Powderpost Beetles in Suffolk County & Nassau County
Powderpost beetles are a broad category of beetles that live within and eat hardwoods, reducing timber to fine powder-like sawdust. These beetles cause millions of dollars in damage each year as they infest dry seasoned wood. In the United States, they are second only to termites in their destructiveness of wood and wood products. Powderpost beetles prefer to live deep within hardwoods, and the only indication of their presence is the sawdust they leave behind, and the pencil-sized “shot” holes that remain after adults emerge in spring. The greatest period of activity occurs during the warm season.
Powderpost Beetle Habitat
Powderpost beetles live and breed in hardwoods, such as the dead branches and limbs of trees. They avoid softwoods and will not attempt to tunnel in varnished woods. Often, eggs and larvae can be sealed within hardwoods, resulting in emerging adults later on. A female powderpost beetle will lay 50 eggs at a time, in the pores of the wood. When larvae of the powderpost beetle hatch, they feed on many of the various hardwoods used in furniture, baskets, hardwood trim, and flooring. Larvae will emerge one to five years later in spring. An adult powderpost beetle will not typically live for longer than a year.
Powderpost Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Powderpost beetles aren’t a direct threat to humans, but they do cause millions of dollars in damage each year. Adult powderpost beetles most often select and lay eggs in wood such as oak, ash, hickory, mahogany, and walnut, and infestations are most likely to occur in wood paneling, molding, flooring, window and door frames, plywood, and furniture. Powderpost beetles are strong fliers and are attracted to light. Adults are often found near windows or on windowsills when an infestation occurs indoors. Infestations in homes are almost always due to the infestation of the wood prior to construction. If a powderpost beetle infestation is suspected, contact a local beetle control professional.
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Sometimes referred to as a “yellow sac spider”, these spiders are often pale yellow in color and have even been known to have a hint or tinge of green. Similar to most spiders, sac spiders prefer to stay away from human contact and typically only find their way indoors by accident. The sac spider is commonly found in homes and is often mistaken for the brown recluse because it is similar in shape, but the sac spider lacks the “fiddle” pattern of the brown recluse. For the most part, sac spiders prefer to feed on a variety of types of spiders along with other garden insects.
Sac Spider Habitat
Outdoors, sac spiders can be seen in gardens, under vegetation, bark, in rolled leaves, and organic debris. Sac spiders are often shipped in agricultural products such as grapes and can make their way into homes on produce. It is common to see these spiders inside a home during the fall as they begin to seek warmth from the dropping temperatures outdoors. Sac spiders can easily climb slick surfaces and will construct silk, sac-like retreats wherever walls meet other walls or ceilings.
Sac Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Sac spiders are hunting spiders that use their silk sac only for their retreat or for their egg capsules. They are nocturnal, hunting at night for other insects. The bite of a common sac spider can be misdiagnosed as a brown recluse spider bite. Injuries develop in a similar manner but are much less severe. Although the bite of a yellow sac spider can be painful, it is not medically significant except for allergic individuals. Reactions, such as swelling, slow healing, and ulcerated sores around the bite site, are similar enough to be confusing. If you suspect that you have been bitten by a spider, seek medical attention if symptoms persist or intensify.
The Common Myna was once deemed by the IUCN Species Survival Commission as one of the world’s most invasive species, and it’s easy to see why. They’ve adapted to many major landscapes, where they travel in groups. They consume fruits, among the rest of their diet, and because of that they disperse seeds of a variety of plants and trees across their ecosystem. Myna’s are also important pollinators for plants across the area.
Myna Habitat
Mynas are unique in that they can survive almost anywhere. They’re now considered a form of urban wildlife and a part of other human-centered biomes, but they can be equally as comfortable in forests, lakes and grasslands. All they really need is a tree to burrow in and twigs and rubbish to scavenge to make a nest. From that point on they will feed on seeds and fruits, as well as small mammals and waste from human habitation.
Myna Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
The population of myna birds is only increasing with every passing year. This is proving to be a problem, as they are incredibly territorial birds that are an invasive species in almost every part of the world. They can destroy the eggs and nests of native birds to make room for their own. And, in dispersing seeds, they also spread weeds in the yards of properties across Suffolk County & Nassau County. If you have seen nesting mynas around your home or business, Suburban Exterminating bird removal experts can clear them out and deter from roosting there in the future.
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Click beetles are found mainly in North America and Australia. They have rough, flat, oblong bodies with a spine-like structure that they can snap into a groove on their thorax. The sudden clicking noise is used in times of conflict to avoid being eaten. They also have an additional defense mechanism that works by falling on their backs and playing dead whenever touched.
Click Beetle Habitat
Generally click beetles tend to lay their larvae on plants and in decaying wood, where they can stay and feed for a long period of time. In residential areas they’re drawn to soil near abundant vegetation, like farmlands and gardens. It’s very rare to find them in deserts or flooded areas, and they’re less likely to enter yards with reduced outdoor lighting.
Click Beetle Behaviors, Threats or Dangers
Since they’re attracted to lights, it’s not uncommon to see click beetles gathered around doorways and windows at night. You may be able to hear their snapping or see them jump and flip. While the adults may not be anything other than a large nuisance, the larval wireworms have an aggressive appetite and can severely damage plant life. You can keep them from getting inside by making sure your doors, windows, eaves and chimneys seal tightly. To remove them from your property, you’ll need the help of the expert beetle exterminators at Suburban Exterminating.
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Click Beetle FAQs
What Do Click Beetles Look Like?
Adult click beetles are reddish-brown and may grow up to 1 ½ inches in length. They look very similar to a cockroach, and are, in fact, often mistaken for one. Their larvae are long and cylindrical in shape, have a relatively hard body, and resemble a mealworm.
If they become stuck on their back, the spine they have on the underside of their thorax fits into a groove that is found on the underside of their abdomen. When this happens they will arch their back and “snap” themselves straight.
What Are the Signs of Click Beetles?
Click beetles feed on plants (potatoes, roots, grains, cotton, and corn), pollen, and insects. During the summer months, these beetles will gather in large numbers on porches and decks after being attracted by artificial outdoor lighting. They make their way into structures through small openings that they find and can become quite a nuisance.
What Damage Do Click Beetles Cause?
They can cause some minor damage to crops and plants but are mainly viewed as a nuisance pest.
How Do You Prevent Click Beetles?
The best way to prevent click beetles from infesting is to implement an ongoing pest control plan that eliminates other insects (i.e. their food source). You may also find it helpful to seal openings found around doors and windows. We also recommend installing door sweeps and covering windows with screens.
How Do I Get Rid of Click Beetles?
The best ways to remove click beetles are:
Identify and confirm the pest.
Reduce outdoor lighting to minimize attraction.
Seal entry points and gaps.
Fix leaks and reduce moisture.
Clean up debris around your home.
Encourage natural predators and use beneficial nematodes.
Consider insecticides for severe infestations.
Plant trap crops to divert beetles.
Use diatomaceous earth as a natural control method.
If needed, seek assistance from professional pest control services, such as Suburban Exterminating, for effective and targeted solutions.
Can Click Beetles Hurt Me?
Click beetles are not dangerous to people. They can cause some minor damage to crops and plants but are mainly viewed as a nuisance pest.
Bird Mites are incredibly small – typically less than 1mm in the adult stage – and because of that they can be difficult to spot. Most people don’t think about them, since they’re primarily found on the skins of birds like chickens and pigeons. They can develop from egg to adult in about a week and live for up to several weeks after that.
Bird Mite Habitat
Unlike other mites and ticks, bird mites live almost entirely off the blood of birds. They use them as hosts and are known for populating inside their nests. Bird mites are especially fond of warmer climates, so they’re especially active in the spring and early summer. And they’re found throughout the United States, but can also be seen in Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Islands of the Pacific.
Bird Mite Behaviors, Threats or Dangers
Bird Mites are often overlooked, especially since they don’t rely on humans for hosts. They can still bite, resulting in irritation and the possibility of allergic reaction. If you work with birds you are at risk of bird mites, but the same applies if an infected bird has nested in your attic, chimney, or within small cracks of your property. If that’s the case, Suburban Exterminating mite exterminators can help clear out the infestation.
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Bird Mite FAQs
Why Do I Have Bird Mites in My House?
Bird mites may end up in your house if birds build nests nearby and then leave. These parasites often search for new sources of food when the nests they inhabit are disturbed or destroyed, leading them to venture into nearby structures. Bird mites could also hitch a ride on clothing or pets, going unnoticed because of their small size.
What Do Bird Mites Look Like?
Bird mites are tiny pests that are barely visible to the naked eye. They belong to the same family as spiders and ticks, and when fully grown they have eight legs. Since these pests feed on blood, they have a sharp mouthpiece that can pierce through skin. Bird mites also have oval-shaped bodies that are usually white or translucent, but may turn red or blackish after feeding.
What Are the Signs of Bird Mites?
Detecting a bird mite infestation can involve noticing several signs, such as:
Skin Irritation: Unexplained itching or red, irritated skin, especially if you’ve been near areas with bird nests.
Visible Mites: Sometimes, these tiny pests might be visible crawling on surfaces, particularly in areas where birds or their nests have been present.
Bird Activity: Increased bird activity around your home or in nearby trees or roofs can indicate a potential infestation.
Bite Marks: Small, red bites resembling mosquito bites that appear suddenly and without an obvious cause.
Feathers or Nest Debris: The presence of feathers, nest materials, or bird droppings in or around your home, signaling possible bird habitation, which could lead to bird mite infestation.
If any of these signs are observed, especially in combination, it might be wise to contact an exterminator for an inspection.
What Damage Do Bird Mites Cause?
While bird mites don’t cause severe health issues for humans, their presence can still create nuisances and affect overall well-being, particularly for those sensitive to their bites or allergic reactions. Not only that, but these pests can also cause major discomfort for pets such as skin problems, stress, and feather loss.
How Do You Prevent Bird Mites?
Preventing bird mites involves taking measures to deter birds from nesting near or in your home and minimizing potential entry points for these pests. Here are some steps to prevent bird mites:
Bird Control: Discourage birds from nesting by using deterrents like netting, spikes, or sound devices in areas where they tend to gather. Remove bird nests promptly, if safe and legal to do so.
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any openings or gaps that birds or mites could use to enter. Seal off these entry points, including cracks in walls, gaps in roofs, or broken vents.
Regular Cleaning: Keep your surroundings clean, especially areas prone to bird activity. Regularly remove bird droppings, feathers, and nesting materials.
Professional Help: If dealing with a persistent bird or mite issue, seek help from pest control professionals who can safely and effectively handle infestations and advise on prevention methods.
By minimizing bird access to nesting sites and securing your home against potential entry points, you can significantly reduce the risk of bird mite infestations.
How Do I Get Rid of Bird Mites?
Professional services offer the most effective solution for treating a bird mite infestation due to their expertise and resources. Trained professionals possess the knowledge to accurately assess the extent of the infestation, identify the source, and implement targeted strategies for eradication. Moreover, professionals can address underlying issues such as bird control measures to prevent future infestations.
Can Bird Mites Hurt Me?
Bird mites, while generally not directly harmful to humans, can cause discomfort and skin irritation if they come into contact with people. These mites primarily feed on the blood of birds, but if there are no hosts nearby, they may also bite humans, causing itchiness or allergic reactions.
What to Do If You Have Bird Mites
Think you may have bird mites? Don’t let them disrupt your peace of mind. At Suburban Exterminating, our professional bird mite exterminators are equipped with the expertise and tools needed to quickly eliminate these pests. With over 60 years of experience, you can trust us to deliver reliable results and fast, friendly service. Contact us today for a thorough inspection and tailored solutions to rid your home of these unwelcome visitors.
