Termites
Termite Prevention Measures for New Construction in California
Constructing stick-built homes is like building a perfect ground for termite infestation. Such is the case for structures that have not been subjected to new construction termite treatments and built without termite-deterring construction practices.
The good news is, there are many new and time-tested methods that you can use before and during the construction phase of your new home. Here are some termite prevention measures for your new construction projects:
1. Use termite-resistant materials
Choose construction materials that are naturally resistant to termites, such as pressure-treated wood or termite-resistant lumber. These materials can act as a barrier, making it harder for termites to infest.
2. Create physical barriers
Install physical barriers during construction, like stainless steel mesh or termite shields, to block termite access points. These barriers can be placed in areas where the structure comes into direct contact with the soil.
3. Properly grade soil
Ensure proper grading and drainage around the foundation to prevent water accumulation. Termites are attracted to moisture, so keeping the soil around the building dry can help deter infestations.
4. Install a termite barrier
Consider installing a chemical termite barrier during construction. This involves applying termiticides to the soil before pouring the foundation. This creates a protective barrier that repels or kills termites attempting to enter the structure.
5. Keep wood above ground
Elevate wooden structures, such as decks or porches, above ground level. Avoid direct wood-to-soil contact, as this can provide a direct pathway for termites into the structure.
6. Ensure proper ventilation
Ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces to reduce humidity levels. Termites thrive in humid conditions, so proper ventilation can make the environment less favorable for them.
Preventing termites in new construction projects is crucial to avoid potential structural damage. By following these techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of termite damage in your new construction project and ensure its long-term structural integrity.
Remember, prevention is always cheaper and less disruptive than dealing with a full-blown termite infestation later.
Call Termite Control Experts
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you prevent and eliminate termites. We offer QualityPro-certified termite control treatments to eliminate all types of termites. Learn more about our Termite Control and Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Schedule a free inspection or estimate with Pro Pacific Pest Control at 800-901-1102!
Rodent
How to Safely Remove Rodents from Your California Property
Rodents in the home can be unwelcome guests for a variety of reasons, and it’s understandable to want to remove them. You have a lot of reasons to keep rodents away from home.
First and foremost, rodents can carry and transmit various diseases to humans and pets, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and rat-bite fever. These diseases can range from mild to severe, and some can even be fatal. Rodent droppings and dander can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms, especially in sensitive individuals.
Rodents can also cause significant damage to your property. They have strong teeth that can gnaw on wood, wires, pipes, furniture, and insulation. This can cause costly damage to your home and belongings. Not to mention, chewing on electrical wires can create a fire hazard.
If you decide to remove rodents, it’s important to do so safely and humanely. Consult with a professional pest control company to ensure the job is done effectively and without causing harm to the rodents.
Use Bait Stations
Using bait stations to capture rodents is one of the easiest ways to get them out of your home. But you need to identify first the type of rodent present. Knowing whether you’re dealing with mice or rats is crucial for choosing the right station size and bait type. There are tamper-resistant bait stations if you have pets or children at home.
When choosing the bait, select rodenticides approved for your area and target rodents. Consider pellet, block, or liquid forms based on your preference and station compatibility. Always prioritize safety and follow label instructions.
To maximize captivity, look for droppings, gnaw marks, or grease trails to identify their travel routes and nesting areas. Position them along walls, near burrows, entry points, or areas with frequent activity. Space stations 8 to 12 feet apart for mice and 15 to 30 feet apart for rats. Anchor them outdoors to prevent tampering by pets or wildlife.
When loading the bait, follow the label instructions for the amount and placement of bait within the station. Wear gloves while handling rodenticides.
Inspect stations every 1-2 days initially, then adjust the frequency based on bait consumption. Add or replace bait as needed. In addition, keep an eye on signs of decreased rodent activity or dead rodents near the stations. Dispose of dead rodents, wear gloves, and follow local regulations for safe disposal. Continue baiting until signs of rodent activity disappear completely.
Use Traps
If you want a method that involves no rodenticide, mouse traps are the way to go. The type of bait you use will depend on the type of rodent you are trying to trap. Mice are typically attracted to peanut butter, cheese, or chocolate, while rats prefer bacon, hot dogs, or cereal. You can also use natural baits like seeds or nuts.
There are many types of traps, so choose the right one.
Snap traps
These are the classic spring-loaded traps that kill the rodent instantly. They are effective and inexpensive, but can be inhumane and can also accidentally trap non-target animals like pets or birds.
Glue traps
These traps have a sticky surface that the rodent gets stuck on. They are not as effective as snap traps, as the rodent can sometimes escape, and they can be very inhumane as the trapped animal can suffer for an extended period.
Live traps
These traps capture the rodent alive, allowing you to release it outdoors away from your home. They are more humane than snap traps or glue traps, but can be more difficult to set and may not be effective for all types of rodents.
When setting traps, be sure to bait the trap securely and place it in an area where you have seen signs of rodent activity, such as along walls, near droppings, or in dark corners. Check your traps every few hours, especially if you are using live traps. If you have caught a rodent, dispose of it humanely according to local regulations.
Use Smart Pest Control
If you’re looking for a 24/7 automated rodent monitoring tool, using a smart pest control system is the answer. Anticimex’s Smart Pest Control is an intelligent rodent monitoring tool that detects and traps rats around the clock. It’s a proactive approach that uses a proprietary digital device system (called “Smart Connect”) to detect and trap rats around the clock. For more information about Smart Pest Control, call us at 800-901-1102.
Call Rodent Control Experts
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate rodents. We offer QualityPro-certified rodent control treatments to eliminate all types of rodents. Learn more about our Rodent Control and Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 800-901-1102 to request a quote!
Rodent, Uncategorized
The Role of Rodents in California’s Ecosystems: Friend or Foe?
We see rodents in our homes as a nuisance. But despite their sometimes unwelcome reputation, rodents play a crucial role in California’s ecosystems and the world in general.
Rodents play a diverse and complex role in ecosystems, acting as seed dispersers, nutrient cyclers, prey for predators, ecosystem engineers, and even pollinators. While some concerns exist regarding invasive species and pest outbreaks, it’s important to recognize the significant ecological value that these small mammals bring.
Roles of Rodents in California’s Ecosystems
Rodents play various important roles in ecosystems, and their presence has both direct and indirect effects on the environment. Here are some of the key roles of rodents in ecosystems:
1. Seed dispersal and germination
While rodents can be considered pests in certain contexts, they also play a role in agriculture. Many rodents, such as squirrels, beavers, and chipmunks, bury seeds for later consumption but sometimes forget about them. These buried seeds eventually germinate, contributing to reforestation, wetland creation, and plant diversity. Additionally, some rodents’ digestive systems scarify seeds, aiding in germination and seedling growth.
2. Nutrient cycling
Rodents contribute to nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Their activities, such as feeding and burrowing, influence the distribution of organic matter and nutrients in the soil by breaking down plant material and animal waste. This process releases nutrients back into the soil, making them available for other organisms and promoting plant growth.
3. Predator’s prey
Rodents form a vital food source for countless predators, including owls, hawks, snakes, foxes, and even larger carnivores like wolves. Their abundant populations maintain the balance of the food chain and keep predator populations in check.
4. Ecosystem engineering
Many rodents are burrowers, creating intricate tunnels and burrows in the soil. These burrows provide shelter for the rodents themselves and can be used by other animals as well. These burrows also trap rainwater, contributing to drought resilience in grassland ecosystems. The digging and burrowing activities of rodents help in soil aeration, water infiltration, and nutrient cycling.
5. Pollination
Certain rodents, like kangaroo rats, pollinate various plant species while foraging for pollen and nectar. This helps maintain plant diversity and reproductive success in certain ecosystems.
6. Insect control
Some rodent species, such as certain types of mice and rats, are opportunistic feeders and consume insects. By controlling insect populations, rodents indirectly contribute to maintaining the balance of insect communities, preventing outbreaks that could have negative effects on plants and other animals.
7. Indicator species
Changes in rodent populations can serve as indicators of broader ecological shifts or environmental changes. Monitoring rodent populations can provide insights into the health and dynamics of an ecosystem. For example, alterations in their abundance may indicate changes in habitat quality, food availability, or the presence of contaminants.
Despite their important ecological roles, certain rodent species can become pests when their populations grow unchecked, causing damage to crops, structures, and stored food. In such cases, effective pest management strategies may be necessary to mitigate the negative impacts while still recognizing the overall importance of rodents in ecosystems.
Seek Help from Rodent Control Experts
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate rodents. We offer QualityPro-certified rodent control treatments to eliminate all types of rodents. Learn more about our Rodent Control and Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 800-901-1102 to request a quote!
Rodent
Rodent-Borne Diseases in California: What You Need to Know
Rodents are not just a nuisance that may cause disturbance at night and damage to your garden. They can be a threat to you and your family through the spread of certain diseases.
Did you know? Rats and mice can spread more than 35 diseases. These can be spread directly through contact with live or dead rodents or through feces, urine, saliva, and bites.
What diseases can you get from rodents?
Several diseases can be transmitted to humans through contact with rodents or their waste. Here are some of the most common diseases that can be directly transmitted by rodents to humans:
1. Hantavirus
This virus can cause Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a severe respiratory illness with high mortality rates. It is typically transmitted through inhaling dust containing rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, or through bites.
2. Leptospirosis
This bacterial disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, jaundice, and kidney failure. It is transmitted through contact with rodent urine or contaminated water.
3. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM)
This viral disease can cause flu-like symptoms, meningitis, and encephalitis. It can be transmitted through contact with rodent saliva, urine, or droppings.
4. Salmonellosis
This bacterial disease can cause gastrointestinal illness with symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. It is transmitted through contact with rodent droppings or contaminated food or water.
5. Rat-bite fever
This bacterial infection can cause fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and skin lesions. It is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected rodents.
6. Lassa fever
This viral disease is primarily found in West Africa and can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodent droppings. Symptoms can include fever, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
7. Chagas disease
This parasitic disease is primarily found in Latin America and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected triatomine bugs, also known as “kissing bugs,” which often feed on rodents. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, body aches, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rash.
There are also other bacterial diseases that can be passed on through vectors such as insects that live on rodents. For example, plague can be transmitted to humans through the bite of infected fleas that live on rodents and Tularemia through the bite of infected ticks or flies, contact with infected animals or their carcasses, or inhalation of contaminated dust. Meanwhile, typhus can also be transmitted through the bite of infected lice or fleas that live on rodents.
Not all rodents carry these diseases. Nevertheless, it is best to avoid contact with rodents and their droppings to minimize the risk of infection.
Seek Help from Rodent Control Experts
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate spiders. We offer QualityPro-certified spider control treatments to eliminate all types of rodents. Learn more about our Rodent Control and Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate!
Termites
Choosing Termite-Resistant Building Materials for Californian Homes
Wood is easily susceptible to termites—that’s not a secret at all. Termites just love to munch on wood. That is why when choosing building materials for your home, you need to make sure that they are termite-resistant.
However, avoiding wood for building your home is never an option. You will always have them, whether you are using them on your kitchen cabinet, sofa, or crawl spaces. The best defense to have is to treat the wood you will to become termite-resistant.
8 Termite-Resistant Building Materials You Can Use
While no material is completely immune to termite infestation, some materials are naturally more resistant to termites than others. Here are 8 construction materials that are generally less prone to termite damage:
1. Concrete
Termites cannot digest the minerals in concrete, making it a completely unappealing and unusable food source for them. Concrete is a popular choice for foundations, floors, and walls due to its durability and resistance to various elements, including termites. However, it’s important to note that termites can still find their way into structures through other materials or vulnerabilities in construction.
2. Metal
Termites are not attracted to metal and usually avoid it. Steel, aluminum, and other metals are commonly used for beams, framing, roofing, and various structural elements, making them naturally termite-resistant choices.
3. Glass
Glass is another material that termites do not consume. While glass is not a primary structural material, it can be used in various parts of a building, contributing to a termite-resistant design.
4. Plastic and PVC
Plastic materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), are generally not appealing to termites. These materials are used in various construction applications, including pipes, decking, and insulation.
5. Stone
Natural stones, such as granite, marble, or basalt, are not attractive to termites. Using stone in construction, particularly for foundations and exterior elements, can help deter termite infestations.
6. Fiber Cement Siding
This material combines the aesthetics of wood with the durability and termite resistance of concrete. It is made from a mixture of Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. While the cellulose attracts termites, the cement’s presence makes it impossible for them to burrow and feed.
7. Brick
Similar to concrete, brick is also made from inorganic materials that termites cannot digest. Its durability and fire resistance make it a popular choice for exterior walls, fireplaces, and chimneys.
8. Treated Lumber
Wood is not always susceptible to termites. As long as they are treated, wood can still serve you well. Treated lumber undergoes a pressure treatment process where chemicals are infused into the wood fibers, making it toxic and unpalatable to termites. Treated lumber is commonly used for framing, decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.
It’s crucial to note that while these materials may be less susceptible to termite damage, the overall vulnerability of a structure depends on the entire construction system and the specific conditions of the building site. Additionally, some construction practices, like maintaining proper drainage and ensuring a termite barrier during construction, can further reduce the risk of termite infestation. Regular inspections and preventive measures are essential to protect structures from potential termite problems.
Seek Help from Termite Control Expert
If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.
Termites
8 Plants to Deter Termites from California Gardens
If you are searching for natural termite control methods, planting certain plants around your garden has been proven to help keep these tiny insects at bay. There are a few plants that have natural repellent properties against termites you can consider.
When it comes to termite control, the first thing that comes to mind is often chemicals. They are effective, but they can be harmful to the plants in your garden. Chemicals are also more expensive than natural methods.
Nevertheless, if you have a termite infestation, it is important to know that plants and other natural methods might not work. It’s important to consult a termite control expert to know what’s the next best move.
8 Plants to Deter Termites
Planting these plants around in your garden can help deter termite infestations. While no plant can guarantee complete protection against termites, some plants are believed to have repellent properties that may help deter termites to some extent.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these plants can vary, and they are not a substitute for professional termite control measures. Here are a few plants that are often considered to have termite-repelling qualities:
1. Vetiver grass
Vetiver grass is a tall, clumping grass with a strong, citrusy scent. It is native to Southeast Asia and is often used as a landscaping plant. Vetiver grass is also known for its ability to repel insects, including termites.
2. Mint
Mint is a hardy perennial that can be grown in California gardens and can be planted in both full sun and partial shade. With their strong aroma, planting mint around the perimeter of your home or garden may help discourage termites.
3. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is native to Southeast Asia and is often used in cooking. This tall, perennial grass with a strong, lemon-like scent can be grown in California’s warm, sunny conditions. Because of its strong scent, this plant has the ability to repel termites.
4. Catnip
Catnip is a member of the mint family and is known for its strong, cat-attracting scent. However, termites are also repelled by the scent of catnip, but its effectiveness is not fully proven. Catnip is a hardy perennial that can be grown in California.
5. Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin. This compound is commonly used in insecticides and may have some effect on termites.
6. Marigold
Marigold is a popular garden flower that is known for its bright, orange flowers and strong, pungent scent. It is often planted to deter various pests, and some people believe they can have a deterrent effect on termites as well. Marigolds are easy to grow and can be planted in both full sun and partial shade.
7. Neem
Neem is known for its insecticidal properties and has been used traditionally for pest control. While it may have some repellent effect on termites, more research is needed.
8. Garlic
Garlic is a bulbous plant with a strong, pungent scent. Garlic is a common kitchen herb that is also known for its ability to repel termites. Garlic can be planted in most climates, but it prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Remember that relying solely on plants to deter termites is not a comprehensive solution. Integrated pest management, including regular inspections, maintaining proper ventilation and moisture control, and seeking professional help when needed, is crucial for effective termite control.
Seek Help from Termite Control Expert
If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.
Termites
10 Effective Natural Termite Control Methods for Californians
Termites can pose significant dangers and threats to your home, mainly because they eat materials containing cellulose such as wood and other organic matter. Your furniture, kitchen cabinet, drywall, and crawlspaces are all susceptible to termite damage if they are untreated and unattended.
Damage caused by termites is not just a structural problem. It has also a financial impact because they incur significant costs in repairing or replacing damaged wooden structures, furniture, and other items. In severe cases, the financial impact can be substantial.
In addition, termite infestations can decrease the resale value of a property. Prospective buyers are often wary of purchasing a property with a history of termite damage or ongoing infestations, leading to challenges in the real estate market. So as much as possible, you don’t want termites near your property.
To mitigate these dangers, it’s essential to conduct regular inspections for signs of termite activity and take preventive measures.
Natural remedies for termites are usually less expensive than traditional chemical treatments, not to mention they are less harmful to the environment. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be as effective as professional treatments, especially if the termite infestation is severe.
10 Ways to Get Rid of Termites Naturally
It’s important to note that while these methods may help control termite populations, severe infestations often require professional intervention. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for effective termite control. If you’re wondering what’s the best natural termite control method, here are some of them:
1. Nematodes
Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that feed on termites. When applied to the soil, they seek out and infect termite larvae, helping to control termite populations.
2. Essential Oils
Essential oils have termite-repelling properties. Mixing these oils with water and spraying the solution on affected areas can help deter termites. Here are some essential oils you may use:
- Orange oil contains d-limonene, which is toxic to termites. It can be applied directly to infested areas or used as a barrier treatment to repel termites.
- Neem oil is a natural pesticide that is also effective against termites. You can mix orange oil with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding.
- Citronella oil is another natural repellent that termites hate. You can mix citronella oil with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding.
- Cedar oil is a natural repellent that termites hate. You can soak cedar blocks in cedar oil and place them around your home’s foundation. You can also add cedar oil to a diffuser and let it run in your home.
3. Boric Acid
Boric acid is a natural insecticide that can be applied as a powder or solution to affected areas. Termites ingest it, and it disrupts their digestive system, eventually leading to their death. You can sprinkle boric acid around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.
4. Heat Treatment
Heat treatment is a method of killing termites by raising the temperature of the infested area to 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be done using a professional heat treatment service or by yourself using a heat gun.
5. Sunlight Exposure
No heat gun? Exposing infested wooden items or furniture to direct sunlight can help in killing termites. Termites are sensitive to heat, and prolonged exposure can be effective in eliminating them.
6. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder that consists of fossilized diatoms. When termites come into contact with it, the powder absorbs lipids from their exoskeleton, leading to dehydration and death. You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.
7. Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural acid that termites hate. You can mix vinegar with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding.
8. Salt Barrier
Salt is a desiccant that can dehydrate termites and kill them. You can sprinkle salt around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.
9. Cardboard Traps
Placing wet cardboard near termite-infested areas can attract termites. Once they infest the cardboard, you can remove and burn it to eliminate a portion of the termite population.
10. Beneficial Plants
Certain plants, such as vetiver grass and neem trees, have natural repellent properties against termites. Planting them around your property can help deter termite infestations.
These are just a few of the many natural termite control methods that are available. It is important to do your research and choose the method that is right for you and your home.
Seek Help from Termite Control Expert
If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.
Termites
Most Common Signs of Termite Infestation in Your California Home
Termites are small, white insects that live in colonies underground. They are silent destroyers that can cause extensive damage to your home without you even knowing they are there.
In California, you can find at least 23 different species of termites. The most common and destructive species are the subterranean termite, the drywood termite, and the Formosan termite.
Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in California. They live in underground colonies and build mud tubes to travel between their colony and food sources. Subterranean termites can cause extensive damage to homes and other structures.
Drywood termites are less common than subterranean termites, but they can still be very destructive. They live in dry wood, such as lumber, furniture, and firewood. Drywood termites can cause serious damage to homes and other structures, especially in areas with high humidity.
Formosan termites are the most destructive type of termite in California. They are originally from Asia, but they have been introduced to many parts of the world, including California. Formosan termites are very aggressive and can quickly destroy homes and other structures.
9 Signs of Termite Infestation at Home
How do you know if your home in California has been attacked by termites? Here are the most common signs of termite infestation:
1. Your wood fixtures have mud tubes.
These are tunnels made of mud and soil that termites use to travel between their underground nest and the wood they are feeding on. Also known as shelter tubes, mud tubes are often found on the foundation of your home, along walls, or in crawl spaces.
2. Your house is filled with swarmers.
Swarmers are winged termites that leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. They are often seen in the spring, and they can be seen swarming around lights or indoors if there is an infestation.
3. You see frass around.
Frass is the termite poop often left by drywood termites. It looks like small sawdust-like pellets, which can be found near termite activity, such as near mud tubes or under damaged wood.
4. There are discarded wings.
After swarmers mate, they shed their wings. Finding discarded wings near windowsills, spider webs, or other areas may suggest termite activity.
5. You see damaged wood.
Termites feed on wood from the inside out, so the outer surface may appear normal while the inside is hollowed out. Tap on suspected wood with a screwdriver or similar tool; if it sounds hollow, there may be termite damage.
6. You see bubbling paint or wallpaper.
This can be a sign that termites are feeding on the wood behind the paint or wallpaper.
7. You see drooping drywall.
Drywall is made of paper and cellulose, which are food sources for termites. If termites are feeding on the drywall behind your walls, the drywall may start to droop or sag. Subterranean termites are often the suspect of dropping drywalls.
8. Your doors and windows can be hard to open.
Doors and windows that are difficult to open usually mean termites have caused damage to the frames of doors and windows, making them hard to open or close.
9. You can see termites.
If you see termites, chances are there is an infestation happening. In some cases, you may actually see worker termites, which are pale, soft-bodied insects. However, they are usually hidden within wood or mud tubes.
Useful Tips to Avoid Termite Infestation
To prevent termite infestation, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep wood-based mulch at least six inches away from your foundation.
- Repair any cracks or gaps in your foundation as soon as possible.
- Store firewood away from your house.
- Have your home inspected for termites regularly.
- Detecting termites early is crucial to minimize potential damage to your home. Here are some signs that may indicate the presence of termites:
Seek Help from Termite Control Expert
If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.
Termites
Understanding the Threat: Termite Species in California
California is home to three main species of termites: subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. Each species has its own unique characteristics and habits.
They might be different from one another, but one thing they share in common is that they love to munch on wood. As long as you have wood at home, whether it’s your furniture in the kitchen or your bench in the garden, you’re not entirely safe from termite infestation, unless you use methods to keep them away.
Here are the termites found in California to help you understand these termites better and how they can cause damage to your home:
1. Subterranean termites
These are the most common and destructive termite species in California. The western subterranean termites, in particular, are found in various regions of California. They live in underground colonies containing millions of individuals and build mud tubes to access food sources above ground. Wood is their main source of food feed, thereby causing significant damage to structures. If you see mud tubes, there’s a huge chance that your property has a subterranean termite infestation.
2. Drywood termites
Although they are less common than subterranean termites, drywood termites can still cause significant damage to your property. They are prevalent in coastal and southern parts of California. Drywood termites do not require contact with soil, unlike subterranean termites. They nest in dry, untreated wood, such as lumber, furniture, and firewood, and produce fecal pellets that can accumulate beneath infested wood. Drywood termites are often found in older homes and structures that have not been properly treated for termites.
3. Dampwood termites
These are the least common species of termites in California. Dampwood termites are usually found in areas with high humidity, such as coastal regions and mountainous areas. Compared to drywood termites, dampwood termites require moist, decaying wood to survive. They have larger colonies compared to drywood termites.
What’s the difference between termite species in California?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of termite species in California:
Subterranean termites |
Drywood termites | Dampwood termites | |
Nesting location |
Underground |
Drywood |
Moist, decaying wood |
Food source |
Wood |
Wood |
Wood |
Size |
Smallest |
Medium |
Largest |
Color |
Light brown to black |
Light brown to black |
Dark brown to black |
Signs of infestation | Mud tubes, swarmers | Frass, swarmers |
Winged termites, blisters in wood |
Seek Help from Termite Control Expert
If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.
Rodent
Rats vs. Mice: Identifying and Dealing with Most Common Rodents in California
Rats and mice are two of the most common rodents in California, yet they are often mistaken for one another. Fair enough—they almost look the same enough. If you are having a difficult time telling which one is a mouse and which one is a rat, let’s break down the differences between rats and mice.
What’s the Difference Between Rats and Mice?
Rats and mice are both rodents, but they belong to different genera, so they have several key differences in size, appearance, and behavior.
Size
The first thing you should look at is the size. Rats are larger than mice with adults typically growing 6 to 16 inches in length. On the other hand, mice are smaller and more slender, typically only 1 to 4 inches long.
Another visible difference also is the length of the tail with mice typically having longer tails relative to their body size, whereas rats have shorter tails in proportion to their larger bodies. Their ears can tell the difference too as mice have larger ears than rats.
Features
In addition to their size, mice and rats also have some other distinguishing physical features. Rats have thicker, blunter snouts than mice, and their ears are also relatively smaller in proportion to their bodies. Additionally, rats’ tails are typically hairless and scaly, while mice’s tails are covered in fur.
Behavior
In terms of behavior, the difference is subtle. While both mice and rats are known for their ability to adapt to various environments, their behavior can differ.
Rats are often more cautious and may take some time to get used to new objects or changes in their environment. Rats are more social creatures than mice, and they are often seen living in groups or colonies.
Meanwhile, mice tend to be more curious and explorative. But they are more solitary animals, and they tend to avoid contact with other mice.
Additionally, rats are more aggressive and destructive than mice, and they are often considered to be pests. If you need rodent-proofing your property, check out these tips and tricks to help you.
Reproduction
In terms of reproduction, mice and rats are the same prolific breeders. However, their reproductive rates vary.
Female mice reach sexual maturity for 4 to 5 days. Once they get pregnant, they give birth after 19 to 21 days, depending on the species. Each litter consists of 5 to 8 pups. Females can reproduce up to 10 times per year. Newborn mice are blind and hairless.
Meanwhile, female rats are in heat every 4 to 5 days and can go into heat again within 48 hours of giving birth. The gestation period is between 21 and 23 days, depending on the species. Each litter consists of 5 to 12 pups, depending on the species.
Make sure to avoid breeding rodents. Check out the most common causes of rodent infestations.
Seek Help from Rodent Control Experts
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate rodents like rats and mice. We offer QualityPro-certified rodent control treatments to eliminate all types of rodents. Learn more about our Rat Control Service and Mice Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate!