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Why Do Some Ants Have Wings?

. Posted by in , • Orlando
a group of winged ants

Did you know that there are over 15,000 known species of ants? With that many different types of ants, it’s understandable to see some that don’t look like the rest. For example, some ants actually have wings. Keep reading to learn about ants with wings and the ant life cycle.

Why Do Some Ants Have Wings?

Some homeowners are surprised to learn that certain ant species have wings and can fly. Some ants have wings because they use them as part of the reproductive phase of an ant colony.

For example, like other insects such as wasps and termites, some ant species mate in flight. Reproductive ants in an ant colony leave their nest at the same time to find a mate and establish new colonies.

Winged ants, also known as alates, take part in the “nuptial flight” to protect their species’ survival. Specific environmental factors are required to develop sexually mature winged ants, … Read Full Post »

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What To Do About Rats in Backyard

. Posted by in , • Houston
a rat in a backyard

For many homeowners, the backyard is their favorite part of their home. Many memorable activities happen there, including playtime with kids, family gatherings and weddings. Unfortunately, rats can ruin all of that.

These pests thrive in backyards and can cause significant damage to your property fast. If rats are taking over your backyard, here’s how to deal with the infestation. But, the best solution is to contact the pros. Pest control specialists have the expertise to efficiently control rats.

Rats in the Backyard: What Should Homeowners Do?

Rats can destroy your garden, plants and vegetables and eventually enter your home. Once inside, they’ll chew on practically anything, including drywall, wires, wood and plastic. They are not picky at all. They can also contaminate your food and spread disease.

Fortunately, there are some things homeowners can do to keep rats out of their garden and backyard. Here are some preventative tips you can apply.

Proper Backyard … Read Full Post »

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Bed Bug Size: How To Identify These Pests

. Posted by in , • Houston
a bed bug

We all need quality sleep to function our best. But something as small as a bed bug can ruin a good night’s sleep. These tiny pests can leave itchy bite marks during the night, causing skin irritation.

If you think you have a bed bug infestation at home, identification is the first step in treating the problem. Here’s a guide to help you recognize bed bugs and confirm their presence in your home. After identification, the next step is to contact pest control professionals. They know how to control bed bugs so you can enjoy your sleep again.

Bed Bug Size, Color and Habits

Bed bugs can be hard to recognize because they may be confused with other insects. But, there are ways to set these pests apart from other household pests.

You can identify adult bed bugs by their wingless, reddish-brown bodies. They’re around a quarter of an inch long and are flat … Read Full Post »

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What Are the Benefits of a Sprinkler System Backflow Preventer?

. Posted by in • Houston
a sprinkler head

When you turn on your showers and faucets, clean water is typically there. But many don’t know that clean water can come into contact with contaminants on its journey to our homes. If you have a sprinkler system, something called “backflow” can happen, causing hazardous materials to enter your home’s water supply line.

That’s why it’s crucial to install a sprinkler system backflow preventer. Contact an irrigation professional to help you choose the best kind for your home.

What Is a Sprinkler System Backflow Preventer?

Before discussing what are the benefits of a sprinkler system backflow preventer, it’s helpful to know what a backflow is. The water inside the supply system usually flows in one direction. But when the water travels the opposite way back through your sprinkler system, it’s called backflow.

The water that comes into your home from the municipality travels at a specific pressure level. But certain factors can cause the … Read Full Post »

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What is the Life Span of a Mosquito?

. Posted by in , • Orlando

How long do most mosquitoes live? Understanding the lifespan of common mosquito species can help you better control mosquitoes around your property. To understand the mosquito lifespan, you need to learn about their life cycle and the phases they go through.

Next, there are key differences between female versus male mosquitoes. Understanding how each sex looks and behaves can help homeowners keep them at bay.

Finally, mosquito bites are uncomfortable, and everyone reacts to them differently. Keep reading to learn how to treat a common mosquito bite.

What is the Life Span of a Mosquito?

Two of the most common species of mosquitoes are the Aedes and the Anopheles mosquitoes. It’s important for homeowners to understand the life span of both species since they are most likely to encounter these pests.

The best way to treat a mosquito problem is to control them at all stages of their life cycles, from egg to adult. Keep … Read Full Post »

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Identifying Flying Fire Ants Versus Termites

. Posted by in , • Houston
flying fire ants

Have you noticed small insects with wings around your property and wondered whether they are termites or fire ants?

Although distinguishing the two can be tricky, knowing which pest you are dealing with can help you better control them. If you’re dealing with any pest problems, contact a pest control professional. These experts have the knowledge and experience to tell the difference between flying fire ants, pictured above, and termites and can help you control both of these pests.

Flying Fire Ants

Flying fire ants are often known as reproductives, and they are the members of the colonies that reproduce and create new colonies. Unlike worker fire ants, who don’t have wings, reproductive flying ants’ wings allow them to move independently and take flight.
Appearance

Flying fire ants’ wings can extend twice the length of their bodies. Their body color is usually reddish-brown or dark brown. These insects possess segmented bodies with distinct head, thorax … Read Full Post »

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How To Identify Fire Ants With Wings

. Posted by in , • Orlando
fire ants with wings

Fire ants are annoying pests that can cause pain when they bite and sting. It’s important for homeowners to understand the different types of fire ants, particularly winged fire ants versus non-winged fire ants.

Fire ants with wings are the reproductive members of the colony. You may see them swarming between the spring and fall seasons when they mate. Spotting a fire ant swarm is a sign that a fire ant colony is nearby. Keep reading to learn more about how to identify fire ants with wings.

How To Identify Fire Ants With Wings

Fire ants with wings are called “reproductives” because they are the sexually mature male and female members of the ant colony that reproduce. Unlike other colony members, they have wings so they can fly away from the nest to mate and establish new colonies.

Reproductive fire ants look similar to other fire ants with the addition of wings. They have … Read Full Post »

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Are Wasps Active at Night?

. Posted by in , • Houston
a wasp

Wasps are unwelcome and aggressive pests that many homeowners find challenging. However, it is helpful for homeowners to learn about wasp behavior to control and deter infestations. One of the main questions homeowners have about wasps is whether or not they are active at night.

While wasps are most active during the day and are known to sleep at night, it is still possible to encounter wasps after dark. Homeowners should know where they might see wasps at night to avoid them.

Luckily, you can avoid being stung by a wasp at any time of the day. While wasps can sting through thin clothing, wearing thicker fabrics and covering exposed skin is one way to avoid an unfriendly encounter.

If you have a wasp infestation on your property, leave it to the experts. Contact a wasp and bee control service if you have any issues with wasps.

Are Wasps Active at Night?

Homeowners need to … Read Full Post »

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Can Ants Smell Food?

. Posted by in , • Houston
two ants on a rope

Homeowners who have experienced an ant infestation often want to know how ants got into their home, and one way is through scent. Ants can smell food and use their sense of smell to guide them to a food source.

Along with their sense of smell, ants also use their sight and taste to locate a food source. They even use their antennas to find food and communicate with their colony. Once ants discover an abundant food source in your home, it doesn’t take long for the rest of the territory to arrive.

Another unique thing about ants is that they do not sleep for long periods. Instead, they take short naps throughout the day, lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes. This allows them to recharge and continue the task of finding food. Homeowners should understand that they can encounter ant activity all day and night because of this … Read Full Post »

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Do Bats Hibernate?

. Posted by in , • Orlando
a bat in a tree

Bats are intriguing creatures to learn about. They’re known for their echolocation capabilities and being nocturnal by nature.

Bats possess incredible talents, which could be vital in survival situations like natural disasters. But have you ever considered whether bats hibernate like other mammals do?

Hibernation is an instinctual behavior used by animals during winter to conserve energy and survive harsh conditions. Of the over 1,400 bat species globally, only some hibernate. When they do, they might find comfort within your home or nearby spaces such as backyard sheds or treehouses.

Do Bats Hibernate?

During the winter months, when food becomes increasingly scarce, bats enter a state known as torpor. Their heart rates and breathing slow, their metabolic rates diminish, and body temperatures decrease to conserve energy and resources.

Hibernation allows bats to survive winter weather by tapping into their fat reserves while resting. However, not all species hibernate; some fly south, searching for warmer climates … Read Full Post »

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