Pest Control
California Insect Identification: How to Spot Most Common Bugs at Home
Over 27,000 different insect species live in California, according to the University of California’s Environment and Natural Resources. While insects may all look different, they can be difficult to identify if you’re not familiar with their features.
This California Insect Identification Guide will teach you everything you need to know about correctly naming the most common insects that you can find at home, from their physical characteristics to their behavior. By knowing how to identify these critters, you’ll be able to understand their behavior better and assess whether or not they can cause any harm to your home or family.
11 Most Common Types of Insects in California and How to Spot Them
Every home probably has one or even more bugs. Here’s how you can identify the most common insects in California homes:
1. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small, oval-shaped insects that typically range in color from light tan to deep red. They can grow up to 7mm in length but are typically smaller than that. Bed bugs have flat bodies and are wingless, which makes them easy to distinguish from other bugs.
They are typically found in warm, humid environments such as hotels, motels, residential properties, and other places where people sleep. Bed bugs can be difficult to detect, as they often hide in seams and crevices during the daytime, not to mention they are too small for the naked eye.
While bed bugs themselves don’t typically carry diseases, they can cause a lot of discomfort and distress. They feed on the blood of humans and mammals. In extreme cases, bed bug bites can lead to a bacterial infection called cellulitis, manifested by itchy red bumps on your skin, which can be difficult to treat. Bed bug bites may also cause allergic reactions in some people. If you think you may have a bed bug infestation, contact a pest control professional immediately.
2. Bees
Bees, alongside wasps and hornets, are distinguished from other insects by their three body segments: the head, thorax, and abdomen. They also have two pairs of wings and a pair of antennae. The heads of bees are typically black or brown, while the thorax and abdomen are often covered in stripes of yellow, orange, or red. They also have hairy bodies, which can make them look quite imposing.
There are over 20,000 different species of bees worldwide — 1,600 are found in California. As pollinators, they all play a vital role in our ecosystem. Bees, however, can sting, which they use to defend themselves and their nests. Though bee stings deliver no serious complications, they can be quite painful. So if you see them, do not disturb them, or it’s best to call a bee control expert to have the hive extracted or moved to a bee sanctuary.
3. Silverfish
Silverfish are small, silvery-white wingless insects with tapered heads. They have two long antennae and three pairs of legs. Silverfish are nocturnal and feed on a variety of foods. They can be found in moist environments, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
While they are not known to cause any serious diseases, they can contaminate food with their feces and saliva, which can lead to allergic reactions in some people. Additionally, silverfish can be a nuisance because they eat a variety of foods, including starch, sugar, and protein, as well as household items like clothes, paper, and books.
4. Cockroaches
Several different species of cockroach can be found in California. They vary in size, from less than an inch to over 2 inches long. They are typically dark brown or black in color. Roaches have a flattened body, six legs, and two antennae. They also have a pair of wings, but these are usually not used for flying. They only fly when they feel threatened.
Like silverfish, roaches are nocturnal. They are also drawn to food and moisture and can often be found in kitchens and bathrooms. Cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers and will eat anything they can find, including rotting food, feces, and even other insects.
They are also known for being very resilient creatures — they can survive for up to a week without food or water, and they are resistant to many kinds of pesticides. They are also well known for their rapid breeding habits; a single cockroach can produce up to 50 offspring in a year. Cockroaches can also spread disease, so it is important to get rid of them if you find them in your home.
5. Termites
Termites are small, soft-bodied insects that live in colonies, often mistaken for ants. They are differentiated by their straight waist, and they have straight antennae, as opposed to the elbowed antennae of ants. Termites are usually larger and have broader heads than ants. They also have wings, which ants lack.
Termites are not known to spread diseases harmful to humans, but they may cause allergic reactions to some people, whether through their saliva or droppings. It’s important to know that termites are one of the few insects that eat wood, which can lead to extensive damage to homes and other structures. On average, California homeowners pay $3,000 to repair termite-initiated damage.
Learn more about the different types of termites and which one is eating your house.
6. Crickets
Crickets are well known for their loud chirping at night, which is used to attract mates. They range in color from light brown to black and typically have a greenish hue. But, they can be easily identified by their long antennae, dropped abdomen, and long, thin hind legs. Crickets are generally about 1 inch long but can grow up to 2 inches long.
They love to eat leaves and can often be found in gardens or fields. Crickets usually only bite humans if they feel threatened, and even then their bites are not harmful. Nevertheless, having crickets around your house chirping loudly every night can be a cause of a disturbance to your family.
7. Earwigs
Earwigs are easily recognizable by their elongated body and a pair of pincers or forceps at the end of their abdomens. They range in color from brown to reddish-brown, and some have stripes or bands on their bodies. Earwigs typically measure 0.2-2 inches long but can grow up to 3 inches long.
Earwigs are nocturnal, and they typically reside in moist environments like gardens and basements. They’re also very good climbers, so they may be found scaling walls or ceilings. Earwigs are scavengers and will eat anything they can find, including other insects. They’re also known to damage crops and plants.
Because of their intimidating pincers, earwigs might look harmful to humans. However, they are not. Still, earwigs have to be removed from your home as they can eat any of your stored food.
8. Ticks
Ticks are small creatures that measure 3-7mm long. They have a hard, flat body that is covered in bristles, and they typically display a reddish-brown color. Ticks are among the most common types of biting insects found in California. You can find them in animals and even human hair.
Ticks are ectoparasites, which means that they live on the outside of their host’s body. They attach themselves to animals or people by embedding their mouthparts into the skin. Once attached, they will suck blood from their host until they are full. Ticks can be quite irritating and cause a great deal of discomfort due to itchiness, especially if they are not removed quickly.
In California, ticks can also be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and even urban areas. There are several different species of ticks in the state, some of which are known to carry diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), and ehrlichiosis. It is important to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect yourself from tick bites.
9. Wasps
Wasps are identifiable by their narrow waist and two pairs of wings. They can range in color from black to yellow, and some species have brightly colored stripes.
All wasps are predators — they feed on a variety of insects. They also scavenge for food and will eat anything that is available. Wasps are social creatures living in colonies that can contain anywhere from a few dozen to a few thousand individuals. They build nests out of mud, paper, or chewed-up wood.
The behavior of wasps can vary depending on the species. Some species are known to be aggressive and will attack anything that they perceive as a threat. In some cases, they can cause serious injury or even death. Others are more passive and will only sting humans or animals if they are directly threatened. When you see wasps, it’s best to seek professional help to have them removed from your property.
10. Moths
Moths come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all moths have large wings. The wings of a moth can be either covered in scales or covered in hairs, ranging in color from black to white, while some species have brightly colored markings.
Moths are nocturnal creatures, and they are most active at night. They are attracted to light, so you can usually find them swarming your lights at home. Moths are herbivores, and they feed on a variety of plants. Some moths are known to eat the leaves of trees, while others are known to eat flowers. That said, moths are generally harmless creatures.
However, there are a few species that can be harmful to humans. The most common type of moth-related injury is caused by the larvae, or caterpillars, of certain species. These caterpillars can release a toxic substance that causes irritation, skin rashes, and sometimes nausea or vomiting when they come into contact with human skin. When you see an eclipse of moths swarming your lights, don’t hesitate to call for professional help.
11. Fleas
Fleas are tiny parasites measuring 1-3mm, and therefore they can fit into the smallest of spaces and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They have a hard body shell that protects them from being crushed, and they can jump up to 18 inches in height, so it’s so easy for them to find a new host.
Fleas are not picky eaters. They will feed on any blood that is available, commonly from cats, dogs, and even humans. Fleas can be a nuisance to both humans and animals, and they can cause a variety of health problems. They cause skin rashes, hair loss, and allergic reactions. They can also transmit various diseases to humans and animals, including plague and typhus. When you see fleas at home, get pest control help immediately.
Get Professional Help From a Pest Control Service in California
There are a few ways to get rid of these pests. However, the most effective way to eliminate these pests is by identifying and removing their food and water sources. For example, you can seal cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation, fix leaky pipes and taps, and store food in airtight containers. By taking these steps, you can make your home less hospitable to unwanted insects at home.
If you need pest control and prevention experts, Pro Pacific Pest Control is here to help you out. Learn more about Pro Pacific Pest Control, or directly call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a free inspection and estimate for your pest control needs.
Pest Control
What To Look For In A San Diego Pest Control Service
Your home or business is susceptible to pest infestations for various reasons. They can occur from a failure to provide proper sanitation or from not keeping up with home maintenance. Overlooking these details can put you at risk of extensive pest infestations that can be difficult to control.
When this happens, it’s time to call a local pest control specialist to rid your property from these critters. In order to narrow down your search selection to the best pest control San Diego team, you need to do some research.
Here are 3 things you need to keep in mind while searching for a quality, reputable pest control company:
Experience
How many years has this company been servicing the San Diego area? You want to hire a professional with experience and knowledge of the industry. Don’t be afraid to ask them how long they’ve been in this business.
To find out if the company has been filed against or received complaints, you can check with one of the following:
- Better Business Bureau
- States Attorney General’s Office
These are all great sites to check out when reviewing companies. In addition, you can review online testimonials pertaining to the pest control San Diego company you’re considering.
Certified, Licensed Specialists
Specialists need certification and licensing before performing any work on your property. Ask to see their credentials prior to accepting any services. If you wish, you can verify their license by calling the State Departments of Agriculture.
Beware of any pest control individuals or companies who try to pressure you into signing a contract. Also, watch out for those companies that arrive unexpectedly at your home to offer their services. These cases are rare, but they are out there! Our best piece of advice is to use your good judgment before letting just anyone treat your home for pests.
Customer Care Support
When something goes wrong, you want a customer care specialist who can handle your needs immediately. If a service was not completed correctly, the pest control company should fix it at no additional cost. You want to hire a company that guarantees their work—if they do not, you have reason to be skeptical.
One tip to ensure your choice has good customer care support is simply to call different pest control companies. Firstly, this will give you an idea of their services. But more than that, this is a great time to ask them questions and pay attention to the responses they give you. Do they sound confident and knowledgeable? Are they friendly and professional?
Contact Us
Pro Pacific Pest Control takes pride in their skillful exterminators. We are ready to act and give you a pest free home. Our services include inspecting, treating, controlling, and removing unwanted bugs in a safe, efficient manner.
If you’re looking for a pest control San Diego service, you’ve come to the right place. Pro Pacific Pest Control is committed to delivering quality services in the San Diego area. For more information give us a call at 800-901-1102. Or, request a free estimate today by filling out the form below.
Pest Control
6 Most Common Pests in San Diego (and How to Keep Them Out of Your Home)
Pests are an unfortunate part of being a homeowner. However, there are preventative steps you can take to eliminate any unwanted guests in your home. Especially in warmer climates like San Diego, pests will oftentimes seek cooler shelter during the warmer months. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to pest control in San Diego. Here are 6 of the most common pests and the best way to keep them out of your home:
Ants
A common problem all throughout San Diego, ants seek any crack or crevice that lends them access to your house. The best option is to spray ant repellent in areas that seem to host larger amounts of ants. In addition to this, get rid of any aphid attracting plants in your home, to prevent them from reproducing. Also, be mindful of any crumbs or food left unattended, particularly anything sugary or sweet.
Cockroaches
One of the most common of pests, cockroaches can endure nearly any environment indoors or out. Controlling cockroaches by using barriers is a good rule of thumb when it comes to removal. If you can cut off their food sources such as crumbs or food residue, they will go elsewhere in order to survive. Typically found in warm and humid areas of the house, pay special attention to places like bathrooms, kitchens, and the garage when spraying for cockroaches.
Fleas
While very common, this problem is most certainly prevalent if you have any pets in the home. By focusing on your animals that have the potential to bring in fleas, you can go a long way in preventing them altogether. Ask your local vet about a flea repellent to frequently apply to your cat or dog’s fur. Also, monitor them after walks or a trek outside. Look for warning signs, like your pet scratching an abnormal amount or little red bites on your legs and ankles. For treatment, apply flea spray throughout your carpets and other soft areas in the home, such as sofas and rugs.
Moths
Moths are a very common problem throughout San Diego and nearby areas. If you have an irregular number of moths in your home, it will most likely be due to any storage of old clothing. Things such as coats or clothes left undisturbed are more viable for a moth infestation. By cleaning or removing the source of the problem, you may find the problem takes care of itself.
Spiders
Only second to ants, spiders are one of the most reported pest infestations. As spiders feed off other insects, it is important to eliminate other pests within your home first. Then, it is wise to knock down any and all spider webs that may be in crevices and on your walls. For any high reaching areas, call pest control to help remove the harder to reach webs. In addition, if you ever come across a deadly spider, leave it alone and call the proper professionals to handle the situation.
Mice
Finally, insects are not the only pest that can infest your home. Mice can reside anywhere. Usually looking for food, mice can be detected by chewing and leaving pellets behind in your home. The best way to get rid of mice is to use traps to catch them in and dispose of them outside your home.
Contact Pro Pacific Pest Control Today!
There are many preventative measures to keep pests out of your home. However, sometimes a problem can quickly grow out of hand. That’s when you need the help of professional pest control in San Diego. If this occurs or you want to be proactive about an existing situation, call Pro Pacific Pest Control today for a free estimate on your home’s pest problem.
Gophers, Mice, Pest Control, Rats, Uncategorized
Give a Mouse An Entrance…
…And he’ll move right in!
As seasons change and the weather starts to get cooler, mice, rats, and other rodents are looking for warm, cozy place to wait out the weather. Of course, no one wants rodents taking up residence in their home (after all, they don’t even pay rent)! But once a rat has food, water, and shelter available, they have no intention of leaving!
So what can you do to prevent a rodent takeover?
The first thing you need to do is make sure there aren’t any openings that a rodent can get access through… the most popular entryway being your garage. That means making sure your door weather seal is installed properly and undamaged. It also means that you’ll need to make sure to avoid leaving your garage door open for extended periods of time, as rodents will leap at the opportunity to get inside where it may be significantly warmer.
Checking the foundation of your home is another way to deter rodents. If caught early, you can prevent rodents from entering the home via gaps in your foundation. Remember, rodents can squeeze through incredibly small openings… AC lines and similar piping holes can be prime targets for infestation points.
After looking “down low,” be sure to look “up high” as well… rodents can get onto your roof via branches that overhang the home, then search for spaces to get into your attic! Be sure to trim back those branches as a deterrent to any acrobatic mice who may feel like “dropping in.”
Whether you’re trying to prevent a rodent invasion or dealing with one already, it appears your best bet is to act quickly. And if you’re thinking of waiting out winter in hopes that they might pack up come spring, think again! Once they’ve started nesting, they won’t stop!
That’s when you know it’s time to call a professional!
Pest Control
Pest Expert Quiz: Are You Able To Protect Your Home From Bugs?
We’ve said it before, but keeping your home pest-free is an important component of a healthy home. But you already knew that, right?
To test your pest knowledge, we’ve put together 20 challenging questions on the essentials and regulations of effective pest control. Think you’ve got what it takes to ace the class? Take the test and post YOUR high score!
The quiz can be completed within 5-10 minutes and contains multiple choice and true-false questions. You can use other resources, but a true pest control master can ace this test without peeking.
What You Can Expect
The questions can be tricky – Be Careful!
There may be more than one correct answer or one word in the question can change the correct answer choice. Be sure to carefully read all of the question and choices before moving on – there is no going back.
Also, if you answer incorrectly, the system will alert you after you click the “Next Question” button. No alerts are given if you choose the right answer.
The test is for fun.
While this quiz can definitely measure how much you know about pests and pest control, it will not guarantee that you’ll NEVER have bug problems or be able to exterminate all infestations. Sometimes years of experience trumps acing multiple choice quizzes. But don’t be discouraged; pest control may not be your calling.
Here’s how you can grade your performance:
After you have completed the 20 questions, click the “Your Score” button to see your results. We have scored the test like this:
–0-5/20 Pest Newbie: You couldn’t kill a dead ant
–6-10/20 Pest Novice: With a little more practice, you could take on big bug problems
–11-14/20 Pest Pro: You could smell a bug problem from a mile away
–15-20/20 Pest Master: You could exterminate pests with your hands tied behind your back
That should be all you need to know to get started. So, are you ready to take the Pest Expert Quiz? Alright – Let’s get started!
Contact us at Pro Pacific Pest Control for all your pest control needs!
Ants, Bees, Birds, FAQ, Featured, Fleas, food, General Pest Control, General Rodent, Pest Control, Spiders, Ticks, Uncategorized, Wasp
A Bug-Free BBQ
The countdown has begun! One of our favorite holidays has to be the Fourth of July! It’s a perfect time to spend with family and friends, enjoying each other’s company and commemorating the birth of the nation. Many Americans choose to celebrate with pool parties, BBQs, and major events. But just like every other outdoor activity, Pests can strike without warning! Let’s face it, bugs are JUST AS American as mom, baseball, and apple pie… in fact, bugs are worldwide!!! This year, though, we’re going to help you avoid those flying,crawling, and squirming party crashers. Below are our top tips for having a bug-free Fourth!
1) Stay Away From Water
“One if by land, two if by sea!” doesn’t just apply to Paul Revere! Given the chance, insects will come from any direction possible… Land, sea or air! Stagnant bodies of water are particularly popular with insects… in fact, that’s where many insects breed and lay their eggs.
As picturesque as having your outing by the lake may seem, consider moving the festivities (or at least the food) a bit further away to cut down on insect presence.
Also, be sure to scout out the area before setting up. If you notice there there is already a heavy insect presence, then BY ALL MEANS don’t set up shop there! Remember, prevention is ALWAYS easier and far less hassle than dealing with it after the fact!!!
2) Cover Your Food
Let’s face it… in a lot of ways, insects are just like us… they love, love, LOVE sticky sweets. And with that fine spread out on the table (hot dogs, potato salad, watermelon, and cobblers), it acts like a big target sign to attract bugs looking for a meal. The best way to stop them? Cover up! Use Tupperware containers for an eco-friendly solution, or cover your food with plastic wrap or tinfoil.
3) Put the Off ON!
Bug repellent comes in many forms, most notably in lotions (or sprays) that you can apply directly to your skin. This is useful for kids especially, as they are often unaware of potential “bug zones” and these lotions may assist in providing a barrier as they play.
If you’re averse to the idea of putting repellent on your body, there are other methods available. Some people swear by pest repellent candles or citronella “torches.” Another alternative (and not quite so “eye-grabbing” is to use insect-repellent incense. Incense can come in the form of small sticks, or in a spiral shape that slowly burns down and repels most insects (notably mosquitoes).
4) Clean Up!
Just like setting up shop near a lake can be ideal, it can also be tempting to put the trash receptacle very close to the table or close to where everyone is congregating. After all, who wants to walk away from the action just to throw food away? Well, aside from obvious health concerns about having garbage in the midst of activities, the trash can also be a HUGE attractant to wayward insects. They just LOVE the smell of fresh food! Walk a few extra steps to throw away trash and it can help you eliminate the need to swat flies or wasps while eating!
Sure, these methods won’t guarantee 100% bug eradication, but they’ll definitely reduce the amount of unwelcome visitors at your Awesome 4th of July celebration! Have additional tips or tricks you’d like to share? How about a favorite BBQ recipe? Let us know in the comment section or Tweet us so we can share it with the Pro Pacific Community! Call us today for all your pest control needs!
Bees, FAQ, Featured, General Pest Control, Pest Control, Wasp
Down And Dirty Guide to Bee and Wasp Control
Due to the warmer climate of Southern California, many businesses and homeowners find themselves housing unwanted tenants: Bees and wasps!
Though bees (and even wasps) can be helpful to the ecosystem due to their pollination habits, many people consider them to be a potential health hazard. It’s estimated that 2 million Americans are allergic to bee stings. Even if you’re not allergic to bee stings, the stings are painful and can lead to discomfort days later in some cases.
Bees also release a hormone that acts an attractant which causes other bees to swarm the area (that’s why bees know which threat to target if a hive is in danger).
By late summer or early fall, bees and wasps have often reached their population peak. Reproduction slows down over the winter months, but the population (and the hive) can continue to grow indefinitely if left alone. Fortunately, their are many pest control companies who offer extermination services. We even offer LIVE bee relocations to reduce the ecological impact that a removal can have!
So what should you look for if bees or wasps are a concern? Below is a quick guide to 5 common bees and wasps to help you as the weather starts to heat up:
1). Yellow Jackets are very versatile in their home selection. usually they prefer to build a nest (often football shaped) high in a tree or under eaves of houses. If those spaces aren’t available, though, they’ll sometimes choose to set up shop in wall voids, tree stumps, attics and other places.
It’s called “yellow *jacket*” but you’ll never find it exploring in cold weather…
2). Paper Wasps are large, dark and have long legs, and build open nests, often in sheds or unused structures. The queen lives through winter months and continues to build at the same location, which can lead to very large nests and very large populations.
Paper wasps should NOT be confused with paper boys. One will bring you the news, the other can cause you to be IN the news
3). Mud Daubers build the nests you see that are mud stuck on the side of a structure, usually under the eaves or in an attic. The nest has to be kept dry, so they are usually found in very hard to reach locations.
If aliens exist, we imagine they would probably look like this!
4). Honey Bees are most known for their honey hoarding, but they also help a lot in pollination and plant reproduction. They have stingers that detach from the body once used (which, incidentally, kills the bee). Honey bees often nest in trees and produce nests which, if left alone, can grow quite large!
“Eat, Sleep, Gather Nectar, Repeat”
5). Bumble Bees are larger than their cousins, the Honey Bees. Though both have very similar characteristics, their hive structure varies. Bumblebees have a very “messy” hive, and prefer to nest in areas that have plenty of shade.
“I’m not fat, I’m just big-exoskeletoned”
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So do you have a bee hive or wasp nest? Or maybe you’ve spotted a swarm that’s looking to take up residence at YOUR residence? We do exterminations, live bee relocation, and hive removals! Give us a call now for your FREE estimate!
Ants, Cockroaches, General Pest Control, Gophers, Mice, Pest Control, Rats, Silverfish, Spiders, Uncategorized, Wasp
Springing Into Cleaning (AND Pest Control)
Spring is officially underway. For many people, that means the long arduous task of “Spring Cleaning.” Most of us will spend a weekend or two cleaning the house of old, unwanted clutter. For other people, it means (FINALLY) putting the Christmas tree/lights away. But aside from a tidier home when guests arrive, spring cleaning can be excellent for your home when pests arrive.
Often, the miscellaneous clutter that we accumulate (and leave forgotten in a nook, corner, or box) makes prime real estate for pests to move in. Low-traffic areas, such as attics, garages, and closets, can become safe havens for rodents and insects to move in and stake their claim.
At Pro Pacific Pest Control Escondido, we’re big supporters of pest prevention over pest extermination. We’ve mentioned it several times before, but it’s far easier (and cheaper) to prevent an infestation than it is to evict one. Here are three handy tips for your spring cleaning efforts to keep the bugs at bay:
1) Drain the Tub… And Everywhere Else.
“I’ve had a very ruff day.”
Moisture creates an ideal spot for many bugs, and often entices them to set up shop wherever they can find standing water. Rodents (such as shiprats and sewer rats) will often find sources of water and decide to set up shop nearby — often within the walls or even in the attic of your home! Mosquitoes use stagnant puddles for reproduction and can often swarm nearby as a result. Silverfish LOVE moist, cool, dark places, and you’ll often catch them scurrying away if you flip on the light in a crawlspace that is not properly sealed. reptiles and other pests will also seek out similarly cool, damp places. Eliminating these sources of water can go a long way to not only preventing the hassle of insects, but it can also prevent disease such as dengue, malaria, and others that are carried by mosquitoes and their kin.
As you’re doing your annual cleanse, check your home to make sure you don’t have a leaky faucet or pipes. Although Southern California doesn’t have to worry about pipes freezing over the winter months, pipes which have not been used in a long time or are in disrepair can be the catalyst for a full-blown invasion!
2)Dust Those Bunnies!
Cleaning in furs. Lucy has always been a class act.
Ever run face first into a spider web? NOT a fun feeling! The flailing, spit-takes, and panicked shuffling that results can be embarrassing, to say the least. One way to avoid such nestings is to sweep and dust nooks, crannies, and eaves inside and outside the house. In some homes, it is harder to reach these areas because a ladder is needed.
This is a prime task for your friendly neighbourhood pest control company! After all, who wants to drag a ladder out of storage, put it up, sweep, climb back down, and repeat the process all the way around (and inside) the house? Pest control companies often have the equipment to do these task quickly and efficiently.
Basically, though, you want to target all those “low traffic” areas in and around the home. Corners, closets, and eaves are prime spots for spiders to set up shop.
3) Don’t Be A Packrat.
“Eat your heart out, chipmunks.”
We get it, some things are just too cool to get rid of, or there’s something “nostalgic” about them, or… well, we’ll admit that maybe we’re just being lazy at times. But keeping those odds-and-ends, scrap materials, or “vintage” goods from the local flea market can cause you more headache than you realize.
Keep your home clear of clutter. If you have a shed or workstation in your backyard, be sure to clean (or at the very least organize) any discarded pieces of wood or tools. Rodents love to nest in piles like those and it can ALSO be a prime location for bees and wasps to form nests. In fact, we’ve seen a bee’s nest between two garbage can lids that hadn’t been moved in months! Clearing out spaces like these can go a LONG way to helping your pest control efforts, and a little bit of effort on the “front end” can keep your cost down in the long run.
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Of course, we offer FREE inspection/estimates for pest control and can identify potential trouble spots and offer ongoing solutions to keep your home safe (and beautiful) throughout spring and into summer.
FAQ, General Pest Control, News, Pest Control
Why Should I Choose Pro Pacific Pest Control?
Recently in the PPPC Blog (as well as on our Twitter and Facebook pages), we’ve taken a look at major problems that have impacted the country, and even looked at rising pest problems. We’ve covered the benefits of choosing a professional pest control service VS DIY, and even taken a look at the safety and efficacy of materials used.
Without a doubt, pest activity is on the rise… especially now as we move from winter to spring and into summer. Insects and rodents who remained more or less dormant during the winter will soon become more active, and as a result, they’ll look for food and shelter… will they find an ideal environment in your home?
Pests can be a huge hassle, and they can interrupt and inconvenience you and your hectic schedule, which is all the more reason to use a professional pest control service to protect your home and family.
With so many pest control companies out there, and with the threat of infestation looming it can be hard to decide which company is the best.
- Why Should I Choose PPPC?
There is a plethora of reasons why you should choose PPPC for your pest control needs. We’ve listed ten of the best reasons, but to truly “get” why our services are so awesome, you absolutely HAVE to experience it for yourself!
1 — At Pro Pacific Pest Control, we hold ourselves to a higher standard: all our technicians are trained to handle the most up to date technologies and are recognized by the Pest Control Operators of California.
2 — Our technicians are true professionals: from conduct to uniforms to punctuality, they strive to be the best representatives around.
3 — We have more than ten years of experience serving residents of Orange, San Diego, and Riverside Counties.
4 — We always seek to help the environment while we protect your home: We’re working to reduce our carbon footprint via paperless billing, up to date equipment, and fuel efficient vehicles!
5 — We utilize the latest in pest management programs to provided precise, targeted care for your home.
6 — We’re open Saturdays, and can often arrange same-day visits to fit your busy schedule.
7 — We’re engaged in all phases of pest management: pest control, rodent control, bee removal and bird abatement. We offer preventative services and targeted “one-time” services. Though we specialize in residential/home application, our highly-skilled technicians can also offer effective pest control solutions for your business
8 — Our services are guaranteed! Many one-time services have a 30 day guarantee, and if you have an ongoing subscription service but a problem arises, we can often come out and solve the problem with no additional cost to you!
9 — We do everything we can to keep our services as low cost as possible. Go ahead, ask around… you’ll find that we offer the best services for the price. It’s quality service that we proudly stand behind.
10 — We listen! Our number one focus is YOU! we tailor our treatments and services around your busy schedule, providing the best possible solution for your needs! We do all the work, so you don’t have to!
- Is your company locally owned?
We get it. It can be intimidating to have some corporate entity come to your house. Fortunately, small businesses like ours are still thriving… and we’re able to do so because of our close relationships with our customers. We live in the communities we serve, and we’re proud of that fact!
Pro Pacific Pest Control is a local, family-owned business. For over a decade, brothers Ben and Shane Hoy have been involved in every aspect of pest control, serving residents throughout Southern California. The Hoy family strongly believes in both integrity and superior service, and Pro Pacific Pest Control has been shaped according to those standards. PPPC is always searching for ways to improve customer experience while keeping prices down. Under the guidance of Ben and Shane, PPPC has explored new technologies designed to be safer and more effective, while still providing the expert, personalized care that is so essential to our clients.
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All of us at Pro Pacific Pest Control are proud of the work that we put into serving our customers. If we haven’t had the pleasure of serving you yet, give us a call and experience what the “buzz” is all about!
bed bugs, General Pest Control, Pest Control, Uncategorized
5 Must-Use Tips for Holiday Travel Safety
Everyone is gearing up for the holiday season, planning trips and booking tickets… but despite the jovial spirit of the season, a mood-killer lurks in the shadows: bed bugs!
Bed bugs don’t just “go away” for the winter. They like to find a nice warm, cozy spot and settle in… and a prime place for this to happen is in hotel rooms! Unfortunately, bed bugs can strike ANYWHERE… a 1-star motel in a rural area, or even 4 star accommodations in the ritziest parts of the city.
The REAL reason Scrooge was so grumpy at Christmas! (Photo courtesy JonathanSchmock.com)
We’ve compiled a list of 5 EASY things you can do to make sure bed bugs don’t ruin your holiday experience:
1) Research it!
Most of us usually do a little research before booking our hotels and flights, to make sure that we’re getting the most out of our time holiday time and hard-earned money. Paying special attention to reviews COULD alert you to potential issues or a history of bed bug infestation… but you should also take reviews with a grain of salt. Sometimes negative reviews can be the result of a disgruntled employee or a patron who may be exaggerating to draw negative attention.
Doing a little research ahead of time can save a LOT of trouble later!
Once you’ve gotten your dream vacation (or your “pit-stop” on the way TO your dream vacation) booked, however, there are additional things you can do to ensure the only “extras” you bring back are presents from Grandpa and Grandma.
2) Store it!
As soon as walking through the door to your hotel room for the first time, you should immediately store your belongings in the bathroom. Don’t worry, it’s not a long term thing! Bed bugs are less likely to make a home out of the bathroom, which will keep your luggage safe from infestation until you’ve determined that the room is clear.
Check the bed by pulling back the linens, looking around and under the mattress and behind the headboard. Bedbugs are similar to the size (and shape!) of an apple seed. You may find them in the bedding, or you may find little black dots that look sort of like peppercorn. If so, alert hotel staff immediately.
Bed bugs will stay close to the bed for the most part, but can be found in chairs, curtains, and the closet, so be sure to check those areas as well!
3) Elevate it!
Once you’ve determined that there aren’t any bed bugs in the room, the trick then becomes prevention, which is relatively easy. If possible, keep your bags on the desktop, on top of the dresser, or on a luggage rack… but definitely OFF the floor! That way, any bed bugs which are scouting for a new place to settle down won’t have easy access to your stuff!
4) Wrap it!
For extra protection, purchase a zip-up plastic bag (most luggage retailers carry these nowadays as protection in the midst of travel) and keep your luggage wrapped when not in use. Some airports will wrap your luggage for you (for a fee), and a cheaper alternative (but a less viable “long term” solution) is to use garbage bags to wrap your luggage.
Workers not included
Added bonus: the plastic can also protect your luggage from rain / moisture.
5) Wash it!
When you return home from vacation, wash everything in hot water. That includes the stuff that didn’t get used or worn.
If a bedbug does manage to get into your luggage, it won’t be able to survive the heat from washing. Sending items to the dry cleaners will have the same effect as washing.
Of course, be sure to inspect your baggage/suitcase before you put it away. Vacuum out the nooks and crannies and (if possible) wrap it in plastic until you need it again.
So there you have it! 5 easy tips to avoid bed bugs this holiday season. Nevertheless, bugs can be persistent and if you DO end up plagued by those bothersome bed bugs, we’ll be there to protect your home and loved ones!
Do you have any other travel tips to share? Let us know in the comments section or tag us with the hashtag #PPPC
Safe travels and Happy Holidays!
