Cockroach Treatment Ensures Safety for Your Family
June 14th, 2012
Cockroaches…yuck. I cannot name one customer that thinks cockroaches are cool. Truthfully, they are pretty fascinating, but there is no doubt they incite fear and can exacerbate unsanitary conditions and lead to severe infestations due to high egg survival rates. Fortunately for our customers, they have us to keep cockroaches at bay.
Most of the pain associated with cockroaches comes from the assumption that if there are cockroaches, it is unsanitary. Many homeowners are concerned about diseases associated with the pests. Most commonly, cockroaches are associated with allergens that affect humans. Severe cockroach infestations can trigger asthma in people susceptible to cockroach created allergens. Here in the Mesa, AZ area we often encounter American cockroaches within our customers’ homes. And to be honest, seeing one American roach in the home does not warrant an infestation. In fact, it’s possible the homeowner doesn’t even have a problem. American roaches will find their way into the home through windows and doors quite often and at night. However, should a regular sighting of live roaches go untreated, the homeowner puts the home at risk of becoming infested.
Professionally treating cockroaches will ensure the safety of the customer by designing a specific treatment method utilizing very deliberate applications and safe products. Homeowners put themselves at risk by frequently setting off bug bombs that can expose them unnecessarily to heavy amounts of pesticides by simple inhalation or drifting of the insecticide to food prep surfaces. Using these products continuously will not control the problem and can be potentially harmful. Most of these bug bombs are only contact kill insecticides and will only kill what pests it comes in contact with at the time of release, there is no residual. Professional treatments implement safe procedures with the proper residual and a plan to address the problem at its core.
Homeowners can alleviate cockroach pressure by removing excessive moisture and food sources and, of course, maintaining a sanitary environment. Pet food and water, leaky pipes, infrequently used drains are all areas of potential activity. Addressing these issues with the proper application of baits and residual products will yield extremely positive results in cockroach control.
Cockroaches…yuck. I cannot name one customer that thinks cockroaches are cool. Truthfully, they are pretty fascinating, but there is no doubt they incite fear and can exacerbate unsanitary conditions and lead to severe infestations due to high egg survival rates. Fortunately for our customers, they have us to keep cockroaches at bay.
Most of the pain associated with cockroaches comes from the assumption that if there are cockroaches, it is unsanitary. Many homeowners are concerned about diseases associated with the pests. Most commonly, cockroaches are associated with allergens that affect humans. Severe cockroach infestations can trigger asthma in people susceptible to cockroach created allergens. Here in the Mesa, AZ area we often encounter American cockroaches within our customers’ homes. And to be honest, seeing one American roach in the home does not warrant an infestation. In fact, it’s possible the homeowner doesn’t even have a problem. American roaches will find their way into the home through windows and doors quite often and at night. However, should a regular sighting of live roaches go untreated, the homeowner puts the home at risk of becoming infested.
Professionally treating cockroaches will ensure the safety of the customer by designing a specific treatment method utilizing very deliberate applications and safe products. Homeowners put themselves at risk by frequently setting off bug bombs that can expose them unnecessarily to heavy amounts of pesticides by simple inhalation or drifting of the insecticide to food prep surfaces. Using these products continuously will not control the problem and can be potentially harmful. Most of these bug bombs are only contact kill insecticides and will only kill what pests it comes in contact with at the time of release, there is no residual. Professional treatments implement safe procedures with the proper residual and a plan to address the problem at its core.
Homeowners can alleviate cockroach pressure by removing excessive moisture and food sources and, of course, maintaining a sanitary environment. Pet food and water, leaky pipes, infrequently used drains are all areas of potential activity. Addressing these issues with the proper application of baits and residual products will yield extremely positive results in cockroach control.
6 Factors that may Lead to Ant Infestation in your Home
June 12th, 2012
Out of approximately 12,000 identified species of ants, there are relatively few species that are considered pests. However, of these pest ants, there are ants that can cause damage to infrastructure, spread disease, and bite and sting. Arizona has been environmentally accommodating to many ant species, and only a handful which are determined invasive. Most commonly, we get calls for ants invading patios and ants finding their way into the home. Beginning in May, ant populations in Fountain Hills and surrounding areas begin to stir and they become much more active in growth. Some species will interconnect colonies creating very large infrastructures. Such large numbers can be difficult to control in short periods of time. Ant species may also change their feeding habits depending on the time of year and the short term goals of the colony. This can pose a challenge for pest management professionals when previous baits were desirable to the colony, but now seem to be ignored.
According to the Tenth Edition of the Handbook of Pest Control (2011), these factors contribute to ant populations:
1. Poor Sanitation
2. Excessive moisture and the resulting damage
3. Cracks in the foundation of the structure
4. Excessive mulch
5. Stacked tile, lumber, bricks and various debris
6. Ornamental plants infested with homopteran insects (honey dew secreting insects that ants tend to for food)
Homeowners should be aware of these factors and they should be addressed accordingly. Rectifying these issues will aid in the control when coupled with a professional treatment.
Out of approximately 12,000 identified species of ants, there are relatively few species that are considered pests. However, of these pest ants, there are ants that can cause damage to infrastructure, spread disease, and bite and sting. Arizona has been environmentally accommodating to many ant species, and only a handful which are determined invasive. Most commonly, we get calls for ants invading patios and ants finding their way into the home. Beginning in May, ant populations in Fountain Hills and surrounding areas begin to stir and they become much more active in growth. Some species will interconnect colonies creating very large infrastructures. Such large numbers can be difficult to control in short periods of time. Ant species may also change their feeding habits depending on the time of year and the short term goals of the colony. This can pose a challenge for pest management professionals when previous baits were desirable to the colony, but now seem to be ignored.
According to the Tenth Edition of the Handbook of Pest Control (2011), these factors contribute to ant populations:
1. Poor Sanitation
2. Excessive moisture and the resulting damage
3. Cracks in the foundation of the structure
4. Excessive mulch
5. Stacked tile, lumber, bricks and various debris
6. Ornamental plants infested with homopteran insects (honey dew secreting insects that ants tend to for food)
Homeowners should be aware of these factors and they should be addressed accordingly. Rectifying these issues will aid in the control when coupled with a professional treatment.
Is Your Home Safe From Bark Scorpions?
June 8th, 2012
Dating back approximately 380 million years, scorpions are recognized as the oldest arachnids on the planet. As a result, they have evolved to become highly adaptable, 
found on every continent save Antarctica, discovered high in the mountains, and well below sea level. There are around 1,300 species in the world and 90 of them reside in the United States.
In Arizona, the most commonly feared scorpion is the bark scorpion. Bark scorpions are unique because they curl their post abdomen (tail) to the side and flat on the ground while at rest. The bark scorpion is relatively small, generally reaching around 2 inches in length from the head to the tip of the stinger and possessing a very thin tail. Bark scorpions are solitary creatures, but can live next to other bark scorpions, mistakenly suggesting a scorpion “nest.” Scorpion infestations are rare, but often in the summer months valley homes are susceptible to high scorpion pressure.
These scorpions will try to find their way into more moderate temperatures, thus actively seeking entry into the home. In the yard, scorpions will look for preferably moisture rich areas, but take refuge under rocks and other shelter bearing debris such as stacked tile or dead palm leaves. Further, scorpions are hunters and look for other insects to eat. If other pests are not managed, it is possible to attract hungry scorpions. Here are some tips for preventing scorpion issues:
1. Remove any debris or harborage sites from the yard that may attract scorpions
2. Make sure there are no leaks or excessive moisture issues
3. Remove any trash or organic matter that may attract scorpion food source
4. Implement professional pest control methods to manage scorpions and their food source
5. Seal any breaches in the home’s envelope that risk scorpion access or have the home professionally sealed
6. Regularly use a black light to find and remove scorpions
We provide general pest control, specific scorpion control methods, home sealing, and black lighting. Following the aforementioned steps will help to greatly reduce scorpion populations around your home. If you have questions, please give Cummings Pest Control a call at 480-994-9599 for service in Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa and surrounding areas.
Dating back approximately 380 million years, scorpions are recognized as the oldest arachnids on the planet. As a result, they have evolved to become highly adaptable, found on every continent save Antarctica, discovered high in the mountains, and well below sea level. There are around 1,300 species in the world and 90 of them reside in the United States.
In Arizona, the most commonly feared scorpion is the bark scorpion. Bark scorpions are unique because they curl their post abdomen (tail) to the side and flat on the ground while at rest. The bark scorpion is relatively small, generally reaching around 2 inches in length from the head to the tip of the stinger and possessing a very thin tail. Bark scorpions are solitary creatures, but can live next to other bark scorpions, mistakenly suggesting a scorpion “nest.” Scorpion infestations are rare, but often in the summer months valley homes are susceptible to high scorpion pressure.
These scorpions will try to find their way into more moderate temperatures, thus actively seeking entry into the home. In the yard, scorpions will look for preferably moisture rich areas, but take refuge under rocks and other shelter bearing debris such as stacked tile or dead palm leaves. Further, scorpions are hunters and look for other insects to eat. If other pests are not managed, it is possible to attract hungry scorpions. Here are some tips for preventing scorpion issues:
1. Remove any debris or harborage sites from the yard that may attract scorpions
2. Make sure there are no leaks or excessive moisture issues
3. Remove any trash or organic matter that may attract scorpion food source
4. Implement professional pest control methods to manage scorpions and their food source
5. Seal any breaches in the home’s envelope that risk scorpion access or have the home professionally sealed
6. Regularly use a black light to find and remove scorpions
We provide general pest control, specific scorpion control methods, home sealing, and black lighting. Following the aforementioned steps will help to greatly reduce scorpion populations around your home. If you have questions, please give Cummings Pest Control a call at 480-994-9599 for service in Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa and surrounding areas.
Rodent Control is a Serious Issue for Valley Residents
June 4th, 2012
Rodents are arguably the most adaptable mammals on earth. Approximately 1,300 species make up the Family Muridae, which are considered commensal rodents. These pest rodents are able to live and populate in most corners of the earth largely by way of synanthropy, meaning “to live with man.” We have inadvertently provided pest rodents with everything the rodent needs to thrive by building shelter and providing multiple food sources. Rodents will feed on everything from pet food to agricultural product and what they do not eat they destroy by contaminating food supplies with their urine and feces. Building infrastructure is also at risk when rodents attack wiring that can shut down systems and potentially start fires.
Aside from the house mouse, pack rats and black rats (roof rats) are of great concern to homeowners in the valley. Rats are capable of causing damage to the home and creating amazingly unsanitary conditions. Both of these rats are adept at exploiting breaches in the home’s envelope merely the width of your thumb. Once inside, the insulation within the wall and attic provide perfect nesting material. Pack rats notably drag miscellaneous debris from the exterior into the home and hoard it around the nest generally for protective purposes. An example of this is a pack rat nest in the desert packed tight with cholla cactus. Beyond unwanted debris within the walls and ceilings of the home, allergens contained within rodent feces can incite asthma and other detrimental effects. Once a rodent establishes residence, the animal defecates right where it lives and when we provide Phoenix rodent control, the next is often where we discover in the highest concentrations.
Rodents spend much of their time gnawing. In fact, the term rodent is an evolution of the French verb meaning “to gnaw.” It is true that rodent incisors continually grow. In order to keep the teeth manageable, rodents use two methods. They grind the top and bottom incisors, and they find materials to gnaw. Rat teeth are incredibly strong and a stubborn rat will have no problem taking on anything from asphalt to lead. As a result, if the home harbors a rat, it is at risk of severe wire, conduit, and plumbing damage. Many of us are also familiar with the damage a rodent can do when it seeks shelter within the engine of our vehicles.
Outside of the home, two of the most popular areas for rodents to build nests are at the pool equipment and the HVAC unit. Both areas generally provide substantial shelter and protection. The HVAC unit is attacked on two fronts. The first, often we’ll find a burrow under the concrete pad the unit sits on. Second, the most damaging occurs when the rodent finds its way directly into the unit. Once inside the unit, the rodent fills it with debris and undoubtedly seeks wires to gnaw.
Naturally, residents experience heavy rodent pressure in the valley. There are some things the homeowner can do to properly control rodent activity:
1. Make sure the yard is free from debris that can be used as nesting material (i.e. sticks, dog droppings, leaves, etc.)
2. Remove any fruit from the ground and actively remove fruit ripe to pick
3. Correct any potential harborage sites such as stored stone and tile
4. Correct any excessive moisture and standing water
5. Seal food and pet food appropriately
6. Properly store garbage
7. Implement a professional control method using rodent bait in secure bait stations
8. Inspect your home regularly for any signs of activity or access points in the home
9. Hire a Scottsdale rodent control professional to inspect (especially the areas that are difficult to get to, i.e. attic)
Rodents are arguably the most adaptable mammals on earth. Approximately 1,300 species make up the Family Muridae, which are considered commensal rodents. These pest rodents are able to live and populate in most corners of the earth largely by way of synanthropy, meaning “to live with man.” We have inadvertently provided pest rodents with everything the rodent needs to thrive by building shelter and providing multiple food sources. Rodents will feed on everything from pet food to agricultural product and what they do not eat they destroy by contaminating food supplies with their urine and feces. Building infrastructure is also at risk when rodents attack wiring that can shut down systems and potentially start fires.
Aside from the house mouse, pack rats and black rats (roof rats) are of great concern to homeowners in the valley. Rats are capable of causing damage to the home and creating amazingly unsanitary conditions. Both of these rats are adept at exploiting breaches in the home’s envelope merely the width of your thumb. Once inside, the insulation within the wall and attic provide perfect nesting material. Pack rats notably drag miscellaneous debris from the exterior into the home and hoard it around the nest generally for protective purposes. An example of this is a pack rat nest in the desert packed tight with cholla cactus. Beyond unwanted debris within the walls and ceilings of the home, allergens contained within rodent feces can incite asthma and other detrimental effects. Once a rodent establishes residence, the animal defecates right where it lives and when we provide Phoenix rodent control, the next is often where we discover in the highest concentrations.
Rodents spend much of their time gnawing. In fact, the term rodent is an evolution of the French verb meaning “to gnaw.” It is true that rodent incisors continually grow. In order to keep the teeth manageable, rodents use two methods. They grind the top and bottom incisors, and they find materials to gnaw. Rat teeth are incredibly strong and a stubborn rat will have no problem taking on anything from asphalt to lead. As a result, if the home harbors a rat, it is at risk of severe wire, conduit, and plumbing damage. Many of us are also familiar with the damage a rodent can do when it seeks shelter within the engine of our vehicles.
Outside of the home, two of the most popular areas for rodents to build nests are at the pool equipment and the HVAC unit. Both areas generally provide substantial shelter and protection. The HVAC unit is attacked on two fronts. The first, often we’ll find a burrow under the concrete pad the unit sits on. Second, the most damaging occurs when the rodent finds its way directly into the unit. Once inside the unit, the rodent fills it with debris and undoubtedly seeks wires to gnaw.
Naturally, residents experience heavy rodent pressure in the valley. There are some things the homeowner can do to properly control rodent activity:
1. Make sure the yard is free from debris that can be used as nesting material (i.e. sticks, dog droppings, leaves, etc.)
2. Remove any fruit from the ground and actively remove fruit ripe to pick
3. Correct any potential harborage sites such as stored stone and tile
4. Correct any excessive moisture and standing water
5. Seal food and pet food appropriately
6. Properly store garbage
7. Implement a professional control method using rodent bait in secure bait stations
8. Inspect your home regularly for any signs of activity or access points in the home
9. Hire a Scottsdale rodent control professional to inspect (especially the areas that are difficult to get to, i.e. attic)
