Pest Control Tips Archives - Page 6 of 6 - Loyal Termite & Pest Control

The Emergence of 17-Year Cicadas in Virginia

Many people are accustomed to the occasional humming of a cicada during the summertime, but not the loud buzz of thousands! After living underground for 17 long years, cicadas are expected to emerge on the East Coast, including right here in Virginia. Periodical cicadas, often misidentified as “locusts”, live underground for years as juveniles before they emerge above ground for just a few weeks to a month. There are seven periodical cicada species — all members of the population develop at the same time and thus emerge all at once. This makes them much different than your typical cicada species, which are seen every summer. Brood IX is expected to emerge this year in southwestern Virginia as well as southern West Virginia. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about these unique 17-year cicadas.

What Are Periodical Cicadas?

Periodical cicadas are cicadas that appear at 13- or 17-year intervals. This makes them much rarer than your typical cicada species, which are active annually. 17-year cicadas are grouped into geographical broods based on which calendar year they will emerge. Here’s how to identify periodical cicadas:

They have black bodies, red eyes, and orange veins on their translucent wings.
They range in size from 3/4″ to 2 1/2″
These cicadas have a pair of antennae and six legs
Periodical cicadas appear in the hundreds or thousands per acre
They are not to be confused with annual cicadas, which are black and green in color

Why Are They Emerging Now?

17-year cicadas live beneath forest floors for years and receive sustenance from the tree roots. These nymphs live no more than 2 feet away from the surface but can travel deeper to feed. These nymphs will emerge on a spring evening when the soil temperature is more than 64 degrees Fahrenheit. This typically occurs anytime between April and June. The adult cicadas that emerge only live for a few weeks and are typically gone by mid-July.

In their short time, they are focused on reproducing. The male periodical cicadas will “sing”, which is the loud hum you may be used to hearing. After mating, the female will lay up to 600 eggs inside twig slits. When nymphs hatch, they will burrow underground and begin another 13 or 17-year cycle.

Are 17-Year Cicadas Dangerous?

These cicadas pose the biggest threat to young trees, which are the targets for laying eggs. They do not bite or sting humans and do not pose any health threats. They are mostly known to be nuisance pests, in large part due to the fact that they make so much noise! They are by far the loudest insect in the nation, and their “singing” can be heard for up to 1/2 mile away. They may get into your home by accident, but are not able to breed indoors and will not infest your property.

Regardless, if you have troubles with any insects inside your property, it’s always best to call your local pest control company, such as Loyal Termite & Pest Control!

cicadas summer pests

Preventing Ants in the Summertime

It’s summertime here in Virginia, and pests are out in full force! Ants are one of the most common pest problems in the summer for property owners. They tend to infest kitchens and bathrooms, and are often found trailing along your floorboards. They’re nearly impossible to get rid of without an exterminator, and their infestations can seem never ending. In order to avoid the frustration of an infestation, it’s crucial to learn the best ways to go about preventing ants in the summertime. Keep reading for expert tips from the team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control.

What Ants Are Common in the Summer?

There are more than 700 species of ants in the United States alone. Typically, you’ll only encounter a few in your lifetime. It’s important to learn about the common ants in your area in order to be better prepared for an infestation. Certain ants are more dangerous or destructive than others. The most common ants you’ll see in the summer include:

Preventing Ants in 6 Steps

Ants can seemingly appear out of nowhere. And once you have them, they’re difficult to get rid of! Thankfully, there are a few ways you can lessen the risk of getting them in the first place. Our top tips to keep ants out include:

Avoiding excess moisture. Areas with standing water or leaks will attract ants quickly. Attend to broken pipes and clean up spills quickly.
Trimming back trees and vegetation. Plants close to your home can encourage ants to come in. Make sure tree branches, shrubs, and bushes are trimmed away from the perimeter!
Keeping a clean home. Sweep your floors regularly to get rid of crumbs. Ants are attracted to sugary food sources and a few crumbs will keep them coming back for more.
Storing food properly. Avoid leaving food out uncovered. Keep food in airtight containers or store them safely in cupboards and fridges.
Sealing entry points. Ants can crawl through the tiniest of cracks. Inspect your property and use caulk to seal any gaps, holes, or potential entry ways.
Picking up your pet’s food. Crumbs and spills from your cat or dog’s food and water bowls can be a huge attractant for ants. Always clean up and store bowls between mealtimes.

How to Keep Ants Out All Year Long

It can be very overwhelming to know how to keep ants away. If you’ve done all you can but still have ants making their way indoors this summer, it’s best to call the team at Loyal. Our experts can work with you to develop a successful game plan for preventing ants not just this summer but year-round!

8 Debunked Bed Bug Myths

For decades, there has been a lot of theories and myths about bed bugs circulating. As one of the most dreaded pest problems, it’s easy to understand why bed bugs are so feared. However, are the reasons why you most fear bed bugs even true? With bed bug awareness week upon us, the team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control wants to debunk common bed bug myths we often hear about. Keep reading to learn how to separate fact from fiction when it comes to bed bug problems!

Bed Bug Myths vs. Facts

When it comes to any pest problem, it’s easy to incite fear when you read false facts. Some of the most common questions we see about bed bugs include:

Can bed bugs transmit disease?
- Thankfully, no. Bed bugs may cause you anxiety and even itchiness, but their bites do not transmit disease as mosquitoes do.
Are bed bugs capable of living for months without feeding?
- Yes, but it’s unlikely for them to live for a year unless they are in the most optimal conditions. Young bed bugs need to feed more often than adults.
Are bed bugs nocturnal?
- No! Bed bugs are active when their hosts are at rest. This usually means overnight, but they are able to adjust their schedule as needed.
Can bed bugs infest areas of your home other than your bedroom?
- Bed bugs can infest anywhere–including chairs, sofas, cracks in the wall, and even power outlets. They prefer to congregate near where their hosts rest, making bedrooms the main target.
Can you see bed bugs with the naked eye?
- Although nymphs are nearly impossible to see, adult bed bugs are about the size of an appleseed and can absolutely be seen with your own eyes.
Do you have to get rid of infested furniture?
- No! In fact, you shouldn’t move infested furniture in the midst of an infestation. Doing so can contribute to bed bugs spreading into other areas.
Are bed bugs more likely to infest messy homes?
- This is one of the biggest myths. Anyone is prone to a bed bug problem, regardless of how clean or cluttered your property is!
Can bed bugs fly or jump?
- No! Unlike fleas and ticks, bed bugs have underdeveloped wings and are only capable of crawling.

What to Do About Bed Bugs in Virginia

If you have a bed bug problem, it’s important to act quickly. When it comes to bed bug control, DIY is not the answer! Getting rid of bed bugs requires the pest control industry’s best treatment options that are designed to get rid of all life stages of bed bugs in your property. The team at Loyal is proud to offer comprehensive bed bug removal services–contact us today to learn more!

bed bugs summer pests

What to Know About Common Summertime Wasps

It’s summertime here in Virginia, and everyone is looking to spend more time outdoors. Warmer weather means more opportunities for picnics, barbecues, pool parties, and more. Unfortunately, it also means the return of the wasp season. Paper wasps, yellow jackets, and mud daubers are three common summertime wasps you need to keep an eye out for. It can be difficult to identify these wasps, which is why the team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control is here to provide you with information. As always, it’s important to take caution around wasps, especially when you have a nest nearby.

3 Summertime Wasps

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are known for their nests, and can deliver a nasty sting. Here’s what to know about this summertime wasp:

They are similar in body shape to yellow jackets, but are mostly brown in color with yellow markings.
These wasps are known for the papery nests they build, which look like upside-down umbrellas.
Paper wasp nests often hang from tree branches and twigs, as well as porch ceilings and door railings. They typically contain up to 30 wasps.
Paper wasps aren’t as aggressive as yellow jackets, but they may sting to defend their nests. Their sting is known to be especially potent.

Yellow Jackets

These wasps are notoriously aggressive and very common, especially in the late summer. Some things to know about yellow jackets include:

Yellow jackets congregate in colonies of up to or more than 1,000 workers.
Their nests look globe-shaped and are built above ground, often near garages, sheds, and more.
Yellow jackets will not bother you unless they feel threatened, in which case they may sting repeatedly.
Yellow jackets can be best identified by the yellow and black horizontal stripes that run across their bodies.

Mud Daubers

As their name implies, mud daubers are known for constructing their nests out of mud. Although mud daubers are less aggressive than the previously mentioned wasps, it’s important to know how to identify them:

They are mostly black in appearance but may have light-colored markings. Mud daubers can be identified by their thin, thread-like waist.
Nests are usually located in covered areas such as porch ceilings, sheds, and attics.
These wasps are less social than other types, often preferring to be solitary.
Mud daubers aren’t as aggressive and will only sting when directly handled or threatened.

How to Prevent Wasps in the Summertime

Wasps are a normal part of life, especially in the summer. It’s important to keep an eye out for nests forming on or near your property. When outdoors, there are several things you can do to keep wasps at bay. Keep food and drinks indoors, seal your trash cans, and know where to look for nests near your property. Never swat at a stinging insect, as this could make it more likely to sting you! If you see a nest or wasp problem forming, contact the wasp control team at Loyal. Our wasp removal is safe and quick to bring you peace of mind.

mud daubers paper wasps stinging insects summer pests yellow jackets

These Pests May Be Triggering Your Seasonal Allergies

Spring in the Henrico and Richmond areas is something to look forward to each year. What most people don’t look forward to is the onslaught of seasonal allergies! Blooming trees and changing weather certainly plays a role in springtime allergies, but is there more to it? As strange as it seems, research has proven that certain pests can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms, particularly in children. With May being Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, all of us here at Loyal Termite & Pest Control want to spread the word about pest allergens! Thankfully, you can prevent pest allergens by preventing pests in your home altogether. Keep reading to learn more on how you can protect your family against pest-triggered seasonal allergies.

How to Prevent Pest Problems & Allergens

The key to keeping pest allergens out of your home is keeping pests out in the first place! Basic pest prevention methods can go a long way to protect your home against the many dangers of pests. Our top tips are to:

Keep your basements and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry!
Wash blankets, rugs, and bedding in hot water or get them dry-cleaned.
Vacuum and dust your property on a regular basis.
Store food in sealed containers and clean kitchens on a daily basis.
Dispose of garbage regularly and use a tight-fitting lid.
Seal cracks and holes in homes, including entry points for utilities and pipes, screen doors, and windows.
Keep pet food sealed in a tight container and wash food bowls.

The Facts About Pest Allergens

A pest infestation can cause a lot of frustration. What people don’t know is that certain pests can trigger allergies, especially in children. The two main culprits are cockroaches and dust mites. Roach droppings, saliva, shed skins, and other parts contain allergy proteins. If you have a cockroach problem in your property, these pest allergens can be dangerous for your family. Other insects that infamously are tied to allergic reactions are of course stinging insects, including yellow jackets and wasps. Their sting can trigger an allergic reaction for some people. These symptoms are usually different than your typical seasonal allergy flare-up. In any case, it’s extremely important to seek medical attention should you experience more severe symptoms of an allergic response, from swelling and wheezing to dizziness or difficulty breathing.

How Loyal Can Help Prevent Pest Problems

Seasonal allergies are bad enough as is. A pest problem in your home, particularly with roaches, can make them even worse. If you’ve done all you can to keep pests out and are still dealing with infestations, contact the team at Loyal. Our experts are committed to protecting our customers from the dangers of pests–including allergies–all year long!

cockroaches spring pests stinging insects

Mosquito Prevention 101

It’s National Pest Month and officially the start of the pest season. In the coming months, homeowners are more vulnerable than ever to pest infestations. One of the worst pest problems this time of year in the Henrico and Richmond VA area is mosquitoes! As the weather warms up, mosquitoes will start to breed and infest yards. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do now to help limit the chance of getting a mosquito problem later on.

In honor of National Pest Management Month, the team here at Loyal Termite & Pest Prevention is sharing their top mosquito prevention tips for homeowners.

Best Mosquito Prevention Tips & Tricks

Everyone has dealt with mosquitoes before, and no one wants them ruining their backyard events! Mosquitoes are certainly a nuisance, but they can be dangerous, too. There are several things you can do to help protect you, your family, and your property from mosquitoes in the coming months:

Maintain your yard. Regularly maintain your garden and lawn to keep the grass short. Also trim back all plants and bushes to prevent mosquito resting spots
Remove all standing water. Get rid of any standing water in buckets, flower pots, bird baths, tarps, and more to eliminate mosquito breeding spots!
Install screens on your windows and doors. Doing this can save you the grief of getting mosquitoes inside every time you open a window or door.
Add fish to your ponds and agitate the water. Certain types of fish will feed on mosquito larvae. Also consider buying an agitator, which will stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in the water.
Install fans! Mosquitoes do not like the wind and are not strong fliers. Use fans to help force them away from your outdoor decks and patios.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

Whether you have an upcoming trip to a lake or a camping getaway, it’s important to learn about mosquito prevention when you’re away from your home. There are several things you can do to lessen the risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes this summer:

Avoid going outdoors at dusk and dawn, which is when mosquitoes are most active.
Try to stay away from swampy areas or spots with standing water.
Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply an EPA-registered insect repellent.

Help With Mosquito Prevention

Mosquitoes are a big nuisance and can easily ruin any outdoor gathering. If you’ve done all you can to prevent mosquitoes in your yard but still are dealing with these pesky insects, it’s time to call your local mosquito exterminators. Here at Loyal, our team will work with you to develop a custom mosquito control plan suited to the unique needs of your property. Call us today to learn more!

mosquitoes spring pests

Choosing Between Professional & DIY Pest Control

The DIY movement is popular, but does it work for everything? When it comes to pest control, do-it-yourself methods can be a gamble. Everyone has tried them: vinegar sprays for ants, store-bought roach spray, rat traps, the list goes on. Unfortunately, these methods are unreliable and will rarely work to get to the root of a pest infestation. For quick, effective, and trustworthy pest control, a professional exterminator is always the way to go. Here at Loyal Termite & Pest Control, we want our customers to be informed when making choices about their pest control plan. Read on to learn how to choose between professional and DIY pest control services.

How DIY Pest Control Fails

A lot of people gravitate toward DIY pest control thinking it’ll save them money. However, in the long run, this can be false. Although store-bought pest control works to control small issues, it rarely works to control big infestations. There are several downfalls to DIY pest control: First of all, they simply won’t work to control more dangerous pests such as bed bugs, termites, rodents, carpenter ants, and more. Also, many store-bought products are laden with chemicals that can be dangerous for your family if applied incorrectly. These products also rarely come with a guarantee or warranty on their effectiveness. In sum, it’s always a guessing game when it comes to DIY pest control.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Exterminator

Yes, a professional pest control company is going to be more of a commitment. However, the investment will pay off in the long run when you are guaranteed with pest-free* living! Some of the benefits to professional pest control are:

An experienced exterminator has the knowledge and experience to tackle any current infestation you have. They are experts in the behaviors and habits of pests, making it easier for them to control any problems quickly and efficiently.
With a focus on IPM practices, they can also work to prevent future problems. As often as possible, a professional will use environmentally-responsible products that are always applied safely and effectively with little invasion or disruption to your daily life.
When you decide to have regular pest control services, your exterminator will work with you to develop a customized pest control plan suited to the unique needs of your home.

What Choice is Right For You?

DIY pest control may sound like an easier option, but more often than not, is fruitless. Serious pest infestations always need to be handled by a professional pest control company. For long-term protection against pests, the professional exterminators at Loyal can help!

bed bugs carpenter ants rodents termites

Can Mosquitoes & Ticks Spread COVID-19?

At Loyal Termite & Pest Control, we understand how distressing and uncertain times are right now during COVID-19. We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation to stay educated and to keep up-to-date. As always, our focus is our dedication to the safety and health of our communities here in Henrico and Richmond VA. With new information on the hour, there are endless questions surrounding the nature of the virus, including how it is spread. As of now, there is no evidence or proof to suggest that mosquitoes and ticks transmit coronaviruses. These two insects are certainly responsible for some of the world’s worst diseases, but COVID-19 is not one of them.

Using information from the CDC, we’ll explore on the differences between vector-borne diseases and COVID-19 to help dispel myths about transmission in this blog post.

Do Insects Spread Coronavirus?

From what we’ve learned, mosquitoes and ticks do not transmit COVID-19. It’s important to learn how this new virus is understood to be spread:

The new coronavirus is a respiratory virus that, to date, is spread through person-to-person contact.
COVID-19 spreads through droplets from saliva or nasal discharge, often generated when an infected person sneezes or coughs. It can also be transmitted via contact with a contaminated surface and is increasingly considered to be an airborne virus.
Coronaviruses are best avoided by avoiding exposure with infected persons. Studies have shown that COVID-19 may be spread by asymptomatic people, making social distancing a must.

Mosquito-Borne and Tick-Borne Diseases

What exactly are vector-borne diseases? Vectors are organisms that transmit diseases to humans through bites. The most common vector pests are fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Two insects in particular are infamous for their roles in the transmission of critical and serious diseases around the globe: mosquitoes and ticks. Mosquitoes are tied to some of the world’s most dangerous diseases including malaria, Zika virus, West Nile virus, chikungunya, yellow fever, and more. Ticks are most known for their ability to spread Lyme disease, which is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States.

What to Remember

Mosquitoes definitely are capable of spreading diseases, but from what we know, COVID-19 is not one of them. At Loyal, we understand mosquitoes are still a threat. As always, it’s important to take caution in the presence of pests and to always enlist the help of a professional exterminator to prevent biting insects. Our team continues to provide essential pest control services to our communities during these uncertain times.

As the COVID-19 situation unfolds, we encourage our customers to seek more information and follow guidelines released by the WHO, CDC, as well as your state and local public health agencies.

fleas mosquitoes ticks

Look Out for These 5 Pests This Spring!

Pest problems are a fact of life in Virginia year-round, but springtime sees a flux in activity. You may be welcoming the warming weather, but unfortunately pests are too. With spring being only the start of the pest season ahead, now is the time to safeguard your home against them. In addition to working with a pest control expert, there are several ways you can implement springtime pest prevention methods into your spring cleaning routine this year. Read on for expert tips from the team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control!

Most Common Springtime Pests

A lot of pests that are troublesome in the springtime are active throughout the entire year. However, they have a peak in activity during the spring, especially after being more dormant in the winter months. The most common pests you need to look out for in the springtime here in Virginia include:

Ants. With warmer weather comes hoards of ants in your home.
Termites. It’s officially swarming season, meaning many termite problems begin at this time.
Rodents. Although they’re active year-round, rats and mice are a problem in the spring.
Stinging insects. Wasps and hornets are gearing up to build nests this time of year.
Stink bugs. After overwintering, people report a resurgence in stink bugs.

Avoid Springtime Pests with These Tips

It can be hard to prevent pest problems that sometimes simply seem inevitable. With so many people spring cleaning their home this time of year, it’s smart to implement some simple pest prevention methods to lessen your chance of an infestation in the coming months. Some of these tips include:

Thoroughly cleaning your windows and doors. Seal any cracks or crevices.
Deep-cleaning your carpets and rugs. Vacuum, shampoo, or even steam-clean the surface.
Sanitizing and cleaning your kitchen with a focus on your appliances. Crumbs and spilled liquids will welcome all sorts of bugs and pests.
Removing debris from your yard, and trimming any shrubs or tree branches away from your home. Clear out your gutters and downspouts.
Checking on plumbing and pipes. Quickly address any leaks or blockages.
Keeping a tidy home at all times. Clean under furniture, wipe down surfaces, and inspect areas of your home that need some fixing up.

How to Control Pests Year-Round

If you’re dealing with pests despite your best efforts to prevent them this spring, it’s time to enlist the help of a pest expert. At Loyal, our exterminators will work with you to protect you, your family, and your home from pests not just in the spring but all year long.

ants rodents spring pests stinging insects stink bugs termites

Carpenter Ants vs. Termites – The Differences

Termites and carpenter ants are responsible for some of the most destructive pest infestations across the nation. As wood-destroying insects, they are feared for their ability to tear through the very structure of homes and businesses. In the swarmer stage of their lives, they are commonly mistaken for each other. Although they are very similar in habit and appearance, it’s important to know the differences between the two. Keep reading for expert info on carpenter ants vs. termites from the professionals at Loyal Termite & Pest Control.

Telling Apart Carpenter Ants vs. Termites

As swarmers, it’s very easy to confuse carpenter ants for termites. Although they are similar in color and composition, there are a few key differences that can help tell them apart! Carpenter ant swarmers are typically black but can have some red coloring as well. Their wings are translucent with a reddish brown hue. The biggest difference is that carpenter ants measure 1/2″–5/8″, making them much bigger than termites.

Termite swarmers are dark brown to black in color and measure about 3/8″ long, including the wings. Their wings are a translucent to slightly milky or smoky color, may overlap, and are typically as long as or slightly longer than the body. This feature is the best way to tell them apart from carpenter ants.

Habits & Damage from Wood-Destroying Insects

Although they both have wood destroying capabilities, termites are typically more dangerous than carpenter ants. The main things to know about these two insects include:

Termites make their way into a structure around basement windows, doorways, under siding, porches, or any structure in contact with the soil.
Established termite colonies can range from 60,000 to over a million workers and can consume nearly 5 grams of wood per day.
Carpenter ants establish nests in wood that is already in decay, and later expand into normal wood, insulation, or wall voids.
Excavated termite galleries appear to have been sanded. Carpenter ants do not create the extensive damage termites do.

Getting Rid of Termites & Carpenter Ants

Both of these wood-destroying insects can be somewhat of a nightmare for property owners across the nation. Termites alone are responsible for nearly 5 billion dollars in damages across the nation each year! Needless to say, it’s important to contact a pest control company as soon as you notice the signs of termites or carpenter ants. The Loyal termite exterminators will thoroughly inspect your Henrico or Richmond VA property to determine which species you are dealing with. You can trust our team will keep you wood-destroying insect-free all year long!

ants carpenter ants spring pests termites