Rodent
Rodent-Proofing Your California Garden: 10 Tips and Tricks to Keep Rodents Away
Your garden is an easy gateway for rodents to your home. If you see at least one rodent in your garden, whether it’s a mouse, a rat, or a gopher, chances are they can get easy entry to your living space.
Did you know? The most common rodents in California like rats and mice can spread more than 35 diseases. The majority of these diseases can be spread to humans directly through contact with rodent feces, urine, or any droppings, picking up of live or dead rodents, and rodent bites.
10 Tips and Tricks to Rodent-Proof Your Garden
Rodents can be a major nuisance in gardens, eating your plants and digging up your soil. The best way to rodent-proof your garden is to make it less inviting. To do that, here are some things you need to do:
1. Eliminate food sources
It’s easy for rodents to follow where food is. Oftentimes, they can find it in your garden. This includes fallen fruit from trees, your compost pile outside, and leftover pet food. As much as possible, clean up these food sources or cover them well so rodents don’t get lured into your garden.
2. Remove access points
Rodents like rats and mice can squeeze through surprisingly small holes, so you might want to consider sealing up any cracks or openings in your garden walls or fences. You can use wire mesh or metal flashing to seal up these holes or gaps.
3. Use traps
If you have a rodent infestation in your garden, you can use traps to get rid of them. There are a variety of traps available, including live traps, snap traps, and glue traps.
You may also use bait stations which you get at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. There are a variety of bait available, including poison bait and block bait. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bait carefully, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
4. Use natural deterrents
One trick you can use to keep rodents away is using deterrents. There are a number of natural deterrents that you can use to keep rodents out of your garden. These include planting peppermint, spearmint, or castor beans. You can also sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper around the perimeter of your garden.
5. Get a cat
You know it—cats are natural predators of rodents, so having a cat in your garden can help to keep them at bay.
6. Trim trees and shrubs
Trim trees and shrubs back away from your house. This will make it harder for rodents to climb up to your roof or enter your home through the eaves.
7. Keep gutters and downspouts clean
Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris. This will help to prevent moisture from building up around your foundation, which can attract rodents.
8. Store firewood away
Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house. Rodents like to nest in woodpiles, so keeping them away from your home will help to deter them.
9. Do regular inspections
Inspect your home regularly for signs of rodents. This includes droppings, gnaw marks, and nests. If you see any signs of rodents, take action immediately to get rid of them.
10. Call a rodent control expert
If you have a severe rodent infestation in your garden, or if you’re not comfortable dealing with the problem yourself, you can call a professional pest control company. They will be able to identify the source of the infestation and recommend the best course of treatment.
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 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate!
Rodent
The Most Common Rodents in California: A Comprehensive Guide
California is home to a diverse range of rodents, with over 35 species identified within the state. These rodents encompass a variety of sizes and habitats, from the tiny deer mouse to the larger California ground squirrel. Get to know the most common rodents in California and find out whether or not they are harmful.
1. Norway Rat
The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) is a large, brown rat that is common in urban areas in California, especially in dark, damp places. They are infamous for their size and their ability to carry diseases. Also known as the brown or sewer rat, this is the most common rat species in California and the United States. Their favorite habitats include sewers, drains, basements, crawl spaces, and attics. They are also found in parks, gardens, and other outdoor areas.
Adult Norway rats can grow up to 16 inches in length, including their tail. They have a heavyset body with a short, blunt snout, small ears, and small, beady eyes. Their fur is typically coarse and brown or gray, but it can also be black or white.
Norway rats can be a major pest in homes and businesses capable of damaging your property, contaminating food, and spreading diseases. They can also be a nuisance, as they will often make noise and leave droppings.
If you need help with rodent infestation, check out the most common causes of rodent infestation and prevention tips.
2. Roof Rat
The roof rat (Rattus rattus) is a medium-sized, black rat native to Asia but has spread to urban areas around the world, including California. This rodent is known for its ability to climb trees and its nesting habit in attics and roofs. Also known as the black rat or the house rat, this species is smaller and more agile than the Norway rat.
Adult roof rat typically measures 7 to 10 inches, including their tail. It has a slender body with a long, pointed snout, large ears, and large, dark eyes. Its fur is typically sleek and black or brownish-gray, with a lighter underside.
Like most rats, roof rats can be a nuisance as they will often make noise and leave droppings. They can also cause damage to property, contaminate food, and carry diseases.
3. House Mouse
The house mouse (Mus musculus) is the smallest of the three most common rodents in California, usually found in homes and other human-occupied structures. House mice are known for their ability to squeeze through small openings and their habit of nesting in walls, kitchens, pantries, basements, and attics.
The fur of house mice is typically gray or brown on the top, with a lighter gray or white underside. They have a pointed snout, small ears, and large, black eyes. Their body grows between 2.5 to 4 inches and a tail length of 3 to 4 inches.
House mice can be a major pest in homes and businesses. They can damage property, contaminate food, and spread diseases. They can also be a nuisance, as they will often run around at night, make noise, and leave droppings.
4. California Deer Mouse
California deer mice (Peromyscus californicus) are small, brown rodents with large ears and large eyes usually found in grasslands, forests, and suburban areas. They are the most abundant rodents in North America, and yes they can be found throughout California but are more common in central and southern, from the coast to the mountains. They are not as commonly found in homes as the house mouse, but they can be a nuisance in rural areas.
Their dorsal fur varies from pale yellow to reddish brown, often with a darker stripe along the back, while their abdominal fur is creamy white or grayish white. Their tail is dark brown on the upperside and white on the underside. Their body length grows between 2.5 to 3.5 inches while their tail grows between 4 to 5.5 inches.
California deer der mouse can carry hantavirus, a potentially serious illness, so it’s crucial to avoid direct contact with deer mice or their droppings.
5. Western Jumping Mouse
The western jumping mouse (Zapus princeps) is a small, brown mouse with long hind legs and a long tail. Jumping mice are found in meadows, forests, and along streams in western North America, including California. They can make impressive leaps; it’s in their name for a reason.
Their body grows between 7 to 10 inches, including their tail. Their hind legs are significantly longer than their front legs, giving them a distinctive kangaroo-like appearance. The fur of western jumping mice is typically dark grayish-brown on the upper body, with a broad yellow to red band along the flanks and a pale yellowish-white underside. Their ears are large and dark, and their eyes are large and black. Some individuals may have white spots on the upper body or on the tip of the tail.
Western jumping mice play an important role in the ecosystem as predators of insects and prey for various predators, including owls, snakes, and foxes. They are also an indicator of healthy forest ecosystems. Western jumping mice are not typically considered pests and are not known to carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. However, if you encounter a western jumping mouse in your home or property, it is best to avoid direct contact and contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or pest control professional for assistance.
6. California Ground Squirrel
The California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), also known as Beechey ground squirrel, is a large, ground-dwelling rodent that is common in open habitats throughout California such as meadows, fields, and oak woodlands. Ground squirrels are known for their distinctive yellow-brown fur and their habit of standing up on their hind legs to look around.
Their body grows between 10 to 14 inches, while their tail grows between 5 to 7 inches. They have mottled dorsal fur with a mixture of gray, light brown, and dusky hairs and a darker gray stripe that extends from the head down to the middle of the back. The shoulders and sides of the head are a lighter gray while they have white fur around the eyes.
Ground squirrels can cause damage to crops and gardens and can carry fleas and other parasites.
7. California Vole
The California vole (Microtus californicus) is a small, brown rodent found in moist habitats throughout California, including meadows, forests, and along streams. They are not typically found in homes, but they can be a nuisance if they invade gardens or other areas around homes.
Their body grow between 3.5 to 5 inches and their tail grows between 2 to 3 inches. Their abdominal fur is grayish white, while their dorsal fur varies from tawny olive to reddish brown, sometimes with a darker stripe along the back. The tail is dark brown on the upper side and grayish-white on the underside.
California voles can cause damage to crops and gardens and can carry hantavirus.
8. Porcupine
Porcupine is a large, brown rodent with long, sharp spines. Porcupines are found in forests, mountains, and deserts throughout California. In California, two porcupine species are
found: the North American porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum) and the Mexican porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum nigrescens).
Porcupines are among the largest rodents in California. North American porcupines typically measure 25 to 36 inches in length, not including their tail, while Mexican porcupines are slightly smaller, with a body length of 24 to 30 inches.
Porcupines are nocturnal animals, with most activity occurring at night. They are excellent climbers and spend most of their time in trees. Porcupines are solitary animals and maintain individual territories. They are not necessarily a threat to humans.
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 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate!
Spiders
Rodent Infestations in California: Most Common Causes and Prevention Tips
Rodent infestations can be a nuisance and pose health risks. Whether it’s mice, gophers, squirrels, or rats, understanding the most common causes and implementing preventive measures can help keep these pests at bay.
California is home to a diverse range of rodents, with over 35 species identified within the state. These rodents encompass a variety of sizes and habitats, from the tiny deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) to the larger California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi).
Most Common Causes of Rodent Infestation and How to Deal With Them
Rodent infestations can be a major problem for homeowners, as they can cause damage to property, spread disease, and contaminate food. Once you have determined the cause of your rodent infestation, you can take steps to prevent it from happening again. Here are some of the most common causes of a rodent infestation and some tips to avoid any infestation from happening:
1. You have various food sources.
Rodents easily get attracted to food sources. From pet food and unattended water bowls to dripping faucets and leaky pipes, expect inviting rodents in search of an easy meal and hydration source. Improper storage or disposal of garbage and food waste can also attract and provide a food source for rodents, encouraging them to settle nearby.
What to do:
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Clean up spills promptly.
- Fix leaks and ensure there are no standing water sources.
- Store garbage properly.
2. You live near dense rodent populations.
If your home is near areas with dense rodent populations, such as overgrown vegetation, trash piles, or abandoned buildings, the chances of a rodent infestation increase. It might be difficult to handle what’s beyond your control, but you can definitely mitigate this problem.
What to do:
- Inspect your home for any holes or cracks.
- Seal up holes and cracks with caulk or steel wool.
- Regularly clean and dispose of garbage and vulnerable areas properly.
3. You have secluded areas at home.
Rodents seek out secure and secluded areas to build their nests and raise their young. Cluttered spaces, piles of debris, and undisturbed areas like attics or crawl spaces provide ideal nesting grounds for rodents.
What to do:
- Seal gaps or holes in walls, floors, and foundations that provide entry points.
- Use traps to catch rodents.
4. The weather conditions are unfavorable.
Changing weather conditions, particularly during colder months, can drive rodents indoors in search of warmth and shelter. Heavy rains, snowfalls, or drastic temperature drops can increase the likelihood of rodent infestations.
What to do:
- Make sure to always keep your home clean and clutter-free.
- Trim trees and bushes back away from your home to prevent rodents from using them to climb up to your roof or into your attic.
5. You have unattended maintenance and repairs.
Overlooking routine maintenance and repairs can create openings or favorable conditions for rodents to enter and establish a foothold in your home. Tall grass, dense vegetation, and piles of debris can also provide hiding spots and nests for rodents. Keep your yard well-maintained.
What to do:
- Clutter provides hiding places for rodents.
- Keep living and storage spaces organized and minimize hiding spots.
Ultimately, it’s important to regularly inspect your home for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or rub marks, can help detect infestations early on. If you have concerns about rodent infestations, consider consulting with a pest control professional for guidance.
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 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate!
Spiders
Spiders in California Homes: 9 Best Prevention and Removal Tips
Spiders are some of the most common bugs you can find in any California home. At least 64 different species of spiders can be found in California, and chances are you’ve got at least one of them somewhere within your property.
Although the majority of these spiders don’t pose any serious threat to your family, spiders can become a nuisance that could attract more insects to your home. If you’re wondering what you can do to keep spiders away from you, here are natural spider prevention and removal tips you should consider:
1. Seal up cracks and crevices.
Spiders can squeeze through very small openings, so it is important to seal up any cracks and crevices around your home, especially around windows, doors, crawlspaces, and vents. You can use caulk or weather stripping to seal up these openings.
2. Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
Spiders like to hide in clutter, so keeping your home clean and clutter-free will help to deter them. Regularly vacuum and dust to eliminate spider webs and egg sacs.
3. Eliminate food sources for spiders.
Spiders eat insects, so eliminating food sources for insects will help to keep spiders away. This includes storing food in airtight containers, taking out the trash regularly, and keeping your kitchen clean.
4. Remove webs and egg sacs.
Spiders will lay their eggs in dark, secluded places. Regularly remove webs and egg sacs from your home to prevent spiders from reproducing.
5. Use a sticky trap.
Sticky traps can be effective for catching spiders. Place sticky traps in areas where you have seen spiders.
6. Turn off outdoor lights.
Spiders are attracted to insects, and insects are attracted to light. Turning off outdoor lights at night can help to keep spiders away from your home. If you can, use yellow or sodium vapor lights, which are less attractive to insects.
7. Trim trees and bushes.
Trim trees and bushes so that they are not touching your home. This will help to prevent spiders from entering your home.
8. Use a dehumidifier.
Spiders prefer moist environments. Using a dehumidifier in your home can help to make it less hospitable to spiders.
9. Use a spider repellent.
There are a number of spider repellents available on the market. Some spider repellents are made with natural ingredients, while others contain pesticides. If you want to go natural, consider using essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or citrus around entry points.
Some spiders are beneficial because they prey on other pests. If you’re unsure about which one is in your home, it might be helpful to identify spiders before deciding on a course of action. If someone in your family gets bitten by a spider, make sure to apply first aid treatment to avoid further inconvenience.
Seek Help from Spider Control Experts
If you have concerns about spider infestations, consider consulting with a pest control professional for guidance.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate spiders. We offer QualityPro-certified spider control treatments to eliminate all types of spiders. Learn more about our Spider Control and Extermination 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!
Spiders
Spider First Aid and Treatment: What to Do After Getting Bitten by a Spider
Spiders do not usually bite unless threatened, but when they do, it is usually harmless. While most house spiders do not usually inflict anything that needs serious medical attention at all, some spider bites can cause redness, swelling, and pain.
In case you get bitten if you are bitten by a spider, here’s what you can do to take care of the spider bite:
- Wash the bite area with soap and water and apply an antibiotic ointment on the area three times a day to prevent infection.
- Place a cool cloth over the bite for 15 minutes every hour to help alleviate the pain and swelling. You may use a water-soaked cloth or cold compress.
- Raise the affected area if possible.
- If you feel any pain or tingling sensation, take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, or acetaminophen, whichever is available or non-allergic to you.
- If the bite area causes itchiness, take an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine or cetirizine to help reduce the itch. You may also try a steroid cream or calamine lotion
If you are bitten by a venomous spider, such as a black widow or a dessert recluse, be sure to seek medical help from professionals immediately. If you are not sure whether the culprit is venomous or non-venomous, don’t waste time but seek help right away.
Most of all, if you feel severe pain, stomach cramps, a swelling wound on the bite area, or have a hard time breathing or swallowing, call 911 immediately or seek medical attention. For pain and muscle spasms, your healthcare provider might prescribe painkillers, muscle relaxants, or both. A tetanus shot might also be considered.
Seek Help from Spider Control Experts
One way to avoid spider bites is to make sure your home is free from spiders. Spiders don’t just attract other spiders to your home but other insects as well.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate spiders. We offer QualityPro-certified spider control treatments to eliminate all types of spiders. Learn more about our Spider Control and Extermination 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!
Spiders
What Eats Spiders? 8 Natural Predators of Spiders in California
Spider infestation is never a good thing. The abnormally populous presence of spiders at home or at work can be a nuisance.
Although these insects eat unwanted insects such as ants, flies, mosquitoes, and bees, spiders are still a part of a food chain that makes them prey too. It’s important to understand what eats spiders and how spiders fit into your local ecosystem. This way, you can make smart decisions about which ones to keep and when to call for help from pest control experts.
Animals That Feed on Spiders
Spiders are still important in your local ecosystem. Here are some animals that feed on spiders as part of their diet:
1. Birds
Many bird species include spiders in their diet. Some birds, like the black-capped chickadee, robins, wrens, bluebirds, and the blue tit, actively search for spiders to consume. These birds will often catch spiders in their webs or on the ground.
2. Scorpions and Centipedes
Certain species of centipedes are predators of spiders. They are equipped with venomous claws that help them subdue and consume spiders. Scorpions also prey on spiders. Centipedes and scorpions will often overpower and kill spiders with their venom.
3. Reptiles
Some lizard species, particularly those with insectivorous diets, such as geckos, chameleons, and anoles, are common predators of spiders. They are particularly adept at catching spiders in their webs. Snakes also keep the spider population in check.
4. Insects
Certain insects, such as wasps and predatory beetles, feed on spiders. They may capture spiders and either paralyze them or consume them alive. Mantises are also predatory insects that are known to feed on spiders. They use their powerful front legs to catch and hold their prey.
5. Amphibians
Amphibians like frogs, toads, and salamanders consume spiders as part of their diet, especially smaller ones. They will often catch spiders in their mouths as they hop or crawl around.
6. Mammals
Some small mammals, such as bats, monkeys, shrews, and mice, will also eat spiders. Bats will often catch spiders in their wings as they fly around, while shrews and mice will hunt for spiders on the ground. However, this is less common compared to other groups of animals.
7. Other Spiders
Some spider species are cannibalistic and may feed on other spiders, including members of their own species. This is especially common among larger spider species such as tarantulas.
How These Predators of Spiders Help Control Spider Infestation
In addition to these natural predators, humans also sometimes eat spiders. In some cultures, spiders are considered a delicacy, and they are often fried or roasted. However, it is important to note that not all spiders are safe to eat, and some can be poisonous.
Spiders play an important role in the ecosystem, and their predators help to keep their populations in check. Without these predators, spider populations could explode, and this could have a negative impact on the environment.
It’s important to note that the specific predators of spiders can vary depending on the geographic location and the ecosystem. In California, a lot of these animals can be found.
Overall, these predators help in natural regulation of spider populations and can hugely help prevent their numbers from reaching levels that could be considered an infestation. This helps maintain ecological balance.
In addition, they also prevent over popular of spiders as they tend to have the potential to reproduce rapidly. Predators keep their numbers in check by consuming a portion of the spider population, preventing overpopulation.
In certain environments, spiders can become a nuisance when their populations become too dense. Predators help control these populations, reducing the likelihood of spiders encroaching on human living spaces and becoming a nuisance.
Seek Help from Spider Control Experts
Don’t wait for infestation to come. The presence of spiders and their webs can be a nuisance, attracting more insects to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate spiders. We offer QualityPro-certified spider control treatments to eliminate all types of spiders. Learn more about our Spider Control and Extermination 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.
Spiders
5 Spiders That Resemble Black Widows
Black widows are pretty common in California. They are easily distinguishable by their glossy-jet black color and a red or orange hourglass on the underside. However, black widows are often hard to identify, especially when they are young. And a lot of us confuse other spiders as black widows due to their almost similar colors and body markings, including these spiders:
1. Red Widow (Latrodectus bishop)
An adult female red widow is reddish-orange with their legs reddish and abdomen black or dark colored. Its abdomen typically has rows of orange or red spots outlined in yellow or white. Female red widows do not have a full hourglass shape on their abdomen’s underside. They typically have one or two small red spots that look almost triangular.
2. False Black Widow (Steatoda grossa)
Although they are free from red hourglass marking, their glossy chocolate brown color might come off to some as similar to young black widows. They share the same rounded abdomen and have similar techniques when making webs. Although the false black widow only bites when picked up, it does not deliver the same level of sting and venom as the real black widow does.
3. Noble False Widow Spider (Steatoda nobilis)
This spider is considered hard to find in the United States, but it surely can be found in California. The adult female noble false widow spider has a bulb-like abdomen just like other widow spiders. The difference is its brown color and cream-colored spots that resemble a skull. They rarely bite, but when they do, it might cause discomfort due to their large fangs.
4. Domestic House Spider (Tegenaria domestica)
Also known as the barn funnel weaver spider, this spider looks like the black widow. The adult domestic house spider has a reddish-brown and pale abdomen with freckles. The color of its body varies from gray-brown to dark brown with two dark stripes on the cephalothorax. It does not have an hourglass marking. The domestic house spider moves quickly but is never aggressive and most likely retreats when confronted.
5. Black House Spider (Badumna insignis)
This dark-colored spider is bigger than widow spiders. Both male and female black house spiders have dark brown legs. Their gray abdomen has light markings on top of the body. Black house spiders can bite when disturbed, but they are not aggressive at all.
Seek Help from Spider Control Experts
Even if these spiders are not as dangerous as black widows, they can be a nuisance, attracting more insects to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate black widow spiders and other spiders at home. We offer QualityPro-certified spider control treatments to eliminate California black widows. Learn more about our Spider Control & Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange Couty.
Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate.
Termites
California Termites: 3 Most Common Termites That Could Damage Your Home
Termites are pretty common all throughout California. These tiny insects have a reputation for being destructive. Their wood-munching habits can cause serious damage to homes, which is exactly why many homeowners don’t want them around their property.
Given the readily available wood and warm weather in California, termites are pervasive, which makes them even bigger trouble than they already are for a lot of us. Unfortunately, you may not know if they are already chomping on your property.
How do you know if termites are already present in and around your property? Can you identify which ones are the most damaging? Learn more about the three most common types of California termites.
1. Drywood Termite
The drywood termite is one of the most injurious termite species and is very widespread in Southern California. They do not need access to moist soil or water in order to survive, and they usually live in dry wood aboveground, such as lumber and decks. This species typically has red or brown bodies and grows between 9.5mm to 25.4mm long.
In southern California, swarms of western drywood termite peak during the day between September and November. In northern California, swarms may happen earlier.
2. Subterranean Termite
The subterranean termite is also one of the most damaging species alongside drywood termite. They normally live in soil to survive, so you can often find them underground or in wet areas aboveground. They create tunnels to hunt food. Subterranean termites tend to have translucent gray or brown bodies and slightly hairy wings, differentiating them from other species. They grow between 3.1mm to 9.5mm long.
There’s a species of subterranean termite called Formosan subterranean termite that is the biggest threat to your home, especially if you live in San Diego. Formosan subterranean termites can build colonies and cause damage quicker than other species of subterranean termites. They have translucent orange bodies.
Western subterranean termite swarms during daytime when it’s rainy in autumn, winter, or early spring. Arid-land subterranean termite swarms typically happen during the day in spring and fall. In San Diego, swarms happen at night and peak around June and July, while smaller swarms may take place for a few more months.
3. Dampwood Termite
Unlike drywood and subterranean termite, dampwood termite is less likely to inflict damage, although a swarm can be a nuisance for many homeowners. Moist and decaying wood in residential areas is their favorite spot, while swamp edges and wetland margins are also common habitats. Dampwood termite usually has light yellow or tan bodies and grows between 12.7mm to 15.8mm long.
Pacific dampwood termite usually swarms between August and October, just before sunset.
Got Termites? Call Termite Control Experts in California Today!
Although termite swarms are seasonal, they are active all year round. If you suspect there are termites on your property or you just want to protect your home against termites, you need to take the necessary precautions to ensure any activity does not progress and becomes damaging.
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 Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.
Spiders
Identifying Common Spiders in California and Which Ones You Should Avoid
California is home to a wide variety of spider species. Some are venomous; others are completely harmless. But one thing is for sure—these spiders are quite common bugs found at home and can be a nuisance.
Spiders love the hotter weather. In California, the spider season runs from December to January, but you may notice a significant increase in their visibility by the end of May to June in Southern California. Spider webs and egg sacks are the first signs to look out for their presence.
If you are wondering which ones are the most common spiders in California and how to identify them, here’s an in-depth illustration of these spiders and which ones to avoid:
1. Black Widow Spider
Black widow spiders are generally common in California, and they are the most poisonous of all spiders in North America. They are easily identifiable by their shiny black body with a red hourglass shape on the underside of the abdomen.
Although they rarely kill humans, getting bitten by a black widow spider can pose extreme discomfort. If bitten by a black widow spider, you may experience painful swelling around the bite. Its venom has a chemical called alpha-latroxin which causes intense pain, muscle spasms, cramps, sweating, chills, and stomach ache. The symptoms may worsen for up to about 12 hours after the bite. After that time frame, the symptoms should start to die down.
As much as possible, you want to avoid black widow spiders. If found, use caution and call your pest control professional to handle the situation.
2. Brown Widow Spider
Another common spider in California is the brown widow spider, which can be recognized by its light to dark brown body with mottling of tan and brown with black accent marking and an orange hourglass shape on the underside of the abdomen. The mature females typically have a dorsal abdominal stripe and three diagonal stripes on each flank.
The venom of the brown widow spider is as strong as the black widow, but it does not inject very much venom. The symptoms of brown widow bites are similar to black widow bites, causing an immediate, sharp, stinging sensation around the bite area.
Brown widow spiders are known to be shy, so they often stay away from humans. If you encounter one, use caution or better yet call a pest control professional.
3. Cellar Spider
Often mistaken for daddy long legs for their length, the cellar spider is identifiable for its long, thin legs and small body. They are very common on every continent except for Antarctica. In California homes, you can easily see them in dark, damp places such as basements and crawlspaces.
Cellar spiders are generally harmless. However, their large webs can be hard to remove, making them a nuisance.
4. Wolf Spider
Large, hairy, and has a pair of prominent eyes—the wolf spider is found throughout California. It’s named as such because of its wolflike habit of chasing and pouncing on its prey. Often found on the ground, the wolf spider can be found in different areas such as forests, deserts, and gardens.
Wolf spider does not pose a serious danger to people. They do have venom, but they are not poisonous. However, some people might be allergic to its venom. Since the wolf spider is large, its bite can be very painful. For bites that cause mild pain, swelling, or itchiness around the bite, the pain should not last long.
If you see a wolf spider inside your house, relocate them outside. There’s nothing to worry about as it is generally harmless.
5. Tarantula
Tarantulas are large, hairy, and stock spiders. They are considered the biggest spiders, so they can look terrifying to some people. Tarantulas are usually found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, mountains, and forests. In California, you can find them pretty much anywhere.
All tarantula species have venom, which they use for hunting prey. They don’t usually bite unless they are threatened. When a person gets bitten, tarantulas often just give a dry bite, meaning they don’t inject venom.
Although they are usually not aggressive, it’s best to leave them alone.
How to Get Rid of Spiders at Home
It’s best to be proactive when it comes to spiders. Before invading your home or showing signs of their presence, you can do a couple of things to make sure you’re keeping out the different types of spiders in California homes. Here are some important things to do:
Clean up seldom-used areas
House spiders love dark and undisturbed spaces, all the more giving you more reasons to make sure rarely-used areas get cleaned regularly. These include windows, storage areas, basements, attics, sheds, ceilings, and every other unused corner of your home.
Remove places where spiders may hide and build webs
Spiders can easily build dwellings pretty much anywhere. Boxes on the floor? Leaf litter? You name it. Spiders can take up residence near the structure if anything that doesn’t move. So, get rid of these things before spiders start building cobwebs there.
Close gaps and other points of entry
When there are cracks and other openings, spiders are one step away from entering your home. To prevent spiders from coming indoors, seal any gaps you can see, especially around windows and doors. Good screening not only prevents spiders from entering your home but also keeps out the insects they prey on.
Call a Pest Control Professional
The presence of spider webs, spider egg sacs, and spiders themselves are all common signs that your home has been infested. Having spiders around your house isn’t entirely bad. However, they become a nuisance when multiplying and inviting more insects into your home. Even if you get rid of spiders and cobwebs now, note that spiders are the kind of pests that keep returning if you don’t treat your home properly.
The best way to ensure complete spider protection is by reaching out to spider experts from Pro Pacific Pest Control. We will help you eliminate your spider problem for good with our spider control treatments.
To learn how our Spider Control and Treatment Service can help keep your home safe, don’t hesitate to contact us at 800-901-1102
Spiders
Top 5 Venomous Spiders in California
Venomous spiders can be found in many parts of the world, and California is no exception. There are several venomous spider species that call California home. These spiders vary in appearance, but they all share one thing in common: they can deliver a painful and potentially deadly venom.
All of these venomous spiders are most active during the summer months. They inhabit in many different parts of California, including urban areas, agricultural land, and forests.
While venomous spiders are certainly dangerous, fatalities are rare. Nevertheless, they can be a nuisance that you don’t want around your home. If you do happen to see a venomous spider, it is best to leave it alone and call a professional for help.
5 Most Common Poisonous Spiders in California
There are many venomous spiders found in California, but the five that we will focus on are the western black widow, brown widow, brown recluse, yellow sac spider, and desert recluse.
Western Black Widow
The western black widow is the most dangerous of all spiders. Its venom is 15 times stronger than a rattlesnake’s venom. These spiders are typically found in the western United States, and they love to live near humans. Their webs are often located in dark, secluded areas like under rocks or inside sheds, crawlspaces, basements, barns, and woodpiles. Black widows are most active in warmer temperatures over 70 degrees.
The western black widow has a shiny black body with a red hourglass shape on its abdomen. They have eight legs and eight eyes. A young black widow spider is mostly orange and white, but as it matures, its color turns red and black. Females are much larger than males, with bodies that can grow between 14-16mm in length, and they can deliver a very painful bite. Although fatalities are rare, this spider should always be treated with caution.
The presence of webs in your home or on your property can be a sign that there’s an infestation of black widows. If you encounter a western black widow, stay calm and back away slowly. Do not attempt to touch or kill the spider as it may bite you. Call a spider control expert like Pro Pacific so we can safely remove black widows from your home.
Brown Widow
The brown widow is brown or grayish-brown in color and can be distinguished from other venomous spiders by its orange hourglass marking. A male brown widow’s body can grow 6-8mm long, while a female brown widow’s body can grow 12-16mm long. Mature brown widows look almost the same as young western black widows, so you might get confused when you see them. To spot a brown widow, look for the white dots on their abdomen.
This spider can be found throughout California and is well-established in the southern urban areas of San Diego, San Marcos, and surrounding suburbs. Black widows are most active during the fall and winter months, often hiding in dark, moist places such as under leaves, cracks or crevices, and closets.
It is important to be aware of these spiders and take precautions when working or playing outside in areas where they may be present. Bites from brown widows are extremely painful but not likely to be severe as a black widow’s bite. Nevertheless, one should seek medical attention if bitten by a brown widow.
Brown Recluse
Unlike the western black widow and brown widow, the brown recluse is less recognizable as they have dull brown colors that many spiders possess. Identifying a brown recluse can be tricky. It has a violin-shaped marking on its head, appearing near the eyes through the neck down toward the abdomen.
Do note that a red marking can also be found in some other spiders, and not all brown recluses have it. Hence, it’s not the most precise method to identify the spider. The best way to identify them is by counting their eyes — brown recluses only have six eyes compared to most spiders with eight.
The brown recluse is found throughout California but is most common in the central and southern parts of the state. It’s most active during the spring and summer months, hiding in darker, quieter, and warmer places such as under leaves, in cracks or crevices, and closets.
Brown recluse spiders should be treated with utmost caution. As one of California’s most poisonous spiders, the brown recluse can cause necrosis (the death of tissue) or even death with its bite. The first symptom of its bite is red, itching skin followed by an open sore, which usually comes with a rash of tiny red spots, fever, and nausea. Anyone who is bitten by a brown recluse should seek medical attention.
Yellow Sac Spider
The yellow sac spider is a common sight in California. You can tell a yellow sac spider by its distinctive pale yellow body. It has eight eyes equally divided into two rows. Female yellow sac spiders lay 30-48 eggs and protect them using their silk sac, which is a lot if they survive and grow into adult spiders.
This spider is most active during the spring and summer months, around March until October. It doesn’t build webs. Instead, it creates a flat silk sac and uses it to pass during the day, which often can be found in dark, moist places such as under a leaf, ceiling line, cracks, closets, and other protected spots.
The yellow sac spider is not considered dangerous, but it bites if they feel threatened. Its bite can cause redness, swelling, and sometimes even necrosis and is very painful. If you see a yellow sac spider, it’s best to leave it alone and contact a professional if you need help getting rid of it.
Desert Recluse
The desert recluse has a smooth, light brown body that grows up to 13mm long. Due to their similar appearance, desert recluse, and brown recluse are often mistaken interchangeably. They both have six eyes arranged in three groups of two and a violin-shaped marking on their bodies.
It’s most active during the fall and winter months. The desert recluse’s favorite spot to crash is in shrubs and cacti in desert areas (that’s why they’re called such) of California, New Mexico, Arizona, and Nevada, especially during the fall and winter months. However, they can be found in other arid environments, such as those in California.
The desert recluse is not aggressive, although it can bite you if it feels in danger. Like the brown recluse, desert recluses are known to have necrotic venom. Its bite can cause swelling and redness. Seek professional help if you find one.
Get Professional Help From a Spider Control Expert in California
Spiders are the second most common pest our customers complain about. While they are important to eliminate unwanted insects, living with venomous spiders at home is not safe for you and your kids as they can cause painful, even deadly bites on humans.
If you need spider control experts, Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you get rid of spiders at home and prevent them from coming back. Learn more about our Spider Pest Control & Extermination Service, or directly call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a free inspection and estimate for your spider control job.