Spring Insects That Swarm

Honey bee enjoying a spring flower

Spring in El Paso is such a beautiful time of year.  As the weather warms and you want to get outside and plan your family events, keep a look out for spring pests that swarm! As the flowers and trees start to bloom all around our beautiful state, don’t let insects send you right back indoors.

What is a Swarm?

A swarm is a large group of winged insects that come together for reproduction. Swarms usually take place outdoors on warm, quiet days. However, if one occurs near your home, the pests may establish themselves on your property. Discovering a swarm can be concerning, but a professional can help you get rid of the insects before they have a chance to infest your home.

A variety of insects start to swarm during springtime, including:

Termites

Termites are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. To identify whether a bug is a termite or not, look at its wings and antennae. Termite antennae are straight, and wings are all shaped the same. You can also keep an eye out for these signs of a termite infestation:

  • Damaged wood
  • Piles of frass
  • Mud tubes along walls
  • Droppings
  • Live or dead insects

Although termites are not toxic, they are capable of causing thousands of dollars worth in damage to wooden structures. Once you identify that you have termites, you will need the help of a professional exterminator. Taking care of a termite infestation is a time-sensitive situation. Every minute the infestation continues, the more they can cost you!

Ants

Spring is when ants thrive. With the weather warming up, these pests come out of hiding and start swarming to reproduce and grow or establish a colony. After breeding, they begin hunting for food. Unfortunately, that often draws them right into our kitchens. Infestations can be difficult to deal with once they take root, but there are some ways you can prevent ants from invading your home:

  • Regularly wiping down countertops
  • Sweeping your kitchen floor
  • Storing food in airtight containers
  • Keeping your landscaping tidy
  • Repairing broken window screens

Though most ants are simply unpleasant to encounter, some are also capable of causing extensive property damage. Carpenter ants are one of the most common ant species to swarm in the spring, and they prefer to build nests inside of wooden structures. Similar to a termite infestation, it’s crucial to call a professional if you notice signs of carpenter ants on your property.

Bees

Honey bees are banded orange-yellow and brown to black in color with a round, fuzzy body. These beneficial insects typically swarm when the colony gets too large or moves to a new hive. Though bees aren’t generally aggressive, they can be concerning – especially if you have allergies, pets, or small children. Contact your local pest control professional if you are worried about bees on or near your property, and follow these steps to protect yourself from potential stings:

  • Clean up thoroughly after eating outdoors
  • Store your outdoor trash in lidded bins
  • Remove sources of standing water near your home
  • Repair broken door or window screens
  • Never approach the swarm or nest

Wasps

Wasps are notoriously aggressive, so a swarm on your property can be a real problem. Most wasps are black with white, orange, or yellow markings and a hairless body. Their most defining trait is a thin pinched waist and sharp body shape. In the warmer months, the queen will come out of hibernation and begin looking for food. Here are some ways you can deter wasps from invading your space:

  • Keep pet food bowls clean and empty when not in use
  • Seal any cracks, holes, or crevices that may lead into your home
  • Regularly check the eves of your roof for signs of a nest
  • Clean up outdoor food scraps or trash
  • Never approach the swarm or nest

Professional Pest Control in West Texas

At Pest Defense Solutions – El Paso, our team works quickly and efficiently to provide you with the pest-free living our services guarantee. As the top-rated pest control and extermination company for years, you can trust us with all of your pest control needs. Our highly trained and certified technicians will craft personalized solutions geared toward long-term results. Call us for a free quote. 

Leaky Pipes and Thirsty Pests

Leaky pipes attracting pests in El Paso TX - Pest Defense Solutions El Paso

Leaks in our plumbing fixtures can lead to more than just defects and damage. The rot and water buildup that leaks cause can create opportunities for lots of different El Paso pests to take refuge inside our walls, cabinets, bathrooms, and more. If you neglect your regular inspections of your pipes for damage or leaks, you could be allowing your home to turn into a safe haven for bugs. To learn what you could expect and how to prevent this, read the Pest Defense Solutions technicians’ advice!

What Pests Do Leaky Pipes Attract?

When leakage from faulty pipes builds up, you might see one of any number of unwanted visitors. However, these three pests are the main ones to worry about in El Paso:

  1. Ants: If you experience leaks during the summer, you are bound to end up with ant problems. The heat-induced dehydration will drive ants into our homes looking for a constant source of water.
  2. Cockroaches: Although roaches are arguably the world’s most resilient pests, they can’t go more than a week without a water source. Given that they are nocturnal, they need a dark hiding place during the day, so damp wooden cupboards and walls are the perfect place for them to take refuge.
  3. Termites: If you thought your leak-induced wood damage was bad, just wait until termites catch wind of it. With a free water source and plenty of wood cellulose to feed on, a leaky plumbing fixture is a termite’s dream come true.

How to Prevent Pest Problems Caused by Leakage

When you discover a leaky pipe in your home, you have to quickly take some preventative measures to stop the site from turning into a pest haven.

  • Seal any cracks that you’ve found using a silicone-based caulk. This is the most effective way to stop leakage on your own.
  • Make sure that any spaces with leakage are as well-ventilated as they can be. This will help any moisture buildup dry faster.
  • Call your local pest control company. A professional pest control technician will be able to take the proper precautions necessary to diminish any current or future pest impact.

Keeping Pests Out in El Paso

If you’re worried that your leaking issue is causing a pest infestation in your home, let your local pest control company know. At Pest Defense Solutions, we train our technicians to assess and handle all sorts of outbreaks, no matter what kind of pest you’re dealing with. We understand that leaky pipes can cause anxiety beyond the threat of pests, so we work our hardest to do our job efficiently and effectively. Contact us today for a free quote!

Do Termites Infest Non-Wood Homes?

Do termites infest non-wood homes in El Paso Texas - Pest Defense Solutions

One of the biggest misconceptions about termites is that they only infest wood homes. The bad news is that this is not true—non-wood homes can get termites, too! This is because termites are attracted to a number of different things that could make your property the perfect environment for their activity. Because termites are a threat to all types of homes, it’s important to learn what may be attracting them to your house in the first place. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to help you better understand what could be causing termite problems in your El Paso home.

Termites in Non-Wood Homes

No matter whether your home is made of wood, brick, or stone, termites remain a threat. This is because there could be other risk factors at play. Wood stored near your home, moisture issues, wooden decks, and more could all put you at risk for a termite problem. The best way to know if you are protected against termites is to work with a professional termite exterminator. A thorough home inspection will pinpoint anything in or around your property that could put you at risk for termite problems.

What Draws Termites to my Home?

  1. Moisture problems.
    1. Subterranean termites in particular are attracted to moisture, especially in soil. Standing water or excess moisture will invite termites to take up residence in your home. Always fix leaks, broken sprinkler systems, downspouts, and clogged gutters to ensure you are protected from moisture problems.
  2. Foundation problems.
    1. Termites will take advantage of structural vulnerabilities, no matter whether your home is wooden or brick. A crack in the structure of your property allows for termites to easily build mud tubes upon it. Frequently inspect your home for cracks and make repairs as needed. Look for other issues that could contribute not just to termite problems, but all sorts of pest problems!
  3. Wood in contact with the soil.
    1. Even homes that aren’t made of wood can have siding, decks, porches, fences, posts, and more that contain wood. Any wood that comes into contact with your home’s exterior is at risk for termites. For this reason, avoid storing firewood on the ground near your property. Remove decaying logs or stumps, and avoid mulch. Trim back trees to avoid branches coming into contact with your home.

The Risk of Termites in El Paso

Termite infestations are a year-round threat to all homeowners here in El Paso. You can keep your structure safe by working with your local termite control experts. At Pest Defense Solutions, our termite exterminators will thoroughly inspect your property to locate anything that could make you vulnerable to termite problems.

Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

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Entomologists from Pest Defense Solutions’ parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

Common Seasonal Pests in El Paso

Mosquitoes are a common seasonal pest in El Paso TX - Pest Defense Solutions

El Paso is home to many types of pests that are, for the most part, active throughout most of the year. Due to our mild climate, pests don’t necessarily wait out the winter like they would in other parts of the country. That said, there are still a number of seasonal pests unique to our area. At Pest Defense Solutions, we believe it is very important to learn what pests are most common in certain parts of the year in order to prepare yourself for an infestation. With information provided to us by the NPMA, we are sharing expert information on common seasonal pests to keep your eye out for throughout the year.

Fall and Winter Pests to Look Out For

The NPMA has warned that the mosquito and tick season may extend well into fall this year due to the mild summer we experienced. Due to the fact that we have such mild winters, we deal with multiple pests throughout the fall and winter:

  1. Rats & mice. When temperatures dip, rodents will try to get indoors to wait out the colder months.
  2. Ants. Because they need moisture, ants will be driven indoors more than usual this time of year to seek out sources of water.
  3. Cockroaches. Similarly to ants, roaches will hide in dark, damp areas of the home in the fall and winter.
Winter pests in the South Central United States map
Rodent
Fly
Mosquito
Ant
Cockroach

What Pests are Common in El Paso Spring and Summer?

During the spring and summer months, we deal with a plethora of pests. Our warm mild weather drives all types of pests to be more active and reproduce. One of the most common pests we deal with is termites, which can infest homes throughout the year but usually swarm in the spring and summer. Mosquitoes are always active in the height of the summer months, which is also when hoards of flies come out of nowhere. Lastly, stinging insects are at peak activity in the summertime, which is when nests are often their most dangerous.

Seasonal Pest Prevention

Due to our climate and weather patterns throughout the year, El Paso residents and business owners experience a lot of pest problems. It’s important to know which pests to keep your eye out for in order to prevent a seasonal pest problem. The residential and commercial exterminators at Pest Defense Solutions can work with you to ensure you are protected from pests all year long.

Are Termite Infestations Common in the Fall & Winter?

Termites are a common fall and winter pest problem in El Paso Texas - Pest Defense Solutions

In El Paso, pest season can seem like it’s all year long. Unfortunately, termites are a pest problem for people not just in the spring and summer, but also in the fall and winter!  Many assume that “termite season” is during the springtime because they are seen swarming. However, a termite infestation can happen at any time of the year. Once they get inside a structure, termites will work 24/7 to chew through wood, even in the fall and winter. Because these wood-destroying pests are a year-round threat, it’s essential to get year-round termite protection for your home. Pest Defense Solutions can help! Keep reading to learn all about termite activity in the fall and winter months.

Fall Termites in El Paso

Depending on the climate, termites will usually swarm any time between March and November. This means you could possibly see a termite swarm in October. However, in the months ahead termites remain active as the queen continually lays eggs and colonies grow. The more mature a colony is, the more damage can be made to your home. If you have an infestation festering in your property for more than two years, it is very likely to begin to notice the signs of damage, even in the fall or winter. If and when we experience cold temperatures, termites will tunnel up to 25 to 30 feet underground to stay warm.

How to Tell if You Have Termites

Unless you’ve had an ongoing termite infestation for some time, it can be difficult to know if you are dealing with termites or not. The damage will begin to show if you’ve had a colony working away for more than a year or two. Here’s what to look for:

  • Mud tubes
  • Discarded swarmer wings
  • Termite frass (feces)
  • Drywall discoloration
  • Loose tiles or buckling floors
  • Bubbling or uneven paint on walls
  • Holes in drywall
  • Hollow-sounding or crumbling wood

Need Termite Infestation Control This Fall?

Unfortunately, termites are able to infest and damage your home any time of the year, even in the fall and winter. The good news is that there are multiple options to safeguard your home against termites at any time of the year. At Pest Defense Solutions, we will work with you all year long to provide customized termite control for you and your property. Reach out to our termite exterminators today for more information!

What’s Attracting Termites to Your Home?

Firewood can attract termites to your property in El Paso Texas. Pest Defense Solutions.

Termites are the most damaging pests in the nation. A single infestation is known to cost homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. For that reason alone, it’s important to know what may be attracting termites to your property in the first place. By limiting termite attractants in your property, you can possibly reduce the chances of getting a termite problem down the road. Here in the El Paso area, termites are a threat to homeowners. The team at Pest Defense Solutions is here to share information on what may be attracting termites to your home–read on to learn more.

These Things May be Attracting Termites

Every type of termite is attracted to wood, but each one has specific preferences that influence what structures they infest. It’s important to know what attracts termites to your house in order to prevent infestations:

  • Improper drainage or leaky pipes causing excess moisture near or in your home
  • Firewood or wood piles stored in or near your property
  • Wooden foundations in direct contact with soil
  • Airflow or ventilation issues causing excess humidity inside of a home
  • Mulch or landscaping too close to the foundation of the property

Ways to Prevent Termites

It’s important to know how to check for termites. There are a few things you can do to prevent termites. Always stay on top of home repairs: fix any damaged roofing, and seal any cracks or crevices in your property. Keep your garden neat, trim back trees and bushes away from the foundation of your home, and regularly inspect any outdoor furniture, porches, or decks. The best thing you can do to prevent termites is to get regular services and preventative treatments from a professional pest control company.

Keeping Termites Away in El Paso

Termites are one of the most destructive pests around. For that reason, it’s crucial to work with a professional termite exterminator who can protect you from these wood-boring insects all year round. The team at Pest Defense Solutions can be trusted to provide the industry’s best termite control services. Contact us today to learn more about how to keep termites away from your home.

6 Important Pests of 2020

2020 pests to look out for in your El Paso TX home this year - Pest Defense Solutions

Hindsight may be 20/20, but when it comes to protecting your family and home against pests this year, you can be proactive with the help of Pest Defense Solutions. We are helping homeowners prepare for the upcoming pest season by offering insight into anticipated pest activity.

At Pest Defense Solutions, we have examined trends, company data and our own field experiences to determine the following six pest predictions. Additionally, we have provided preventative tips to help keep your home pest-free this year.

Mosquitoes

Disease-spreading mosquitoes, such as the yellow fever mosquito and the Asian tiger mosquito, have recently surged in some Western states. These mosquitoes, as well as the common house mosquito, spread diseases such as the Zika virus, West Nile virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). A bite from a mosquito can also spread the parasite that causes heartworm in pets.

Homeowner Tips: West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, can increase with rising populations. And, mosquitoes only need one tablespoon of water to lay their eggs! To protect yourself and your family, dispose of any standing water around your home and always wear an EPA-approved insect repellent when spending any time outdoors.

Rats

Rat populations have increased over the past several years, and this may be partly due to warmer than usual winters. We can expect to see that trend continue as rodent populations, especially in suburban areas, increase. Warmer winters, a booming construction pipeline, lack of sanitation control, and lack of affordable housing are all issues that have advanced the swell of recent rat activity.

Homeowner Tips: To prevent rodents from entering your home, utilize the following prevention tips: Keep shrubs and trees cut back from home, especially thick ground cover that can serve as hiding places for rats. Ensure that trees do not overhang, touching the roof of your home. Seal any exterior openings larger than a nickel with rodent-proof material such as hardware cloth or flashing. Finally, seal and tie trash bags, placing them into garbage cans with tight-fitting lids.

Termites

Termites are one of the most destructive pests, causing homeowners in the United States $6 billion in property damages each year. These wood-destroying pests are a constant challenge for homeowners in the Western U.S., and this year, termites could prove to be even more damaging. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions have seen an increase in activity from subterranean and dampwood termites in many areas this year.

Homeowner Tips: Earth-to-wood contact provides an avenue for termites to enter homes and structures. To deter termites, eliminate soil to wood contact and avoid moisture accumulations near your homes’ foundation. Termites can be present for years before homeowners ever see signs of their activity, causing considerable and costly damage. Avoid these costs by having a termite protection plan in place. Speak to your pest control provider about risk and protection options for your home.

Cockroaches

Cockroach populations have increased dramatically over the past several years, due in large part to warmer weather and increased rainfall. Cockroaches carry diseases, infest stored food, and then spread these diseases through their excrement. Cockroach removal is vital as infestations can be serious if not taken care of in a timely manner.

Homeowner Tips: To deter an infestation, cockroach-proof your home by sealing small cracks and crevices around windows and door frames with a silicone-based caulk. Keep a clean kitchen, sweeping, mopping and wiping up any spills. Check that door seals, including the one on your garage, are in place and intact. If you’re experiencing cockroach problems, speak with your pest control professional to determine the best solution for your home.

Flies

If you have noticed more flies this past year, you are not alone. Although they’re more active in the summer, house flies reproduce year-round. Filth flies – house flies, bottle flies, flesh flies – generally live and breed near human habitats and their numbers have increased in recent years. Increasing population density, waste management practices that haven’t kept pace with growth, and a general trend toward a warming climate for the fly pressure all contribute to increasing this disease-spreading insect.

Homeowner Tips: The house fly and other types of “filth flies” are not only nuisance pests; they also have the potential to spread the disease to humans and animals. To protect yourself and your family, repair any damaged screens on windows and doors. Keep trash stored away from your home and make sure that all trash cans have tight-fitting lids.

Spiders

Spiders are carnivores, eating other insects and thriving in wet environments. Increased moisture leads to an increase in the insects that spiders eat as a food resource. Heavy rain and warmer temperatures have created the perfect conditions for insects and spiders to flourish. Although beneficial for our ecosystem, most people prefer spiders to stay outside where they belong.

Homeowner Tips: To keep spiders out of your home, keep food put away in tightly sealed storage containers. This will help eliminate ants, roaches and other pests, which will leave spiders with no food source. If the thought of spiders lurking is alarming, try changing your white outdoor light bulbs to yellow light bulbs, which attract fewer insects that can serve as food for the spiders. There are a few species of spiders that can live indoors and need to be controlled by spider removal experts.

The experts at Pest Defense Solutions agree that a proactive approach can help eliminate pest issues before they appear. With these pest predictions in mind, take time to evaluate your current pest control plan and make sure that you have the protection you need to protect yourself and your family from pests this year.