Common Pests

Ants
Arizona is home to over 300 species of ant. Which is more than any other state in the U.S. They are social insects like bees & termites and their colonies can range from a few dozen to several hundred thousand consisting of a queen or queens, reproductive ants, soldiers and workers. Ants are wingless except for the reproductives. They reproduce by swarming in spring and summer. Once mating is complete, the queens will find a suitable place to start the colony.
They become a problem when they invade our homes or businesses, or get into food supplies. Keeping your home or business clean is the main step in controlling them indoors, but sometimes ants will invade even the cleanest of spaces in search of water. Typically in kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms. Some can be even be dangerous if you, your child or pet steps near an ant hill. Being that there are so many different species we'll discuss just a few of the most common/problematic in the Phoenix area.
Fire Ants
Size: 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch
Color: Shiny black, red or black & red
Diet: sweets, proteins, meats, honeydew, other insects
Southern/Desert Fire Ants are extremely common in the low desert. Not to be confused with Red Imported Fire Ants aka RIFA, which Arizona has so far been successful in keeping from establishing here. The hills they make are unique looking, containing many crater like mounds of soft dirt. Be sure not to step on them because they will aggressively defend their nest. Fire ant stings can be quite painful. The reaction is usually localized swelling although children, pets, and people allergic to them could have far worse affects.
Harvester Ants
Size: 3/8 of an inch
Color: Red or black
Diet: Primarily seeds
Harvester Ants are very large ants. Colonies can be massive with 10's of thousands of workers. They are known to forage long distances for food and water. Nest sites are noticeable by a large circular area where grass has been clipped down by them. Due to their size, it's easy to notice the number of ants and where they are entering/exiting the nest. These ants primarily feed on seeds and do not typically venture inside a home. Many times people think these are Fire Ants because of their size and color but they are actually much bigger. However, one similarity the two share is the ability to sting. A sting from a harvester ant is very painful and considered to be one of the top 10 worst insect stings as far as the pain is considered.
In controlling these ants locating the nest is crucial.
Pavement Ants
Size: 3/16 inch
Color: light brown to black, legs uaually lighter in color
Diet: meats, greases, sweets
The presence of Pavement Ants is usually detected by the large craters of loose soil often seen in cracks in concrete and asphalt, or between pavers. Like most ants they feed on a variety of things like meats, greases, sweets etc. They will invade our homes in search of food and water. Pavement Ants do possess a stinger but stings are not common as they are not aggressive.
Pharoah Ants
Size: 1/16 to 1/8inch
Color: light brown to yellow or appearing reddish. Almost translucent
Diet: sweets, proteins, greases
Pharoah Ants may be seen trailing in great numbers. Individuals sometimes seem to be running frantically.
Colonies contain up to hundreds of queens and may bud (disperse) and create many more individual colonies if they are disturbed or if workers begin to die. Because of this special products MUST be used to control them. DO NOT attempt to deal with them yourself or you may end up with a bigger problem.
Little Black Ants
Size: 1/16inch or 1 to 2mm
Color: shiny black
Diet:loves sweets but feeds on proteins as well
As the name implies these ants are tiny. Many people dont even know they are ants because they are so small. Invade structures often and will be seen in kitchens and bathrooms trailing or just roaming randomly.
Ants can be difficult to get rid of so it is best left to a professional.
Contact Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 for more information about ant control.
Bed Bugs
Bed Bugs are wingless insects in the family Cimicidae of which there are many species but the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) is the species that feeds mostly on humans and can live within our environments. They are about 4-5mm long, flat & oval and reddish brown. They have a more reddish color after feeding. They are parasites and only feed on blood. They are extremely good at hiding so their presence is usually noticed by seeing shed case skins, brown or black stains from feces, or noticing bites. Bites usually leave itchy welts on people but some don't react at all. Some people can develop worse symptoms but Bed Bugs are not known to be vectors for diseases.
Bed bugs can be brought into a home from used furniture, luggage, schools, hotels, movie theaters, & more. Once inside, they reproduce quickly and can live almost to a year old. They hide in tears in mattresses/box springs, mattress seams, bedding, clothes, bed frames, dressers, end tables, baseboards and almost anything else you can think of.
Early detection is important in controlling bed bugs so if you think you have bed bugs contact Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 for more information.
Bees
There are several types of bees found in Arizona. Some are solitary meaning they don't live in colonies, semi-social living in small colonies up to 2 dozen or so individuals or social with up to 100's of thousand individuals. Social bees are more likely to be aggressive in defending their nests. Bees are extremely beneficial because they are amazing pollinators. Without bees our food supply would be dangerously low.
Honey Bees
Honey Bees are the superior pollinating species of bees. They are social insects with colonies containing 30,000 or more bees. There are 2 main species of Honey Bee. European and African. African Honey Bees were introduced to the U.S. in the 90's and have spread rapidly since, creating "Africanized" Honey Bees which is a hybrid of the 2. This species is still highly beneficial. Without a microscope you probably can't tell the difference between the 2 species. The difference is in their behavior. Africanized Bees can be very aggressive in defending their nests and more easily provoked.
Both types of Honey Bee can only sting once. The stinger is barbed so when they pull back it gets pulled out of their abdomen causing death. The venom from an Africanized Bee isn't different from that of European Bees, but the amount of stings from a provoked africanized hive can be fatal. Especially if someone is allergic. Sometimes you won't develop any allergy until the 2nd time you are stung.
While there is no need to be afraid of foraging honey bees, If a hive is near DO NOT attempt to deal with it on your own! Assume the bees are africanized and call a professional.
Kyle's Pest Solution offers hive extermination when no other alternative is present, but we also network with beekeepers to save the hive when it is possible. Call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 for options regarding honey bees.
Leafcutter & Mason Bees
Solitary bees which nest in holes in structures or trees or in the soil. Leafcutters are black with light stripes and build cells from circular cut leaves of plants. Masons are usually metallic blue or green and builds cells from mud in holes usually in wood. Neither are aggressive.
Mining Bees
Black or metallic color or black and yellow/white. Build nests in sandy soils. Solitary or communal. Usually non aggressive.
Yellow faced (Masked Bees)
Solitary Bees that are often mistaken for wasps due to their slender shape, color and the fact that they are almost hairless. They are black with white or yellow markings on their faces.
Bumble Bees
Bumble bees are larger than Honey bees. They are black with bright yellow or orange stripes and noticeably hairy. They are social bees and nests are often found underground, under rocks or debris or even in rodent burrows. They can become aggressive when the nest is disturbed.
Carpenter Bees
If you've lived in southern Arizona for a little while, chances are one of these bees have freaked you out and left you asking "what the heck was that?" They are very large, shiny black and the buzz is loud when they fly. They are often mistakenly referred to as Bumble bees probably due to their size. They are named Carpenter bees because they excavate holes in wood to build cells where the female will lay her eggs. This can become an issue if they are boring into wood on buildings. Although this bee scares people daily, they are solitary bees and not aggressive. Females possess a stinger but stings rarely occur because they are so docile.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches can contaminate food sources and eating areas spreading germs and bacteria due to the fact that they infest in unsanitary areas. They are also known to aggravate allergies or asthmatic reactions in some people. Roaches can go some time without food but need water frequently. Species of cockroaches can be invasive or infesting. The main species we come in contact with in the valley are as follows.
American Cockroach
American Cockroaches are the largest of the roaches in Arizona. They can be over 2 inches long and can fly although they are not great flyers. They are often referred to as Sewer Roaches as they sometimes inhabit areas in sewer systems. They are often found in areas where moisture is present in the house (kitchens, bathrooms) or moist dark areas outside. Many people think because of the term "Sewer Roach" if they are found inside they are coming from the drains. Although this is possible, it's not likely as they would have a long way to travel through the pipes without being washed back down, unless there is a problem with the plumbing system and leaks or gaps are present. These roaches are typically invasive meaning they wander in from the outside in search of food or water, but rarely do they have extensive numbers indoors.
Oriental Cockroach
Oriental roaches are usually about 1 to 1-1/4 inch long and are shiny black or reddish brown. They are mostly found outdoors, especially when a water source is present, often seen in mulch beds, rocks, water meter boxes and other harborage areas. They are also referred to as Water Bugs due to their tendency to seek shelter in moist areas. These roaches have wings but cannot fly.
German Cockroach
German Roaches are smaller in size than the previous two species with adults reaching only 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch. They are identifiable by two dark vertical stripes on their heads. These roaches are infesting pests and thrive in our buildings living near kitchens and bathrooms. They have the most efficient reproductive cycles of roaches and therefore will quickly infest our homes or businesses. They will live within wall voids, cabinetry, cracks/crevices even in appliances. All while readily contaminating food supplies. They feed on nearly anything including adhesives, soaps or toothpaste. Oftentimes These roaches get in our living spaces by hitch hiking either on clothing, boxes from stores or paper bags. Just to name a few.
They are most active at night so if you see these roaches wandering during the day there is most likely a serious infestation already and they are over crowded.
If you think you have a German Roach infestation try to keep a dead roach or take a picture for I.D. and contact
Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 immediately!
Brown Banded Cockroach
Brown Banded Roaches also infest within our living and communal spaces. They are light brown/tan and are identifiable by the darker colored bands across their wings. Like German roaches, adults only reach about 5/8 inch in length. Populations can soar with the right conditions so immediate action is important.
They feed on a variety of foods but prefer things containing higher starch content including adhesives found in envelopes of books.
Often carried in similarly to German roaches in items containing glues such as paper bags or boxes.
This species can tolerate heat and low moisture conditions better than other roaches therefore can live almost anywhere in a home or structure including ceilings or attics.
For more information about Cockroach control contact
Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025
Crickets
Crickets are insects that feed on decaying plant matter, fungi and other natural decaying substances. There are several species in the valley but their behavior is more or less the same.
They do not bite and don't pose a health threat to humans but can be a nuisance when their populations are great, when they are entering our structures or the noise of chirping. Male crickets make this chirping sound by rubbing their wings together to attract females. They are most active after dusk and are usually found hiding in shaded or moist areas during the day. The presence of crickets may also be followed by the presence of predators that feed on them like spiders and scorpions.
Earwigs
Earwig adults reach about 5/8 inch in length. They are slender, light brown to black and identifiable by two pincers on the rear of their body. The pincers are used as a defense and for capturing prey. They are creepy looking but not harmful to people.
They are scavengers and feed on a variety of foods including decaying matter and other insects.
There is an old myth that they crawl in people's ears. This is purely a myth and has no scientific basis.
These insects are scavengers thus they can end up in unsanitary places where they pick up contaminants.
Controlling them involves treating cracks/crevices and harborage areas that they frequent along with removing food, shelter or water sources.
If you have more questions regarding earwigs feel free to contact Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025.
Fleas
Fleas are not common in southern or central Arizona. It is simply too hot and dry for them to thrive here. Most of the calls we get for fleas turn out to be Springtails, White Flies, Gnats or similar tiny insects that might appear to be jumping as they walk through their lawn. Bites from Mosquitoes, or stings from Ants are often mistaken as flea bites.
However, they are seen here occasionally. They are small wingless insects. The most common flea in the U.S. is the Cat Flea. It feeds primarily on the blood of cats and dogs but also on rodents, birds and occasionally biting humans. Adults of this species are about 1/4 inch in length but more immature stages will be smaller. Fleas can go several months without feeding but adult females require a blood meal to lay eggs. Once they do they can lay up to 4,000 eggs. Fleas have been known to transmit diseases to humans (although it is rare currently). Pets can develop flea allergy dermatitis where animals are so sensitive to the bites they begin scratching the areas excessively causing hair loss, red marks and scabs on their skin.
Call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 if you have questions regarding fleas.
Filth Flies
Many times if a person sees a cockroach the thought of disgust runs through their mind and typically the thought that they must take action soon follows. However, when the same person sees a fly its just an annoyance. The fact is, Filth Flies can carry many, many more contaminants and germs than roaches because of the fact that they breed and rest in extremely unsanitary areas. Flies can have millions of germs on them and since they fly they can spread those contaminates to many different places. Here are the most common Filth Flies people encounter.
House Fly
The House Fly is 1/4 inch long and gray to black with 4 dark lines on their thorax with red eyes. Adults feed on a variety of foods. Females lay their eggs in garbage, waste and animal feces. They can lay up to 100 eggs at a time which usually hatch within 48 hours producing maggots.
Blow Flies
Blow Flies get their name from the fact that they often lay their eggs inside of dead animal carcasses causing the body to swell and having a bloated appearance. They are about a 1/4 inch long sometimes slightly bigger and are a metallic blue or green color. It is essential that eggs are deposited in rotting meat as larvae depend on it for survival.
Flesh Flies
Flesh Flies are similar in appearance to House Flies being gray to black in color but slightly larger and have a checkerboard pattern on their abdomen. They get their name due to the fact that they mostly deposit their eggs in scraps of meat.
Fruit Flies
Fruit Flies are smaller than other flies about 1/8 of an inch and are often mistaken for gnats. They are generally a tan color and have red eyes. They are attracted to liquids like syrups, soda, liquor, vinegar,etc. Also fruits and vegetables. They are also found near garbage cans, empty bottles and cans, drains and other unsanitary areas that it is a potential breeding site. Females lay their eggs near these items and can reproduce at an astonishing rate. A female can lay up to 500 eggs and 1 fly will complete a life cycle in about 1 week.
Phorid Flies
Phorid Flies are small, about 1/8 of an inch. Usually brown or black but can also be a yellowish color which gives them a similar appearance to Fruit Flies. Their breeding sites are typically decaying organic matter with moisture present, such as sewage or in drains with a build up of sludge. They are not very good fliers so often times they will run when threatened, as opposed to other flies that will immediately fly away.
Drain Flies
Drain Flies are about an 1/8 of an inch long and are identifiable by their broad hairy wings. They are also called Moth Flies. As the name Drain Fly assumes, they often breed in drains where there is a build up of organic sludgy material. They also feed on this material.
Fly populations can build up quickly so call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 for more information. The first step in controlling/preventing fly population is sanitation. Then we can look to removing breeding sites and use a combination of residual applications and bait applications to control them.
Mosquitoes
There are over 3,500 species of mosquitoes world wide with about 175 species in the U.S. currently. In Arizona there are about 40 species. They have six legs and a long mouth part called a proboscis. Females use this to pierce the skin of animals and feed on their blood. Males mostly feed on nectar and fruit but do not bite other animals or people. Different species have different preferences in what animals they bite which include amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
Mosquitoes are considered the deadliest animal in the world as they are responsible for over 1 million human deaths every year. They can be vectors of diseases meaning they transmit them from a human or animal to others at an alarming rate. The diseases are typically caused by viruses or parasites. These affect not only people but pets and live stock as well!
Some important vector species in Arizona are:
Culex Mosquitoes
-Feed on birds and mammals
-Breed in many fresh water sources including irrigation
-Transmit several types of Encephalitis which is an inflammation of the brain commonly caused by viral infection.
-Transmits West Nile Virus.
-Transmits nematodes that cause heartworm in dogs
-Transmits Western Equine Encephalitis in humans and horses
Aedes Mosquitoes
-Aggressively feeds on humans
-Breeds in containers, tires, planters, pots and any other receptacle capable of holding even a small amount of stagnant water
-Common breeding sites are in yards or public places
-Doesn't travel very far from breeding sites
-Transmits viruses that cause Yellow fever, Dengue Fever, West Nile Virus, Chikungunya
-Causes heartworm in dogs
-Transmits the Zika Virus
Anopheles Mosquitoes
-Most species prefer clean water as breeding sites
-Prefers to feed on humans and cattle
-Transmits Malaria which is a disease caused by a parasite. Although Malaria is no longer an epidemic in the U.S. Approximately 1500 people are diagnosed with it every year. Primarily from travelers or immigrants. Due to this fact and the fact that we have Anopheles Mosquitoes in the U.S. we are always at risk of recurrence.
Mosquito Control & Prevention
Certain things attract mosquitoes to a human host like carbon dioxide, body heat and sweat.
Studies have shown that they are particularly attracted to lactid acid in sweat. Your body produces more of this during and after exercising. Exercising outdoors during dawn or dusk may attract more mosquitoes to you.
It is recommended to wear light colored clothing as well during dawn or dusk as they may be able to see you better when you stand out visually against the sunrise or sunset on the horizon.
Wearing long sleeves, long pants and a hat outdoors.
Using repellents helps to deter them such as citronella candles or products applied to your skin
Outdoor Treatment
Our Mosquito service starts by inspecting the property for breeding and resting sites. The next step is emptying anything that is holding standing water and removing or preventing future water accumulation if possible. We will treat areas that are known to flood after a rain or irrigation with a larvacide if it can be done safely. Finally we treat bushes, shrubs and trees with special equipment that allows the product to reach the under sides of leaves and sheltered areas where they hide. We will also treat eaves and other shaded areas where they are known to rest. The products we use not only kill mosquitoes but also leaves a residual that continues to kill them when they land on the treated surface for up to 30 days. It will last even longer in areas that don't get a lot of sun exposure or rain fall.
We also provide service for residential or commercial properties for special events such as weddings, parties and other outdoor events so they can be enjoyed without the pesky mosquito bites.
Contact Kyle's Pest Solution for more information about our Mosquito Control Service at 623-760-6025
Rodents
There are many types of rodents in the desert of Arizona. Many of them don't pose much of a concern to us. However, some species of mice and rats pose major concerns. Mice and rats are extremely adaptable to almost any environment and because of this are very successful mammals. Some species of mice and rats have evolved to being used to human habitats. Add in their high rate of reproduction and we have animals that become competitors against humans.
Along with health concerns, rodents have to gnaw on things to wear down their teeth. Rodents are the only mammals whose teeth never stop growing, if they don't wear them down they will die. They gnaw on nearly everything including wires, wood, metal and nearly any other solid material you can think of resulting in extensive and costly damages to a home or business.
Here are the most common rodent pests that we encounter here in the valley.
House Mice
Nesting- Prefers dark, protected areas in fields, grassy or wooded areas or in clutter around buildings. They will readily invade structures when temperatures become too cold outdoors.
Appearance-Small, gray body, cream colored belly with small heads and feet.
Habits-They are nocturnal so they are rarely seen in the day time. If they are seen during the day it's likely that populations have gotten very high. They are also great climbers allowing them to reach almost any area of a building. They stay close to vertical surfaces like walls. This is where you are most likely to find droppings. They have evolved into being dependent on human habitats for survival.
They also reproduce at an alarming rate. One female House Mouse can give birth of up to 8 litters a year consisting of 6 babies on average.
Diet-Prefers nuts or seeds but will feed on nearly anything. Eats a small amount but can produce 40 to 50 droppings a day.
Health concerns- House Mice spread diseases to humans and other animals. They can spread Salmonella through dropping contamination and Hantavirus through contact with feces or even inhaling dust that has been contaminated. Leptospirosis can be spread through the urine of a House Mouse which can remain in water or soil for several months. They are also capable of carrying and transmitting Rat-Bite Fever through bites, scratches, handling of the mouse or contaminated food or water.
Wood Rat aka Pack Rat
Nesting-Large conspicuous nests built out of sticks, pieces of vegetation like cacti and other debris that they find.
Often in and around cactus as a defense from predators.
Pack Rats are solitary but other Pack Rats will reuse abandoned nests.
They don't typically nest in human structures but will nest in the engine compartments of cars, sheds, bbq grills
Appearance-Pack Rats are large, growing to about 6-8 inches in body length excluding the tail. Brown or gray in color with lighter colored bellies and feet. One identifying characteristic is they have bushy, furry tails compared to other rats.
Habits-Likes to collect materials to take back to it's nest. Especially bright, shiny objects. Nocturnal, seeks out food and materials during the night.
Diet-Feeds mostly on vegetation like twigs, fruits & vegetables but will feed on other things if food is scarce.
Health concerns-Pack Rats can spread diseases through urine and droppings like other rodent pests but since they don't frequently nest inside of homes it's not as big of a concern. If they are frequenting a home or business however, it becomes a concern.
Their nests can also attract parasites like fleas and kissing bugs (assassin bugs) which cause an entirely new pest problem.
Norway Rat
Nesting- Norway Rats typically nest in burrows underground, under piles of debris or under concrete slabs. Seeing holes in the ground next to the foundation of a home is a possible indicator of the presence of Norway Rats.
Appearance- These rats are quite large measuring up to 10 inches.
Their fur is brownish or gray in color.
One key factor in correctly identifying a Norway Rat compared to other rats is it's tail. The length of the tail is less than the length of it's body and head and scaly.
Habits- Like most rats & mice Norway Rats are nocturnal and are rarely seen during the day unless their burrows are disturbed or the populations are very large.
This is the most common rat species that humans encounter in the U.S.
Their teeth are capable of chewing through many different materials including pipes and electric wiring.
They move along vertical walls in and around structures often leaving a dark smudge on the walls surface caused by oil or dirt from their bodies rubbing against it.
Diet- Prefer meats, fruits, grains or nuts but like many rodents will feed on many different things if food is scarce.
Health Concerns- Known to transmit diseases such as Bubonic Plague, Typhus, Leptospirosis, Rat-Bite Fever and Jaundice.
They commonly contaminate food and water sources of people and live stock causing food poisoning.
Roof Rat
Nesting- As the name implies, Roof Rats are excellent climbers and commonly nest in upper levels of buildings like attics. Outdoors they will nest in trees, woodpiles and debris.
Appearance- Usually black or dark brown. Grow to 7-10 inches in length with a more slender body than a Norway Rat.
They are identifiable by their tail. It is longer than the length of their head & body.
Habits- Roof Rats are also nocturnal and rarely seen during the day. They often stay close to their nests when foraging for food. Likely to climb trees and poles in search of food.
Like other rodents, Roof Rats will cause damage by gnawing.
Like Norway Rats, Roof Rats also leave smudges against walls where they travel from oil and dirt on their bodies.
Diet- Will feed on almost anything but prefers fruits and nuts. Especially citrus.
Health Concerns- Known transmitters of Bubonic Plague, Trichinosis, Rat-Bite Fever, and Hantavirus. They can also contaminate food and water sources causing food poisoning and other illnesses.
Controlling Rodents
Indoor rodent control consists of good sanitation, trapping and sealing off entry and travel points. Once an infestation is eradicated or to prevent an infestation, screening or sealing entry points to a structure is the most important step in controlling rodents.
Outdoors bait may be used or traps depending on the situation. If there isn't a sign of rodents on the property, baits should not be used as it may attract rodents that wouldn't have been there otherwise.
For Roof Rats it is VERY IMPORTANT not to have trees touching the roof of the structure. This is the most common way they gain entrance to an attic or ceiling.
For more information contact Kyle's Pest Solution at 623-760-6025
Scorpions
Scorpions are arachnids with 8 legs, a pair of pedipalps (pincers) and a tail with a stinger at the end. There are other arachnids that resemble scorpions like Sun Spiders, Whip Scorpions, Tailless Whip Scorpions and Pseudoscorpions but they are not true scorpions.
Scorpions have been around for over 400 million years and some fossils found have indicated that some species may have evolved from aquatic ancestors.
They are found on every continent except Antarctica.
Scorpions hunt at night feeding on various insects. During the day they like cool, moist places to hide and the cool air flow from a house can attract them. They often find their way in our homes through cracks & crevices. See our "Our Services" page for more details on how pests can get into structures and how to keep them from getting in.
They possess a substance in their exoskeleton which causes their bodies to glow under ultra violet light making it easy to spot them at night with a black light.
Some scorpions are able to crawl up vertical surfaces so they can also be found on ceilings or walls.
There are dozens of Scorpion species in Arizona but the one that poses the greatest risk is the Bark Scorpion. This species reaches about 2-3 inches in length with a more slender body and pincers. It's color is yellowish brown or straw color so it blends in well with the desert landscape.
The symptoms of a Bark Scorpion sting is typically intense pain, swelling and numbness & tingling in the area. More serious symptoms could include muscle spasms, sweating, vomiting, and blood pressure & heartbeat irregularities. More serious reactions that occur usually happen with children, pets and elderly people. Although deaths from Bark Scorpion stings are extremely rare they can potentially be fatal. If someone is having severe reactions they need to seek medical attention immediately.
Here are some tips on dealing with scorpions.
Always check your shoes and clothes before you put them on.
Shake out towels and blankets before using them.
Scorpions are attracted to moisture so make sure you don't have any leaks around the structure.
Don't leave stacks of wood, leaves or other debris next to the structure.
Be cautious when picking of pool toys or equipment outside.
Place glass bowls under the legs of bed frames (if possible). Scorpions can't climb on this type of smooth surface. Other material like porcelain will work also.
Wear shoes when walking around the house or outside at night.
Be weary of ever sticking your hands or feet in places you can't see.
Keep beds and couches from touching walls.
Controlling Scorpions
Kyle's Pest Solution uses the best pesticides in our Scorpion control program at the strongest rates allowed by law.
Our Scorpion control services include:
a thorough inspection of the property
interior applications if necessary
treatments with a variety of dusts and liquid pesticides to:
cracks & crevices
expansion joints
the foundation and perimeter of foundation
the J trim
fence line
garage area
harborage areas
and use of glue traps for monitoring.
MONTHLY SERVICE IS NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE BEST RESULTS!
Pesticide application should be supplemented by keeping the yard clean of shelter areas and water sources for best results.
For extreme situations and best prevention of scorpions entering structures Kyle's Pest Solution also offers Home Seals and Exclusion services.
Take the first step to getting back your piece of mind as well as enjoying your home again as you should
call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 to schedule an appointment
Spiders
All true spiders are arachnids and have 8 legs, web spinning glands and almost all are venomous. All spiders are capable of spinning webs, but some use the webs to catch prey and others do not. The spiders that don't use webs to catch prey are called "hunting spiders" because they actively hunt their prey. They will however use the silk material to make drag/retreat lines for escaping from predators, for protecting egg sacs or for building resting areas. As mentioned nearly all spiders use venom for feeding, but there are varying degrees of how toxic the venom is to humans and other mammals. Sometimes the bite isn't toxic at all to us. They use the venom to paralyze their prey, and once they are ready to feed they vomit digestive fluid on or in them to somewhat liquefy the meat, then feed on the juices and semi solid parts of the meal. They may also bite people if they feel threatened.
Spiders are very beneficial animals because they keep insect populations down but become a pest when they enter structures or properties.
Brown Recluse/ Desert Recluse
There are about a dozen or so species of recluse spiders in the U.S. The most famous of course is the Brown Recluse which is most often found in the midwest and southern states. Here in the Arizona desert we have the Desert Recluse which is a close relative of the Brown Recluse.
Their bodies are about 1/3 to 1/2 inch with a leg span of 1 to 2 inches.
They are also known as "Arizona Brown Spiders" or "Fiddle Back" or "Violin Spiders" due to a violin shaped coloring on their backs. This marking is not as obvious in "Desert Recluse" species compared to the "Brown Recluse".
Another unique feature they have is that they have 6 eyes aligned in pairs of 2. Most other spiders have 8 eyes. This is important in identifying them as some other spiders also have similar markings to the violin shape.
These spiders are hunting spiders and do not use webs to catch their prey.
They are very shy (hence the name recluse) and most often stay in undisturbed areas close to the ground when hunting or resting.
The bite from a recluse spider is extremely toxic to people but there has never been a scientifically confirmed report of a human dying from a bite. However, because their venom is a necrotoxin which means it kills tissue cells, a lesion or ulcer could develop in the area leading to infection. If you feel you may have been bitten by a Recluse it is advisable to seek medical attention and if possible bring the dead spider for proper I.D. by medical officials.
For questions about the Desert Recluse call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025
Black widows
Black widows are considered to be the most venomous spiders in the U.S. and are very common in the Phoenix area. Females are large about 1/2 inch to 1 and 1/2 inches with large bulb-like abdomens. They are usually a shiny black with a red or orange hour glass marking on the underside of the abdomen. Immature stages maybe a brown color. A close relative of the Black Widow is the Brown Widow with very few differences other than color. The Brown Widow is not common in Arizona but becoming more common in California so it's not impossible to find them here.
Black Widows spin very thick and irregular webs to catch prey. When the web is torn it has a distinct tearing sound because it is so thick. They are often found in sheds, under patio furniture, around yard equipment or other areas that remain undisturbed.
Males are smaller than females and sometimes not recognized as a Black Widow. Male widow bites are not known to be toxic to humans.
The Black Widow gets it's name from the behavior of the females killing the males and feeding on them after mating.
Symptoms of a bite from a Black Widow are muscle spasms and cramps
Fever, nausea, sweating or vomiting
restlessness or shock and extremely high blood pressure
If you think you may have been bitten seek medical attention immediately
To schedule an appointment for Black Widow control call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025
Wolf Spiders
Wolf Spiders are large, hairy spiders. Their bodies alone can get up to 2 inches in length. They have long legs so with the leg span they can be almost as large as tarantulas. Wolf Spiders are hunting spiders and are active at night. They can be seen roaming the ground or up in eaves especially near lights.
Their color ranges from gray to brown to black.
They aren't considered extremely dangerous to humans but a bite can be very painful and result in swelling, redness or darkening of the area. These symptoms can last up to 10 days. There is also a chance of secondary infection
Tarantulas
The sight of Tarantulas are what many people's nightmares are made of. Some tarantulas in the world can be quite venomous. However the Tarantula species we have here does not have a potent venom. It is called the "Desert Tarantula" or "Arizona Blonde Tarantula" among other names. These spiders are relatively docile and bites to humans and pets are rare. Although If disturbed a tarantula may shed hairs off it's abdomen which could cause irritation to skin and eyes. We are more likely to have this happen than to be bitten.
Adults can be about 3 or 4 inches big.
Males live about 10-12 years and females live up to 25.
They live in burrows under ground with webbing at the entrance to help prevent loose soil from collapsing on it's self.
They hunt at night feeding on smaller insects or arachnids.
Often tarantulas are seen during mating season when they wander searching for a mate. Or after a heavy rain they may be flushed out of their burrows. Chemical control of tarantulas is not necessary. If one is on your property or in your house it simply needs to be relocated and sealing points of entry could be a way to keep them from wandering in.
Controlling Spiders
Spiders can be found in a variety of places. In the home, under patio furniture, eaves of the roof, siding trim and so on.
Control of spiders requires an inspection of areas where they have been seen and environmental conditions that maybe attracting them. Followed by thorough treatment of such areas, perimeter of structures and property and reducing conditions that are drawing their presence. Continual treatment is recommended as spiders are constant invaders of properties.
Call Kyle's Pest Solution 623-760-6025 for thorough spider control!!
Ticks
Ticks like spiders, are also arachnids. They feed on the blood of mammals, amphibians and birds depending on species.
The most common tick in Arizona is the Brown Dog Tick.
Brown Dog Ticks primarily feed on the blood of dogs but will feed on other mammals if populations of the tick are real high.
Ticks develop into adults through four life stages and in order to develop into the next they need to feed.
The first stage is the larvae also called Seed Ticks. At this stage the tick is extremely small, about the size of a pen head and therefore may go unnoticed. Under magnification they look similar to adults except they have six legs instead of eight. They get larger and grow two more legs over the next two stages.
If a female mates successfully, she will need to feed to lay her eggs. This is where problems take off because they can lay up to 5,000 eggs!
Unlike some other tick species, Brown Dog Ticks have evolved into being able to live all four life cycles inside of structures. Which means they never have to go outside for survival and can infest a home in great numbers.
Although rare, Brown Dog Ticks can be vectors of diseases such as Rocky Mountain Tick Fever.
Symptoms of this disease are muscle aches, head aches, chills and fever sometimes followed by a spotted rash.
Dogs may also develop Tick Paralysis from toxins in the ticks saliva. This can happen after being bitten only one time.
Some symptoms of this include
vomiting
fast heart rate
fatigue or lethargy
loss of muscle movement (paralysis)
respiratory problems
excessive drooling
Controlling Ticks
For control of Brown Dog Ticks we recommend the dogs also be treated.
We can advise you on what products have given us the best results when combined with other control methods.
The interior of the home will also need to be treated and dog bedding and other material will need to be washed or
disposed of.
We will need to apply products to the entire yard outside including fencing or walls around the perimeter, and sheds.
For the best results grass should be mowed and the yard should be cleaned of debris which acts as shelter for the pests.
Not doing so can delay effectiveness of pesticides.
Ticks can go several months without feeding, and early stages can delay developing into their next cycle depending on environmental conditions. Because of this, once an infestation is under control, having the property serviced regularly is recommended.
Call Kyle's Pest Solution 623-760-6025 to begin service as soon as possible if you have sighted ticks
Wasps
Paper Wasps
The most common wasp we encounter in the Phoenix area is the Paper Wasp. They are yellow with brownish red stripes often appearing orange from a distance and typically spotted getting water from swimming pools.
These wasps are social insects and build honeycomb style nests that resemble upside down umbrellas usually found on patio ceilings, eaves of houses or in shrubs or trees. Due to the appearance of the nest they are also called Umbrella Wasps.
Adults place eggs in each cell of the nest and then feed the larvae small insects or spiders after they hatch. Depending on the age and size of the nest there can be a few of these cells to hundreds. These wasps will defend their nest aggressively and unlike bees have the ability to sting repeatedly so do not disturb the area if you suspect their is a nest.
Call Kyle's Pest Solution @ 623-760-6025 for wasp nest removal service
Yellow Jackets
Yellow Jackets are yellow with black patterns. They aren't extremely common in city or suburban areas. Their nest size can be in the 1000's and can be extremely aggressive if disturbed. They build their nests either in rodent holes in the ground, in logs or sheds or on trees or eaves of houses. The nest is irregular shaped and made from a paper like substance. The bigger the nest the more Yellow Jackets are inside.
They feed on a variety of foods such as sweets, left over human food (especially meats), or insects and spiders. For this reason they can be found foraging around areas where human activity is occurring.
Tarantula Hawk
Tarantula Hawks are solitary wasps and very large reaching 2-3 inches in length. Their bodies are metallic blue-ish black and they have distinct orange wings.
Adults only feed on nectar themselves. The name comes from the fact that they hunt Tarantulas. They don't feed on them personally, rather their sting paralyzes the tarantula and the Tarantula Hawk lays it's egg on it for the larvae to feed off of. Sometimes in the Tarantulas own burrow.
The sting from a Tarantula Hawk is known to be extremely painful. In fact, an entomologist named Justin O. Schmidt who has been stung by 78 different insect species and has ranked them all by level of pain names the Tarantula Hawk as number 2. 1 being the most painful.
The good thing is the pain doesn't last very long.
Fortunately being stung by one of these wasps is very rare. They are quite docile due to the fact that they don't have a nest to defend.