Nuisance Pests
Risks, Treatments, and Products
Black Widow, Brown Recluse, Hobo Spider, and Giant Spider feed on many types of insects and generally considered beneficial. However, there are times and places when they are not welcome and can be a danger.
Black Widow
Black Widow Adult females are approximately ½” in length. They are jet black in color with a distinctive red “hourglass” shape on the underside of the abdomen. The males and immatures are smaller than the females and generally have yellow, white, and red bands and spots over the back.
The Black Widow Spider is not of particular concern around the Puget Sound region, as the number of recorded sightings has been very few. Occasional sightings, in our area, have been attributed to “stow aways” transported via shipped goods.
Bite: Though usually a non-aggressive spider, the Black Widow will strike when provoked.Most common bites are inflicted on persons whom unknowingly trap the spiders in clothing, shoes, etc. Outdoor laborers are also at risk through gardening practices, moving lumber piles, rubbish, etc.
The venom of the female Black Widow is a nerve toxin. The first sensation is a pinprick sharp insertion of the fangs, usually followed by a burning sensation for a few minutes. Pain usually progresses from the bitten member up and down the arm or leg, finally localizing in the abdomen and back. The abdominal muscles become rigid and board like, accompanied by severe abdominal cramps. Other symptoms may be nausea, depression, insomnia, tremors, speech defect, and a slight rise in body temperature. The bite is seldom fatal; however a medical physician should always be consulted immediately.
Sources:
- Study manual for Pest Management Professionals, #MISC0096
- Handbook of Pest Control/Mallis 9th Edition
Brown Recluse
Brown Recluse The Brown Recluse Spider is light tan to chocolate brown.A dark “fiddle-shaped” marking extends from just behind the eyes to the head and thorax.
Bite: Both males and females have been shown to possess the capability of inflicting poisonous bites. Typical signs of a Brown Recluse Spider bite is necrosis or death of the tissue around the site of the bite. This bite is also typical of the Hobo Spider bite, which is why it is often misdiagnosed.
The venom of the Brown Recluse is said to be a hemolytic poison.Other symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, cramping and joint soreness. A medical physician should always be consulted immediately. This species has not yet become established in the Pacific Northwest.
Sources:
- Study manual for Pest Management Professionals, #MISC0096
- Handbook of Pest Control/Mallis 9th Edition
Hobo Spider
Hobo Spider Mature females are approximately 7/16 to 10/16 inches long in body length. Males are slightly smaller. Females have 2 long spinnerets protruding at the end of the abdomen which has a “herringbone” stripe pattern of brown, gray, and tan. The legs are long and hairy. This spider is prevalent in the Pacific Northwest.
Bite: Necrosis (death of skin tissue) is a common result of a Hobo Spider bite. The necrotic areas, around the bite, are extremely slow to heal. The bite of the Hobo Spider is very similar to that of the Brown Recluse and is often mistakenly identified as such. The initial bite is not painful. Within 30 minutes, or less, a small hard area appears on the skin at the bite location. This area is surrounded by an expanding reddened area anywhere from 2 to 6 inches in diameter. This is followed by blistering within about 24 hours. The blisters usually break and the wound oozes serum, forming an ulcerated crater that scabs over. Immediate medical attention is advised if you think you have been bitten by a Hobo Spider. Keeping this area clean and sterile is extremely important to guard against infection. A systemic illness may or may not accompany the bite. Headaches, nausea, weakness, tiredness, and vision impairment are all documented results of Hobo Spider bites. It is not uncommon for the wound to take up to several months to heal and it may leave a permanent scar.
Sources:
- Study manual for Pest Management Professionals, #MISC0096
- Handbook of Pest Control/Mallis 9th Edition
Treatment
SPIDER TREATMENTS
Because they feed on many types of insects, spiders are generally thought of as beneficial. There are times and places, however, when they are not welcome, and can be of danger.
The harmless garden spider or orb-weaver variety, which spin their webs in shrubs, trees, etc., are beneficial by catching gnats, flies, mosquitoes, etc. in their intricately woven webs. They are not a threat to bite humans or animals and are rarely found indoors. Treatment of such spiders is not recommended and is usually frowned upon by most respected pest control companies.
Conversely, large spiders found indoors and/or in close proximity to structures are not only a menace but can be a threat to your family’s health. Arachnophobia (fear of spiders) is an extremely common condition.
Most people have an inherent fear of spiders. Many people experience some level of Arachnophobia ranging from mild dislike and fear to intense fear which can cause a variety of psychological issues.
While treatment processes are effective, they are not always immediate and/or permanent. Spiders are habitually “shy” in nature and tend to “lay in waiting”. Although treatment procedures likely will target these areas, not all areas are readily accessible or safe for pesticide application. Often there is a period of time where spiders will “flush out” following a treatment. This may last as long as a month. Another factor of treatment is having the patience for the spider to travel through pesticide residuals that have been applied in accessible areas.
As other insects (potential spider prey and food) are eliminated, due to the treatment process, the spiders’ food supply becomes non-existent. Females are forced to leave their web in search of food elsewhere. When this occurs, they are highly likely to trail through, and pick, up pesticide residuals on their leg and abdomen hairs which results in their death. Treatment also decreases/eliminates the male spiders, hence cutting off reproduction and the spread of spiderlings. Males tend to wander in search of females to mate with. Thus they are far more likely to pick up and succumb to pesticide residuals.
Professional treatment for spiders is usually very effective. Once the initial service has been completed and has had time to take effect, a preventive maintenance program is recommended to keep spiders under control and away from and out of your home. Things to consider when formulating a successful maintenance program for your particular needs are your environment, home location (woods, heavy vegetation, etc.), your particular needs and wants, budget, among other things. LIND PEST CONTROL AND INSPECTION SERVICES, INC., is happy to take the time to research and discuss these factors with you in order to maintain a successful “bug-free” zone to protect your home and family.
Sources:
- Study manual for Pest Management Professionals, #MISC0096
- Handbook of Pest Control/Mallis 9th Edition
Rats & Mice
Rats and mice in and around our homes, buildings, and workplaces are a great concern. They are known to chew on, and damage, various materials within these dwellings. Damages to wiring, PVC plumbing lines, sheet rock, and wood materials are commonly reported results of their chewing habits.
Norway Rat
Norway Rat 5
The Norway Rat is also called the Brown Rat, Dump Rat, Barn Rat, Sewer Rat, Gray Rat or Wharf Rat. It is slightly larger and stockier than its cousin the Roof Rat.
Facts
- Gestation – 23 days
- 6 -12 pups per litter
- 4 – 7 litters per year
- Droppings are approximately ¾” (19mm) in length and are blunt at the ends.
Identification
- Blunt muzzle, short ears, small eyes, slightly larger and stockier than its cousin the Roof Rat.
- Adults average about 1 pound.
- Their coarse fur is usually brownish or reddish gray in color with whitish gray underbelly.
Habitat
Rats live in close association with people. Although they can climb, Norway Rats tend to inhabit the lower floors and crawl space areas of buildings. However, they are often found to be present in attic areas.Exterior habitats are underground burrows, in heavy vegetation, around ponds and garbage dumps, and other locations where suitable water, food, and shelter are present.Once they enter a dwelling, they nest in walls, under cabinets & appliances, in attic and crawl space insulation and other warm protected areas.
Roof Rat
Roof Rat 5
The Roof Rat is known as Black Rat or Ship Rat. It is somewhat smaller than the Norway Rat and is a more agile climber.
Facts
- Gestation – 22 days
- 6 -8 pups per litter
- 4 – 7 litters per year
- Droppings are approximately ½” (13mm) in length and are pointed at the ends.
Identification
- Pointed muzzle, prominent ears, large eyes.
- Smaller in size than the Norway Rat.
- It has several color phases, but those in Washington State tend to be black or slate-gray with a slender body.
Habitat
Roof Rats are more aerial than Norway Rats in habitat selection. They often live in trees, attics, walls, beams, or vine covered fences. Landscaped residential or industrial areas provide good habitat, as does vegetation on riverbanks and streams. Roof Rats frequently enter buildings from the roof or from an access near utility lines which they use to travel from area to area. They are often found living on the second floors of warehouses where Norway Rats have occupied the first floor. They occasionally live in sewer systems.
House Mouse
House Mouse 5
The House Mouse is considered among the most troublesome and economically important rodents in the United States. Not only are they found in houses, but in other structures as well. They are the most common mammals, in cities, next to humans.
Facts
- Gestation – 19 days
- 5 – 6 pups per litter
- Up to 8 litters per year
- Droppings are approximately ¼” (6mm) in length and have pointed ends.
Identification
The House Mouse is a small, slender, dusky gray rodent with a slightly pointed nose and small black protruding eyes, large scantily haired ears and a nearly hairless tail with obvious scale rings.
Size is approximately 2″ to 3″ long. Including the tail, they range from 4″ to 6″ long.
Habitat
House mice live in and around homes, farms, and commercial establishments, as well as in open fields and agriculture lands. At times, they can be found living far from human settlement, particularly where climates are moderate. The onset of the cold weather each fall, in temperate regions, causes mice to move into structures in search of shelter and food.
White-Footed Deer Mouse
White-Footed Deer Mouse 5
One of the most common mice found in agriculture and forest areas is the Deer Mouse. It is the primary carrier of the virus that causes Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.
Facts
Gestation – 19 days
Up to 8 pups per litter – usually 3 to 5
2 – 4 litters per year
Identification
The White-Footed Deer Mouse has white feet, usually white undersides, and a brownish upper surface which will turn grayish in the winter. The tail is relatively long, usually as long as the body and head. They also have large eyes and ears. They are generally larger than the House Mouse.
The tail has short hairs, bi-colored on top, matching the body color. The underside is white.
Size is approximately 2 ¼” to 3 7/8″ in length. 4 1/8″ to 8 3/7″ with the tail.
Habitat
The Deer Mouse occupies nearly every type of habitat, within its range, from forest to grasslands. It is the most widely distributed and abundant mammal in North America. Their nests are generally found underground. Nesting materials consist of stems, twigs, leaves, roots, grasses, and other fibrous materials and may also be lined with fur, feathers, or shredded cloth. Sometimes Deer Mice nest in above ground sites such as hollow logs or fence posts, or in unoccupied buildings.
Rodent-Borne Diseases
Rodent-Borne Diseases 5
Rats and mice spread a number of diseases; directly, by contamination of human food with their urine or feces, or indirectly, by rodent fleas and mites.
HANTAVIRUS PULMONARY SYNDROME (HPS)
Causes a newly described (1993) disease. HPS is a form of adult respiratory disease syndrome which can be fatal (45%). HPS is spread by infected deer mice through their urine, saliva, feces, and nesting materials. Human infection may occur when people breathe air contaminated by deer mouse droppings and urine or objects they have touched, eaten or lived in. The virus can become airborne when a nest is disturbed or when someone sweeps up dry droppings. Avoid all wild rodents. Deer mice (main carrier) can carry and shed the virus without appearing sick. They live primarily in rural areas, and exposure may occur in homes, outbuildings, or outdoors.
RAT-BITE FEVER
Causative agent, Streptobacillus moniliformis. The bacteria that cause rat-bite fever are found on the teeth and gums of many rats and are transferred from rat to humans by the bite of the rat. The most frequently occurring rat-bite fever in the United States is called Haverhill fever. It is similar to rat-bite fever of the Orient called sodoku (caused by Spirillum minus).
LEPTOSPIROSIS (Weil’s disease)
Causative agent, Leptospira spp., primarily L. icterohemorrhagiae. Leptospirosis is a mild to severe infection that is seldom fatal. Human cases of the disease result from direct or indirect contact with infected urine of rodents and of certain other animals. The spirochetes, which are found in water or on food, may enter through mucous membranes or minute cuts or abrasions of the skin. Thus, Weil’s disease is often found in sailors, miners, sewer workers, fish or poultry dealers, and slaughterhouse workers. In a recent study in Hawaii, Norway rats, roof rats, and house mice were found to have high L. icterohemorrhagiae carrier rates.
SALMONELLOSIS
Ccausative agent, Salmonella spp. Salmonellosis, which is generally classed as food poisoning, is a common disease of worldwide distribution. It is an acute gastroenteritis produced by members of the Salmonella group of bacteria pathogenic to humans and other animals. Bacteria are spread in various ways, one being through food contaminated with rat or mouse feces containing Salmonella organisms.
TRICHINOSIS
Causative agent, Trichinella spiralis. Trichinosis results from an infection of the intestines and muscles by larvae and cysts of Trichinella spiralis. Humans, hogs, and rodents may develop the disease from eating infected pork that is raw or insufficiently cooked. In addition, research has shown that hogs experimentally fed trichina-infected feces of rats and mice readily become infected. This indicates that rodents may play an important role in spreading trichinosis to hogs fed on garbage containing infected rat feces. Such interchange of organisms may significantly help maintain the rodent-swine-human cycle of this disease.
PLAGUE
Causative agent, Yersenia pestis. Plague is the “Black Death” that once killed millions of people in Europe, Asia, and Africa. No serious outbreaks of plague have occurred in the United States since 1924. However, a reservoir of the disease exists in wild rodents of the western states, where the bacteria are transmitted from one rodent to another and sometimes to humans by the bite of rodent fleas. There is always the danger that domestic rodents will become infected, and that they, in turn, will carry the infection to human population centers. The disease is generally fatal to the rat and the flea, and the death rate in untreated human cases is extremely high. Fleas carrying the plague organisms have been taken from trapped rats in Tacoma as recently as the mid-1970s. They have also been found frequently in eastern Washington in the fleas of wild rodents.
A number of other diseases of less frequent occurrence are associated with domestic rodents. Among them are toxoplasmosis, listeriosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, murine typhus fever, and rickettsialpox.
Treatment
When it becomes necessary to seek professional help, LIND PEST CONTROL & INSPECTION SERVICES, INC. has a plan that is second to none.
Whether it be rats or mice, we want to rid your home or business of these disease-carrying pests. Our plan of attack involves a full spectrum treatment process. Our licensed and certified team members are well versed in inspecting your home or business to find their trailing and nesting sites. Equally as important, they will discover, and report on, conditions that are conducive to rodent entry. A diagram, of the home showing these conditions, will be supplied to you. Handy homeowners are often capable of repairing these conditions, however many homeowners prefer to leave the “dirty work” to us. In this case, we are licensed, and experienced in performing these types of repairs. From there, a treatment plan will be put into action consisting of your inspection, installation of products and equipment, followed by a series of follow-ups. Any catches will be removed from the premises and disposed of properly.
Bees, Wasps, & Hornets
There are several types of bees and wasps that are indigenous to our area. Though generally considered beneficial, they can also be dangerous and deadly (if allergic) to humans and our pets.
Yellow Jacket
Yellow jackets are the most common stinging insect in Washington State. They are a very aggressive insect, even more so in the late summer and early fall when seeking carbohydrates rather than protein food sources. Colonies can contain numbers as large as 4,000 workers. They typically form their nests in attic spaces and wall voids of structures, as well as, in soil cavities. They also form hanging nests in trees and on eave overhangs of buildings. Treating (or not treating) these nests can be very dangerous and is well worth leaving treatment to the professional.
Bald Faced Hornet
The Bald Faced Hornet is another aggressive stinging insect, especially when their nest is threatened. Their nests are usually found hanging in bushes and trees. WATCH OUT – Be aware of this before pruning shrubs. They are particularly attracted to rhododendron shrubs. Professional services are highly recommended for extermination.
Bald Faced Hornet
Paper Wasp
Although these types of bees are very menacing looking and capable of a good sting, these insects are not usually aggressive unless their nest is disturbed. Their nests consist of an “Open Faced” honeycomb and usually produce a small number of workers. However, they tend to form several of these small nests in and around a common area which builds populations. These nests are usually formed on high, out of the way areas such as; tall eave overhangs. Often times, treating these nests requires a tall ladder. If paper wasps are not creating a problem, and populations are low, treatment is not necessarily recommended.
Bumble Bee
Bumble Bees are a very beneficial insect. They distribute pollen throughout plant and floral life. They are not known for their aggression but can sting when stepped on accidentally or when their nest is disturbed. They are known to nest within structures or other inconvenient areas that need treatment. In general, LIND PEST CONTROL & INSPECTION SERVICES, INC. does not recommend treatment, unless they have become abundant in numbers or they have nested in an undesirable area.
Honey Bee
Honey bees are a very beneficial insect. They are important plant pollinators and providers of honey and wax. The European honey bee, indigenous to Washington State, is capable of stinging but is not known to be aggressive unless their nest is threatened. If you experience a problem, with these bees, we recommend contacting a local bee catcher. We’re sure they would jump at the opportunity to collect a Queen honey bee! Where the queen bee goes, the workers will follow! As a last resort, if the bees are in an inaccessible area, the nest can be extinguished. Please call us if this last resort becomes necessary. There is no documented existence of the Africanized (Killer Bees) honey bee in our state.
Safety Tips
SAFETY TIPS
Bees, wasps, and hornets can be very dangerous and sometimes deadly if you are allergic. LIND PEST CONTROL & INSPECTION SERVICES, INC. are professionals in the pest control industry and are equipped with the necessary tools and products to exterminate them effectively. Please contact us if you have a situation that needs to be tended to.
If a Bee happens to sting you – we recommend contacting your doctor if any signs of allergies occur (extensive swelling of the sting area, dizziness, shortness of breath, etc.) To control swelling, it is recommended to pre-purchase external anesthetic disposable swabs containing Benzocaine and to keep a cold compress on the sting area. Home remedies such as a baking soda or mud solution can help; however, the Benzocaine swabs are recommended. Above all, stay away from these nests until a professional can come out to exterminate.
Odorous House Ants (Sugar Ants)
They get their names from the “odor” they put out when crushed. This odor resembles that of rotten coconut.
About Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants, also known as sugar ants, are small ants approximately 1/18″ in size and are dark brown to black in color. They get their names from the “odor” they put out when crushed. This odor resembles that of rotten coconut. These ants colonize in very large numbers and can be found outside in rockeries, under stepping stones, and in shallow subterranean areas of soil, sod, etc. Their colonies are large due to the fact they are multi-queened. This results in rapid reproduction. They generally feed on sweet, sugary substances, and are known to forage on numerous other sources. They are very opportunistic, often entering houses to begin nesting in warm areas of the crawl space, wall voids, etc. Though not a wood destroying insect, they are formidable nuisance pests, which can be, at times, difficult to control.
These ants are usually prevalent in kitchens and bathrooms. When the infestation multiplies they can be found throughout the house.
If you are experiencing a problem with these ants, please give us a call before you try any over the counter treatment remedies. When incorrect or ill-advised products are used, these ants send out a warning pheromone. This pheromone communicates danger, causing the ants to split (or bud) the colony instinctively in the name of survival. This budding effect results in new colonies being generated in multiple areas of the dwelling. This oft-times challenging species can become even more difficult to control if these inferior/ill-advised products and treatment methods are used.
Odorous House Ant
Cockroaches
Cockroaches have been around for millions of years and will continue to be here for millions more. Their behavioral instincts for adaptability and survival, along with their sheer reproduction ability, make them a formidable pest to eradicate.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches have been around for millions of years and will continue to be here for millions more. Their behavioral instincts for adaptation and survival, along with their sheer reproduction ability, make them a formidable pest to eradicate. They are known vectors of several diseases and are of significant health issues towards humans.
Our professional treatment process involves a variety of factors which include but are not limited to:
- A knowledgeable inspection based on their behavioral instincts and harborages to identify areas of the property to be treated.
- Overall evaluation of the environment (sanitation), likely sources and contributors (infested items that have been brought in resulting in transfer effect), etc.
- A “plan of attack” involving any or all of the following procedures. Treatment to harborage areas using “adulticide” residual products, Insect growth regulators which inhibit reproduction, Space fumigation/fogging, and a variety of bait products that are incorporated as a comprehensive treatment.
- An actual treatment process of product delivery INTO the specific areas where cockroaches are harboring and reproducing.
All of our technicians are Licensed, Certified, and Trained in all of these factors, in order to perform a successful and reliable treatment. Equally as important, to the treatment process, is communication and cooperation between us and our clients. Preparation by the client, prior to treatment, is key to the success and overall effectiveness of the treatment. A preparation sheet, prior to treatment, is emailed to ensure that our clients understand the treatment process and what they can do to help their treatment be a seamless and successful process.
Fleas
Fleas are a nuisance to more than just our pets.
Fleas
Did you know?
The Oriental rat flea was the primary vector of the Bubonic Plague? And the United States presently averages about a dozen human plague cases per year? In addition, 1,000 to 3,000 cases are reported worldwide each year.
Other Diseases and Concerns.
- Murine Typhus
- Cat Scratch Disease
- Tapeworm
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)
- Anemia
Flea facts
- Fleas develop by means of COMPLETE METAMORPHOSIS. They develop from egg to larva to pupa to adult.
- Females lay between 25 and 40 eggs per day.
- Eggs hatch in 1 to 6 days.
- Larva feed on organic debris and adult flea feces. They repel from sunlight and move deep into carpet fibers. This stage lasts 5 to 11 days.
- When the larva has matured (the pupa stage), it secretes a silky substance which it spins around its body to form a cocoon. An adult flea will emerge in as little as 5 days or as long as many months or even a year or longer. This depends on many things such as environment, climate, host availability, etc.
- Adult fleas feed on their host within seconds of pupa emergence. They mate within 24 hours and begin producing eggs within 36-48 hours of their first blood meal.
What are the three defense zones to consider when protecting our families, pets, and homes from flea infestation?
Your Pet. They are vulnerable to flea infestation. Their makeup, environment, and activities make them an ideal target for opportunistic fleas to hitch a ride, pitch a tent, and obtain a meal all in the same convenient and well-hidden location.
Your Home. When pets move indoors, they unknowingly bring in fleas they have picked up from their adventurous day outdoors, dropping flea eggs on our carpets, floors, chairs, beds and (gasp) our laps. The eggs, in turn, hatch into larvae which weave a cocoon from spun silk, carpet, and other fibers. These cocoons, known as pupa, remain until a heat source (human or animal) nears. Whereupon, the pupae hatch into adult fleas and feed on their hosts. This also happens with friction. The mere motion of walking across the room can set this off.
Your Yard. Fleas tend to accumulate around areas our pets lounge, nap or sleep. This includes your yard. They often are brought into the yard by other animals such as cats, raccoons, squirrels, and rats. Since fleas tend to accumulate around areas our pets lounge, nap or sleep, it is not necessary (and not cost-effective) to treat the entire yard. Instead, we recommended the exterior perimeter around the home be treated to create a protective barrier between the outer yard and the home. “Hot Spots” such as outer yard areas under low lying shrubs and other favorite nestling spots should also be treated.
Omitting one or more of these zones from treatment will most likely result in failure to totally rid yourself of these horrible and unhealthy nuisance pests.
Treatment
How do I achieve a three-zone defense against fleas?
Your Pet. We recommend contacting Jones Animal Hospital, Inc. P.S. They will advise you on the proper products to use and the program which best suits you and your pet’s needs.
Your Home. Did you know it is a necessity to use an adulticide product, as well as, an insect growth regulator (IGR) in order to kill all stages of the flea cycle? We use professional products which have withstood rigorous testing to ensure optimal results without ill effect on your family’s and pet’s health or unsightly staining to household materials such as carpet and furniture.
Your Yard. The exterior perimeter and subsequent “lounging” areas are vital spots which must be treated in order to obtain successful flea eradication. This is best served by contacting our team of licensed pest control professionals with the proper training and equipment to do the job thoroughly and completely.
The environmental importance of flea control is easy to see. Not only does it spare your loved ones from discomfort and agony, it helps keep them safe and healthy from an array of much more serious diseases and complications. Flea eradication and prevention can easily be achieved through the implementation of the three-zone defense system.
