27 Oct 2023
An ant on a piece of wood

Prevention is your first line of defense against ant invasions

Ants are remarkable insects with impressive teamwork and communication skills. But when they decide to make your home their new colony, they can quickly become unwanted guests. Prevention and early identification are crucial in keeping your home ant-free.  Know thy enemy: identifying ant species Each species of ant has its own characteristics and behaviors. Some […]

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06 Oct 2023
A biting fly on human skin

The buzz on biting flies: Why do they choose us?

While we enjoy outdoor activities here in Florida, there are tiny tormentors that can put a damper on our fun. Their bites not only hurt, but often cause redness and itching. But have you ever wondered why biting flies seem to have a particular taste for humans? The biology of biting flies Biting flies – […]

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22 Sep 2023
Brown rat on a deck

Unless you want rats moving in, stop doing these things

People can unintentionally attract rats into their homes through a variety of practices and conditions that create an inviting environment for these pests. Rats are resourceful creatures that can find shelter, food and water in human habitats. Here are some common things homeowners do that can attract rats into their homes: Improper Food Storage: Leaving […]

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25 Aug 2023
Centipede

Centipedes make themselves at home in Florida houses

Florida often plays host to some rather unwelcome visitors in its residents’ homes. One such intruder that can send shivers down your spine is the centipede. While these many-legged creatures may serve important roles in the ecosystem, having them inside your home can be unsettling.   Centipedes are arthropods belonging to the class Chilopoda. With their […]

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11 Aug 2023
Close-up of a mosquito

Mosquitoes a persistent nuisance in rain-soaked Brevard County

In the lush landscapes of Brevard County, Fla., we’ve seen an abundance of rainfall during the past few months. While this may bring about a renewed sense of life to the surroundings, it also sets the stage for an unwelcome consequence – a surge in the mosquito population. Pools of standing water have formed everywhere, […]

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28 Jul 2023
Lacewing on a leaf

Lacewings are natural allies in pest control

In the intricate tapestry of nature, there are countless organisms that contribute to the balance of our ecosystems. Among them, lacewings stand out for their voracious appetites for pests. These creatures with their delicate wings and captivating habits play a crucial role in natural pest control.  Lacewings (Chrysopidae) are insects belonging to the order Neuroptera. […]

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14 Jul 2023
Mole cricket

Mole crickets: the menace beneath your turf

Maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn requires dedication. Unfortunately, certain pests can undermine your hard work and leave your yard in disarray. Among these troublesome insects are mole crickets. While they may seem harmless, mole crickets tunnel through the soil, making it difficult for roots to absorb essential nutrients and water. This leads to damaged […]

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17 Apr 2023
Cockroach, woman sneezing

More than just gross: Cockroaches can cause health issues

Cockroaches evoke universal disgust when they appear in a home. They can show up in almost anyone’s residence, proving difficult to eradicate once entrenched.  The problem of cockroaches is more than just their unsightly appearance. They also spread diseases and exacerbate allergies, even asthma. Minute particles from their bodies and their fecal matter become airborne. […]

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31 Mar 2023
Close-up of fly

Arthropods: The creatures we call ‘bugs’

A lot of people lump all creepy-crawly creatures under the umbrella term “bug.” That’s true whether we’re talking about roaches, spiders, centipedes or millipedes.  “Bug” really is a useful, colloquial shorthand for various arthropods (after all, it’s in the name Slug-A-Bug). But just what are arthropods and how do we distinguish between their various classes? […]

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16 Mar 2023
Rat on white background

Rats are more than a nuisance: They’re dangerous

Rats are dangerous household pests that cause serious problems if left unchecked. Not only can they spread a host of diseases, including salmonella and the plague, but they can also damage your property and start fires. These pests usually enter your home through small holes, cracks and crevices. It doesn’t take much of an opening […]

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