5 Pest Control Links For Your Friday

 

Pest Of The Week: Desert Hairy Scorpion

Found in the rocky desert regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah; the Arizona Desert Hairy Scorpion is quite an intimidating pest. Reaching lengths of almost six inches, it is the biggest scorpion that is naturally found in the U.S. Their huge size allows Desert Hairy Scorpions to feed on smaller scorpions like Arizona Bark Scorpions. They will also eat snakes, lizards, spiders, large insects, and small vertebrates like mice.

The Desert Hairy Scorpion is a dark gold in color with a dark top. Like all other scorpions, the Desert Hairy scorpion has lobster-like pincers or claws. It received the name “Hairy” because of the fine brown hairs that cover its body, which detect vibration in the soil. While the Arizona Desert Hairy scorpion is very intimidating looking, its venom is not very potent. A sting will fill very much like a bee sting.

5 Pest Control Links For Your Friday

 

Earwig-Scorpion-Grasshopper-Dragonfly Discovered In Brazil

You have to see the pictures of this newly discovered insect. It has wings like a dragonfly and pinchers like a scorpion or earwig. More…

Bed Bug Prevention Tips

Our summer vacations are almost here, and there are a few things we can do to prevent bringing bedbugs back home with us. More…

Landscaping Tip: Garter Snake Pest Control

Garter snakes are common garden pests, and there are things that can be done to prevent them from slithering their way onto your property; without having to kill them. More…

West Nile Already Confirmed In Maricopa County

Oh man. Here we go again… And so early this year. The West Nile Virus has already been discovered in Arizona’s Maricopa County. Cities like Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, and Queen Creek will bee a mosquito hot-bed again this year. More…

Deal With Potential Ant Problems Before They Happen

Take a few preventative measures this spring to ensure you home remains free from ants. More…

 

Related articles

• CBS 5 News Turns To Bulwark For Scorpion Advice
• Bulwark Exterminating Announces the Launch of Aaron Seever Sales Scholarship
• Spring Snakes

Anthony Ball

There is much confusion out there when it comes to Carpenter ants. Carpenter ants are frequently confused with termites, because they both nest in wood. The following article is intended for pest control professionals and homeowners alike, who are in need of some answers when it comes to identifying, and treating Carpenter ants. 

Knowing a little more about these Carpenter ants can help homeowners and pest management professionals take some preventative measures to minimize damage to homes. If it’s too late, and you fear that you may have a Carpenter ant infestation, please enlist the help of a licensed ant control professional who can administer the proper insecticides. 

The 3 Most Common Types of Carpenter Ants 

Across the lower 48 states, some 14 different species of Carpenter ant can be found in all their variety. Most share similar characteristics, like nesting in wood, but there are a few slight differences in appearance, geography, and habits. Here are the three most common species that threaten US homes: 

Carpenter Ant

Simply called the Carpenter ant (Camponotus vicinus), it is found primarily in the Pacific Northwest; but is also found in California, Idaho, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Montana, and Oklahoma. These ants have a black head, red thorax, and black abdomen. Like other Carpenter ants, this ant can be a serious structural pest. 

Western Carpenter Ant 

 

The Western Carpenter ant (Camponotus modoc) is a foraging ant that is commonly found in the states west of the Mississippi River. They have a dull black body with reddish legs. One easy way to distinguish the Western Carpenter ant from other ant pests is that this ant has a circular ring of gold colored hairs on its abdomen. 

Black Carpenter Ant 

The Black Carpenter ant (Camponotus pennsylvanicus), is the most common Carpenter ant pest in the United States. Found primarily in the Eastern United States, the ant is sometimes referred to as the Pennsylvania Carpenter ant. The Black Carpenter ant is distinguishable from other Carpenter ant species by the dull black color of the head and body; as well as white-yellow hairs on the abdomen. 

 

Pest Control For Carpenter Ants: 5 Steps 

When it comes to eliminating Carpenter ants, it’s not as easy as spraying them with a can of over-the-counter insecticide. These ants are tremendously resilient. While you may kill a few of the surface ants, a hundred thousand more may be hiding deep inside the nest. There are five basic steps that need to be taken to successfully eliminate Carpenter ants. 

Step 1: Inspection. The first step in controlling a Carpenter ant infestation is to thoroughly inspect the suspect property. It is best to determine the nest’s location as specifically as possible. Look for the signs of Carpenter ants, including sawdust piles around dead or rotting wood. The nest may be located by careful and patient observations of worker ants, especially between sunset and midnight during spring and summer months when carpenter ants are most active. You can increase your chances of following workers to their nest by setting out cat food that is attractive to carpenter ants. Place the food in areas where you find workers. Sometimes sound detection methods are equally as effective. Listen for the chewing of wood. Carpenter ants tend to be noisy within their nest, so listening devices may be needed to help pinpoint the exact location of the colony. 

Step 2: Identification. Once you have discovered the ants, and/or the nest, you can now determine what type of ant is infesting your property. Different species of ant may require different treatment techniques. Specimens may need to be taken for positive identification. If the ants are found nesting in wood, you almost certainly have a Carpenter ant problem. 

Step 3: Recommendation. After inspecting your property, and identifying the type of ant pest, you will need a plan of action. Multiple treatments may be necessary to completely control or eliminate a Carpenter ant colony. Sometimes, Carpenter ant nests are hidden in wall voids, ceilings, attics, or hollow doors. It is usually necessary for an ant control professional to drill small holes inside your home to apply insecticide into the nest area. Occasionally, the answer may be as simple as removing a nest that is found in some decaying wood around the property. Another common recommendation is to remove conditions that are supporting the Carpenter ants (i.e. unused wood, tree stumps, etc.) 

Step 4: Treatment. Treat Carpenter ant nests with a residual insecticide applied either as a dust or spray. You may need to drill small holes into wall voids, window and door sills, baseboards and other areas to reach the nest or major part of the colony. Pesticide dusts are particularly effective, as ant activity tends to spread the dust throughout the colony. For colonies in wall voids, inject an insecticide dust, such as Drione or Tempo, or inject voids with Premise Foam. 

When choosing an insecticide, opt for those containing active ingredients like chlorfenapyr, fipronil, or any of the pyrethroids (permethrin, cypermethrin, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin). For effective perimeter treatments, apply Temprid SC, Tempo, Suspend or DeltaGard G. 

Baits with active ingredients such as hydramethylnon, fipronil, and abamectin, are labeled for Carpenter ants. The colony can be controlled successfully if foraging ants take the bait to the queen. Place Maxforce Carpenter Ant Bait Gel on foraging trails, near suspected nest locations. 

Step 5: Evaluation. The key to long-term success in controlling and eliminating Carpenter ants is to follow up and assess the effectiveness of the measures taken. Additional treatments may be necessary to ensure the ants never come back. 

Ant Control 

As previously mentioned; if you are a property owner who is battling Carpenter ants, please seek the assistance of an ant control professional before attempting to exterminate these dangerous ants. 

Related articles

• The Carpenter Ant: Insect or Alien?
• How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants
• How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants

Anthony Ball

Links Round-Up: 5 For Friday

 

Rasberry Ants Spreading Through Texas

The Rasberry ant (not raspberry) was first discovered in Houston, TX in 2002, but has now spread to 24 different counties in the state of Texas. They are now also found in North Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida. More…

NPMA Legislative Day in Washington – Clark Pest Control

Clark Pest Control participated in NPMA Legislative Day sending two executives, Here’s what they learned. More…

Bulwark Scorpion Control Makes The Evening News

With the scorpions making an earlier than usual appearance in Arizona this spring, residents were in need of some answers. CBS 5 News in Phoenix called Bulwark Exterminating for some those answers. Watch the video here.

Wolf Spiders: Pests or Diamonds

We’ve all had an experience with a wolf spider at least once in our lives. Here’s EnviroTech’s experience with the hairy looking spider. More…

Spring is Bee Season

Aww, spring is finally here… For some of the country anyway. Be on the lookout for hives popping up on your property. Here are a few tips on what to do, and what not to do, if you have a bee hive(s). More…

 

Pest Of The Week: Black Widow Spider

 

One of the most recognizable, and perhaps the most feared, spiders in the United States is the Black Widow spider. This distinction comes from the female’s notoriously venomous bite. While the female Black Widow spider is generally shy in nature, she can become aggressive and bite when she is provoked, or when she is protecting her young. Her venom is one of the most potent venoms found on the planet. Only female Black Widows will bite humans. The males, who are brown and white in color, cannot bite because of their size.

The female Black Widow spider measures about 1/2 inch in length, with a shiny black body, long thin legs and large oval abdomen with a red “hourglass” pattern on the underside. Black Widows make their webs wherever there is water or other insects. They are common among the garages, patios, sheds, and storage areas of a home. Professional spider control methods are successfully used to eliminate them from around the home.

Related articles

• Seven Black Widow Spiders
• The Rasberry Ant: A Houston Original
• Close Encounters With The 8-Legged Kind

Anthony Ball

Bedbug Laws By State

 

With the serious increase of bedbug infestations over the past decade, many victims of such infestations are wondering what the bedbug laws are in their state. Currently, twenty-two states have bedbug laws in the books. Several other states have bedbug legislation, or yet to be passed bedbug laws. Here is a compiled list:

*** Disclaimer*** The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only, and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. These are the bedbug laws as of March 11, 2013, and can change. If  you feel that you have been a bedbug victim; whether landlord, tenant, or otherwise, please contact a licensed attorney who specializes in bedbug cases.

Alabama

Law	Definition
Alabama Administrative Code 420-3-11-.12 Insect And Rodent Control: Section 2	Guest rooms and other areas of a hotel found to be infested with bed bugs shall be subject to immediate closure until effective treatment, eliminating pests, has been administered. A State health official shall declare the problem abated before the room or area is reopened to guests.

Read more: http://www.alabamaadministrativecode.state.al.us/

 

Arizona

Law	Definition
Arizona Revised Code 36-601 – Public Nuisances Dangerous to Public Health.	Any place that offers sleeping accommodations, and has bedbugs, is a public nuisance and dangerous to human health.
Arizona Revised Code 9-500.31 Prohibition on adopting landlord tenant bedbug control requirements.	Arizona cities/town cannot regulate landlord-tenant bedbug controls. They can regulate disposal of bedbug infested materials.
Arizona Revised Code 11-269.11 Prohibition on adopting landlord tenant bedbug control requirements.	Boards of Supervisors cannot regulate landlord-tenant bedbug controls. They can regulate disposal of bedbug infested materials.
Arizona Revised Code 33-1319 Bedbug control; landlord and tenant obligations; definitions.	A landlord cannot knowingly rent a bedbug infested property to a tenant, and must provide tenants with bedbug literature.

Read more: http://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/00601.htm

 

California

Law	Definition
California Code Of Regulations 40- Bedding	Hotels, apartments, and linen supply companies must ensure all materials are bedbug free.

Source: https://law.resource.org/pub/us/ccr/gov.ca.oal.title25.html

 

Connecticut

Law

Definition

Sec. 22a-46. Short title: Connecticut Pesticide Control Act

In Connecticut, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) classifies each registered pesticide as either acceptable for general use or restricted use. Restricted use pesticides are recognized in the industry to generally cause unreasonable adverse effects on the environment. Restricted use pesticides may be applied only by a certified applicator or under the direct supervision of a certified applicator.

Read more: http://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap441.htm

 

Florida

Law	Definition
Florida Revised Code/Title VI/Civil Practice and Procedure/Chapter 83- Landlord and Tenant	The extermination bedbugs. When vacation of the premises is required for such extermination, the landlord shall not be liable for damages but shall abate the rent. The tenant shall be required to temporarily vacate the premises for a period of time not to exceed 4 days, on 7 days’ written notice, if necessary, for extermination.

Read more: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?mode=View%20Statutes&Sub

 

Illinois

The State of Illinois and the City of Chicago is in the process of drafting bedbug laws. The city of Chicago was recently labeled the #1 infested bedbug city in the U.S. The new laws are expected to be voted on March 13, 2013.

Illinois Proposed Bedbug Laws

The presence of bedbugs is a public nuisance.

Bedbugs require pest control management done by a pest control professional.

Bedbug infestations require records to be kept on infestations and actions taken.

City and State employees will be granted access to the above mentioned reports.

Requires each condo and co-op to develop a plan for detection, inspection and eradication of bed bugs.

Regulates disposal of contaminated materials and sale of used mattresses and beds.

A sample plan for detection, inspection, and eradication of bedbugs will be posted on the State’s Department of Public Health website.

Laws will spell out both landlord and tenant responsibilities when it comes to bedbugs.

The Commissioner of Public Health has the power to enforce these laws.

Iowa

Law	Definition
Iowa Administrative Rule 138.13 Conditions For Migrant Labor Camps Permits	A migrant labor camp must have bedbug controls in place; and take effective pest control measures against any bedbug infestations.

Read more: http://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2013/titleiv/subtitle2/chapter138/138-13/

 

Kansas

Law	Definition
Kansas Administrative Regulations Article 36 /28-36-77.—Food Service Establishments, Vending machines, and Lodging	The presence of bed bugs, which is indicated by observation of a living or dead bed bug, bed bug carapace, eggs or egg casings, or the typical brownish or blood spotting on linens, mattresses, or furniture, shall be considered an infestation. The presence of bed bugs shall be reported to the regulatory authority within one business day upon discovery or upon receipt of a guest complaint. All infestations must be treated by licensed pest control operator.
Kansas Administrative Regulations Article 4-27-9 Bedbugs Imminent Health Hazard	Bedbugs are considered a health hazard, which must be reported to authorities within 12 hours of detection.

 

 

Maine

Law

Definition

Maine Revised Statutes-Title 14: 6021-A. Treatment of Bedbug Infestation

Landlord must: Inspect the unit for bed bugs within five days of being notified by tenant of infestation, contact pest control agent within 10 days of determining there is an infestation, take reasonable measures to effectively identify and treat bed bug infestation as determined by pest control agent. The pest control agent must carry current liability insurance. Before renting a dwelling unit, a landlord must disclose to a prospective tenant if an adjacent unit is currently infested with or being treated for bed bugs; including the last time the property was inspected and labeled bedbug free. Landlord may not offer for rent a dwelling unit the landlord knows or suspects is infested with bed bugs.Tenants must: Promptly notify a landlord when they know of or suspects an infestation of bedbugs in their unit, and then grant the landlord and pest control agent access to the unit. Tenant must comply with reasonable measures to eliminate and control a bed bug infestation as set forth by the landlord and pest control agent or risk being financially responsible for all pest control treatments of dwelling unit arising from the tenant’s failure to comply.Law also provides bedbug remedies.

Read more: http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/14/14/title14ch0sec0.html

 

Michigan

Law	Definition
Michigan Administrative Code 400.57 Care Of Residents	Requires county infirmaries to implement procedures to prevent bedbug infestations and to take proper steps to eradicate existing infestations.

Source: http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-bedbug-laws.aspx

 

Minnesota

Law	Definition
Minnesota Administrative Code 4625.1700 INSECT AND RODENT CONTROL	Every hotel, motel, lodging house, and resort shall be so constructed and equipped as to prevent the entrance, harborage, or breeding of bedbugs, and specific means necessary, for the elimination of such pests such as cleaning, renovation, or fumigation shall be used. The commissioner may order the facility to hire an exterminator licensed by the state to exterminate pests when:A. The infestation is so extensive that it is unlikely that a nonprofessional can eradicate the pests effectively; orB. The extermination method of choice can only be carried out by a licensed exterminatorC. Upon re-inspection, it is found that an establishment has not been brought into compliance with a prior order to rid the establishment of pests.
Minnesota Administrative Code 4665.2300 INSECT AND RODENT CONTROL	Every supervised living facility shall be so constructed or equipped as to prevent the entrance, harborage, or breeding of bedbugs. Cleaning, renovation, or fumigation by licensed pest control operators for the elimination of such pests shall be used when necessary.

Read more: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/?id=4625.1700&keyword_type=al

 

Nebraska

Law	Definition
Nebraska Administration of Rules & Regulations Title 175, Ch. 2, 004 SANITATION	Boarding homes must be built to prevent the infestation of bedbugs, and pest control operators can be used to treat infestations.
Nebraska Administration of Rules & Regulations Title 175, Ch. 3, 004 HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS – GENERAL	Health care facilities must be built to prevent the infestation of bedbugs, and pest control operators can be used to treat infestations.

Nevada

Law	Definition
Nevada Revised Code 447.030 Extermination	Any room in any hotel in Nevada that is infested with bedbugs shall be thoroughly fumigated, disinfected and renovated until such bedbugs are entirely exterminated.
Nevada Revised Code 444 Sanitation	In a camp, proper bedbug prevention measures must be taken.

Read more: http://www.leg.state.nv.us/Division/Legal/LawLibrary/NRS/NRS-447.html

 

New York

Law	Definition
Revised Statute New York City Administrative Code 27-2018.1 Notice of Bedbug Infestation History	A property’s bedbug infestation history for the previous year, regarding the premises rented by the tenant, and the building in which the premises are located, shall be furnished to each tenant.
New York Education Code/Article 19 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SERVICE 920. Public Schools	Public schools; infestation of bedbugs1. In a city school district having a population of one million or more inhabitants, the principal of each public school shall provide immediate notification to parents, persons in parental relation or guardians of potentially affected students attending the school, disclosing a findingrelating to the infestation of bedbugs in such school; provided, however, that if pursuant to regulations of the commissioner it is determined that any infestation is contained within a discrete area, the principal may limit such notification to parents, persons in parental relationship or guardians of all potentially affected students within such area, and shall advise the parents’ association of the scope of such notification.2. Along with the notification required pursuant to subdivision one of this section, the principal of such public school shall also include information regarding proper procedures to prevent further infestationsat the school and to prevent the transfer of bedbugs. Such information shall be developed by the board of education in consultation with other city agencies and shall be available in various languages as deemed necessary.3. The principal shall ensure that the bedbug infestation at the school is properly addressed in the most effective and safe manner.

 

Ohio

Law	Definition
Ohio Revised Code 3731.13 Bedding, floors, and carpets must be kept sanitary	Hotel bedding must be kept sanitary and bedbug free.

Read more: http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/3731.13

 

Pennsylvania

Law	Definition
Pennsylvania Code 82.15 Insect Control	Measures must be taken and in place to eliminate and prevent bedbug infestations at farm labor camps.

 

Rhode Island

Law	Definition
Rhode Island Administrative Code 25-3-24:7 Rules & Regulations Relating To Pesticides	Certain restricted bedbug pesticides must be certified for commercial use.

Read more: http://www.dem.ri.gov/pubs/regs/regs/agric/pestrg06.pdf

 

South Dakota

Law	Definition
South Dakota Administrative Code/44:02:08-Vacation Homes	A vacation home establishment must be constructed, equipped, and maintained to prevent the entrance, harborage, or breeding of bed bugs. Specific means necessary for the elimination of such pests, such as cleaning, renovation, or fumigation, must be used. The department may require the facility to hire a professional exterminator to exterminate pests.

Read more: http://legis.state.sd.us/rules/DisplayRule.aspx?Rule=44:02:08:05

 

Texas

Law	Definition
Texas Revised Code Sec. 341.011. NUISANCE	Bedbugs are a public health nuisance.
Texas Revised Code Sec. 341.012. ABATEMENT OF NUISANCE	(a) A person shall abate a public health nuisance existing in or on a place the person possesses as soon as the person knows that the nuisance exists.(b) A local health authority who receives information and proof that a public health nuisance exists in the local health authority’s jurisdiction shall issue a written notice ordering the abatement of the nuisance to any person responsible for the nuisance. The local health authority shall at the same time send a copy of the notice to the local municipal, county, or district attorney.(c) The notice must specify the nature of the public health nuisance and designate a reasonable time within which the nuisance must be abated.(d) If the public health nuisance is not abated within the time specified by the notice, the local health authority shall notify the prosecuting attorney who received the copy of the original notice. The prosecuting attorney: (1) shall immediately institute proceedings to abate the public health nuisance; or (2) request the attorney general to institute the proceedings or provide assistance in the prosecution of the proceedings, including participation as an assistant prosecutor when appointed by the prosecuting attorney.

Utah

Law	Definition
Utah Administrative Code Rule R392-200. Design, Construction, Operation, Sanitation, and Safety of Schools.	Effective measures intended to minimize the presence of bedbugs on the premises shall be utilized. The premises shall be maintained so that propagation, harborage, or feeding of is prevented.

Read more: http://www.rules.utah.gov/publicat/code/r392/r392-200.htm

 

West Virginia

Law	Definition
West Virginia Revised Code 16-6-16 Bedbugs	In every hotel, any room infected with vermin or bedbugs shall be fumigated, disinfected and renovated until said vermin or bedbugs are extirpated.

 

Wisconsin

Law

Definition

Wisconsin Administrative Code Department Health Services 190.08

(5) PEST CONTROL(a) Screens. All windows and doors used for ventilation purposes shall be provided with wire screening of not less than number 16 mesh or its equivalent and shall be properly maintained to prevent entry of insects. Screens for windows shall cover at least one third of the window area. Screen doors shall be self closing.(b) Eradication. All means necessary for the elimination of rodents, flies, roaches, bedbugs, fleas, lice and other householdpests shall be used. Extreme care shall be taken in the use of poison to prevent accidental poisoning of domestic animals and people.(c) Labeling and storage of poisonous compounds. Containers of all poisonous compounds used in the extermination of rodents or insects shall be prominently and distinctly labeled for easy identification of contents. Poisonous compounds shall be stored independently and separately from food and kitchenware.

Read more: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/dhs/190.pdf

 

*** Disclaimer*** The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only, and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. These are the bedbug laws as of March 11, 2013, and can change. If feel that you have been a bedbug victim; whether landlord, tenant, or otherwise, please contact a licensed attorney who specializes in bedbug cases.

Other Sources:

http://www.pestworld.org/media/3309/statebedbuglawsasofaug262011_2_.pdf

http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-bedbug-laws.aspx

http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ppdc/bedbug-summit/2011/2-gh-summittalk.pdf

Related articles

• Iowa Supreme Court hears lawsuit over bedbugs
• U.S. cities with the worst bedbug problem
• Bedbugs: Easy to Attract, Hard to Eliminate

Anthony Ball

The following article is intended for pest control professionals and homeowners alike, who are in need of some answers when it comes to dealing with fire ants. If you are a homeowner who is battling fire ants on your property, please seek the assistance of an ant control professional before attempting to exterminate these dangerous ants.

Fire Ants

The Red Imported Fire ant is one of the worst ant pests in the Southern United States in terms of human health, property damage, and environmental damage. If you are a pest control professional in states like: Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, and North Carolina; you likely take frequent calls from homeowners that are battling these nasty pests.

Pest Control For Fire Ants

Unfortunately, treating fire ants isn’t as easy as heading to your local hardware store and picking up an aerosol pesticide to spray on a mound. Over-the-counter sprays will only kill a few of the ants. The remaining ants will leave the nest and return when the pesticide dissipates.

Some pest control operators will only sprinkle an insecticide over a mound. This is ineffective in controlling the whole colony because most fire ant mounds have multiple queens; and colonies may be spread over unseen areas and across multiple properties.

Texas A&M University has developed a couple of effective fire ant control strategies, developed through years of research. They include a one step wide area treatment or two step bait and mound treatment. The two step method works best in fully infested areas (five or more mounds per quarter-acre of yard).

One Step Wide Area Treatment

If a homeowner is only dealing with a few fire ants, this wide area treatment is effective. It may require cooperation from other homeowners, as the infesting ants may be coming from multiple properties.

Using this method, a pest control professional distributes a granular product containing Fipronil over a property once a year, preferably in the early spring. Spread two pounds of Fipronil per 1000 square feet. Fipronil granular products, like TopChoice and Taurus G, are slow-acting but have season-long control. Best results will not be seen for six weeks after application. Treat a property evenly, and lightly water after the granules have been applied.

If the Fipronil granules are distributed after April, an additional application of fast acting fire ant baits may be necessary to reduce the fire ant population. The fire ants will be very active long before the Fipronil ever kicks in.

It’s important to note that this fire ant extermination method is ineffective a controlling other species of foraging ants, as it’s not a barrier treatment.

Two Step Bait & Mound Treatment

The two step bait and mound treatment approach has been proven effective at controlling fire ants, and is ideal for highly infested areas. During the first step of treatment, a pest control professional will distribute a fire ant bait insecticide over a property in the early spring or late fall. A few weeks after the baits have been applied to a property; the pest professional will treat each mound with an approved mound drench, granule, or dust pesticide.

Baits

One of the more environmentally sound ways to treat fire ants, is with baits. These baits are a combination of insecticide and corn. A fire ant worker will find the bait, bring it back to the nest, and share it with his friends and the queen. After ingesting the poisoned food, the ants will die.

Look for fire ant bait with one or more of the following active ingredients: indoxacarb, abamectin, s-methoprene, hydromethylnon, or pyriproxyfen. Put these baits down evenly throughout the property, when the ground is dry, and when you’re not expecting rain for the next 48 hours. Late afternoons and evening work best for baiting, as that’s when fire ants are actively foraging. Make sure the bait is fresh, and do not mix it with other substances like fertilizer.

Mound Treatments

A week or two after the application of fire ant bait, a pest control professional must chemically treat each individual ant mound with dusts, drenches, or granules.

Liquid drenches generally eliminate ants in mounds within a few hours and leave little surface residue after application. Use a long injection probe to apply Temprid SC, Tempo or Suspend under high pressure into mounds.

Granular products are rather fast acting. They require putting granules on and around the mound and then sprinkling one to two gallons of water on without alarming the fire ants inside the mound. Maxforce Complete Granular Insect Bait provides fast knockdown and long-term control.

Ant Control

As previously mentioned; if you are a property owner who is battling fire ants, please seek the assistance of an ant control professional before attempting to exterminate these dangerous ants.

Read more about fire ant control methods at: http://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/

Related articles

• Red Fire Ant Social Structure Associated With Newly Discovered ‘Social Chromosome”
• dear ant family from the colony outside my house
• Dealing With Biting and Stinging Insects by K.F.

Anthony Ball

Pest Of The Week: The Arizona Bark Scorpion

 

The Arizona Bark scorpion, is a small light brown scorpion; commonly found in the southwest United States. This scorpion pest is predominately found in the Sonoran Desert, however less toxic species have been discovered; throughout the Southern US. A nocturnal pest, the Bark scorpion prefers to ambush its prey; which often consists of crickets and/or roaches.

Considered the most venomous scorpion in North America, the number of Bark scorpion sting victims in Arizona; is estimated to be in the thousands each year. With that being said, fatalities in the United States are rare (only 2 recorded fatalities have occurred in the state of Arizona since 1968), and limited to small animals/pets, young children; and adults with compromised immune systems.

The venom from a Bark scorpion bite can inflict severe pain, coupled with numbness and tingling; typically lasting between 24 and 72 hours. Temporary dysfunction in the sting area is common and may cause victims to become immobilized, experience convulsions and/or shortness of breath. Due to the extreme pain caused by the sting, many victims describe the sensation of electrical shocks; after receiving a sting.

Bark scorpions, like most other scorpions, are incredibly resilient; and require a focused pest control strategy. In fact, lab experiments have frozen scorpions for weeks; and after being thawed, the scorpions emerged unharmed. Furthermore, during U.S. nuclear testing, scorpions (along with cockroaches and lizards) were found near ground zero; with no recorded adverse effects.

Remember, for scorpion control in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Austin, or San Antonio, contact Bulwark Exterminating!

Links Round-Up

 

$1 Million Hospital Bill After A Brown Recluse Spider Bite

Here is an unfortunate story about a law student who was bitten by a poisonous Brown Recluse and almost lost her legs. Despite saving her legs, the Michigan woman was burdened with $1 Million in medical bills. More…

Steering Clear of Hornets

Hornets are just fine if they’re outside, pollinating flowers eating other insects. But there are times when hornets just come too close to home. In fact, some hornets are comfortable making a nest around or even in your home, and this is something that cannot be tolerated. More… 

Bed Bug Detection: 3 Bugs That Could Be Mistaken For Bed Bugs

The Eastern bat bug, dust mites, and spiders are all commonly mistaken for bed bugs. To better understand these three pests that are commonly mistaken for bed bugs, click here.

Is Your Birdfeeder Causing a Rodent Problem?

It’s no secret that rodents are attracted to birdfeeders, but it’s not for the reasons you think. To learn more about this issue, and tips from eliminating rodents from your property, click here.

A Stinky Beast — The Odorous House Ant

For everything you want to know about this stinky pest, including treatment methods, click here.

 

Related articles

• Scorpion Truck Redefines Scorpion Control Service
• Pets & Bed Bugs: Q&A
• Arizona hospital cuts scorpion antivenom price by 80% – Arizona Republic

Anthony Ball

The Associated Press recently reported about an Arizona woman who was charged more than $83,000 by her local hospital for receiving the scorpion anti-venom Anascorp.

Marcie Edmonds was billed by Chandler Regional Medical Center for multiple doses of anti-venom priced at $40,000 per dose. Edmonds’ insurance ended up covering over $57,000 of the bill, but the hospital is still expecting her to cover the remaining $25,000 of the cost.

Back in November of 2011, Arizona hospitals were reportedly charging more than $12,000 per vile of Anascorp. A patient’s total bill was reaching beyond $50,000 because they were being given five or six doses at the time of treatment.

 

Is It Necessary?

Contrary to popular belief, nearly all scorpion stings in Arizona are not fatal. While the bark scorpion is considered the most toxic, and thereby the “most deadly”, cases of fatality are few and far between.  Scorpions stings will surely cause an immense amount of pain, but the lingering affects vary from person to person. Most victims simply feel numbness and pain in the area for a few days. Temporary paralysis can be a  more severe outcome, but it is less common. Cases of severe reaction and even death are typically a result of an allergic reaction to the toxins in the scorpion’s venom and a lack of medical attention. If one has no known allergies to bites or stings, from a bee for example, then the likelihood of severe reaction to a scorpion sting is greatly limited. Adults will handle scorpion venom introduced into their system much better than children, as a larger and heavier body is more capable of metabolizing through the venom at a faster rate.

Results have shown that a sufficient dosage of Anascorp can lower the pain and recovery time to under four hours. But is that worth spending several thousands of dollars to spark your body to do what it will most likely do on its own?

 

At What Cost?

Bulwark Exterminating primarily offers two service plans – every month and every other month. A one year every month plan will cost a total of $623. An every other month plan will cost $440. If a customer happens to live in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Antonio or Austin, they can also request Bulwark’s revolutionary Scorpion Truck service, which applies a max dosage of product to the exterior of the house. The Scorpion Truck is included as part of a customer’s initial treatment appointment. As an added service Bulwark also offers a “Scorpion Seal”, an application of Teflon tape to all entry points of the exterior and interior of the home. This service runs at an average of $1,500 for an average sized house, but is a service we seldom perform. Customers typically stick with one of the two service plans and see beyond satisfactory results.

A customer with a no nonsense, take no chances and/or prisoners attitude who goes with an every month plan, plus the seal, would play $1,123 in the first year of service. Based off 2011 Anascorp prices, that is a savings 91% of the cost of only one vile of anti-venom. Based off the 2012 prices of Anascorp experienced by our friend in Chandler, a $1,123 deluxe package is nearly a 99% savings over a treatment of Anasorp. Curse that inflation!

These numbers purely reflect the price difference between a dose of Anascorp and one’s potential hospital bill. Not calculated are additional expenditures such as gas consumption to and from the nearest hospital with a ready supply of Anascorp, time lost from work if a loved-one or relative must clock out in order to assist the victim with travel to seek treatment, possible food bills if one must eat out while the victim is receiving treatment. Maybe even a stop at Cold Stone Creamery on the way home, because that is definitely part of the recovery process.

 

The Culture of the Negotiated Pest Control Transactions

Here’s a great blog for us pest control operators that explores the art of negotiating prices among different cultures, and how American’s are catching on. There’s a great take home lesson at the end on setting prices while still being able to negotiate with potential and existing customers. Check out:

http://heartspm.wordpress.com/2012/08/27/culture-of-negotiated-pest-control-price/

Tips on Hiring Pest Control Services

This article provides an interesting consumer perspective on exactly what our customers want in a pest control service. As pest control operators, we can look to model ourselves, and our customer service, according to these guidelines.

http://www.linksparadise.com/?p=20782

August Means Hungry Yellow Jackets

Heritage Pest Control of New Jersey reminds us all that August is Yellow Jacket season. These aggressive wasps have been busy the previous summer months building their paper-like nests on the ground, and now they’re on the lookout for food. For a few tips on dealing with Yellow Jackets:

http://www.heritagepestcontrolnj.com/blog/2012/08/27/august-means-hungry-yellow-jackets/

Borax/Boric Acid for Pest Control

Many of our possible customers are still turning to the toxic Borax/Boric Acid to help eliminate unwanted pests. If someone comes in contact with the powder it can cause health problems like nausea, vomiting, and throat swelling. Many consumers turn to the Borax method because they are uneducated about many of our industry’s safe, all-natural, or organic pest control methods.

http://www.momprepares.com/2012/08/27/borax-vs-boric-acid-for-pest-control-safe-and-effective/

Africanized Bees on Attack in Arizona!

Our friends at Pest Control Mesa, AZ bring us a frightening incident about a grandmother being attacked by Africanized “Killer” Bees. The women’s 4-year-old granddaughter witnessed the attack, and likely saved her life.

http://pestcontrolmesaaz.com/africanized-bees-on-attack-in-arizona/

Fall Season Pest Control

As the weather starts to cool this fall, pests of all kinds will be making their way into our homes in search of food and the warmer air. For some helpful how-to’s on keeping these pests out of your home this fall:

http://aaapestcontrolmyrtlebeach.com/541/fall-season-pest-control/

 

Related articles

• Holistic Pest Management : The Mystery Revealed!
• Hotter Climate Means More Pests
• Organic Pest Control: Guest Post

Did you know that there are scorpions in the State of Washington?

Well this information came as a real surprise when Matt McGee, editor of Search Engine Land, found one in his home! The Northern Scorpion rarely invades homes and is actually a very rare find, but yes, Washington has scorpions.

Matt’s Email:

Last night, we were shocked to find a small scorpion inside our house. It was no more than 1.5 or maybe 2 inches. Might’ve been a baby. It was sitting in the glass portion of a picture frame that was at the bottom of a small pile of frames.

We didn’t even think scorpions live up here, but sure enough:

http://www.bentler.us/eastern-washington/animals/arachnids/northern-scorpion.aspx

We killed it and we’re having pest control come next week, but they’re not even sure they have chemicals to keep scorpions away. They were as shocked as us to hear about a scorpion in this area.

My questions:

* Are these things fast? Do they jump? I know nothing about them.

* Can they kill you?

* Do they bite or sting? Do they use the tail or the claws? Both?

* What do we do if we see another one?

* What if someone gets bit/stung? Do we go to the hospital?

Any help appreciated.

-Matt McGee

Are these scorpions fast? Do they jump? I know nothing about them.

They can be very fast. They don’t jump. They are pretty good climbers. In fact you can see one make it about 10 feet in a mere second or two here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29vayDJ49RQ

But really you need not fear a scorpion chasing after you. They don’t hunt humans.

Can scorpions kill you?

Yes, scorpions can cause death, but it’s very rare. In your particular case, the Northern Scorpion does not have the appearance of a highly toxic species. I don’t imagine that this species sting would do much more damage than a bee sting. However, people have different allergic reactions.

Do scorpions bite or sting? Do they use the tail or the claws? Both?

They don’t bite people. They can pinch but not likely. Watch out for the stinger. They will sting. I am not familiar with how aggressive the Northern Scorpion is but I can assure you that their stinger works. They most likely won’t sting you unless you aggravate it. ..or unless you are Mat S. in which case it might just walk up and poke your foot for no apparent reason.

What if someone gets bit/stung? Do we go to the hospital?

No need to go to the hospital for most stings. Some stings cause severe allergic reactions. If foaming at the mouth, uncontrollable eye movement, or seizures occur then go to the hospital. There isn’t much you can do to treat a scorpion sting. For sting treatment you can ice the area of the sting. You can take pain medication such as Aspirin or Tylenol. If sever reactions do occur you will want to keep the victim calm. Elevated heart rates will only cause the toxins to spread faster.

Can an exterminator get rid of scorpions? How do I get rid of scorpions?

Yes you can kill them and control them. Scorpions are very difficult to control because of their grooming habits and they walk on their toes. Cy-Kick is the best low risk product available. It’s less toxic than table salt to mammals. And grab glue traps and place them by entrance ways. http://www.pestprojoe.com/home.php?cat=285&rootcat=Scorpions

What do we do if we see another one?

Catch it!
Option 1- Paint Stick with tape. Take a paint stir stick, wrap the end with tape leaving sticky side facing out. Make the sticky portion 2 to 3 inches wide. Then you stick it on the scorpion. Pick it up. Put it in a plastic container. Make it now so that you have it ready. http://www.azcentral.com/video/#/Scorpion+hunting+in+Mesa/1680903532001

Option 2: Use a glass jar. Put it over the top of the scorpion. Then slide a piece of paper under the jar. Then flip it over. The scorpion won’t be able to climb out.

Then you are going to mail it to me. I will gladly pay the shipping. =)

…Or you can squash it with a shoe.

I will take them dead or alive.

Black Lighting Scorpions

Oh my gosh! Black light ‘em! ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME??????????

Never in a million years would I actively seek them out. I prefer to pretend they don’t exist. That’s how I got to sleep last night.

Sheesh.

Actually it’s a good idea. It will help you know if you even have a need to be worried. And I suspect that for the Northern Scorpion you won’t have to be worried at all. If you blacklight and don’t find any in your yard then you will sleep better. I don’t think your species infests homes, and don’t think they are common at all… also evidenced by the fact that your local pest control guys didn’t even know if they had products that worked for scorpions. Honestly, you may want to just buy the cy-kick and spray yourselves. At least email me what products they are going to use and I can tell you if it will help.

What black light should I buy to go scorpion hunting?

Do you have a recommendation for a UV flashlight? There are a ton on Amazon and elsewhere and I don’t quite know what I’m looking for. Was checking out these two:

http://www.amazon.com/LEDwholesalers-Ultraviolet-LED-flashlight-7202UV395/

http://www.amazon.com/UV-Blacklight-Flashlight-Ultra-Light/dp/B004S6JFWQ/

I’m interested in getting one for the amusement factor now as much as the scorpion hunting. Don’t expect to find many/any critters, but like the idea of having a flashlight around just in case.

I did find a plug-in UV light strip at Walmart today and used it in a couple rooms tonight. No scorpions, but DAMN is it fun to light up rooms with UV light!!!

Funny that Walmart actually took on that idea. I thought of buying the domain “Scorpion Nightlights” and selling them a few years back, but after discovering that UV lights are bad for your eyes I opted not to do that. So I would advise not having UV lights for night lights. UV can damage your eyes. A little exposure isn’t going to hurt you, but prolonged exposure, night after night, could cause some real eye problems.

As for the Blacklight Flashlights, I’d recommend a LED one. The LED blacklights are very bright and work well. You don’t need anything huge or fancy or extra powerful. The glowing scorpions jump out at you when see them. Scorpion hunting is a great nighttime adventure. I’d advise wearing closed toed shoes. A pair of gloves is useful if you plan on handling the scorpions.

Additional Scorpion Questions?

Feel free to ask me your additional scorpion questions. I am happy to help. Thanks.

Scorpion Control Resources:
http://scorpionreport.org
http://entomology.wsu.edu/outreach/bug-info/northern-scorpion/
http://www.bulwarkpestcontrol.com/science-scorpion-control.php

Scorpions stings are already a problem in Arizona and it’s only the beginning of the summer season. Residents are noticing. Hospitals and doctors are noticing. Here is our own Adam Seever discussing the early onset of scorpion season.