while (and we don't know why!) populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not infest the house and will not bite people or pets (remember, they are plant feeders), but they can be a nuisance.

A good control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose, and you can vacuum them from sites indoors. Most modern insecticides are designed for insects (theses are mites), and using a garden insecticide to control clover mites (on the outside of the house) may not always be effective, or you may have to apply it several times.

What type of treatment do you provide for clover mite infestations?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:22:44 -0400

Question: What type of treatment do you provide for clover mite
infestations?

ANSWER You'll have to contact the local Branch office for what they can provide.

They are small, reddish mites, about the size of the head of a pin and usually moving around very quickly. Problems with these mites usually occur in the spring, but there are regions that also experience population increases in the fall.

These mites live and feed in turfgrass and for the most part remain unnoticed. Every once in a while (and we don't know why!) populations get very large and the mites start to migrate from the grass. They usually move out of the grass and up the sides of houses. Sometimes they enter houses through windows and doors. They will not infest the house and will not bite people or pets (remember, they are plant feeders), but they can be a nuisance.

A good control method is to wash them off the side of the house with a garden hose, and you can vacuum them from sites indoors. Most modern insecticides are designed for insects (theses are mites), and using a garden insecticide to control clover mites (on the outside of the house) may not always be effective, or you may have to apply it several times.

In the past few days, I have experienced localized itching on my skin. Is it possible for you to identify if there are pests in my house/bedroom, what kind they are and eliminate them?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:19:06 -0400

Question: In the past few days, I have experienced localized itching on my skin.
This happens only when I sleep on my bed. I was out of town last week and
I was fine. When I came back home, and slept in my bedroom, the reaction
started again. Is it possible for you to identify if there are pests in my
house/bedroom, what kind they are and eliminate them?

ANSWER Probably you have bed bugs. They are not a common problem, but there is always the possibility of having these blood-feeding insects-and in some regions of the country the frequency of bed bugs has been increasing. While bed bugs are a nuisance and deliver some painful bites, they can be controlled with some careful cleaning and a little insecticide.

These small, reddish-brown insects hide during the day, and emerge at night to take a blood meal from people sleeping (and they will also bite other mammals). The bed bug takes 3 to 15 minutes to feed, and then it may not feed again for 2-3 days. The bite produces a hard swelling, and is whitish in color; it usually is irritated and continues to bleed.

Control begins with taking the bed completely apart. Start with the frame, and disconnect as many parts as possible so you can clean all the cracks and crevices (and spray with an aerosol insecticide (any of the common aerosols will be fine) the ones you can not clean). If you don't want to use an aerosol, use a hair dryer (set on high) to blow hot air into the cracks and crevices of the bed-this will drive out the bugs and kill some of them.

Once the frame is clean, then do the same for the box spring: clean the cracks and crevices, then clean and maybe vacuum the seams of the mattress. With what is left in the aerosol you can spray the baseboards of the room. Start with the area near the bed, and try to get the spray under or behind the baseboard (where bedbugs may also be hiding). These insects can travel far to find a blood meal, so don't fail to clean and treat the room. They can live long without food, so even old beds (not used in while) can have them.

Check to see that there are no new or recently abandoned bird nests close to the room (check the attic), since there are 'cousins' to bed bugs that live in these nests (or are associated with bats) and can move from there to feeding
on people.

Do you have solutions for centipedes, millipedes, daddy longlegs?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:17:57 -0400

Question: Do you have solutions for centipedes, millipedes, daddy
longlegs?

ANSWER Probably what you have seen is a house centipede. There is basically one species, but they can vary in size and color (from light brown to pale brown) depending on their age and the region of the country. Their long and many legs, and their rapid movements can be a little scary and threatening, but they are relatively harmless to humans. It's the spider and insects in the house that have something to worry about, since they are the preferred food for centipedes!

The house centipede can and does live outdoors, but is usually found around the foundation of houses and other buildings. They prefer to rest in secluded places during the day, and this may include ivy growing on the side of the house or in thick, loose mulch against the side of the house. From these sites the centipedes may enter ground level rooms. They may come in as nymphs or adults and use door thresholds or gaps in the foundation. They do not come through drains (myth).

These animals are predators of spiders and insects indoors. There are no nests of centipedes; they are independent hunters and do not gather together in one place. The young forage for themselves; they are smaller than the adults and about the same coloration (and speed).

House centipedes are not easily controlled because they move around a lot (searching for food) and are out mostly at night, or during the day in dark basements. You can try spraying an aerosol insecticide (any of the 'crawling insect' sprays will do) behind baseboards where you have seen them or placing sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in the area. These animals move fast and can be scary, but they do not harm people or pets.

Common turfgrass millipede. They are characterized by the numerous legs on each side of the body, thus the name 'thousand legger'. These animals are common household invaders, especially this time of year (actually from spring to fall!).

They live outdoors in moist and decaying organic material (dead leaves, flower garden mulch, even the thatch layer in turfgrass), and usually go unnoticed at these locations. Sometimes millipede populations increase rapidly, or their environment get too wet, and they start to migrate to get away from these conditions. They usually move to the sides of houses (where it may be warmer and drier) and sometimes come inside under door thresholds and around windows at ground level.

The best control is to remove as much of the moist mulch around doors as possible; this reduces their breeding sites and the favorable areas for them, and make certain the door thresholds are well sealed. These animals don't infest houses, in fact they die soon after they enter because the environment is too dry for them.

Daddy longlegs are active this time of year. They are not actually spiders, but close enough to be disliked by most people.

They are predators like spiders, and feed primarily on insects (but they don't each much), and some may eat plant material. They are usually found outdoors and near outdoor lights (near doors) because the lights attract insects and the daddy longlegs can find plenty of food there.

Control of daddy longlegs can begin by reducing the outdoor lights at night, then using a broom to move them away form the door. These 'spiders' don't bite people or pets and are rather harmless.

My husband and I are finding it difficult to live with the House Centipedes that appear out of nowhere.

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:15:52 -0400

Question: My husband and I are finding it difficult to live with the House
Centipedes (scutigera coleoptrata) that appear out of nowhere. From what
I've read- they are actually helpful as they eat other smaller insects,
but we are still wondering if there are any tried and true methods for
getting rid of them for good.

ANSWER House centipedes are not easily controlled because they move around a lot (searching for food) and are out mostly at night, or during the day in dark basements. You can try spraying an aerosol insecticide (any of the 'crawling insect' sprays will do) behind baseboards where you have seen them or placing sticky traps (such as those for cockroaches) in the area. These animals move fast and can be scary, but they do not harm people or pets.

I have house mice. Is there a spray to be sprayed around my house to keep them out? How do you catch them? How much does this cost run?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:14:19 -0400

Question: I have house mice. Is there a spray to be sprayed around my house to
keep them out? How do you catch them? How much does this cost run?

ANSWER The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps, but use a lot of them-the theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, but at least on one of the trap attach a piece of cotton (sew it on!)-this will attract the females and help reduce the population quicker.

Baits may be effective, but oftentimes the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they turn to stone after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

It may seem to be an easy task to provide an estimate for the cost of service via e-mail. However, insect problems and infestations are different, each house is different, and the conditions of each property are different. Thus quotes and estimates for the cost of control are best done locally and perhaps with an inspection by a service technician.

You should contact the local Branch office of Orkin for estimates on the cost of pest control service and for scheduling service.

house mice. Is there a spray to be sprayed around my house to keep them out? How do you catch them? How much does this cost run?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:14:19 -0400

Question: I have house mice. Is there a spray to be sprayed around my house to
keep them out? How do you catch them? How much does this cost run?

ANSWER The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps, but use a lot of them--the theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, scraps of cloth, or pieces of string.

Put the traps against walls or the side of cabinets. Make sure children and pets cannot reach them. It may be necessary to re-set the traps several times untl the miice are all caught.

Baits may be effective, but many times the mouse dies behind the wall and there is a lingering odor for several weeks. The story that they run out of the house after eating the baits and there is no odor is simply not true!

Check outside for openings the mice could be using to get in. They can squeeze through a hole as small as a dime, so look closely. Move firewood and other hiding places away from the foundation. Keep he grass trimmed next to the house.

The local Orkin branch can give you more information about the service. Please contact them directly for details or to schedule service.

It looks like a pillbug, and has gotten into my dry food boxes and I see them crawling on the kitchen counter occasionally.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 19:19:51 -0400

Question: I have searched for answers to what kind of bug is infesting my
kitchen and can't find anything!
It looks like a pillbug, and has gotten into my dry food boxes and I see
them crawling on the kitchen counter occasionally.. they don't appear to
roll up in a ball or anything.. just wander around.
I am tired of opening unopened boxes of food and finding that these
critters have already gotten in the box.. what are they? And how do I get
rid of them?

ANSWER Perhaps you have larder beetles. There are several species of household beetles that are called larder beetles, and they are all in the family Dermestidae. The actual 'larder beetle' (Dermestes lardarius) is a common household pests. It is about one-quarter inch long or a little smaller, blackish brown and with a pale yellow, horizontal stripe on the back. These beetles are usually found in kitchen cabinets or places where food is stored. The larvae and adults feed on a variety of plant and animal material.

The best control is to remove everything from the cabinets. Inspect all of the food packages and discard what is infested. Then vacuum the cabinets very well before you replace the food packages on the shelves.

I have a MAJOR roach infestation that I cannot seem to get under control-I have tried sprays. Can I have my house tented and sprayed?

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 19:12:28 -0400

Question: I have a MAJOR roach infestation that I cannot seem to get under
control-I have tried sprays, bait, boric acid etc. nothing seems to work I
have a daughter that has severe asthma and I was told that the roaches
might be triggering her asthma, I need to get rid of the roaches now not
six months from now as all the other pest control companies have told me,
can you help? Can I have my house tented and sprayed?

ANSWER Fumigation is not necessary.

The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large home or hardware stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than aerosol fogging and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets and under the sink and by the motors of appliances like the refrigerator. Baits can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches (small roaches-about ½" long) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation.

Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Many bait programs fail because there is not enough bait for all the roaches and the ones that didn't get the bait are able to reproduce.

Give this method about three weeks to work.

I keep seeing this bug around my house, mainly in our basement it looks like a small grasshopper/beetle.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 19:07:13 -0400

Question: I keep seeing this bug around my house, mainly in our basement
(which has been finished),it looks like a small grasshopper/beetle. It is
brown in color with yellow stripes and it's head is a solid reddish brown.
It is pretty fast in running. It has 4 small legs with 2 larger hind legs.
My husband and I have never seen this type of bug and was wondering if you
know what it is. Also, it seems to come from our wood pile in the
basement. Whenever I throw a few pieces of wood in our wood-burning stove,
one or two seem to come out. I can't find any kind of a nest in the wood,
but I have killed about a dozen in the past week. Can you help us identify
this bug.

ANSWER Probably what you have found are common camel crickets (sometimes called cave crickets). These insects have become pests in recent years. They look a bit strange with their long antennae, large hind legs, and absence of wings, but they are crickets.

Camel crickets live in dark and moist areas, and are often found in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. They don't do any significant damage to household materials, they feed on fresh and dead plant material; but they can be a nuisance by their habit of forming large aggregations, and surprising the unsuspecting homeowner when they move a box or get into the crawl space under the house.

The best control would be to remove as much of the stuff they use to hide in. Then maybe an insecticide treatment of the infested sites. Follow the insecticide label directions for application. Look outside for things they could be hiding under. Make sure door thresholds are sealed. Check screens on basement windows.

My car is infested with small black ants that were picked up when the car was parked for several days near a wooded area.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 19:02:12 -0400

Question: My car is infested with small black ants that were picked up
when the car was parked for several days near a wooded area. They are
living primarily in the fender wells, etc and not inside the car, though I
have been finding some in the car. What is the best solution to get rid
of them without setting off a fumigator in a garage?

ANSWER They are not likely to remain there, but for now--vacuum the car as thoroughly as possible, then place some ant bait stations inside; they will find these stations and take up the poison bait. Spraying the wheel wells with a water hose may help.

I've heard that there is something that can be done before a house is built to help prevent future termite problems.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:56:23 -0400

Question: I've heard that there is something that can be done before a
house is built to help prevent future termite problems. I am going to be
building a home in Palos Park IL and wanted to know if there's anything
you would recommend.

ANSWER Treating houses during construction, when the foundation and the soil and/or gravel that forms the bed of future concrete slabs are exposed, is the best time to protect against subterranean termites. The foundation block and the footing for the block or poured concrete wall are treated on the outside and inside. Sometimes the wood sill plate and joists for the flooring are treated (usually with a different insecticide).

This treatment is called 'pretreatment' by pest control operators and is done routinely. It will need scheduling in advance. There may be a second treatment when the foundation has been back-filled and the final soil grading has been made. It is best for a professional company to do this treating, since it requires special application equipment and a large quantity of liquid termiticide.

I've heard that there is something that can be before a house is built to help prevent future termite problems.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:56:23 -0400

How do I catch or get rid of moles in the house ? trap or baits anything.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:51:17 -0400

Question: How do I catch or get rid of moles in the house ? trap or baits
anything.

ANSWER You probably don't have moles in the house, these animals live outside. I have seen them at doorways in very wet conditions, but my guess is that these are mice.

The best control for mice indoors is to use snap traps, but use a lot of them. The theory of one mouse one trap rarely works! Lots of traps will ensure that you get them, and quickly. Bait the traps with small amount of food, little pieces of string, or bits of cotton or cloth.

How long does it take to get rid of German Cockroaches?

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:44:13 -0400

Question: How long does it take to get rid of German Cockroaches?

ANSWER The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large home or hardware stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than aerosol fogging and liquid treatments.

Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets and under the sink and by the motors of appliances like the refrigerator. Baits can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.

German cockroaches (small roaches-about ½" long) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits. Large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method a few weeks to work.

I am curious what type of bug I may have in my home.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:41:00 -0400

Question: I am curious what type of bug I may have in my home. It's body
and had are just two sections it has brown body with light brown stripe in
the center.

ANSWER There are several species of household beetles that are called larder beetles, and they are all in the family Dermestidae. The actual 'larder beetle' (Dermestes lardarius) is a common household pests. It is about one-quarter inch long or a little smaller, blackish brown and with a pale yellow, horizontal stripe on the back. These beetles are usually found in kitchen cabinets or places where food is stored. The larvae and adults feed on a variety of plant and animal material.

The best control is to remove everything from the cabinets. Inspect all the food packages and discard what is infested. Then vacuum the cabinets very well before replacing the food packages.

I live in Ohio and have seen little worms all over the basement and even outdoors.

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:36:05 -0400

Question: I live in Ohio and have seen little worms (about 1-2 cm) all
over the basement and even outdoors. It seems like all they do is die on
the carpet or corners. They don't have long legs like a millipede. Can you
please tell me what they are?

ANSWER Probably what you have is the common turfgrass millipede. They are characterized by the numerous legs on each side of the body, thus the name 'thousand legger'. These animals are common household invaders, especially from spring to fall.

They live outdoors in moist and decaying organic material (dead leaves, flower garden mulch, even the thatch layer in turfgrass), and usually go unnoticed at these locations. Sometimes millipede populations increase rapidly, or their environment get too wet, and they start to migrate to get away from these conditions. They usually move to the sides of houses (where it may be warmer and drier) and sometimes come inside under door thresholds and around windows at ground level.

The best control is to remove as much of the moist mulch from against the foundation and around doors as possible. This reduces their breeding sites and the favorable areas for them. Make certain the door thresholds are well sealed. These animals don't reproduce in houses, in fact they die soon after they enter because the environment is too dry for them.

I have a number of mice in my apartment me and other neighbors, what type of poison will kill these little monsters?

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:28:58 -0400

Question: Hello, I have a number of mice in my apartment me and other
neighbors, what type of poison will kill these little monsters? I went to
the Hardware store and bought these little pellets and some Boric Acid.
But what kind of strong poison should I get that is odorless?

Put the traps where you have seen the mice. You may have to re-set or re-position the traps before all the mice have been caught. Be sure that children and pets cannot reach the traps.

What is a very fast moving lizard looking pest that is imposible to catch and impossible to poison?

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 11:39:10 -0400

Question: What is a very fast moving lizard looking pest that is imposible
to catch and impossible to poison?

ANSWER I'm thinking it might be a gecko.

Small lizards, skinks, and geckoes are common pests in houses and buildings that are surrounded by vegetation or are close to areas of dense (sometimes shaded) plants. They are pests simply by their presence indoors; they do not live in or reproduce in houses. They come in from surrounding vegetation seeking food, which is primarily insects.

Usually they are following the insects that are attracted to outdoor lights. Of course, they don't bite people or animals and would eventually move out of the house, except for those that get 'lost' indoors. I am not aware that these animals present a threat to people or pets.

The best control strategy is to keep them out by keeping doors and windows closed or screened;. Reducing the vegetation around the house and limiting outdoor lights at night may also be helpful.

Why do spiders not die from the residual spray?

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:27:55 -0400

Question: Why do spiders not die from the residual spray? They can only
be killed on contact correct? Are there any product methods that
successfully kill spiders without being in direct contact.

ANSWER Spiders simply do not spend much time walking on any treated surfaces. Some spiders are web builders and spend most of their time on or near their webs. Hunting spiders don't build webs, but they stay hidden in cracks and crevices when they are not hunting.

It is easier to control spiders by getting rid of the insects that they eat. Make sure exterior doors close properly and have weatherstripping. Screen attic and crawlspace vents. Install "bug light" bulbs in outside lights. Insecticide applications on the outside foundation will help reduce the number of insectrs that come into the home. Sticky traps can help reduce the spider population. Put them in dark places where spiders might hide.

I have recently developed a flea problem in my home. What do you recommend?

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:20:19 -0400

Question: I have recently developed a flea problem in my home.I do not
have pets but we did recently bring in a piece of furniture that was given
to us and at the same time a noticed a few cats hanging around so I am
unsure on where they came from?But what I want to know is what do you
recommend from the store for me to use and also have much does orkin
charge to spray for fleas?I went and bought Bengal full season plus flea
spray but haven't used it yet because I am scared I will hurt my 15 month
old child with the spray but I must do something because my son is being
biten badly.you would think he had chicken pox or measles the way these
fleas are biting him.I have seen the fleas on me but don't have marks.

ANSWER It is possible to have a flea problem in the house, and people receive bites even though you do not have a pet. They may have come in on that furniture you mentioned.

Controlling fleas indoors (when you don't have a pet) begins with vacuuming. Vacuuming will pick up some flea eggs and larvae. Vacuuming will also make the adult fleas come out of their cocoons so the carpet treatment will work better.

Use an insecticide that is designed for carpet application. Read the labels to be sure. Follow the label directions for application. You and the family will probably have to stay off the carpet until the treatment is completely dry - the label should tell you how long.

Continue to vacuum for several days after the carpet has been treated. The insecticide label will tell you whether you should treat the carpet again.