Spiders are scary as it is, let alone when they have the ability to jump! Here in Kansas we have such a spider. Phidippus audax is a jumping spider and very common. It is referred to as the bold jumping spider or bold jumper. Like other jumping spiders, they are relatively large in size and have large forward-facing eyes. These eyes give them excellent vision which helps in stalking prey and enhances visual communication when trying to court a mate.…
For most of us, when spring comes around we think of blooming flowers and longer days. When you are a pest control professional, spring marks the start of a busy season. We are gearing up to help you with all your springtime needs. This time of year pests are coming out of their winter hiding spots, mating and finding their way into our homes. One of the most costly and destructive of these invaders are termites. Termites usually…
There are several species of velvet ants in Kansas that range from 1/2 inch to 1 inch in length. The males have blue-black wings and are usually found in sandy areas, flying low, in search of a mate. The females however are large, fuzzy looking, red insects that look like ants, but are not ants at all, but wingless wasps! The largest species in Kansas (Dasymutilla Accidentalis) is sometimes called a “Cow-Killer” because of the powerful sting of the female. Adults…
Fleas are small, reddish-brown, wingless insects with flattened broad spines and oval bodies covered with a tough shell bearing many bristles. Fleas survive on the blood of humans, birds or animals. They are ravenous blood-suckers, consuming up to 15 times their body weight in blood per day! Fleas are the most common cause of skin disease in dogs and cats. Fleas can bite 400 times a day. When a flea bites, it injects saliva into your pets skin. This triggers an allergic…
Our beds are not just places to rest our bodies for the hustle and bustle of our busy daytime responsibilities. Our beds are so much more! They are a comforting place when we are ill, the playground for games with our children or pets and sometimes our office. We enjoy the comfort of our beds for cuddling, watching movies, or relaxing with a good book. A lot of life happens in the safe space our beds provide us. …
Here in Kansas we have around 100 species of flying, stinging insects. The most common include Wasps, Yellow Jackets, and Baldfaced Hornets. These insects can be beneficial for pollination and reduction of populations of other pests. This does not change the fact that their search for food can make them a danger for your family and pets. In our area, homeowners and renters alike need to be aware of these colonies increasing their populations. Wasps, Yellow…
Black widows are the most venomous spiders in North America. Their venom is about 15 times stronger than rattlesnake venom. They use a chemical called alpha-latrotoxin which overwhelms the nerve cells and causes intense pain. This causes human nerve cells to dump all it’s signaling chemicals at once! The bite can then begin the onset of swelling, severe cramping, sweating and chills. Female widow spiders have unusually large venom glands and their bite can be particularly harmful. Black…
Why do ants come into your home? Ants usually come indoors in search of a warm nesting spot or a food source. Heavy rains can also flood their homes and they will often take shelter in the closest safe place possible, your kitchen. There are billions upon billions of ants on earth, and if you have an infestation it can feel like a good portion of that number are under your roof. Even the smallest amount of nourishment can attract…
How much damage can termites really cause? Termites damage over 600,000 homes in the U.S. every year, costing home owners 5 Billion dollars annually for repairs. Termite damage is rarely covered in home owner insurance policies so this bill could be coming straight out of your pocket. Termites can live undetected for years in colonies growing into the millions. They can live in your homes wooden surfaces, furniture or even underground. Termite species cannot be controlled with DIY measures and…
Kissing bugs have unfortunately made a home in many states, including Kansas. The name kissing bug may sound cute, but make no mistake, these pests are highly dangerous to humans and pets. Kissing bugs take shelter during the day and become active feeding at night. This is how people and pets get bit in their sleep. They are attracted to the soft areas, especially around the mouth hence the name kissing bugs. They bite and infect the wound with fecal…
