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Wednesday, December 28, 2016

2017 Pest Threats

Arrow Exterminators Lists Top Five Most Concerning Pests of 2017

Pests have long been a threat to the quality of life we all enjoy.  Their ability to transmit disease, spread bacteria and cause significant property damage presents a real challenge for families and homeowners. To help prepare homeowners for 2017, Arrow Exterminators is educating local homeowners on the top five pests expected to cause problems this year and providing prevention tips.

  1. Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes are most known for the red, itchy welts they leave behind on their victims, but they are much more than just a nuisance. Mosquitoes can also transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus, Chikungunya Fever, Zika Virus, and Encephalitis. Mosquitoes were a major concern in 2016 after the Zika Virus came to light and they remain a concern for 2017. These tiny pests need very small amounts of stagnant water to breed and take just 7-10 days to develop from egg to adult.  Be sure to remove all sources of standing water around your home and cut back any unnecessary vegetation
  2. Rodents: Rodents such as mice and rats can transmit diseases, spread bacteria, cause real damage inside a home and often bring with them other pests like fleas, ticks and mites.  They reproduce very quickly making them nearly impossible to control without the help of a professional.  They only need the tiniest of openings to gain access to a home, so ensure all cracks are sealed including utility entry points.
  3. Termites: Termites are a significant property threat in our area.  Experts agree, it’s not about if a home will encounter termites, but when.  These insatiable eaters cause nearly $5 billion in property damage annually and the damage is rarely covered by homeowners insurance.  “Termite infestations continue to create huge financial issues for homeowners,” said Charlie Jones, Arrow pest expert. “To protect their property, homeowners should have their homes inspected annually by a licensed pest professional and consider a termite protection plan as well.” Additionally, homeowners should reduce humidity in crawl spaces and eliminate moisture around foundations.
  4. Ants:  One of the most common pests that invade homes, there are over 700 species of ants in the U.S. alone.  As many require different methods of treatment, ants are also one of the most difficult for homeowners to control without professional assistance.  To minimize chances of an infestation, keep counters free of crumbs and clean up spills immediately.  Also, trim back trees and bushes from the home which can act as a highway for these industrious insects.  If ants are spotted in the home, contact a licensed pest professional immediately to prevent a full-blown infestation.
  5. Cockroaches: Cockroaches carry up to 33 different kinds of bacteria and research has shown they can even trigger asthma attacks in children. Cockroaches also reproduce very quickly with the female able to lay up to 50 eggs at one time. Cockroaches prefer warm, moist places with available food sources, so it’s important to eliminate those attractive environments. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms – especially under appliances and sinks.