Dave's Pest Control

Tag: Bed Bug Treatment

  • Bed Bugs: What are the first signs of Bed Bugs?

    Bed Bugs: What are the first signs of Bed Bugs?

    Bed Bugs! Two words that most people don’t want to hear or even think about finding in their residence whether temporary or permanent. The very thought sends chills down the spine.

    Unfortunately, these pests and difficult to spot and even harder to get rid of without the help of a licensed & experienced professional.

    That’s why we are here to educate you on the most common signs of Bed Bugs and help you eradicate these pests if found.

    Bed Bugs are tiny reddish-brown wingless insects, about the size of an apple seed or flaxseed, that most commonly live in the crevices or seams of your mattress or box spring but come out when you are sleeping to feast on human blood. Bed Bugs’ favorite and main food source is human blood but there have been known to feed on other vertebrates.

    Bed bugs can also be found almost anywhere humans inhabit such as single-family homes, condos, apartments, hotel rooms, motels, and RVs. There have also been reports of bed bugs infesting businesses such as retail stores, movie theaters, cruise ships, retirement homes, public transportation, and restaurants.

    Where do Bed Bugs come from?

    These little blood-sucking hitchhikers have been around for thousands of years. It is a common belief that these insects were the first cave dwellers that fed on Bat blood but switched over to their human blood diet as we exited from cave dwellings long ago.

    But how did they get on you? Bed Bugs, though tiny, are deceptively fast, crawling about 5 ft in 1 min. They can crawl into your luggage or laundry to hitch a ride or they may crawl in to just lay eggs before returning to their hiding spot.

    Bed bugs can live about 10 months and can go weeks or months without food. They can also travel behind walls and loose wallpaper.

    What are the most common early signs of Bed Bugs?

    The first sign of a Bed Bug problem is often bed bug bites. If this is the case you will need to search for live bed bugs. They can be difficult to find so you will need to examine their favorite hiding places first. The tight cracks, seams, and crevices of the mattress and box spring, bed frames, headboard, pillowcases and bed sheets. It is also a good idea to search couches and all upholstered furniture as well as baseboards.

    The next most common sign of bed bugs is shell casing from the molting process. These casings will be yellowish-brown and a translucent shed of their exoskeleton. There may be various sizes of shed exoskeletons due to the fact that bed bugs will molt 5 times during their life from nymph to adult bed bugs.

    Yet another telltale sign of the pests is bed bug eggs. These tiny eggs and egg shells are only around 1mm long and the width of a pinhead. A female bed bug can lay up to 7 eggs a day and these usually hatch within 10 days.

    A few more signs that you have these insects are bed bug excrement, bloodstains, or a musty odor. Fecal spots or droppings will be dark spots that almost look like ink pen dots. Similarly, Blood stains will be random tiny specks of blood. Both may appear on the mattress, box spring, linens, and pillowcases. Some people can detect a musty odor that may smell a little like cilantro or coriander and in severe cases, it will smell like rust, wet towels, or moldy laundry.

    While most people may show no signs of an allergic reaction to bed bugs, 20% of the US population are allergic and may show symptoms of bed bug bites. This 20% could suffer possible severe itchy welts, hives, and even blisters.

    Can Bed Bugs hide on your body?

    The easy answer here is No, they can not. Bed bugs may attach themselves to clothing in order to transport to a new location or to lay eggs but they will only feed while their host is sleeping so that their presence isn’t detected before going back into hiding. Bed Bugs also can not fly. They are wingless insects but bothersome nonetheless. For more common myths around Bed Bugs

    How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

    If you have or suspect a bed bug infestation or have any of the numerous signs of bed bugs, your best bet is to call a licensed exterminator who will know the proper pesticides to use.

    Many chemicals and strong pesticides were banned or weakened decades ago due to their toxicity and proximity of use to our families and pets. For a history of this, here is another blog post with more info.

    Dave’s Pest Control has over 40 years of experience exterminating bed bugs. We are your #1 exterminator for not only Bed Bugs but all manners of Pest Control. Get to know other common pests in your area by checking out this Scary bugs and Bites Post.

    With services in Lakeland, Port Orange, Orlando, Sanford, Palm Coast, New Smyrna, Ormund Beach, Deland, and Daytona Beach, we cover the greater Polk, Seminole, and Volusia, Florida Counties.

    Give Dave’s a call today for a free inspection!

  • Common Pest Control Problems HOA’s Deal With

    Common Pest Control Problems HOA’s Deal With

    Like everyone else, there are times when homeowner’s associations are responsible for dealing with pest control problems. Each HOA is different and has different responsibilities for pest control for their properties. If you serve on a homeowner’s association board, chances are at one point or another you’ll have to deal with pest control problems. In today’s blog at Dave’s Pest Control, we talk about some of the common pests that HOA’s have to deal with.

    If your business or homeowner’s association is in need of professional and effective pest control services for your property, contact our team at Dave’s Pest Control today for help throughout Flagler and Volusia County.

    Roaches

    If you ask any group of people what their least favorite pest is, they will likely almost unanimously say “cockroaches.” Roaches are difficult to get rid of, carry diseases, and everyone has a sense of unease when they see one scuttling across the floor of their kitchen.

    Termites

    Termites are another common pest that Dave’s Pest Control helps homeowner’s associations with. In situations where you are dealing with termites, it’s crucial to act quickly. The longer you wait for pest control services for termites, the more damage they can do to your structures. If termites are left untreated long enough, they can even make the building they have set up shop in dangerous and unstable!

    Wildlife Removal

    Raccoons, snakes, skunks, squirrels, and other wildlife can sometimes find their way onto the property you manage. You may be tempted to handle these situations on your own, but we encourage you to work with a pest control professional for wildlife removal if it’s not a situation you can easily handle. For example, raccoons may look innocent and cute, but if they feel threatened or trapped, they can become aggressive and dangerous quickly.

    Rodents

    Rodents are one of the most common pests that we help HOA’s and commercial properties deal with. Rats and mice are often crafty and their infestations can quickly get out of hand. At Dave’s Pest Control, we have years of experience helping homeowner’s associations quickly, safely, and completely remove rodents from their properties. Give us a call today to get a quote and learn more about our pest control services for homeowner’s associations.

    Bees

    Bees, wasps, and hornets are another type of pest that Dave’s Pest Control often helps HOA’s with. This is because these insects often make a nest in public areas like pools, gyms, garage structures, and anywhere else they find suitable. As an HOA responsible for pest control in public areas, it is best to have bees and other similar insects taken care of right away in order to avoid your residents trying to take care of the issue themselves and getting hurt.

    Commercial Pest Control for HOA’s and Dave’s Pest Control

    At Dave’s Pest Control, we have years of experience working with all manner of pests. From raccoons to roaches, termites, and more, we can handle it all. If you are a homeowner’s association looking for pest control services you can rely on, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We operate in Southern and Central Florida.

  • A Complete Guide on Cockroaches

    A Complete Guide on Cockroaches

    Cockroaches are one pest that receives very little sympathy from homeowners, business owners, and exterminators alike. While they are fascinating and unique pests, they are not very welcome anywhere they go. In today’s blog , we will talk a little bit about what cockroaches are, signs you may have them, and how to remove them from your property. For help removing cockroaches from your property, get in touch with one of our cockroach exterminators at Dave’s Pest Control today.

    What are Cockroaches?

    Cockroaches are notoriously difficult-to-get-rid-of pests that carry diseases and give nearly everyone the heebie-jeebies. They are a species that has been around for millions of years and has thousands of different varieties. Many of them are unobtrusive and have little to no effect on mankind. However, there are a few species that make their way into our homes and businesses and create problems. Here in Florida, we most commonly encounter Palmetto Bugs. Palmetto Bugs are in fact another name for the American Cockroach. Cockroaches excel at surviving in practically any conditions, which is what makes them so difficult to get rid of.

    Signs You Need Cockroach Extermination

    There are a few things that you can look for if you suspect that there are cockroaches in your home or business.

    • Seeing a cockroach: Perhaps the most obvious sign that there are roaches on your property is seeing one. Cockroaches are nocturnal which means they are mainly out and about at nighttime. This means that if you spot one in the day time, you may have a serious roach infestation.
    • Seeing droppings: Like many other pests, you would call an exterminator for, cockroaches leave behind droppings that make you aware of their presence. Droppings vary in size depending on the size of the roach. Cockroach Droppings can look as small as grains of pepper or be larger than coffee grounds and pellets.
    • Roach Eggs: Roaches don’t lay individual eggs, they instead have something called oothecae. An oothecae, in essence, is a sack full of cockroach eggs. There can be anywhere between 10 and 50 eggs in each one and they are often found in areas that are not easily accessible.
    • Odor: As the cockroach infestation goes untreated, it will create a stronger and stronger odor. If you notice a musty, unpleasant odor that is getting stronger, it could be a sign of roaches — or children’s laundry.

    How to Remove Cockroaches From Your Property

    At Dave’s Pest Control, our exterminators never recommend trying to deal with cockroaches on your own. Unfortunately, by the time most people notice they have a roach problem, it is too late to handle it without professional assistance. Additionally, cockroaches are incredibly difficult to exterminate. They are astonishingly adaptable and have the ability to withstand almost anything you can throw at them. In order to be certain that every roach is taken care of for good, you need the help of a professional exterminator.

    If you see or suspect that your property is in need of cockroach control, don’t wait. Call our exterminators at Dave’s Pest Control and get a free estimate for your home.

  • Rats vs Mice: What are the Differences?

    Rats vs Mice: What are the Differences?

    Rats and mice are commonly mistaken for one another. It’s easy to see why, too. They are both rodents, look practically the same, and act very similarly. Most people aren’t concerned with whether the critter in their home is a rat or a mouse, they just want them gone! But for those of you who are curious about the distinctions between the two, today’s blog at Dave’s Pest Control is for you. Keep reading to learn more about the difference between rats and mice and, if you are in need of pest control to remove them from your home, reach out to us right away.

    Difference Between Rats and Mice

    Lets explore how rats and mice are different from each other. From size to behavior, we will compare everything to make it easy for you to find the differences.

    Size

    One of the easiest ways to tell a rat from a mouse in the size of the rodent you’re seeing. Obviously, sizes will vary — it’s not unheard of to have a tiny rat or a goliath mouse. But in general, mice tend to be a little bit smaller. On average, mice are about 4 to 8 inches long and rats are generally between 6 and 15 inches long. The bottom line? If the pest is bigger, there is a good chance that it is a rat.

    Head

    Another great way to distinguish a mouse from a rat is the shape of their head. Mice have a more narrow, triangular-shaped head with long whiskers. Also, mice tend to have larger, floppier ears than their rat counterparts. Rat heads have a more blunt snout rather than a narrow and triangular snout. The ears of a rat are typically smaller than those of mice, too.

    Are you looking for pest control services to quickly and safely remove rats from your property? Reach out to us at Dave’s Pest Control now!

    Tails

    The tails on mice are very long, thin, and hairy. The tails of rats are often hairless and have a scaly appearance. Rat tails are also thicker in appearance than mice’s are. This is partially due to the general size differences between the two rodents. But, even smaller rats don’t have the same thin, wispy size to them. It’s also worth noting that rat tails are usually a pinkish color whereas mice’s tails generally match their color.

    Believe it or not, mice are usually quite a bit braver than rats are despite their smaller stature. Mice are much more susceptible to being caught in a mousetrap due to their curious nature. If you see a rodent and they stare at you rather than running away immediately, that bold fella is probably a mouse. Behavior of rats tend to be much more skittish and unwilling to investigate. Unfortunately, this makes them a little more difficult for pest control purposes since they aren’t as likely to fall for a trap.

    Droppings

    Even if you don’t see the creatures themselves, you can still distinguish whether it is a rat or a mouse from the droppings. Mice tend to have longer, more pointed droppings. Rat droppings are often larger in size and have more rounded ends.

    Professional Rat Exterminators

    Regardless of whether you are dealing with a rat or mouse, Dave’s Pest Control is the pest control team for the job. Contact us today for help with rodents, get a free estimate and schedule your appointment.

  • Our Sleeping Foe – The Bed Bugs

    Our Sleeping Foe – The Bed Bugs

    “Good night!, Don’t let the bed bugs bite!”

    A phrase we probably all have heard at some point in our lives. Bed bugs are a feared and horrid bug that has plagued mankind for centuries. They were mentioned in ancient Greece over three thousand years ago. It was even written in ancient Rome that bed bugs are of medicinal value in curing ear infections. I wouldn’t want to be that patient! “Ok, come here Romulus Maximus”, ”I’m going to put some little bugs in your ear” . ”Yes, it’s perfectly safe”, ”the oracle has approved”, ”this is state of the art medicine” -in this case, we do not do as the Romans do.

    Bed bugs have been with humans since written history. New research has provided information that the first bed bugs were hosts to bats, and they adapted to humans who were living in caves. Bats would also roost in church steeples and attics which would also provide opportunities for bed bugs to feed on humans. As we traveled the world in exploration and trade, these tiny bugs have been along for the ride. Imagine the conditions our ancestors lived in. They had no pest control or ways to fight them off. Washing machines, dryers, showers and chemical pesticides wouldn’t be invented for hundreds of years. I suppose they would just burn any clothing or bedding if an outbreak would occur.

    By the twentieth century, 1 out of 3 Americans had bed bugs. The problem grew as populations grew. Most Americans who lived in cities, lived in tight close quarters. Bed bugs reproduced easily and spread unencumbered. Bed bugs feed on you at night when you are asleep. They inject chemicals such as an anticoagulant and anesthetic so you do not feel a thing. This gives them a nice steady stream of uninterrupted blood. After a blood meal, the bed bug will crawl back into the seams and folds of your mattress and wait for the next night. Most people will develop an allergic reaction to the bites, such skin infections and rashes as well as itching sensations. Pain and swelling are the most common reactions to being bit by bed bugs. They can also cause psychological issues due to poor sleep and and anxiety. Even years after a bed bug infestation, you can still have anxiety, paranoia and trouble sleeping. Seeing every dark speck as a bed bug when getting into bed would drive anyone mad.

    Insects Bring Disease, and Disease Brings Death

    Pest Control really began with mosquitos and war. When mosquitos would feed on us, they would transmit diseases like dengue fever, yellow fever, and malaria. Malaria was the biggest killer of humans in history. The malaria parasite would be transferred into our blood. Malaria would cause fever, loss of blood, convulsions, brain damage and coma. Military troops that got these diseases were decimated in weeks. The entire history of our civilization has been a battle against pests that cause sickness and death.

    During WW2 , the US army worked on fighting bed bugs, mosquitoes and disease. These were major problems that plagued our troops. Bed bugs could infest a whole barracks. Early in the nineteenth century, pyrethrins were extracted from flowers and were manufactured into a chemical pesticide. Eventually, pyrethrins in chrysanthemums were purified for commercial and home use. In addition , a new pesticide called dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, or more commonly known as DDT, was manufactured in laboratories. It was easier to produce. It was easy to apply, and persisted for a long time. Re-applications were seldom needed. Rain and weather would not wash it away. It was seen as safe, effective and hailed as a modern wonder. When sprayed or dusted along entry points, insects would die. Finally, after living with bed bugs for thousands of years, we can sleep in peace.

    By the 1940s and 1950s, the use of pesticides, like DDT, was extremely widespread and common. Farmers were able to produce more crops per acre than ever before. As people fled metropolitan cities and moved to the suburbs, the use of pesticides doubled and were seen as a blessing by keeping unwanted pests from entering a home. Specialized fogging trucks were designed to disperse DDT. Trucks would drive up and down city and suburban streets to rid neighborhoods from mosquitos. There are stories of children chasing and running behind these trucks as they fogged the streets.  DDT was responsible with saving thousands of lives and improving the quality of everyone’s life in America and worldwide. DDT was sprayed by air planes and helicopters on hundreds of acres of crops bound for the dinner table. The modern homes of the 1940s and 1950s that were treated with pyrethrins and DDT were bed bug free, and their presence faded into memory like a bad dream.

    A New Era is Born

    In 1962, a book called Silent Spring was published. It made claims that harmful and everlasting damage to our planet was being caused from pesticides like DDT. Soon, grassroot organizations formed and called for new laws from government. Eventually calling for a complete ban of many pesticides that were being used. This officially ended the “golden years of pesticides.” A new counter culture emerged and rejected the old way of life. Embracing not science, but holistic and “natural” remedies for bed bugs. Salt, vinegar and a host of other home treatments were used to combat these pests. Diatomaceous earth is another example of using alternate methods for control. Results from these methods were poor at best. Bed bugs were too resilient and were not going down without a fight.

    With the official ban of DDT in 1972, the path was cleared for stricter regulations on the use of pesticides for commercial and home use. Scientific studies were finding pesticides like DDT would bioaccumulate in fat tissues of exposed animals. Since it degrades so slowly in the environment, it moves up the animal food chain. Highly toxic to birds and fish, it has the potential to cause irreversible damage to the environment we live in. Other formulations of pesticides such as organophosphates do not persist as long, but are possibly more potent per application. While these pesticides worked extremely well in killing bed bugs, the cons were too much to ignore.

    Welcome to the New Age

    As usage of these pesticides declined, the rate of bed bug infestations increased. By the 1990s a huge resurgence was underway. This new breed of bed bugs were also showing signs of chemical resistance. Studies have found bed bugs have built up an immunity to the most commonly used pyrethroid pesticides today. They have faster metabolisms to strengthen their natural chemical defenses.  Researchers also found modern bed bugs have a thicker skin helping them to survive. In New York City between 2004 and 2009, bed bug infestations rose by 200 percent. That is an alarming number!

    In addition to chemical treatments, pest control companies are also using heat and steam more and more to eradicate bed bugs. They cannot survive in temperatures over 115 degrees. Using a steamer along the seams of a bed mattress or a couch will instantly kill any live bed bugs and their eggs. Using heat is an effective way to kill off a large colony of bed bugs in a room. Heating a room up to 120 degrees for 30 minutes will do the trick. This will also ensure that the eggs are destroyed. Chemical treatments do not kill eggs and by the time bed bugs hatch, the residual of a chemical can be reduced enough that they will not die if the treatment is not thorough.

    The future story of bed bugs is unknown, but we are continually developing new methods for dealing with these pests. What may work for one home, may not work for another. What is clear is that bed bugs are changing their own internal chemistry to combat our efforts to eradicate them from the planet. As they change , so are our methods. In addition to new safer pesticides and using steam, we are successfully winning the war against bed bugs. Our ancient enemy , our sleeping foe, one bug at a time.

  • A Complete Guide on Rodents

    A Complete Guide on Rodents

    Unfortunately, rats and mice can easily make their ways into homes through tiniest gaps. While rodents have an easier time calling a messy property home, they can set up shop in a wide variety of conditions.

    In today’s blog, we will talk a little bit about what are rodents, their common types, signs you need rodent control, rodent infestation in homes, preventing them and how you can get rid of rodents.

    What Are Rodents?

    When we say “rodents”, we are mostly referring to rats and mice. However technically speaking, rodents can be chipmunks, hamsters, squirrels, and many more. The common rats and mice that make their way into people’s homes can carry disease, leave droppings throughout your home, make noise in the middle of the night, and be overall nuisances.

    If you need help safely dealing with rodents on your property, be sure to contact an exterminator at Dave’s Pest Control today!

    Common Rodents in Florida

    Florida is home to a variety of rodents. Here are the most common types of rodents found in Florida.

    1. Norway Rats

    Also known as brown rats, these rodents are found throughout Florida, especially in urban areas. They are known for their burrowing habits and ability to thrive in human environments.

    • Size: Up to 16 inches in length, including the tail
    • Diet: Omnivores—they eat anything from garbage to grains
    • Habitat: Sewers, basements, warehouses, and docks
    • Interesting Fact: Norway rats are strong swimmers and can enter homes through sewer systems.

    2. Roof Rats

    Also called black rats, roof rats are common in Florida, especially along the coast. They are excellent climbers and are often found nesting in attics, trees, and palm fronds.

    • Size: Around 13-18 inches long, including the tail
    • Diet: Fruits, nuts, seeds, and bird eggs
    • Habitat: Roofs, attics, and high places
    • Interesting Fact: Roof rats are highly adaptable and are often found in citrus orchards and near agricultural areas in Florida.

    3. Eastern Gray Squirrels

    Eastern gray squirrel is known for its bushy tail and love of acorns is mostly found in parks of Florida.

    • Size: 9-12 inches long, with a 7-10 inch tail
    • Diet: Acorns, nuts, seeds, and sometimes insects
    • Habitat: Hardwood forests, suburban areas, and urban parks
    • Interesting Fact: Eastern gray squirrels bury nuts in the ground, which helps plant new trees when they forget where they hid them.

    4. Cotton Rats

    Cotton rats are more common in rural and agricultural areas of Florida.

    • Size: 5-7 inches in body length, with a tail about half the body length
    • Diet: Grasses, seeds, and other vegetation
    • Habitat: Fields, farms, and grassy areas
    • Interesting Fact: Cotton rats are an important food source for many predators, including hawks, owls, and snakes.

    5. Beavers

    Beavers are found in wetlands across northern Florida. These industrious rodents are known for building dams and creating small ponds, which benefit many other species.

    • Size: Up to 3 feet long and weighing up to 60 pounds
    • Diet: Bark, twigs, leaves, and aquatic plants
    • Habitat: Wetlands, rivers, and ponds
    • Interesting Fact: Beavers have large, orange teeth that never stop growing, allowing them to chew through tough tree trunks.

    Common Signs of Rodents Infestations

    Even if you don’t see rodents, there are still other signs that may suggest that rodents are in your home. It’s always wise to keep an eye out and call a rodent exterminator near you when you see any of the following signs.

    Droppings

    You may notice little round droppings under your sinks or in cabinets and cupboards. Rats and mice go wherever and whenever they’d like. So if there are rodents in your home, you will likely stumble upon droppings at some point.

    Chewed Food Items

    Rodents are scavengers. They may chew through thin plastic bags or other food containers in order to snack on the food in your home.

    Chewed or Scratched Areas

    You may have noticed chewed or scratched areas where rodents have tried to take shelter in your walls, cabinets, or other wood structures around the home.

    Strange Pet Behaviors

    If you have a cat or dog, sometimes they know the rodents are there before you do. They may sit and stare intently at one location for hours on end. This can serve as a sign of rodent in your home.

    Urine Smell

    In some cases, you will smell the rodents before you ever leave them. Over time, a urine smell starts to develop if the rodents go unnoticed.

    Scratching/Rustling Noises

    Mice and rats aren’t always quiet. In many cases you can hear them scratching are rustling things around your home or in the walls.

    Common Problems Caused by Rodents

    Rodents are not being removed because they look creepy. There are a lot of other problems caused by them that residents of Florida want to get rid of.

    Property Damage:

    Rats and mice chew through walls, insulation, and electrical wiring, which lead to costly repairs.

    Food Contamination:

    Rodents contaminate food with their droppings and urine potentially spreading diseases like salmonella and leptospirosis.

    Disease Transmission:

    Some rodents carry diseases like hantavirus, plague, and rat-bite fever, which can be transmitted to humans through direct contact or through fleas and ticks.

    How to Prevent Rodent Infestations in Florida

    Rodent infestations can be prevent through several ways, lets discuss:

    Seal Entry Points:

    Rats and mice can enter your homes through tiny holes, insulation pipes or cracks. Seal any gaps around doors, windows, and pipes.

    Eliminate Food Sources:

    Store food in airtight containers, and keep garbage in sealed bins as rodents attract towards food.

    Clean Regularly:

    Remove food scraps and clutter from your home or yards.

    If you suspect a rodent infestation, you should instantly contact a pest control professional to remove the infestations and prevent them from coming back.

    How to Exterminate Rodents

    There are common rodent control methods that many people use like mouse traps, glue traps, bait boxes, and more. These methods work well for some people, but it never hurts to work with an exterminator — especially if you have a more serious infestation. Contact the exterminators at Dave’s Pest Control today for rodent control in Florida!

  • Signs of Termites in Your Home

    Signs of Termites in Your Home

    In our previous blog, Termites 101, Dave’s Pest Control gave some basic information about what termites are, termite treatment, and signs of termites. In today’s blog, we dive a little deeper into the signs you can look out for that suggest you may have termites. Keep reading for more in-depth information about termite signs and don’t hesitate to contact us at Dave’s Pest Control for pest control services in southern and central Florida!

    Signs of Termites in your Home

    These signs would make sure your home is infested by termites and you need urgent termite treatment to safe yourself from financial setback.

    Hollow Wood

    Termites eat the cellulose that can be found in wood. As the termite infestation continues, the more wood they will eat. One sign that you can keep an eye out for if you suspect you have termites is hollow wood. If you tap or knock on your walls, floors, and other wood surfaces and discover they are hollower than you remembered, you may be in need of termite treatment.

    Termite Exit Holes

    Termites are very tiny pests, but even tiny pests leave behind evidence — especially pests that are destructive as termites. In the infested wood, if you caught the termites early, you will see pinpoint exit holes about ⅛ of an inch or even smaller. However, it’s much more likely that you will see the exit holes after they have already been sealed. Exit holes are sealed by nymph termites and have a brown cement sort of appearance.

    Have you noticed exit holes or hollowness in the wood around your home? Contact a pest control professional at Dave’s Pest Control today.

    Droppings

    Termites like to keep the areas they are working in free of debris like their own droppings. Because of this, they create small exit holes where they can evacuate their excrement. If you are near an area that you suspect is infested, look for small black mounds around the area. If you spot a small pile that looks like black sawdust or coffee grounds, you have likely stumbled upon termite droppings and are in need of termite treatment.

    Wings

    As terrifying as it may sound, termite swarms can actually fly. If you don’t actually see a swarm of termites flying around, you may stumble upon their wings. Termites discard their wings shortly after they land and find a new home. Finding termite wings on your property is a good indication that you may have a pest control problem.

    Mud Tubes

    Some termites are known as “subterranean” termites. This means that the termites are nesting underground and surface to eat. These underground nests serve as protection and help termites maintain the environment that best suits them. Mud tubes are roughly the diameter of a pencil and lead directly from their underground nest to their wooden food source. If you notice small tunnels leading to a shed, wooden patio furniture, or your home, you should reach out to a pest control service right away.

    Termite Treatment at Dave’s Pest Control

    At Dave’s Pest Control, we have years of experience identifying termite infestations and executing termite treatment. Our pest control team recommends that you do NOT try to deal with termites on your own. The risk associated with termites is too great to risk. If you notice hollowed wood, exit holes, droppings, wings, or mud tubes on your property, reach out to Dave’s Pest Control and get a free estimate right away. We are happy to provide termite control throughout Flagler, Volusia, and Brevard County.

  • Complete Guide on Termites

    Complete Guide on Termites

    Most people have heard of termites before, but not many know much more beyond the fact that they have a propensity for eating wood. Unfortunately, having termites can become a serious problem very quickly if they aren’t taken care of right away. If left untreated, they can compromise the foundation of your home, weaken major load-bearing structures, and create a very unsafe environment for you to live.

    In today’s blog at Dave’s Pest Control, we talk a little bit about what termites are, how to spot them, and how to get rid of them. If you suspect that you may have a termite problem, be sure to contact our exterminators right away.

    What Are Termites?

    Termites are tiny little creatures with six legs that feed on the cellulose found in wood. Termites live in colonies similar to ants, but they have a different look than ants do. Ants have multiple distinguishable sections of their bodies where termites don’t have quite the same separation. Additionally, termites often have a whitish transparent color to them and make an effort to go undetected.

    It’s important that you reach out to an exterminator as soon as possible if you believe that you have termites on your property.

    Common Signs You Need Termite Control

    Just because termites don’t always want to be found doesn’t mean that they don’t leave signs behind. Sometimes, there are more obvious signs like when you see them with your own eyes. Some types of termites can fly and can be seen flying around your property in small swarms. Additionally, termites have a similar appearance to ants. If you see tiny ant-like creatures that are lighter in color, appear to be white and somewhat transparent, and have a straight antenna, then you are looking at a termite rather than an ant. These are the few signs of termites which makes you feel worried and you should call a pest control to get rid of them.

    Other more subtle signs of a termite infestation include:

    • Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
    • Very small holes in drywall
    • Very squeaky floorboards
    • Termite droppings (appear as small piles of salt)
    • Discarded wings
    • Mud tubes

    How To Get Rid Of Termites

    There are common products that you can purchase that are specifically made to target termites. These products are made to be placed in the soil surrounding infested areas and the wood termites are in. For some people in some scenarios, these products work just fine. However, our team at Dave’s Pest Control always recommends calling an exterminator.

    An exterminator is a professional who can ensure that all of the termites are gone for good and won’t come back. With something as dangerous and damaging as termites, though, do you really want to risk DIY pest control? Work with an exterminator to ensure that your termite problem is taken care of swiftly and completely.

    Termite Exterminator Services at Dave’s Pest Control

    At Dave’s Pest Control, we offer years of termite exterminator experience. All of our exterminators are well-trained and armed with multiple different solutions to tackle any pest control problem you have. Contact us at Dave’s Pest Control today and get a free estimate for the termite service of your home.

  • 8 Signs of Rodents in Your Home or Business

    8 Signs of Rodents in Your Home or Business

    Unfortunately, rodents excel at being stealthy and tough-to-detect. Their stealth and ability to go unnoticed is how they manage to survive. So when they find their way into your home, they can often go unnoticed if you aren’t keeping a vigilant eye out. Luckily, there are a few subtle signs of rodents in your home or business that you can keep an eye out for.

    Signs of Rodents in your Home

    Check out our top eight signs of rodents at Dave’s Pest Control. And don’t forget to give us a call if you notice any of these signs of rats or mice in your home. Our pest control team can safely and quickly remove and prevent any rodents in your home or business.

    Droppings

    Mice and rats may be sneaky about being seen, but they don’t seem to have a problem going when they have to go. As gross as this may be, it makes it a lot easier to identify if you have any rodents in your home or business. They leave droppings in cabinets, along walls, in drawers, or other areas that are relatively out of sight. If you suspect that you may have a rodent control problem, spend a little time searching for droppings as evidence. Or, if you stumble across droppings while going about your life, take this as a sign of a rodent problem and call pest control services right away.

    Gnawed Food Containers

    Rodents are notorious for chewing through cereal box containers, thin plastic bags, or other somewhat flimsy food containers to gain access to the tasty treats inside. If you notice chewed-through boxes and containers, this is another big sign that you may be sharing your home with rodents. Keep a sharp eye out for damaged cereal boxes and other thin food containers — especially the corners.

    Chewed or Scratched Areas

    Food containers are not the only thing that mice can scratch and claw their way into. Rodents can chew and scratch wood, drywall, baseboards, and other surfaces in your home to find a suitable hiding place. Mice and rats can fit into surprisingly small holes, so holes and scratch marks of any kind may be an indication of a rodent control issue. If you suspect you may have one or more rodents in your home, check around for gnawed wood, small holes, and scratched areas. Places to look include cabinets, along the walls, and other out-of-the-way areas in your home or business.

    Nests

    Rodents will find a spot that is hidden and out of the way to set up a home base. At this home base, you will find a nest made from paper, trash, fabric, or anything else they can find nearby. Even if you find a nest without a rodent in it, it likely means that there is a rodent creeping about nearby. If you find a rodent’s nest, contact pest control services like our team at Dave’s Pest Control to confirm you have found a rodent’s nest and help remove rodents or mice from your property.

    Strange Pet Behavior

    Sometimes pets notice there is a pest control problem before people do. Odd pet behavior is another sign that could point to there being rodents or other pests in your home. Cats and dogs may pick up on a subtle scent or even have a sighting or a rodent before we do. After all, they are home a lot more than we are. Cats will stay in one place staring for hours on end as they hunt down the rodent they have picked up on. Dogs can behave similarly, or they can whine, suddenly dart after something, or exhibit other unusual behavior if they have picked up on a rodent.

    Sightings

    When most people have a rodent sighting, it usually happens so fast they wonder if they even saw anything at all. Mice and rats are very quick. So if you do spot them, it will usually be very briefly out of the corner of your eye. They appear as a dark streak much of the time. Though they can sometimes be seen hiding or slowly making their way along a wall. Sightings are the clearest sign of all that there is a pest control problem. Unfortunately, if you spot one rodent, there is a high chance that there are many more you don’t see.

    Things Going Bump in the Night

    You may hear mice and rats in your walls and scuttering around at night before you ever see them. Keep an ear out for tiny scampering noises, the rustling of plastic or packaging, a rustling in the garbage, or scratching noises. Isolated incidents of these noises may not necessarily be a sign that you have a rodent control problem. But, if you regularly hear any of these noises, it may be time to call your local pest control professionals.

    Urine Smells

    Mice and rats themselves often come with a stale, musty odor. Additionally, their urine has a strong ammonia smell. Because it can be difficult to see if you have a rodent control problem, it’s important to trust your other senses as well like sound and smell. If you are noticing a new unpleasant urine smell, it could be a sign that you have a pest control issue.

    Dave’s Pest Control

    We hope that today’s blog post has armed you with the knowledge you need to identify the signs of a rodent infestation. Rodent control is far easier and more effective the sooner it is detected. The longer a pest control problem like mice and rats go unnoticed, the worse the infestation gets. Knowing the signs and what to look out for can help you prevent needing pest control services for rodents in the future!

    No matter how clean and careful you are, though, rodents can sometimes make their way into your home or business. If this is the case for you, be sure to contact us at Dave’s Pest Control sooner and get a free estimate. We have extensive experience and regularly work in Southern and Central Florida.

  • Tips for Preventing Mice in Your Business

    Tips for Preventing Mice in Your Business

    In our last blog post at Dave’s Pest Control, we talked about great ways to prevent mice and other rodents from entering your home. You can check that helpful blog out here. Expanding on that idea, today’s blog post is all about tips for preventing mice in your business! As always, if you need help from our pest control services to remove and prevent mice or any other pests in your business, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We have years of experience in the pest control industry and work extensively throughout Flagler and Volusia county. If your business is in Port Orange, Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, New Smyrna, Deland, or any of the nearby cities, contact Dave’s Pest Control today.

    It may seem obvious why you don’t want mice scampering around your business — especially if your business handles food. Mice make even some of the bravest souls a little squeamish. But beyond being uncomfortable to be around, there are countless other reasons why you really don’t want mice in your business. If customers see them, they give the impression that your establishment is unkempt, unhealthy, and frankly, gross. Not to mention the diseases that mice and rats can carry on them. That’s why restaurants are shut down if health inspectors find signs of significant rodent activity.

    Tips To Prevent Rats and Mice In Your Business

    Rodent control is necessary if you are a self-respecting business, but what can you do to prevent rodents from getting into your business? Keep reading for a few helpful pest control tips.

    Keep Your Environment Clean

    This pest control tip is probably the most obvious and arguably one of the most effective. Whether your business is an office or a restaurant, cleanliness is key. Mice and rats are scavengers. If there are crumbs of food, garbage with old food they can get into, or trash/mess that they can use for cover, they are going to be more prone to set up shop in your business. Make sure you regularly vacuum up crumbs, throw away garbage, prevent the trash from piling up, and just practice good housekeeping in general. This isn’t something that you have to do on your own, you can have everybody in the office do their part by setting some clear ground rules or hire an outside company to come in nightly for a thorough cleaning.

    Minimize Desk Eating

    This pest control tip mostly applies to office complexes, but it can be applied to nearly any business. We get it, there are deadlines, things to do, and no time to get it all done. This can make eating at your desk feel like the only option. And as long as you are cleaning up after yourself, this can be a non-issue. But, in general, it’s best to have everyone eat in one centralized location in an effort to contain any mess that comes from food. When everyone eats in an established kitchen or other location, cleaning services (whether that’s you or a company you hired) can take extra care to make sure this is sanitary and cleanly to prevent mice from calling your office home.

    Unfortunately, even the best-kept offices can sometimes experience rodent control issues. In cases like these, it’s important to act fast by calling your local pest control professional, Dave’s Pest Control.

    Find Possible Entry Points

    Just like when you are preventing mice in your home, preventing mice in your business can be as easy as pinpointing the location where rodents are entering your building. Once you find out where they are getting in, it’s as simple as sealing the entrance so they no longer have easy access. Rodents can be crafty creatures, so make sure that you do your best to identify all of the access points they could be entering from. Businesses are typically larger than homes, so there may be multiple different locations they are entering from.

    Store Food Properly

    Proper food storage is paramount in the prevention of rodents in your business. Whether you are in an office space or a restaurant, ensure that any food being left at the office is stored in a sealed container. Plastic Tupperware works just fine in most cases. Additionally, food should be stored more than 6 inches off the ground. This makes it significantly more difficult for rodents to access your stored food and oftentimes prevents you from needing other pest control services too. Food should never be left out in the open for long periods of time and crumbs, dropped food, or other food messes should be cleaned up right away. This is not only great for rodent control prevention but also good housekeeping practices, in general, that will help keep your workplace a more clean environment.

    Proper Handling of Trash

    Making sure all of your waste makes it into the wastebasket at work is only half the battle. The other half is actually taking it out to the dumpster or whatever large sealed trash receptacle you have. Office trash cans can have all manner of food, drinks, and other things the rodents are attracted to. Rats and mice see this as an all-you-can-eat buffet just sitting there waiting for them to dig in. Our team at Dave’s Pest Control recommends taking out trash regularly and often. At the very least, all the trash in the office should be emptied nightly to prevent it from sitting overnight.

    Pro Tip: Make sure the dumpster area is free of trash and other debris on the ground as well. You may think nothing of rodents being in your outside trash, but they can quickly push further into your business from the dumpster.

    Early Detection

    Like we mentioned earlier, rodents are crafty and tenacious creatures. Even if you follow all of these tips, there is still a chance that mice and rats can make their way into your business. While the chances are greatly reduced if you are following these pest control prevention tips, it is still possible. In cases like these, early detection is key. Keep an eye out for signs of rodents like droppings, chewed through food containers, gnaw marks, scampering noises, sightings of even one rodent, and nests. If you even suspect that a mouse or rat has made their way into your business, don’t risk it — reach out to us at Dave’s Pest Control right away. We can further investigate to identify if there is a rodent control problem and swiftly resolve the issue. Even if there isn’t an existing rodent infestation, we can help you fortify your business against rodents.

    Call Dave’s Pest Control

    Dave’s Pest Control has years of pest control experience and has built a respectable reputation throughout Florida for our quality service. Whether you suspect that a rodent may have made its way into your establishment or you stumble upon a large-scale rodent infestation, we are the pest control team you can trust to get the job done. Contact us today to learn more and to start your rodent control services.