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What Attracts Cockroaches to Your Yard: Key Factors and Prevention Tips

Posted on: September 12th, 2024 No Comments

Cockroaches in your yard can be a troubling sight. These pesky insects are drawn to areas that provide food, water, and shelter. Roaches could be attracted to your yard because of organic matter, standing water, and hiding spots like woodpiles or dense vegetation.

Your outdoor space might unknowingly invite these unwanted guests. Food scraps, pet waste, and overripe fruits fallen from trees are all tempting treats for roaches.

Moist areas from leaky pipes, birdbaths, or poor drainage can also lure them in. Cluttered spaces and overgrown plants give roaches perfect places to hide and breed.

Preventing a roach infestation in your yard starts with good habits. Keep your yard clean and tidy. Fix any water leaks promptly. Store firewood away from your home.

If you’re struggling with roaches despite your best efforts, it might be time to call the experts. Tabor Pest Control specializes in dealing with roach problems in Southern Alabama and Southern Georgia.

Call us at 877-448-2267 or fill out our online form for a free quote.

Common Attractants for Cockroaches In Yards

Cockroaches are drawn to your yard by several key factors. These pests seek out food, water, and shelter in outdoor spaces. Let’s explore the main things that bring roaches to your property.

Food Sources and Their Management

Cockroaches have a wide diet and will eat almost anything. Crumbs and spills from outdoor meals are big attractants. Make sure to clean up after barbecues and picnics.

Keep your trash cans sealed tight. Roaches love garbage and food waste. Don’t leave pet food bowls outside overnight.

Fallen fruit from trees can also draw roaches. Pick up fruit regularly and dispose of it properly.

Compost piles can be roach magnets if not managed well. To reduce odors, use a closed bin and turn the compost often.

Water and Moisture Areas

Roaches need water to survive, and they’re attracted to damp areas in your yard. Fix leaky faucets and pipes promptly, and check for puddles around outdoor spigots.

Remove items that collect rainwater, like old tires or buckets. Empty birdbaths and pet water bowls nightly.

Clogged gutters create moist areas that roaches love. Clean them regularly to prevent water buildup.

Improve yard drainage to reduce standing water after rain. This cuts down on roach-friendly wet spots.

Shelter and Breeding Grounds

Roaches seek places to hide and nest, and your yard might offer perfect spots. Reduce clutter around your property by getting rid of piles of newspapers, cardboard boxes, and other junk.

Keep firewood stacks away from your house. Store them off the ground if possible.

Thick mulch layers can harbor roaches. Use a thin layer and keep it away from your home’s foundation.

Check sheds and barns for roach signs. These structures often provide ideal roach habitats. Trim bushes and trees near your house. Dense vegetation gives roaches easy access to your home.

Preventative Measures and Pest Control

Keeping cockroaches out of your yard requires a mix of home maintenance and targeted pest control strategies.

You can take steps to make your property less inviting to roaches and use effective treatments to eliminate existing infestations.

Home Maintenance to Deter Roaches

Start by sealing entry points around your home’s foundation and doors. Fill cracks and gaps with caulk to prevent roaches from sneaking inside. Remove clutter from your yard that could shelter pests.

Keep your yard clean and tidy. Regularly rake leaves, clean up garden debris, and store firewood away from your house. Trim bushes and trees so branches don’t touch your home.

Fix leaky outdoor faucets and improve drainage to reduce moisture. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like crawl spaces. Store trash in sealed containers and cover compost bins.

Consider using natural repellents like essential oils around your home’s perimeter. Peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus oils may help deter roaches.

Professional Pest Management

For serious infestations, you may need to call a professional exterminator. At Tabor Pest Control, we can create a customized pest control plan for your property.

Call us at 877-448-2267 or fill out our online form for a free quote.

As pest control experts, we can use targeted treatments like baits, traps, and pesticides. Cockroach baits are very effective and don’t spread chemicals around your yard.

Our professionals can apply treatments safely and effectively. They know how to place baits and traps for maximum impact, and follow-up visits ensure the problem is fully resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cockroaches are drawn to yards for many reasons. Food, water, shelter, and certain environmental factors can make your outdoor space appealing to these pests.

References

• https://ipm.ucanr.edu/legacy_assets/pdf/pestnotes/pncockroaches.pdf
• https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article-abstract/212/10/1463/18277
• https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev.ento.47.091201.145106

Tags: Cockroaches

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Preventing Pantry Pests: Comprehensive Guide to Keeping Your Food Safe

Posted on: July 2nd, 2024 No Comments

Imagine opening your pantry to find moths fluttering around your cereal boxes or weevils burrowing into your flour. For residents in Southern Alabama and Southern Georgia, this scenario is all too common due to the warm and humid climate that exacerbates pest problems.

Cities like Dothan, Enterprise, and Albany are particularly susceptible to pantry pests like moths, beetles, and weevils. As a locally-owned small business, Tabor Pest Control understands the unique challenges faced by our community and is dedicated to providing tailored solutions to keep your home pest-free.

In this post, we’ll explore how to identify common pantry pests, understand their causes, and implement effective preventive measures.

Identifying Common Pantry Pests

Pantry pests infest dry food products, contaminating and posing health risks. Here are some common pests you’ll find:

Moths

• Indian Meal Moths: These have a wingspan of about 3/4 inch and reddish-brown wings with a coppery sheen. They’re often seen flying around the kitchen, infesting grains, cereals, nuts, and dried fruits.

Beetles

• Cigarette Beetle: Small, brown, humped-back beetles found in tobacco products, spices, dried fruits, grains, and pet food.
• Drugstore Beetle: Similar to the cigarette beetle, it infests flour, spices, and even books and leather items.

Weevils

• Grain Weevil: Small, dark brown insects with a long snout, infesting whole grains like wheat, rice, and corn.
• Rice Weevil: Slightly smaller, also infesting whole grains, and capable of flying.

Grain Mites

• Grain Mites: Tiny pests often requiring a magnifying glass to see, leaving a fine, dust-like residue. They thrive in warm, humid environments and infest flour, cereals, and grains.

Additional Details

• Signs of Infestation: Look for webbing, cocoons, larvae, adult insects, musty odor, and small holes in packaging.
• Prevention Tips: Store food in airtight containers, keep storage areas clean, and regularly inspect your pantry.

Understanding Pantry Pest Infestations

Causes and Sources

Pantry pests can enter homes through various means, including:

• Packaged Food: Insects can come home in infested food products, especially if the packaging is compromised or contaminated at the source.
• Bulk Purchases: Buying in bulk increases the chances of encountering infested items due to the larger quantity and extended storage times.
• Poor Storage Practices: Inadequately sealed containers or leaving food exposed can invite pests, allowing them to infest and breed within your pantry.

Environmental Factors

• Humidity: High humidity levels create a conducive environment for pest proliferation. Most pantry pests thrive in moist conditions, which help them breed and survive.
• Temperature: Warm temperatures accelerate pest development and reproduction cycles. Many pantry pests are more active and reproduce quickly in warmer climates.
• Food Availability: Easy access to food sources supports pest infestations. Pantries with improperly stored food provide a continuous food supply, encouraging pests to settle and multiply.

Additional Insights

• Entry Points: Pests can enter your home through cracks, gaps, or openings in doors, windows, and walls. Ensuring these entry points are sealed can help prevent infestations.
• Imported Goods: Pests may also come from imported food items, which may not have undergone the same level of pest control as local products.
• Reused Containers: Using old containers without proper cleaning can introduce pests to new food items. Always clean and dry containers thoroughly before refilling.

Pest-Proofing Your Home: Smart Preventive Tactics

Proper Food Storage

• Airtight Containers: Store food in airtight containers to prevent pests from accessing it. This also helps maintain the freshness and quality of your food.
• Regular Rotation: Check and rotate food items regularly to ensure freshness and reduce the chances of infestation. Older items should be used first to avoid them becoming stale and attracting pests.

Pantry Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Clean pantry shelves and corners to remove crumbs and food residues. This helps eliminate potential food sources for pests.
• Dry Environment: Keep the pantry dry to deter pests that thrive in moist conditions. Consider using dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to maintain low humidity levels.

Sealing Entry Points

• Cracks and Gaps: Seal cracks and gaps in walls, shelves, and around windows and doors to prevent pests from entering your home. Use caulk or weatherstripping to close off these entry points.

Additional Tips for Effective Pest-Proofing

• Inspect Groceries: Carefully inspect groceries before bringing them into your home. Look for any signs of pests in packaging and discard any infested items immediately.
• Use Bay Leaves: The strong scent of bay leaves can help repel pests, so place them in pantry shelves and containers.
• Monitor for Signs: Regularly check for signs of pests, such as droppings, webbing, or damaged packaging, and take immediate action if you notice any evidence of infestation.

Detecting and Managing Infestations

Routine Inspections

• Regular Checks: Inspect food items and storage areas regularly for signs of pests. Look for droppings, webbing, larvae, and damage to packaging to catch infestations early.

Initial Steps to Take

1. Isolate Contaminated Items: Immediately remove and discard infested items to prevent the spread of pests to other food products.
2. Thorough Cleaning: Clean and disinfect pantry shelves and storage areas to eliminate any remaining pests and eggs. Use a mixture of soap and water, followed by a disinfectant spray.

Additional Measures

• Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose debris, crumbs, and hidden pests from pantry corners and shelves. Dispose of the vacuum bag or contents immediately to prevent re-infestation.
• Monitoring Traps: Place sticky traps or pheromone traps in the pantry to monitor for remaining pests. These traps can help detect ongoing infestations and gauge the effectiveness of your cleaning efforts.

Natural and Chemical Control Methods

Natural Remedies

• Bay Leaves and Cloves: Place bay leaves and cloves on pantry shelves to repel pests. Their strong scent acts as a natural deterrent.
• Vinegar and Essential Oils: Use vinegar and essential oil sprays, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, to deter pests. These natural solutions can be sprayed around pantry shelves and entry points.

Chemical Solutions

• Safe Pesticides: Use pesticides specifically labeled for pantry pests. Always follow the instructions carefully to ensure safety and effectiveness. Look for products that are safe for use around food.
• Professional Services: For severe infestations, consider hiring Tabor Pest Control. Professional pest control services can provide targeted treatments and ongoing maintenance to prevent future infestations.

Additional Tips

• Diatomaceous Earth: This natural powder can be sprinkled around pantry shelves and entry points. It dehydrates and kills pests upon contact.
• Neem Oil: Neem oil disrupts the feeding and reproductive cycles of many pests. Mix it with water and spray it in infested areas.

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

Consistent Practices

• Maintenance: Consistently practice preventive measures to keep pests at bay. Regularly inspect and clean storage areas, maintain proper food storage practices, and promptly address any signs of pests.

Seasonal Checks

• Deep Cleaning: Conduct thorough inspections and cleanings seasonally, especially before and after winter. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas, behind appliances, and any other hidden spots where pests might hide.

Additional Long-Term Strategies

• Professional Inspections: Schedule regular professional inspections with Tabor Pest Control to ensure your home remains pest-free. Professional inspections can identify potential issues before they become major infestations.
• Environmental Controls: Maintain a dry and well-ventilated pantry area. Use dehumidifiers if necessary, and ensure that your pantry is not subject to extreme temperature fluctuations.

For residents in Southern Alabama and Southern Georgia, the warm and humid climate can exacerbate pest problems.

Regular inspections by professionals, like those offered by Tabor Pest Control, can help ensure a pest-free home year-round.

Tags: Beetles, Grain Mites, Moths, Weevils

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Dothan Pest Control: Professional Extermination Services for Your Home or Business

Posted on: December 5th, 2023 No Comments

If you are a resident of Dothan, Alabama, then you know how important it is to keep your home or business pest-free. Pests such as cockroaches, rodents, and termites can cause damage to your property and pose a risk to your health.

That’s where Tabor Pest Control comes in. As experts in the field, we offer a range of residential and commercial pest services to keep your property free from unwanted guests.

Understanding pest control in Dothan is the first step to keeping your property pest-free. Whether you’re dealing with a termite infestation or a rodent problem, our team of experts can help you find the right solution. We use the latest technology and methods to ensure that your property is protected from pests.

Tabor Pest Control has been serving the Dothan area since 1958, and we have a reputation for providing professional and reliable service. We offer a range of services that cater to the unique needs of your property.

Understanding Pest Control in Dothan

If you live in Dothan, Alabama, you know that pests can be a big problem.

Whether you’re dealing with termites, ants, roaches, silverfish, spiders, bed bugs, mosquitoes, rodents, beetles, bees, wasps, fleas, ticks, or any other pest, it’s essential to understand the basics of pest control in Dothan.

Common Pests in Dothan

Dothan is home to many pests, and some are more common than others. Termites, ants, roaches, and silverfish are some of the most common pests in the area.

Termites can cause significant damage to your home, so it’s important to have regular termite inspections. Ants can be a nuisance both inside and outside your home, and roaches and silverfish can spread disease and damage your belongings.

The Importance of Professional Pest Management

While many DIY pest control methods are available, professional pest management is often the best option. A professional pest control company like Tabor Pest Control has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to effectively eliminate pests from your home.

Professional pest management is particularly important for certain pests, such as bed bugs and rodents. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate, and Tabor can use specialized treatments to get rid of them.

Rodents can also be difficult to eliminate, Tabor Pest Control can use traps and other methods to ensure they are gone for good.

Overall, if you’re dealing with pests in Dothan, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Contact us at 877-448-2267 to schedule an inspection and get started on a treatment plan. With the right approach, you can eliminate pests from your home and enjoy a pest-free environment.

Residential and Commercial Pest Services

When it comes to pest control, you need a professional team that can provide tailored treatment plans for your home or integrated pest management solutions for your business.

Tailored Treatment Plans for Homes

Residential pest control services are designed to protect your home from pests such as ants, roaches, rodents, and termites.

A Tabor Pest Control technician will inspect your home to identify the type of pest and the extent of the infestation. Then, they will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Some companies offer preventative services to keep pests from entering your home in the first place. This can include sealing cracks and crevices, installing door sweeps, and removing potential food and water sources.

Integrated Pest Management for Businesses

Commercial pest control services focus on integrated pest management (IPM) solutions that are designed to prevent pests from entering your business and eliminate any existing infestations.

An exterminator will work with you to develop a customized plan that meets your specific needs and complies with local regulations.

In addition to traditional pest treatment methods, many companies offer eco-friendly solutions that use natural products and techniques to control pests. This can include using pheromone traps, bait stations, and biological controls.

Whether you need termite control, bed bug control, or general pest treatment services, we are here to help. Contact us today at 877-448-2267 to schedule an appointment and get the peace of mind you need to protect your home or business.

What Sets Tabor Pest Control Apart?

Tabor Pest Control is a professional pest control service in Dothan, AL, that stands out from the competition in several ways.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider Tabor Pest Control:

1. Experience: Tabor Pest Control has served customers in Dothan and the surrounding areas since 1958.
2. Education and Safety: Tabor Pest Control technicians are highly trained and use safe, environmentally friendly products to control pests.
3. Satisfaction Guarantee: Tabor Pest Control offers a satisfaction guarantee. If you’re unhappy with the service, we will work with you to make it right. If you’re not satisfied at any time, we guarantee that our technicians will come back until the problem is solved. If not, the last service payment plus 10% will be refunded.

We are a family-owned and operated business that takes pride in providing personalized service to each and every customer.

Pest Control Aftercare and Prevention

Once your home or business has been treated for pests, it’s important to take steps to ensure long-term protection. Here are some tips to help you maintain a pest-free environment:

Ensuring Long-Term Protection

1. Keep your home or business clean and tidy. Pests are attracted to clutter and food debris, so make sure to clean up spills and crumbs promptly and store food in sealed containers.
2. Seal cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls to prevent pests from entering your home or business.
3. Keep your yard well-maintained. Trim bushes and trees away from your home or business, and remove any standing water to prevent mosquitoes and other pests from breeding.
4. Consider installing a Sentricon termite protection system. This system uses bait stations to eliminate termite colonies, providing long-term protection against these destructive pests.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your home or business remains pest-free for years to come.

When to Schedule Follow-Up Inspections

After your initial pest control treatment, scheduling follow-up inspections is important to ensure that the pests have been eliminated and to prevent future infestations.

By scheduling regular follow-up inspections and taking steps to prevent future infestations, you can enjoy a pest-free peace of mind in your home or business.

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Wood Treatment for Termites: Comprehensive Protection for Your Home

Posted on: November 29th, 2023 No Comments

Termites are one of the most formidable enemies of home structures, capable of causing extensive and costly damage before they are even detected. Tabor Pest Control, with years of experience in combating termites, is here to guide you through this process.

By taking proactive measures and using proper wood treatments, you can significantly reduce the risk of termite infestations and safeguard your property.

Understanding Termites: The Silent Threat

Identifying and understanding the behavior of termites is the first step in effective prevention and treatment.

These pests come in various types, each with its unique characteristics and behaviors:

1. Subterranean Termites: The most common in the U.S., they build mud tubes for mobility and are known for their aggressive wood-eating habits.
2. Drywood Termites: These termites infest dry wood, such as attic framing and furniture, and can be identified by their droppings, known as frass.
3. Dampwood Termites: Preferring moist and decaying wood, they’re often found in wood in contact with soil or with moisture problems.

Identifying Termite Infestations: What to Look For

Early detection of termites can significantly reduce the extent of damage and the costs of repairs.

Keep an eye out for these signs:

• Physical Signs: Termite droppings (frass), mud tubes on exterior walls, discarded wings, and visible swarms of termites are tell-tale signs of an infestation.
• Structural Damage: This includes hollowed or damaged wood, blistering paint, and visible holes in wood structures. Termites consume wood from the inside out, often leaving a thin veneer of timber or paint.

Proactive Prevention: Securing Your Home

Preventing termites involves a combination of good practices and structural maintenance:

• Seal Cracks and Crevices: Regular inspections for cracks in the foundation, around utility lines, and other potential entry points are essential. Sealing these gaps can significantly reduce the likelihood of termites entering your home.
• Wood Storage and Maintenance: Keep firewood, lumber, and other wood debris away from your home’s foundation. Ensure that wood structures are properly maintained and treated, especially those in contact with the ground or exposed to moisture.
• Property Maintenance: Fix leaks promptly, ensure proper drainage around your home, and maintain gutters and downspouts to minimize moisture accumulation that can attract termites.

Comprehensive Termite Control Services

Tabor Pest Control offers a range of professional services to detect, prevent, and treat termite infestations:

• Inspections: Our team conducts thorough inspections to identify termite activity and assess risk areas in and around your home.
• Customized Treatment Plans: We develop treatment plans tailored to your home’s specific needs, utilizing the most effective methods such as bait stations, soil treatments, and direct wood treatments.

Advanced Wood Treatment Options

Choosing termite-resistant construction materials can greatly reduce the risk of infestation. Here are some advanced wood treatment options to consider.

• Pressure-Treated Wood: Wood treated with preservatives to deter termites is ideal for structures in contact with the ground or exposed to the elements.
• Composite Wood: A durable, low-maintenance material that is less appealing to termites, perfect for outdoor decking and fences.
• Yellow Cedar and Other Resistant Materials: Some woods, like yellow cedar, are naturally resistant to termites. Using such materials in construction can provide an added layer of protection.

Tabor’s Commitment to Your Home’s Safety

At Tabor Pest Control, we understand the stress and damage termites can cause. We are committed to providing effective, long-term solutions to protect your home.

Our team is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and experience to ensure your home remains safe and termite-free.

• Effective Termite Prevention: Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and using the right construction materials are key.
• Early Signs of Infestation: Include termite droppings, mud tubes, and structural wood damage.
• Termite-Resistant Construction Materials: Pressure-treated wood, composite materials, and naturally resistant woods like yellow cedar offer better protection against termites.

Contact Tabor Pest Control at 877-448-2267 or use our contact form for a comprehensive approach to termite control. Our experts are ready to protect your home against these wood-destroying pests.

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Tags: Termites

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Tiny Black Bugs In The Kitchen: Identification & Effective Elimination

Posted on: August 11th, 2023 No Comments

As you walk into your kitchen during the day, you notice a small black bug moving in your peripheral vision. Scary, isn’t it? Several black bugs could invade your kitchen, which might cause havoc to your mental and physical health.

Getting rid of these bugs might be your initial response. But before that, identifying the bug that has infiltrated your kitchen is more important. It is crucial to understand the correct method for removing them.

Let’s identify the black bugs that are keeping you up at night. Then, we can explore various ways to eliminate them from your kitchen.

How to identify the black bugs in your kitchen

Nobody likes finding black bugs in their kitchen. Be it on the countertop, around your fruits, or inside the half-open packet of biscuits or chips. It’s unsanitary and disgusting at the same time to find bugs in a place where you store and prepare your food.

But there are different kinds of bugs, and it’s essential to know why they’re in your kitchen and how to get rid of them.

1. Pantry pests

Dry food kept in the pantry attracts a particular type of bug species. Moths, beetles, grain mites, and weevils can be found in dry food items stored in the cabinets.

There’re various ways you can spot bug activity in cabinets. One such thing is to find webbing and cocoons to help to spot some bug activity.

Finding insects in the cabinet is one of the most prominent issues people face and is quite a common household issue people have to deal with.

The foods that get contaminated by them include:

• Cereals
• Dried beans
• Popcorns
• Nuts
• Raisins and other dried fruits
• Tea
• Cured meats
• Spices
• Powdered milk
• Chocolate

Even if you don’t leave your packets and jars unopened, insects can infest your food if you don’t clean your pantry often enough.

Most of the time, throwing away contaminated food is the only way to deal with it. Cleaning the whole thing out is another way to ensure it doesn’t affect other food products as well.

Carpet beetles, known by their name, attack textiles such as clothes and carpets but can also feed on pantry food. They can genuinely become annoying.

You can identify them as oval-shaped insects. They usually leave behind irregularly shaped holes in carpets, rugs, clothing, or upholstery.

They also shed their skin or leave fecal residue behind in the pantries.

The only way to solve this issue is to clean regularly, vacuum your carpets, wash your clothes frequently, and clean out your cabinets and cupboard to eliminate their existing eggs and larvae.

2. Fruit flies

If you haven’t heard about fruit flies, have you seen small bugs flying around your fruits?

If you don’t cover your food, it will attract flies. The same goes for the fruits kept in the fruit basket.

Fruit flies are also seen around vegetables when kept outside for a long time. You can identify them as black or brown bugs and as small as 1/8 inch long.

They hover around the food left in the open without anyone consuming it.

If you don’t tend to eat fruits a lot but have a habit of buying them anyway, you might see them around the fruits once they are fully ripe. They accumulate in large numbers around something that’s decaying.

3. Black ants

You can find ants commonly in the kitchen. It’s almost too common to find them there; they’re so small they can enter through the tiniest gaps you don’t know about.

While a small number of ants aren’t harmful, a whole line of ants can cause some serious damage to your health.

If you don’t clean your kitchen often and there’re food crumbs around, or leave food containers open, there’s a huge chance of ants multiplying.

4. Roaches and drain flies

The garbage disposal area is another popular area that attracts flies and other black bugs.

Especially when you keep it inside the cabinet below the sink. This is also where the garbage can is likely to face more infestation.

The bugs are likely to have hairy wings that resemble tiny black moths and are black or brown. They enter through the drainage system and may enter your garbage disposal can if left open.

Smaller roaches are bound to enter through the drainage system, and so are cockroach nymphs which are wingless versions of adult cockroaches. They feed on organic matter that’s decomposing.

5. Silverfish

These bugs are different as they’re silver in color and have scales that cover their elongated bodies. Bathrooms and kitchens usually have dark and damp spaces with high humidity.

You won’t be able to spot them during the daytime because they’re nocturnal and turn up during the night only. They feed on cardboard and fabric.

If your place is humidity-free, you won’t see them hovering around. Keeping your kitchen’s dark areas clean is another factor that can help.

How can you prevent a tiny black bug infestation?

Bugs like these, which you see in your kitchen, aren’t that difficult to deal with, and proper measures can prevent them from entering your kitchen again.

There are a couple of things you absolutely need to take care of, which involves a constant effort on your part.

Keep the kitchen clean

Cleaning is essential; this is how you prevent most bugs from infesting your home, including your kitchen.

When you’re living alone, it’s still a bit easier to clean on weekdays, but as a couple, it can be challenging to find time, plus you have more things to clean.

Weekends are perfect to find time and ensure your home is thoroughly cleaned.

Maintaining proper cleanliness ensures a sanitary environment and reduces the risk of diseases.

Do the basic cleaning during the weekdays by keeping the countertop clean, closing lids of containers with food inside, taking out trash regularly, and keeping the floors clean.

During the weekend, you can tackle the pantry area and any other enclosed space in your kitchen. Keep things clean as possible, including areas behind appliances and the kitchen sink.

Be mindful of food storage

Find the right way to store your food items. If you open a packet, ensure that it’s closed off or kept in a container that is sealed off with the lid.

This way, insects or any black bugs won’t be attracted by the smell of food left out in the open. Cover up all your grains, cereals, and other food items.

Keeping things closed off isn’t the only solution, but you must check in with the food that hasn’t been used in a long time.

If the container is left untouched for a long time, the food might develop insects without you knowing. Also, throw away any expired food items.

Other things to keep in mind include:

• Fix any leaks in your kitchen.
• Keep the kitchen dry and clean.
• Make sure you ventilate your kitchen daily.

Home remedies to get rid of black bugs

You can use a few things from your home to prevent further entry of any bugs and get rid of them. These include:

• Borax mixed with sugar can be used to spread in the areas where you have spotted roaches.
• Baking soda can be sprinkled to ward off ants.
• Garlic can be potent in keeping bugs away.
• When sprayed on bugs, peppermint oil mixed with water can keep them away.
• Neem oil helps disrupt the feeding and reproductive cycle of bugs. Mix it with water and spray on the bugs.
• Diatomaceous is a natural insecticide that you can spread on the entry points of the kitchen or your home to kill small insects.
• Place bay leaves in your pantry or closet to let beetles and moths stray from the food items.

Vinegar solution is another non-poisonous way to deal with black bugs in your kitchen. Mix equal parts of vinegar with water with a few drops of dish soap. Keep this solution near the areas where you see bugs often. Keep them at entry points as well to catch these bugs.

You can pour boiling water occasionally to keep things coming from the drainage system. This is the easiest way to keep bugs away.

However, these DIY home solutions might not always work, and you might want a more permanent way or professional way to deal with the bugs in your kitchen.

When to call a professional

Dealing with bugs or insects can be time-consuming or disgusting to you on your own, primarily if they have grown in number. Sometimes you can’t let things go on by using DIY methods and want a more professional way of handling the termination of bugs.

Tabor Pest Control can help you with the bug infestation situation in your kitchen. You can reap various benefits with our services which include:

1. Identification of bugs

Identifying the bugs that have infested your kitchen will be our responsibility. You don’t need to do anything; our professionals will do an evaluation and let you know what bugs you are dealing with. This will help us further in knowing how to deal with it.

2. Minimizing property damage

A small species of bugs in your kitchen can hold the power to attract other kinds of bugs in your home and kitchen. Before you know it, they can cause significant harm to your property. Exterminating even the smallest of bugs from your kitchen will help reduce any such risks.

3. Health concerns

Bugs are known to spread diseases, and black bugs in your kitchen can spread diseases via food to you. Hiring professionals from Tabor Pest Control will help you keep your family safe from food contamination and maintain sanitary conditions moving forward.

4. Avoiding further infestation

DIY remedies can only take you so far and aren’t permanent. It can’t keep away future infestations away. With the help of our professionals, you can keep your worries away and let them help prevent any future infestations.

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Tags: Ants, Cockroaches, Moths

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Are Roaches Attracted to Cardboard? (3 Tips for Preventing an Infestation)

Posted on: August 3rd, 2023 1 Comment

Cardboard attracts roaches both as a source of food and a suitable shelter. To keep these pests out of your house, it’s essential to understand the relationship between roaches and cardboard and learn how to minimize their contact.

We all know the dread of a cockroach sighting and the fear of an infestation. In order to minimize the chances of this unfortunate event, it is important to understand what brings roaches into your home. 

One of the most surprising attractants is cardboard. This common material provides both food and shelter for roaches.

Why Does Cardboard Attract Cockroaches?

1. Food Sources

Cardboard is an excellent source of food for roaches. It is made from organic materials that contain tree fibers. It is also made with glue, giving off a sweet scent that attracts even more.

2. Shelter

Cardboard boxes are the ideal environment for roaches to live in.

They have flexible bodies that allow them to fit into tight spaces. This allows them to get into boxes that are not properly sealed and make themselves at home. 

3. Moisture and Darkness 

Cardboard material can absorb and hold large amounts of moisture and is usually stored in dark, out-of-the-way spaces.

This makes them the ideal environment for roaches. 

Cockroach Prevention: Effective Measures You Can Take

Cockroaches are attracted to cardboard for a variety of reasons. Since we all tend to have cardboard at our house quite often, it is important to be aware of this possibility and do everything possible to prevent it.

Cardboard boxes are the perfect home for roaches to live, make nests, and lay eggs. This is especially true when left in a warm, damp environment like a garage. 

Not only do these boxes provide shelter, but they are also a food source. Cardboard is made up of organic fibers, which provide sustenance for the insects.

There are several simple steps you can take to prevent roaches from finding a home in your cardboard:

• Keep boxes dry – Roaches like moist environments, so ensure your boxes are kept in a dry place.
• Limit food source – They are often attracted to the food left behind or stored within the boxes.
• Seal and store boxes properly – Using strong boxes without rips or holes and sealing them with tape will make it more difficult for roaches to get inside.
• Inspect regularly – Perform routine checks on the condition of your boxes and keep an eye out for roaches, so you can address the issue before it becomes an infestation. 

Common Places for Infestations

Cardboard Box Storage

Since cardboard makes such an attractive home for roaches, any area with a large number of them will of course attract a lot of roaches.

This is especially true when they are placed in a dark and damp area like a garage, attic, or basement. 

In areas like this, it is also important to consider the contents of the boxes. Any boxes containing organic material – especially food but also books or other paper goods – will be even more attractive. 

Secluded Spaces

In addition to the usual box storage areas, roaches can also find homes in the secluded parts of your houses. Think of anywhere you put boxes that are out of the way. One of the most common is in your closet. 

Roaches do not like to be around a lot of people, so they will gravitate toward undisturbed areas, especially if there are materials like cardboard that provide shelter and food.

Preventing Infestations

1. Cleaning Tips

Roaches are primarily attracted to sources of food, so make sure there are no food scraps or crumbs in any of the boxes within your house.

If you’re storing any nonperishable foods, check regularly to make sure they are properly sealed. 

This applies to the rest of your house as well. If you are concerned about the possibility of a roach infestation, sweep and mop regularly, and dispose of expired or rotting food. 

2. Proper Storage Practices

Avoid cardboard altogether when you can. Instead, use plastic bins with lids that fit tightly.

Keep your storage area clean and organized, especially if there is any food present. 

If you need to use cardboard, keep it in clean and dry places, and ensure that the openings are properly sealed off with tape. 

3. Pest Control Methods

There are many natural remedies, such as essential oils (lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, etc.), that have been known to be effective in deterring cockroaches and other pests.

Put a few drops on cotton balls, and place them in areas that you think may be at risk.

Another potential solution is boric acid. Mix it with sugar or flour, and leave it out to bait the roaches. The sugar or flour will attract them, and the acid will kill them.

Identifying and Dealing with Infestations

Signs of Roach Activity

Look for these common signs:

• Dark brown feces: Cockroaches leave behind small, dark droppings that resemble coffee grounds.
• Stains: Roaches can create dark brown stains on cardboard due to their feces and body oils.
• Holes: Holes in your cardboard could indicate that cockroaches have gnawed through the material.
• Mold: Cardboard might have attracted roaches if it becomes wet, leading to mold growth, which is one of their food sources.
• Dead roaches: Finding multiple dead roaches near your cardboard indicates their presence and activity.

Removing Infested Items 

Follow these steps if you find an infested piece of cardboard:

1. Inspect: Check all cardboard items for signs of roach activity and damage.
2. Dispose: Safely dispose of any infested cardboard in a sealed plastic bag to prevent the spread of cockroaches.
3. Clean: Vacuum and clean the area where the infested cardboard was stored, focusing on removing roach feces and other residue.
4. Prevention: Replace cardboard with plastic storage containers to deter future infestations.

Addressing Moisture Issues

To reduce the likelihood of roach infestations in cardboard items due to dampness, follow these tips:

• Monitor humidity levels: Maintain a humidity level below 50% in your home to discourage roach and mold growth.
• Inspect areas prone to water leaks: Check basements, crawl spaces, and other areas that might be susceptible to water intrusion.
• Fix plumbing issues: Repair any leaks, broken pipes, or other plumbing problems that may cause moisture build-up.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in damp areas to prevent wet conditions that attract cockroaches.

Cockroaches are known for their physical toughness and their ability to hide in tiny places as well as their quick reproduction. So, even if you do everything right, there is still a chance that they could get into your house and lead to an infestation. 

If that happens, it may be necessary to seek professional help to eliminate the problem. Tabor Pest Control has a team of professionals that possess in-depth knowledge about how to deal with roaches.

Rest assured, we at Tabor Pest Control will find an effective and safe way of dealing with cockroach infestation in your property while ensuring they don’t infest your home in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

• https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/publications/books/housing/cha04.htm
• https://academic.oup.com/jee/article/114/4/1758/6270761?login=false
• https://pestcontroloptions.com/why-are-cockroaches-attracted-to-cardboard/
• https://www.cockroachzone.com/why-are-cockroaches-attracted-to-cardboard/

Tags: Cockroaches

Posted in Prevention & Control | 1 Comment »

Bed Bug Invasion 101: Exploring the Top 5 Paths They Take to Reach Your Place

Posted on: July 7th, 2023 No Comments

Bed Bugs. The name strikes fear in the hearts of all who hear it.

These tiny insects have a reputation for making many lives miserable. But rather than hiding and hoping for the best, let’s explore the most common ways they manage to enter our homes and learn how to prevent it.

Bed bugs are small, flat, reddish-brown insects. They cannot fly or jump and are most active at night.

Understanding The Enemy

They do not spread diseases among humans, but their bites leave swollen red marks similar to mosquito bites and cause itchiness and discomfort. Common signs of them in your home may include pieces of shed skin, small droppings, bloodstains on sheets, or sightings of the bugs themselves

Bed bugs feed on blood and are constantly moving from one place to another, searching for a new host.

But it is not the blood itself that they are attracted to. Instead, it’s the things that they associate with humans, primarily body heat, carbon dioxide, and our scent.

When they find a host, they produce a natural chemical called histamine which attracts more of their kind. They also have the ability to survive several months without a host, so infestations can quickly get out of control if not handled properly.

Luckily there are many actions we can take to protect our homes and reduce the likelihood of this kind of situation. Let’s explore some of the most common causes of bed bug infestations.

Human Transportation

The number one way that bed bugs are introduced to a new house is by hitching a ride from the people that live there. They can travel on our clothing, our shoes, purses, or backpacks, and even on our skin or hair.

So, the next question becomes… Where do we come into contact with them?

There are many answers to this question since they can be found in practically every public place or form of transportation. However, we will break down some of the most significant.

1. Hotels, Motels, Hostels, Airbnb’s, etc.

Overnight accommodations are a well-known source of bed bug problems, and rightly so. To reduce the risk of bringing home unwanted guests, it is important to read reviews in advance and to thoroughly inspect your room before you make yourself at home.

Check the room, give special attention to the bed, and look for the telltale signs we discussed previously.

2. Public Transportation

Buses, trains, and ride-sharing vehicles are all possible hotbeds for bed bug activity. The same is also true for less common forms of transportation, such as airplanes and cruise ships.

In situations like this, where you have less control of your surroundings, you must do what you can to protect your own belongings.

Stand instead of sitting and avoid putting your things on the floor when you can, and consider lining the interior of your bags with sealed plastic bags or other bedbug-proof storage options.

3. Public Areas

Any place where lots of people spend time is a possible source.

Some include movie theaters, hospitals, and schools. Protect yourself in the same way you would for public transportation.  

4. Multifamily Dwellings

It’s important to be aware that in any building with multiple residents, like apartments, there is a risk that bed bugs could travel from one unit to another.

One of the best things you can do is to read reviews in advance to be sure that your home is not at high risk. If you think your unit may be at risk, make an effort to seal any cracks that may provide an easy entrance.

5. Secondhand Items

Used clothing, furniture, and cars are more potential bed bug risks. It is very important to perform a thorough inspection before bringing these things into your home.

You can also wash and dry them on high heat in order to kill the insects.

6. Guests

The final and most complicated cause is the people that you invite into your home. As we have discussed, bed bugs are expert hitchhikers and can travel on people for extended periods of time.

There is no simple solution to this problem, but you may suggest that guests leave shoes, coats, etc., outside the house.

The purpose of this article is not to inspire hopelessness and constant fear but to promote awareness of the risk and to educate on prevention and treatment

Precautions and Preventions at Home

Remember, bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or food, only human body heat/scent and CO2. So, when you are bed bug-proofing your home, think about minimizing sources of warmth and scent that bed bugs could mistake for an actual human.

This means picking up piles of laundry, cleaning bed sheets regularly, etc. It is also a good idea to clean and remove clutter to reduce potential hiding places for insects.

When returning from a trip or an outing to an area where bed bugs may have been present, be sure to wash and dry all clothing on high heat to kill off any that may have hitched a ride. Do the same with any new used items you bring in.

Finally, seal cracks and openings in your house to make it more difficult for bed bugs to follow your scent and body heat into the building.

Even when you take every precaution and do everything correctly, there is always the possibility that bed bugs will find their way into your home.

In this scenario, it is wise to seek professional help before the infestation gets out of control. Tabor Pest Control specializes in dealing with these problems and offers the highest quality service in the southern Alabama region.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

• https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/pests/bedbugs.htm
• https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/do-it-yourself-bed-bug-control
• http://npic.orst.edu/pest/bedbug/index.html
• https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/biting-stinging/others/ent-3012/
• https://extension.umn.edu/biting-insects/bed-bugs

Tags: Bed bugs

Posted in Company News & Updates, Prevention & Control | No Comments »

The Pros and Cons of Mosquito Spraying: Helpful or Hazardous?

Posted on: July 7th, 2023 No Comments

Beyond being an unrelenting pest and a universal nuisance, Mosquitos are the world’s deadliest animal. They are responsible for over 1 million deaths yearly, spreading life-threatening diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, and dengue.

While these insects do outnumber us by about 16,000 to 1, different methods of pest control offer some means of fighting back.

Mosquito Spraying is a very effective and fairly accessible control method that can deliver instant results. It’s a localized solution that helps prevent the spread of disease, supports public health, and limits exposure to these annoying and dangerous pests.

On the other hand, it raises questions of safety for the environment, humans, and pets. Its effectiveness is fairly short-term and non-targeted, failing to address the source and potentially causing the development of resistance.

What are all of the different methods of mosquito control?

There are three main approaches to combating mosquitoes: source reduction, biological control, and personal protection.

1. Source Reduction

Source reduction involves eliminating areas where mosquitoes can breed.

• Effective construction and maintenance of infrastructure can reduce mosquito breeding habitats. Mosquitos breed in still water that gathers in ditches, retention ponds, and water management structures that fail to flow effectively. Planning this infrastructure with the intention of limiting breeding habitats helps to control the mosquito population.
• Eliminating still water by filling wet areas with soil and draining outdoor containers such as trash cans will force mosquitoes to breed elsewhere.
• Modifying landscapes to ensure the effective drainage of water is another important piece of source reduction.

2. Biological Control

Biological control is used to eliminate existing larvae and adult mosquitoes.

• Introduction of predators such as birds, fish, and frogs has been shown to have some impact on controlling mosquito populations.
• Larviciding introduces low concentrations of chemicals to still water to kill off mosquito larvae and pupae without impact on other water-inhabiting organisms.
• Adulticiding uses trucks and aircraft to spray pesticides and kill mosquito populations. This method will be closely examined throughout this article.

Treating large areas with larvicides and insecticides can be difficult and dangerous. It is best left to professionals. The Tabor Pest Control team follows strict guidelines and regulations to ensure environmental and personal safety and ensure effectiveness.

3. Personal Protection

Personal protection creates physical or chemical barriers between people and mosquitoes.

• Spray-on repellent confuses mosquitoes and prevents them from seeking us out.
• Nettings such as pool cages and bed nets physically prevent mosquitoes from reaching us.
• Foggers, candles, and mists apply repellents to large areas so that they do not need to be applied to us directly.

What is Mosquito Spraying?

Mosquito spraying is a method employed to reduce mosquito populations in target areas and combat the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. The process involves the strategic application of insecticides in areas known to harbor and breed mosquitoes.

Commonly used insecticides include pyrethrins, organophosphates, and larvicides. Spraying can be carried out using various methods, including ground-based sprayers, truck-mounted foggers, or aerial spraying, depending on the size and accessibility of the target area. 

The primary goal of mosquito spraying is disease prevention and public health protection, but it can also be a quality-of-life measure for those in mosquito-prone areas.

It’s typically conducted by trained professionals who follow regulations and guidelines to ensure the safe and effective application of insecticides. 

What are the Different Types of Mosquito Spraying?

Ground-based Sprayers:

• Utilized for smaller areas like residential neighborhoods or local parks.
• Involves professionals using handheld or backpack sprayers to apply insecticides.
• Allows for precise targeting of mosquito resting areas and breeding sites.

If your mosquito issue is getting out of hand, call the team at Tabor Pest Control to decide if this type of residential treatment is right for you.

Truck-mounted Misters:

• Ideal for larger areas such as parks, golf courses, or commercial spaces.
• Mounted on trucks equipped with spraying equipment.
• Releases a fine mist of insecticides to cover larger areas efficiently.

Aerial Spraying:

• Conducted by aircraft, making it suitable for vast or inaccessible areas.
• Involves releasing insecticides as a mist or ultra-low volume (ULV) spray.
• Provides effective coverage over large expanses of land, including rural or marshy areas.

Barrier Treatments:

• Focuses on treating specific areas, such as yards, gardens, or outdoor event venues.
• Involves applying insecticides to vegetation, structures, and other surfaces where mosquitoes rest or seek blood meals.
• Creates a barrier that repels or kills mosquitoes, reducing their presence in designated areas.

What are the Pros and Cons of Mosquito Spraying?

Pros

Mosquito spraying is effective, accessible, and localized, providing quick results to prevent the spread of disease and improve quality of life.

Effectiveness

• Mosquito spraying, when properly executed, can significantly reduce mosquito populations in treated areas.
• Targeting adult mosquitoes in their resting and breeding sites interrupts their life cycle, curbing their reproduction and population growth.

Accessibility

• Hiring an expert to spray for mosquitos is a fairly quick and easy process.
• Spraying can be done in small residential areas or large rural properties.

Speed of Results

• Within a short period, the application of insecticides can lead to a noticeable reduction in mosquito activity, providing immediate comfort to affected communities.

Disease Prevention and Public Health

• Mosquito spraying plays a vital role in preventing mosquito-borne diseases, thereby safeguarding public health.
• By reducing mosquito populations, it minimizes the transmission of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.

Localization

• Mosquito spraying allows for targeted control efforts, focusing on specific areas with high mosquito activity or disease prevalence.
• This localized approach optimizes the allocation of resources, effectively addressing mosquito-related concerns where they are most needed.

Quality of Life Improvement

• By reducing mosquito populations, spraying enhances the quality of life for individuals living or working in treated areas.
• It enables people to enjoy outdoor activities, such as picnics, barbecues, and sports, without constant annoyance or the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
• It helps eliminate the need for constant application of spray repellents, candles, and foggers.

Cons

Mosquito Spraying is a short-term solution that fails to address the source of the issue. It raises concerns regarding the environment, health, and resistance development.

Environmental Impact

• Insecticides can have a negative impact on non-targeted insects if done recklessly. Insects like bees and dragonflies can be affected. 
• Killing large populations of mosquitoes can also create problems for their natural predators by eliminating a food source.
• This leads to a lack of biodiversity.

Health Concerns

• Prolonged or improper exposure to insecticides can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritations, or other health problems, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
• Similar outcomes may arise for pets and wildlife.

Resistance Development

• Frequent and indiscriminate use of insecticides can lead to the development of resistance in mosquito populations.
• Over time, mosquitoes may become less susceptible to the chemicals used in spraying, rendering control efforts less effective in the long run.

Failure to Address the Source

• Mosquito spraying primarily targets adult mosquitoes, often overlooking the breeding sites where mosquitoes reproduce.
• Neglecting the elimination or treatment of stagnant water sources can result in a continuous cycle of mosquito populations and re-infestation.

Lack of Sustainability of Results

• Spray treatments generally last 4-8 weeks before populations return to normal levels.
• This means that the treatments have to be regular and continuous.

How Does Mosquito Spraying Compare to Other Methods?

Mosquito spraying has some distinct advantages and disadvantages when compared to other methods.

Source Reduction Methods

Spraying insecticides is much easier and more accessible than systematically eradicating mosquito breeding grounds. It does not require any terraforming or rebuilding of infrastructure. In some cases, it is completely impractical to eliminate all potential mosquito breeding habitat. 

On the other hand, source reduction is a far more sustainable method of controlling mosquitoes as it can reduce populations in a given area permanently.

Personal Protection Methods

Mosquito spraying is generally a longer-lasting solution compared to repellants. It frees individuals from the burden of constantly reapplying bug spray, lighting candles, or running bug foggers. It also allows the freedom to enjoy the outdoors beyond a netted area.

Additionally, by killing the mosquitoes rather than repelling them, it tends to be a more definitive and effective solution.

Compared to repellants, mosquito spraying poses a bigger threat to organisms and the environment. It can also be more expensive as it is not usually a DIY solution.

The Tabor Pest Control team is always ready to answer your questions. Give us a call to decide which mosquito control approach is best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

• https://www.rti.org/insights/mosquito-facts
• https://a-z-animals.com/blog/how-many-mosquitoes-are-in-the-world/
• https://lcmcd.com/faqs/q-what-methods-are-used-to-control-mosquitoes/#:~:text=There%20are%20four%20basic%20approaches,source%20reduction%2C%20larviciding%20and%20adulticiding.
• https://www.orkin.com/pests/mosquitoes/what-eats-mosquitoes
• https://www.buzzoffmosquitosolutions.com/difference-between-mosquito-fogging-vs-spraying
• https://activepestcontrol.com/mosquitoes/treatment/how-long-does-mosquito-treatment-last/#:~:text=For%20the%20most%20part%2C%20mosquito,size%20of%20the%20mosquito%20population.

Tags: Mosquitoes

Posted in Prevention & Control | No Comments »

4 Reasons Why Large Roaches Love Your Space (& How to Evict Them!)

Posted on: June 2nd, 2023 1 Comment

Nobody likes coming face-to-face with a roach. But when you suddenly see giant roaches randomly in your house, it’s an issue that needs to be immediately solved. They say cockroaches are the most resilient pests and can survive on anything.

As unsettling as it is to see one huge cockroach, it might not be the only one. There’s a huge possibility of you finding others infesting your property. Finding why you’re suddenly spotting them could help you identify ways to get them out and take preventive measures.

Let’s see what cockroach species could be infesting your home and why you suddenly see big roaches.

Why are roaches attracted to my home?

Our homes are ideal for cockroaches to settle down and multiply further. Cockroaches like warm and humid places. Another factor is the availability of food, all readily available in our homes.

1. Availability of food

As much disgusting as they’re to look at, roaches can survive on anything, irrespective of it being the dirtiest thing in the world to consume. Unlike humans, they don’t even need food and can go for 3 months without eating anything.

Roaches like to consume all kinds of things. But they’re more attracted to starches, sweets, greasy foods, and meats.

Your dirty plates, dirty kitchen, and overall unsanitary house are welcoming spaces for them. They also don’t mind if you have a lot of garbage piled up because that’s what attracts them.

Mentally prepare yourself to find roaches in your washroom drain if you don’t regularly clean it. They can eat anything from soap, hair, and toothpaste.

2. Hospitable environment

Have you ever seen roaches walking around in the middle of the day inside your home? The possibility of seeing a roach in daylight is quite rare because they are nocturnal pests.

They like to walk around at nighttime, and your lights are off. That’s when they come out to find possible food and roam around places you can’t imagine.

During the day, they would remain hidden in dark places where you can’t see them, such as drains, behind picture frames, or areas you don’t clean often or often reach towards, such as attics.

Some species don’t even mind a clean home and would just enter through narrow, open cracks.

3. Humidity and water

Roaches love to live near a place with plenty of humidity and water availability, and that’s why drains are their homes for most of the time.

If you have a leaky pipe or your washroom leaks, that would attract roaches, and they will gather around any moist areas.

4. Outside area

The chances of roaches infesting your home increase if you have a garden space. You could be leaving spare wood around or have a pile of garbage, or even something like a leaky water pipe or hose could be an attraction to them.

From there, entering your home isn’t a big deal for them as they could enter through small holes or cracks and even through the front door if you don’t have a habit of closing it during the daytime.

Identifying the big roach

There’s a huge possibility that if you see a giant cockroach in your house, it’s an American cockroach. These are reddish brown and range in length from 1.5 inches to 2 inches, the largest house-infesting cockroach in the country.

The American cockroach lives outdoors in damp, moist areas with temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The male can live up to 362 days, and females can live up to 706 days.

Though they like to live in pipelines and drains where suitable living conditions exist for them, during the rainy season, when drains flood, they move out and into homes.

Signs of cockroach infestation

Cockroaches are nocturnal pests and tend to move at night, so you won’t openly see them in broad daylight. During the night, they tend to wander around and get food for themselves. So how will you identify them infesting your home?

You obviously can’t stay awake at night searching for them, but you can look for signs of their presence in your home.

• Cockroach droppings might differ depending on the species. Look out for their droppings near the drains, behind kitchen appliances, and in food storage areas.
• Their egg cases are oblong and brown and are found in hard-to-reach places. You might find them behind furniture, in pantries, between cracks in the walls, in books, or other tightly sealed places.
• If you smell a musty odor, it’s caused by the pheromones that roaches emit to attract other roaches.
• Seeing live cockroaches is the biggest sign.

How can you prevent a roach infestation?

Invading your home, cockroaches seem to hide in secrecy and grow in numbers without you knowing about their existence. While they’re growing in numbers, they could be damaging your property or secretly causing harm to your health.

Roaches are known to spread diseases due to the unsanitary ways they live and eat.

Understanding why roaches are attracted to your home can help you take the necessary steps to get rid of them.

Sealing cracks and gaps

If you aren’t careful with the structure of your house and its repairments, small holes or cracks could easily form, giving way to roaches inside your home.

These could be anywhere near the windows or doors, inviting the cockroaches to enter.

If you don’t close your doors and windows properly or don’t have a window screen and often leave windows open, then that’s a perfect opportunity for roaches to invade your home.

Clean home

A neat and tidy home would be the best way to avoid roaches and ban their entry. If you’re being lazy about the upkeep of your home, then no wonder you’re finding roaches inside.

• Avoid leaving dirty dishes anywhere in your home. Don’t even leave them in the sink overnight.
• Close all the doors and windows. Close the kitchen cabinets as well.
• Don’t leave food outside; if you do, keep it in an airtight container.
• Ensure your bathroom has no leakage or anywhere else in your home.
• Keep your bathroom tidy and dry at all times, and you should air it out daily to avoid the build-up of humidity.
• Take out your trash regularly.
• Don’t leave any pile of wood or trash near or around your home.
• Do a deep cleaning of your entire home once a month so there’s no way for roaches to hide around your house.

Getting rid of roaches

Dealing with small roaches is still fine, as you can use a bug spray. But dealing with giant cockroaches is a different deal altogether.

Big roaches could also mean you already have a big family living inside your home, so dealing with them would mean you need more than just bug spray.

Glue strips and traps

Just place glue strips where you suspect there’s roach activity, or you could just put them where you think roaches could come out during the night.

You can use it instead of using harmful chemicals if you’ve children or pets living with you.

Gel bait

It’s a popular way of catching roaches. This toxic substance can be applied in small amounts where you think there’s roach activity. The cockroaches ingest the gel bait and then die within a few hours.

Home remedies

There’re several home remedies that you can use instead of thinking about using insecticide. These are inexpensive ways of dealing with roaches that have infested your home.

Baking soda, boric acid, borax, citrus, essential oils, and caulk are some affordable things that can be used to either kill or deter them.

When to hire pest control service

Let’s say you’re ready and prepared with a bunch of home remedies to deal with the giant roaches in your home, but you don’t know where they’re coming from!

It’s scary to think where those giant roaches must be coming from and where they hide. What’s more alarming is that now you can’t seem to sleep at night knowing that those giant roaches might be on the move during the night.

That’s where Tabor Pest Control comes in and saves the day. This is how we’ll take matters into our own hands:

Inspection is the key

The most important thing is identifying the pests and where they might be living in your home. In this case, our professionals will thoroughly inspect your property and look for areas where roaches might be living.

Along with identifying the species, we’ll also identify places where roaches might be entering your home.

Dealing with infestation

Our professionals are experts and possess in-depth knowledge about how to deal with roaches, including all the different species found on your property.

Based on the inspection, our team will develop a treatment plan and inform you of how things unfold.

Whether using chemical substances would be better or using other ways to deal with the infestation would entirely depend on the initial inspection and the current situation of roach infestation on your property.

Rest assured, we at Tabor Pest Control will find an effective and safe way of dealing with cockroach infestation in your property while ensuring they don’t infest your home in the future.

FAQs

What does it mean if I see a big roach in my house?

Seeing a giant roach in your house could mean a couple of things. Either it could be a single cockroach which also means it’s also pregnant, and that would mean you would see little roaches soon that would be starting a colony.

It could also mean that there are a lot of roaches in your home, but you haven’t been able to identify their living space, so they’ve grown big and also in numbers.

What smells attract roaches?

Roaches could be attracted to anything from the smell of food to anything that’s rotting in your home or even a suitable living condition.

They are most attracted to starch, sugar, grease, meat, and cheese. Rotting food could also be attractive to them.

Are cockroaches harmful to humans?

Cockroaches roam around everywhere and don’t care if it’s garbage, a rotting animal, or food. As disgusting as it sounds, remember that it could also be roaming on your food that hasn’t been covered.

This is why they also carry several diseases, including salmonella and gastroenteritis.

Should I be worried if I saw one cockroach?

It’s definitely a reason to be concerned because a cockroach is a social pest, which means others are present nearby. They can contact others, and that means others are nearby.

Tags: Cockroaches

Posted in Prevention & Control | 1 Comment »

How to Stop Ants from Invading Your Bathroom: Identification and Prevention Tips

Posted on: June 2nd, 2023 2 Comments

When it comes to unwelcome guests, ants might seem like the least of your worries. After all, they don’t seem to cause as much of a fuss as their pest cousins. But don’t let their small size fool you; these critters can be a real pain in the neck, especially when they turn up where they’re least expected, like in your bathroom.

You’d think they’d stick to the kitchen, right? After all, that’s where the food is! But surprise, surprise – ants aren’t just foodies. They’ve got a knack for finding the perfect living conditions, and your bathroom ticks all the right boxes.

So, if you’re scratching your head, wondering how ants ended up in your bathroom, hold on to your hat because the answer might just blow your mind.

Why are ants attracted to the bathroom?

The bathroom could be a perfect hiding spot for ants and the right place for them to build their colonies. It’s the ideal moist, dark, and damp place for them to live.

You could be thinking about how they would get their food in a space like this. Well, ants aren’t picky eaters at all, and unlike us, who would want to eat proper meals on our dining table, they could very much stay alive just on anything, including your hair, amongst other things.

Here are some of the other reasons why ants are in your bathroom:

• Perfume scents
• Soaps
• Body lotions
• Open toothpaste
• Rotten hair

Signs of ants in your bathroom

Before we get into how you can identify signs of ants in your bathroom, other than seeing them yourself, it’s essential to know that several parts of your bathroom would attract them.

These include:

• Damp and dirty floor mats
• Clogged drains
• Trash cans in the bathroom
• Chemical odors from pipes
• Dirt and grime in nooks and crannies

Ant debris

One of the common signs of ants living in your bathroom is the presence of ant debris. It’s what ants leave behind and can be described as piles of dirt or sand as they dig their nests.

You might also find their discarded wings, a positive sign of ants living nearby and growing their colony.

Small holes

If you’ve wooden cabinets or any wooden work done anywhere in your bathroom, look closely for small holes.

This is a sign that there’re ants nearby and a specific sign of carpenter ants which can cause significant damage to the wood.

Dampness

Another thing you should closely look for in your bathroom is a sign of dampness or any musty smell that signifies that your bathroom has water issues. Somewhere in your bathroom, water is leaking and creating issues.

This dampness creates a perfect environment for the ants to live and grow their colonies.

Seeing ants

Of course, the final nail in the coffin is that you would physically see ants in your bathroom. Now you might only see a couple of them, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t more in your bathroom.

In fact, seeing a couple is a worse sign that there might be too many ants somewhere you don’t know, and they have grown in such numbers that they’re out and about roaming freely.

Since they can easily live inside a tiny hole, you might not be able to spot their colony on your own.

Popular ant species in South Alabama and South Georgia

Seven kinds of ant species are commonly found in South Alabama and Georgia. Although they usually nest outdoors in the top 6 feet of soil, they might also be widely found anywhere inside the home.

1. Argentine ants

These are the most commonly found ant species you’ll find. Due to unusually low levels of intraspecific aggression, the Argentine ant can establish large colonies.

This is why they tend to spread quickly and can establish large colonies. Another fact about these ants is that they negatively affect the facilitation of plant-feeding pest insects and disrupt native ants, pollinators, and even vertebrates.

Argentine ants are dark brown in color and range between 2.2 to 2.8 mm long. They’re wingless with a 12-segmented antenna and emit a musty odor when crushed.

They aren’t directly dangerous to humans as they don’t bite or sting. But they are much more of a nuisance especially because of water availability. So, finding them in your bathroom could be quite a common sight.

They’re carriers of disease-causing bacteria for conditions like dysentery since they crawl over sewage, trash, and dead animals to get to their food source.

2. Southern Fire ants

Southern fire ants are commonly found nesting in open areas in soil or under stones. You can identify them by their often concolorous dark color and could be bi-colored with a redhead mesosoma and a black gaster.

Their sting is quite painful and leaves a burning sensation which could easily turn into itchy welts, often in a circular pattern. The welts could also turn into blisters.

It could sting multiple times unless and until you remove or kill them.

3. Little Black ants

This species is common in wooded areas, and in yards, you can find them under rocks, rotting logs, and piles of bricks and lumber. Indoors they could be near woodwork, wall voids, decaying wood, masonry, and behind facades.

It’s easier to identify them as they’re black or dark brown in color and are easy to spot. You won’t have to worry about their sting as it’s too small and weak to be effective.

4. Carpenter ants

They’re quite famously known for building their nests by excavating wood and forming smooth tunnels inside the wood. Their size can vary, and black ones are quite common. Though they might be a combination of black and red or completely black, red, or brown.

Their presence can be detected easily, as indicated by a rustling sound coming from wall voids or wood where the nest is located.

Thankfully their bites aren’t venomous, and neither do they transmit diseases.

5. Odorous House ants

Odorous house ants are given this name because they like to eat sweets and are fond of honeydew. They often nest near moisture sources, such as in wall voids near hot water pipers, in heaters, beneath leaky fixtures, and inside wood damaged by termites.

You don’t have to worry about them so much as they don’t pose a public health risk, but they can contaminate food and should be avoided.

6. Pavements ants

Pavement ants consume just about anything from insects, seeds, honeydew, bread, meats, nuts, and cheese. Inside the home, they can be found nesting in walls, insulation, and under floors.

These black ants don’t pose a public health risk but can contaminate your food.

7. Pharoah ant

You can recognize them by their usually pale, varying from yellowish to reddish, with the abdomen often darker to black in color.

They live in large colonies with workers numbering in the thousands and nest in warm and humid areas near food and water sources.

These species of ants are carriers of dozen disease pathogens, including salmonella and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Preventing ants in your bathroom

You need to create an inhospitable environment for ants so they don’t enter your bathroom anymore and are forced to leave your peaceful space alone.

A. Keeping your bathroom clean and dry

• Keep your bathroom as clean as possible. It would be best to clean it daily with a deep once a week, including scrubbing the tiles, the area surrounding the basin, shower curtains, etc.
• Mop regularly, including the hidden areas, such as behind the toilet.
• Unclog your drain regularly.
• Clean your bathroom mats often and replace them if they can’t seem to get clean anymore or smell even after cleaning.

B. Sealing cracks and openings

• Seal all the cracked window corners or anything small cracks you might see in the bathroom.
• If there’re any damaged or broken tiles, they should be replaced, or else they might give an opening to ants to create colonies.
• If wooden cabinets have become too old and have started to rot, they should be replaced; otherwise, they’ll keep attracting ants.

C. Leakages and humidity

• After a shower, ensure no steam build-up in the bathroom. Turn on a fan and open the door or windows to let the steam out.
• After a bath, ensure the bathroom doesn’t stay wet; if there’s water somewhere, it should be immediately cleaned up.
• Keep all the products that you keep in the bathroom closed up tightly.
• Get a plumber to check all the plumbing in the bathroom once a month so there’re no secret leakages.

By following these helpful tips, you can prevent ants from invading your bathroom in the future, and it’ll remain clean and sanitary.

Why are there ants in my bedroom?

Your bedroom and bed are a space where you lie down to relax and sleep; this is the last space where you would expect to struggle or face any problem. Finding ants anywhere in your bed or bedroom can come as a huge surprise and not of a good kind!

Ants are such tiny creatures that they can go about anywhere and travel to any place in your home. While finding one or two in your bedroom isn’t that big of a deal as you can quickly get rid of them. But finding a lot of ants can be problematic.

A messy kitchen always attracts ants. As they’re constantly trying to find a place with suitable living conditions, a bedroom isn’t a faraway space for them to be.

While moisture, dampness, food, and water are all ants need to thrive as a colony, you must wonder if you’ve accidentally made your bedroom perfect for ants.

Finding ants in the bedroom shouldn’t be surprising if you occasionally or constantly eat food there. Even if you think you’re being careful, little food crumbs will always be on your bed or bedroom floor. A carpeted floor has more of a chance of having food crumbs in it.

Think from the point of view of an ant. They can easily survive on small crumbs of food, and if you’re eating in your bedroom, leaving dirty plates, or dropping food, it’s a paradise for them. That’s how you’ll find a trail of ants in your bedroom or, worse, on your bed.

You’ve to stop eating or bringing food into your sleeping space. This is the only way to prevent ants from entering your bedroom. Eat your meals in the kitchen or dining room!

Getting rid of ants in your bathroom

Even though ants aren’t as dangerous of a pest, it’s still annoying to see them. You don’t want to take a shower and see ants on your bathroom floor or crawling on the walls.

To get rid of them, some home remedies you can use in your bathroom includes:

White vinegar

Using white vinegar successfully eliminates ants as it interferes with their pheromones. Since this is how they find a way around things, eliminating them is easier.

Just wipe wherever you feel the ants might be getting inside, such as your sink, mirrors, cabinets, walls, etc.

But it doesn’t work on natural stones like quartz, marble, and granite.

Boric acid

Boric acid is mildly hazardous to children and animals, so be careful when applying it in your bathroom. Sprinkling it over surfaces where ants might be emerging can help. Create a line over corners.

Borax

This chemical is hazardous to ants and causes damage to their outer skeletons and digestive systems. While you can find it in regular household products like toothpaste, mouthwash, and lotion. But to ants, this can be dangerous. You can mix it with peanut butter or jelly and leave it along the ant’s trails to attract them to it.

Other household items that can help you eliminate an ant situation in your bathroom include:

• Citrus peels are toxic to ants
• Cayenne pepper, cinnamon, garlic cloves
• Coffee powder
• Essential oils

Ant traps and baits

While natural remedies can help you so much, you can also use commercial ant traps and baits to eliminate ants. These traps and baits attract ants and then poison them.

They’re not difficult to use and place them in areas where you think ants live. Or somewhere where you see them most of the time in your bathroom.

Just follow the instructions correctly, and these might be able to get rid of ants.

When to call the professionals

Only so many natural remedies and ant traps can help eliminate ants in your bathroom. It’s okay to use them if you see a few ants. Using such remedies can eliminate them.

But you could have a whole ant colony living in your bathroom, and you wouldn’t know what to do about it on your own. An entire ant colony is challenging to deal with and requires professional assistance.

Our professionals at Tabor Pest Control have the right tools and more potent chemicals to deal with an ant infestation in your bathroom.

It’s better not to take a chance when it comes to ant infestation as it could spread to other parts of your home through drains and ventilation and might end up causing you various health issues by contamination.

At Tabor Pest Control, we can assure you that our services will help you eliminate ant colonies and get your bathroom back to the relaxing space you want it to be!

Contact us today

FAQs

How do I get rid of ants in the bathroom drain?

Ants love moisture, and damp places and drains are the perfect places to crawl in and out of. Finding ants around your drain shouldn’t be a surprise since this is also where they’ll find their food.

You can do so by mixing equal parts baking soda and white vinegar and pouring it down the drain.

To eliminate the ants, you’ll see foam forming, producing carbon dioxide, and clearing any clogging in your drains.

Pour some hot water once you stop seeing foam, which will flush out anything down there. Then, if you’re still facing issues, don’t hesitate to call professionals at Tabor Pest Control to terminate an ant infestation at your home.

How can I get rid of flying ants in the bathroom?

Flying ants can be a nuisance, and although they aren’t flying cockroaches, you still need to get rid of them as they buzz around like mosquitoes.

It’s best to use essential oils like peppermint oil and create a mixture to spray on the flying ants to get rid of them.

For example, mix 2/3 of water and 1/3 of liquid dish soap thoroughly in a spray bottle, and then add a few drops of peppermint oil.

Why are there ants in my bathroom but nowhere else?

If you see ants only in the bathroom, that could indicate it’s a perfect place or environment for them to live in. You could have a leaky pipe somewhere, causing ideal dampness or humidity in your bathroom, which attracts ants.

It’s essential to have a dry bathroom at all times when you’re not using it and to have proper ventilation to prevent any humid conditions. Also, check your windows properly because even if there’s a small crack, it could easily lead ants through there.

Tags: Ants

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