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 619-361-7965
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 877-959-5001 to schedule a free inspection and estimate for your spider control job.
Spiders
California House Spiders: Understanding Different Spiders at Home
Spiders come into your home for a few different reasons. Most of them love to stay indoors to catch prey and stay away from predators throughout the spring and summer months. But as the fall season rolls around, spider activity may start to intensify. During this time, male spiders crawl out of the woodwork to find a mate.
Spiders also like to stay indoors simply because they may have found food in your house. By food, meaning other bugs that have also found their way inside your home. Regardless, you want to keep spiders outside. The bad news is there are so many to keep count of.
In North America, over 3,400 species exist—66 of them can be found in California. Though many types of spiders in California homes cause no harm to residents, there are some dangerous ones you should also note.
How do you spot the common California house spiders? Where do they usually live? And how do you know if this spider is dangerous or not? In this blog post, you’ll get answers to your burning questions.
10 Most Common Types of Spiders in California Homes
Some of our customers can easily identify the most common types of spiders in California homes, such as tarantulas and black widow spiders. Some homeowners, however, can barely identify any. And the worst thing is, they don’t know whether the spider they encounter is dangerous or not.
Ultimately, it’s important to get to know the typical California house spiders besides tarantulas and black widow spiders. Here are some of them:
1. Tarantula
Starting with one that you’ve probably seen at one point — tarantulas. They’re considered the world’s largest spiders.
What do tarantulas look like?
Tarantulas have fairly hairy legs and bodies, which makes them look terrifying to many people. Their size and color may vary depending on their species and hideout.
Where do tarantulas live?
Tarantulas are quite common in the desert regions — and yes, that includes California. But more specifically, tarantulas live underground in burrows, which they dig using their forelegs and fangs. They might also use abandoned burrows. Some tarantulas also use funnel-shaped webs in trees.
Tarantulas are nocturnal for the most part. During the mating season, male tarantulas can get very bold and can be found wandering into homes in broad daylight.
Are tarantulas dangerous?
Despite their menacing appearance, tarantulas shouldn’t be feared. Sure, they are venomous, but they’re not dangerous. In fact, their venom is milder than a honeybee.
2. Black widow spider
Black widow spiders can be found in households all over the world. In California, it’s even more common.
What do black widow spiders look like?
Most black widow spiders are recognizable for their glossy black color. The females measure about 3-10mm in length, twice bigger than males. They’re more recognizable for their hourglass-shaped red marking on the underside of their bellies. Meanwhile, males are more reclusive and can hardly be seen.
Where do black widow spiders live?
Indoors, they can hide in garages, basements, barns, mailboxes, crawl spaces, and sheds. They also like edges and corners around your house, as well as tall grasses and dark hideouts.
Are black widow spiders dangerous?
The black widow is venomous. Their bites may cause vomiting, intense muscle pains and stiffness, and difficulty breathing due to diaphragm paralysis. They might not inflict any serious harm on some people. However, it can be fatal to some, including kids, the elderly, and the sick. Despite that, black widow spiders aren’t considered aggressive unless threatened.
3. American house spider
Known for creating Halloween-like webs, the American house spider is one of the most popular type of spiders in California homes.
What do American house spiders look like?
American house spiders are as small as a nickel. They’re often gray with white markings and have a rounded belly.
Where do American house spiders live?
American house spiders are commonly found in abandoned buildings and homes. Nonetheless, they can establish a dwelling all over your attic, basements, cabinets, or garages — pretty much anywhere dark and hidden.
Are American house spiders dangerous?
Nope. Generally, they’re not aggressive. In fact, they can be easily daunted by the presence of people.
4. Wolf spider
What do wolf spiders look like?
Although their sizes vary, wolf spiders are generally one of the largest California house spiders. They can grow up to an inch and a half. And they’re often mistaken as baby tarantulas because of their large size and hairy body. Wolf spiders tend to be black, grey, or brown.
Where do wolf spiders live?
Wolf spiders are outdoor species, but they may still dwell indoors. You may find them in basements, sheds, or garages where insects are, especially in the late summer and fall.
Are wolf spiders dangerous?
They’re not, although they can still bite.
5. Brown recluse
What does the brown recluse look like?
The brown recluse is distinguishable for its violin-shaped marking on the top of its head and down its back. They range from light to dark brown. While most spiders have eight eyes, the brown recluse only has six that appear in a triad. They can grow 6-11 inches in length with fine hair covering their belly.
Where does the brown recluse live?
The brown recluse is nocturnal. They want to stay away from humans, so they usually create their webs in secluded, undisturbed places like sheds, basements, and cellars. But, they can also be found under sheets, shoes, and folded clothes.
Is brown recluse dangerous?
Yes! The brown recluse is deemed a dangerous spider. It stings when it bites. Their venom has the ability to kill the cells and tissues around wounds. When bitten, get medical help immediately!
6. Domestic house spider
The domestic house spider is pretty common all over the world. This is more commonly known in California as the barn funnel weaver or the common house spider.
What does a domestic house spider look like?
They have typically dark orange to brown or beige (even grayish) bodies. They’re pretty small yet elongated. Females can grow between 7.5-11.5 mm, while males can grow between 6-9 mm.
Where does a domestic house spider live?
They’re often found in the corners of windows and ceilings, creating funnel-shaped cobwebs with a center hole. The female house spider is usually just sitting pretty in the middle of the web, waiting for her insect prey. If left undisturbed, the domestic house spider can survive up to seven years in the same web.
Is a domestic house spider dangerous?
No, they’re not. They will stay out of man’s way when their web gets disturbed.
7. Daddy longlegs spider
What does a daddy longlegs spider look like?
Daddy longlegs spiders are gray to brown, sometimes clear, with chevron patterns. Their cylindrical body grows the size of a peanut, but their very thin legs can go on up to 50 mm long.
Where does a daddy longlegs spider live?
They like to live outside for the most part, on the lawn or up in trees. But, it’s not uncommon to see them inside enclosed spaces. At home, you can spot them hanging inverted in their messy, irregular-shaped webs in the dark, undisturbed areas such as corners, attics, and cellars. That’s why it’s also called a cellar spider.
Is a daddy longlegs spider dangerous?
No! Contrary to popular belief, daddy longlegs spiders aren’t venomous.
8. Hobo spider
What does a hobo spider look like?
The hobo spider is often confused with other common spiders in California homes primarily because of its brownish color. They have very hairy legs, too. However, the distinctive features of this spider are the V-shaped stripes on their abdomens.
They’re also known as funnel weavers.
Where does a hobo spider live?
They are commonly found in dark, dry, and warm areas such as attics, basements, closets, and furniture. They may hide in clothing, beds, and shoes too.
Is a hobo spider dangerous?
The hobo spider can be aggressive. Its bite can cause pain, redness, and swelling surrounding the affected area, which can be easily treated with an over-the-counter painkiller or ice pack. The good news is hobo spider bites don’t give you necrotic lesions.
9. Jumping spider
What does a jumping spider look like?
There are so many species of jumping spiders, and they look a little different from one another. Their colors vary from solid black to black and white stripes with iridescent spots. Two things they all have in common are their large, front-middle set of eyes and hairy bodies and legs.
Where does a jumping spider live?
They can be found in your house. However, they don’t weave webs. You might see them crawling inside ceilings, climbing walls, or hanging out in attics or trees.
Is a jumping spider dangerous?
Not really. However, jumping spiders may bite if threatened.
10. Yellow sac spider
What does a yellow sac spider look like?
They’re usually pale beige or yellowish and have a dark V shape on their body.
Where does a yellow sac spider live?
They hide in the sac during the day and then hunt at night. They create sacs in the corners where the wall meets the ceiling, whether it’s the kitchen, the living room, or the bedroom.
Is a yellow sac spider dangerous?
It’s not common for yellow sac spiders to pose any danger. They can bite, but it’s nothing too serious. However, there have been reports of hospitalizations for some people who have pre-existing medical conditions.
How to Avoid California Spiders in Houses
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.
-
Seal 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.
Seek Professional Spider Control Help
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 they’re 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.
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!
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.
Ants, Bees, Cockroaches, Featured, Fleas, funny, General Pest Control, Silverfish, Spiders, Ticks, Wasp
Buggin’ Out! Pop Goes Pest
This week we’re taking a slight detour as we look at popular bands who have used their musical talents to immortalize insects. Previously, we touched on artists who were bitten by “the love bug”.
There have been, of course, a plethora of bands with pests in their names (The Beatles, Adam and the Ants, the Scorpions, the Rats, etc). We could compile multiple playlists just based off their names! For today, though, we’re jumping into the songs themselves, looking at 10 artists who have “immortalized” insects in their music. As before, you can follow this playlist on Spotify… So sit back, turn the speakers up, and enjoy!
Crazy, Man!
With their distinct sound, the B-52s definitely stand out from the other artists included in this list. Though most people can sing along to their most popular song “Love Shack,” in a rousing bout of karaoke, most people would be hard-pressed to offer the same performance for “Junebug.” It just doesn’t get the same airtime. Nevertheless, this song still delivers the classic B-52s vibe that fans have come to associate with the band… as well as all the free lovin’ that the band espouses.
Serious about those weevils!!!
There are numerous versions of “Boll Weevil” out there, but perhaps the most iconic is the rendition done by Old Lead Belly. A definite “throwback,” this song is reminiscent of an older time in music… The haphazard, casual intonations definitely give this song the feel of a laid-back evening on the porch, belting out old folk songs for the fireflies to hear.
Tom Waits: a look to match his voice…
This entry isn’t so much a song as it is narrated speech over music. “Army Ants” is very reminiscent of a National geographic documentary meets the grind of a seedy nightclub mixed with the delivery of Mitch Hedberg… a scattered offering of “one-liner” facts related to insects. Waits’ gravelly voice also amps up the “creepy” factor of this piece, which is quite fitting, considering it’s about insects.
Miriam Makeba: International Songstress
“Qongqothwane” has been described as a traditional wedding song from the Xhosa people of Africa. As native English speakers do not have the linguistic ability to pronounce some of the sounds, it became commonly referred to as “The Click Song.” “Qongqothwane” is a song about where the village’s witch doctor can be found. Though his physical appearance is just like everyone else (not the stereotype that most people think of when they picture witch doctors), he is compared to a “knocking beetle,” which (in local folklore) leads the way home. The witch doctor leads the newlywed couple to a new future together in the same way that the beetle leads children home to where they belong.
photo courtesy themysticmangos.com
In this peculiar song, Ava (and her mangos) chronicle the journey to becoming an entomologist. Ava starts off by catching her bugs in the “local salad bar” (eww!) Catching, cataloguing, classifying, and displaying insects for others to see. Not necessarily an exciting life, but it was interesting enough to earn its own song. Now if we could just find our own “pest control” ode.
Audioslave: like a moth to the flame?
Like Kid Icarus, Audioslave gets too close to the sun in this song. A much lesser known single by a superb band, the lyrics truly capture the disillusionment that failure can cause. Notable lyrics: “I was a king, I was a Moth with painted wings made of cloth / When did the flame get so high and get so hot?”
Blake has quite the sweet tooth!!!
The only country music offering in the list, Shelton’s “Honey Bee” is a self-aware tune, and he even admits in the lyrics that the song “comes out a little country.” The song basically likens him and his girl as two complimentary parts in a couple (at least, that’s the intent… we’ve never heard of mixing wine with whiskey, but who are we to judge?) The song is, as most love songs are, stereotypical, but a good guitar riff and a catchy chorus make that fact easy to overlook.
Coral Necklace? Check! 90s Pose with Sunglasses? Check!
Arguably the most popular entry in our list, The Dave Matthews Band (“hardcore fans call him Dave“) offers up “Ants Marching,” which is one of their most recognizable hits. Horns are on loop through the background under Dave’s vocals, adding to the lyrical idea that nothing is ever changed, much like the “ants marching” from the title.
The Wire (the band, not the TV show)
This English rock band offers a peculiar piece. the lyrics are not deep at all. In fact, on may suggest that Colin Newman (lead vocals and guitar) channels Randy Newman based on the simplicity of this song. There is no story arc provided, but simply a song that is easily played in the background as you go about your day. This UK band sets up an anthem of sorts within the song — “I am the Fly” becomes a chant which begins to crescendo over a “clap-track” until its sudden end.
They had to use a stand-up for the cover, as the boys were getting their beards washed.
The Bearded Ones came up with their own ode to the common black fly. It starts off with the typical ZZ guitar riff, then continues into a song that, while lyrically not too deep, is fun to play air guitar to. This song contains all the innuendo that is to be expected of a ZZ Top song, while the guitar drives the momentum and keeps it moving forward.
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BONUS TRACK:
OK, obviously this song does not have insects in the title itself… but we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to include the King of Parody in our list… Perform This Way earns him a spot based on its lyrics: Weird Al dons a suit made of bees (and poking fun at Lady GaGa in the process).
Simply “abuzz” about Weird Al’s fashion sense!
Well played, sir.
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So there you have it: 10 songs (plus a bonus track!) about common pests.. some of these songs hit pretty high on the charts, too! What do you think? Are there any we missed? Leave a note in the Comments section or tell us via Facebook or Twitter
Spiders
Black Widow Spiders Are Being Replaced By Another Arachnid
There are varying degrees of arachnophobia that can cause reactions from a slight startle to a shrieking scream with a full sprint and flailing hands in the air. The sight of a black widow spider is no exception. This bright red hourglass, eight-legged creature has been causing unnerving scares to people since its existence.
But could these days of chilling terrors and spinning silk webs be over for the black widow?
We can’t say for sure but there is definitely some competition for living territories with the west coast’s new widow – The brown widow.
The brown widow has been spotted more frequently in territories that are expected to contain black widows, according to study researcher Richard Vetter of the University of California, Riverside. Agricultural settings are still predominately inhabited by black widows, but in urban settings the black widow seems to be displaced by this newcomer.
Researchers tested various habitats in Southern California where black widows would normally nest – including urban areas, farms, and undeveloped lands. Twenty times more brown widows were spotted at the 72 sites tested with the most common locations being underneath outdoor tables and chairs, and hidden within crevices of exterior walls and fences.
From a human standpoint, this may be good news since the brown widow spiders are less toxic and none (thus far) have been found inside homes or buildings. This occurrence can reduce the number and frequency of black widow spider bites in the region.
Currently, there are approximately 2,500 black widow bites every year in the United States. The venom released affects the body’s nervous system causing severe abdominal pain and muscle cramps. It is rare for a bite to be fatal – only commonly seen with small children and the elderly.
Black widows are native to Southern California, but the brown widow is no stranger to the United States. They were confirmed in southern U.S. by the 1930s and first spotted in Torrance, CA by 2003.
Ants, Fleas, Spiders, Ticks
Unusual Pest Numbers from Unusual Weather Temperatures
A rant of frustration and discontent from unwanted pests in homes is usually not so prevalent in the winter months; however, pest season this year seems to be an all-year dilemma.
In most areas throughout the United States the temperatures way above the norm during the winter. The usual drop in temperatures during the winter impedes the activity and reproduction rate of insects. Since the temperatures were never quite chilly, the warm temperatures allowed the bugs to continue reproducing and have the larvae grow at normal, fast rates.
While a large portion of an insect population dies off during sub-zero temperatures, this year they were able to thrive and build up their army during the winter.
Some of the top performers during this pest season appear to be ants, fleas, ticks, earwigs, and black widows.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), June 2011 to June 2012 was the warmest 12-month period since record-keeping began in 1895.
The heat is not the only thing making critters of all size more noticeable. The drought that some parts of the country have been experiencing causes bugs to head indoors for moisture.
Inspect your pets for fleas often. Fleas are abundant are can easily attach themselves to animals in dog parks, lawns, or other areas with heavy pet traffic.
The Solution to Pest Problems
Effectively combating this pest invasion epidemic will require clean and tidy habits. A thorough cleaning of areas where food is cooked, stored, or eaten should be cleaned after use. Food and drink spills should not be left for the next day – clean immediately.
Outside you should focus on removing clutter in lawns. Compost or leave piles should be picked up or turned regularly. Store all wood piles at least a few feet from the structure of your home.
Implementing these tasks into your daily routine and in combination with a regular pest control service, you should have no problem with pest infestations this summer.
Bees, Cockroaches, Mice, Pest Control, Property Managers, Rats, Realtors, Silverfish, Spiders, Ticks, Wasp
Are Foreclosed Homes Causing Pest Problems?
An ideal nesting spot for pests is an enclosed space that offers a nearby food source and has low foot traffic. You may consider these conditions all in one place a rarity but this type of environment commonly exists within residential neighborhoods and densely populated areas. They are typically referred to as foreclosed homes or abandoned properties – Yes; these are a pest’s paradise.
Pest problems within a foreclosed home can significantly increase the risk of pest infestations to adjacent properties. The pest population can outgrow the abandoned house and begin to overflow to other homes in the neighborhood.
Common Pest Infestations In Foreclosed Homes
Mosquitoes breed in pools and bird baths that have stagnant water from the lack of cleaning and rainfall. Rodents use unoccupied structures to nest and hide during the day, then travel to neighboring properties for food at night. Eventually the rodent population will become too large and will be forced to seek shelter elsewhere – possibly your home.
If conditions are right, honeybees will invade any home. It is possible to have a hive of thousands of bees neighboring your house. Be cautious of beehives and nests of other stinging insects during spring and summer months since this is when they are most active. The slightest noises or motions can disturb the nearby colonies.
Ticks can thrive in lawns that are unmaintained and contain high grass and overgrown weeds. Rodents or pets that run through these lawns are subject to become a host for these parasitic creatures, thus indirectly spreading them to your home. Keep your pets away from lawns that are not groomed.
Defend Your Home From Neighboring Pests
If a home near you is not maintained, you should contact the property owner. For foreclosed homes, the party responsible for the property is often banks or managing real estate companies. If no action is taken by the party you contacted, advise the municipal animal control services.
In the meantime, get regular pest control treatments to provide a preventative barrier protection around your property. Most pests will be unable to migrate into your home with bi-monthly treatments.
Applying weather stripping to doors and pest repellent screens to vents and windows is a great preventative measure to keep pests away. Also, seal any exterior hole the size of a quarter or larger on your home with gnaw-proof materials, including steel sheeting, hardware cloth, galvanized steel and concrete.
Pest Control, Pesticides, Rats, Spiders
Is Your Christmas Tree Causing Pest Problems?
The holiday season is time for celebration and reflection of yesteryear. Family and friends gather for gift exchange and hearty feasts. But the one element that significantly contributes to the festive season can put a damper on your Christmas events.
Many residents are spotting small pests in the vicinity of their Christmas tree. The unwanted holiday guests were aphids that can be spotted by carefully inspecting on the leaves of the trees or where the branches meet the base.
The infestation size can be from a few hundred to thousands. These tiny, green sap-sucking pests do not pose any health threat to you or your family but can stain carpets or like materials when smashed. And since your seasonal tree is a temporary, disposable home décor you won’t have to worry about the effects on the tree.
Farmers usually treat for aphids and other similar pests before placing them on the retail market, so these instances of pest problems are rare. Nevertheless, there are occasional circumstances that allow an aphid infestation to prevail.
Replacing the tree is a solution to eliminating the pest infestation in your home but will require temporarily taking down your decorations and transporting the infested tree to receive a new one.
An effective approach without evicting your current tree is to use a quality vacuum with a crevice tool extension. Do a thoroughly vacuum and inspect the tree afterwards. Spraying pesticides on the tree is not recommended. The treatment can pose a health risk to pests or children and leave you with hundreds of aphids dead on your floor – creating a huge mess!
Fake Christmas trees are also not a sure solution to avoiding pests. Artificial trees are ideal nesting locations for rodents and spiders. A thorough inspection is required of these trees as well.
Overall, this is a time to relax and enjoy your invited holiday guests. Don’t let bug problems stress you out.
Pro Pacific Pest Control wishes you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!
