Author: Stella

  • How to Remove Carpenter Ants: Top 10 Methods

    How to Remove Carpenter Ants: Top 10 Methods

    One of the most common threat to homeowners in the United States are the infestations of carpenter ants. They build their nests in the wood by making tunnels and thus cause damages to homes. These are very expensive to repair. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood. Knowing how to kill carpenter ants is necessary for many reasons, let’s explore them in this article!

    Do carpenter ants bite?

    You may ask yourself, do carpenter ants bite? They do bite, but it is a rare thing. Carpenter ants bite only when are provoked in any way.But, even when they do, their bites are light and pose no risk to the health of humans and pets. You might sense a slight burning feeling, but it will go away quickly. Unlike fire ants, the bites of carpenter ants cause problems like small swelling, etc.

    10 Ways for how to kill carpenter ants

    how-to-kill-carpenter-ants

    Got the problem? Here are ten proven methods of how to kill carpenter ants and to keep your home free from them:

    1. Find the Nest:

    Your first course of action in the endeavor of how to kill carpenter ants would be to locate their nest. The signs you can look for are piles of sawdust, noises of movement in walls, or a group of ants trailing along the way to the wet wood.

    2. Use Ant Baits:

    Place purchased or homemade ant baits on the ant routes. Worker ants will transport the bait back to the nest, thus they will spread the poison and rid the colony. It can be said that one of the best alternatives to how to kill carpenter ants is this method here.

    3. Use Non-Repellent Insecticides:

    Apply a non-repellent insecticide around the house boundary. Carpenter ants would not be able to sense those insecticides hence they will walk through them and would eventually carry the toxins back to the nest.

    4. Powder Insecticides:

    Dust the wall voids, baseboards, or other infested areas with insecticide. The dust gets stuck on the ants and penetrates throughout the colony, making it an efficient way to kill carpenter ants.

    5. Boric Acid and Borax:

    Both boric acid and borax are kid and pet-safe as long as followed basic safety rules. Feed the ants sugar or peanut butter mixed with the substances, and in no time, they will consume the food. These baits work slowly and thus give the ants enough time to spread the poison.

    6. Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth:

    Dust diatomaceous onto ant trails and other places they are entering the house through. The product, being all-natural, cuts off the water supply and kills the ants in one fell swoop. It is a non-toxic way to how to kill carpenter ants.

    7. Close the entry:

    Close the openings like cracks, gaps, and holes with the help of sealants for windows, doors, and foundations to not let the ants in. By doing this, you not only keep those creatures away, but you also send them to bait stations.

    8. Eliminate Dampness:

    Carpenter ants simply adore waterlogged wood. Therefore, it makes sense that eliminating excess moisture, fixing leaks, more natural ventilation, and keeping wood dry would repel these pests.

    9. Cut Off Vegetation:

    Remove the extension of tree branches and shrubs close to your house. Ants heavily rely on these to access our homes so by trimming you effectively reduce their reach.

    10. Consult a Professional:

    If your own attempts at pest management are unsuccessful, contact a pest control service. Professionals have access to a wider variety of products and have the necessary skills. They safely and thoroughly exterminate a big infestation, thus giving you full relief from the problem.

    What kills carpenter ants?

    how-to-kill-carpenter-ants

    Know what kills carpenter ants, to end their infestation. The most favorable outcome is achieved using a combination of the most suitable baits and insect poison.

    • Bait that is enhanced by a combination of Boric Acid, Abamectin, and Fipronil: This kind of new bait has proven to be very useful in ant eradication. The transport of the bait by the ants to the nest causes the destruction of the entire colony, along with the queen.
    • Repellent-free reception of Aerosols: The products filled with zeta-cypermethrin or any other similar ingredient are able to get rid of ants immediately upon contact and at the same time, they keep affecting the ants going through the treated surfaces.
    • Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth and powdered Borax: Those are the natural ways of ant control that are non-toxic to your pets and are functional in a way that the ants are killed by either causing damage to their exoskeleton or by disturbing their digestive systems.
    • Perimeter Insecticide Dust: It is possible to go to the extent of the colony in to kill them where other methods such as sprays and baits do not have the reach. 
    • Chemicals that are of Professional Grade: People who carry licenses can employ special baits and sprays that are not accessible to the public and as a result, they can solve severe infestations more comprehensively.

    Just adhere to the label’s instructions so as to safeguard pets and also do not put baits or chemicals where pets can get access to them. Always observe pet safety instructions and avoid baits or chemicals in places where pets can easily find them.

    Conclusion

    After you have acquired the knowledge and you understand how to kill carpenter ants, you will protect your home and your pets from damage and discomfort. Ants is a persistence issue in homes, so you have to follow all the instructions and keep your house dry and clean all the time. If at any moment, you feel the need to go to others for help, please do not postpone contacting the professionals.

  • Tick Borne Diseases: 10 Threats You Must Know

    Tick Borne Diseases: 10 Threats You Must Know

    Ticks can spread Tick Borne Diseases to both pets and people. These are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that ticks transfer to humans or animals when they feed on them. These diseases are not just a bothersome factor, they are so severe. If the diseases are left untreated, the situation may get out of hand. Therefore, learning and realizing this fact as soon as possible about the mode of transmission of these diseases may be of a lot of help to your pet’s health.

    Top 10 Tick Borne Diseases with Their Symptoms

    1. Anaplasmosis-

    This disease, which is tick-borne and transmissible through the black-legged ticks, results in symptoms such as-

    • Fever
    • Energy loss
    • Joint pain
    • Time to time vomiting
    • Diarrhea

    The condition may also be presented as low platelet counts that eventually cause bleeding problems.

    2. Babesiosis-

    The parasites of Babesia are the ones that destroy red blood cells, thus, causing anemia.

    Signs of this disease are of such a clear nature as-

    • Pale mucous membranes
    • Icterus
    • Dark-colored urine
    • Fever
    • Lethargy

    It is evident that the serious forms of the disease are those that can bring about mere weakness and a significant decrease in weight.

    3. Bourbon Virus-

    It is a different kind and bourbon virus is very deadly.

    The symptoms of this disease are-

    • Fever
    • Fatigue
    • Rash
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Headache
    • Body aches
    • Diarrhea

     The most severe cases are the ones requiring professional medical care.

    4. Colorado Tick Fever-

    It a viral disease, is the reason for fever, chills, headache, body aches, and sometimes a rash. It’s most common in the western U.S.

    5. Ehrlichiosis-

    The infection of Ehrlichiosis, generally occurs from the bite of a brown dog tick.

    The symptoms of this disease are-

    • High temperature
    • Enlarged lymph nodes
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of appetite
    • Weight loss
    • Neurological disorders
    • Bleeding problems as well.

    6. Lyme Disease

    Carried by various Borrelia bacteria, this infection results in recurrent problems.

    The symptoms of this disease are-

    • Fevers
    • Headaches
    • Muscle
    • Joint aches
    • Rash

    7. Crimean-Congo Fever- CCHF-

    It is another of the rare but very dangerous viruses carried by ticks in the USA.

    The symptoms include-

    • Fever
    • Tiredness
    • Headaches
    • Muscle pain
    • Loss of white blood cell counts in the body.
    • In extreme instances, it can lead to hospitalization.

    8. Lyme Disease-

    It is possible that Lyme disease is the most common disease of all.

    The symptoms include-

    • Swollen joints
    • Fever
    • Lack of appetite
    • Lethargy.
    • In some cases, it may harm the kidneys.

    9. Fast-Growing Spotted Fever-

    It causes a high fever, lack of appetite, painful lymph nodes, joint inflammation, vomiting, diarrhea, and a characteristic rash. Severe cases can progress to neurological symptoms and bleeding.

    10. STARI

    Through carrying the bacteria and having symptoms of such, STARI can cause the person affected to be frightened.

    The symptoms usually include-

    • Fever
    • Fatigue
    • Muscle aches
    • Skin rash

    How Tick-Borne Diseases Are Spread

    Ticks do not jump or fly. As your dog goes through, the tick will attach itself and search for a biting spot, usually around the ears, neck, or under the legs. As soon as it attaches itself to you, the tick will insert its feeding tube and begin sucking blood immediately.

    The longer a tick feeds on the host, the higher the chances of disease transmission. For example, the Lyme disease bacteria mostly need 24-48 hours of attachment to spread. While some like those causing ehrlichiosis or Rocky Mountain spotted fever can transmit within a few hours. That’s why regular tick checks and relatively early removal are important.

    A solitary tick bite can pass more than a single illness. It is possible that dogs don’t have symptoms at first, for some signs might show up weeks, and even months post exposure.

    Conclusion

    For health-conscious pet parents, preventing your pets and your family from Tick Borne Diseases is a priority. A little prevention goes a long way in the battle against Tick Borne Diseases, so you and your pup can continue to enjoy the great outdoors without a care in the world.

  • Tick Types: Most Common in America

    Tick Types: Most Common in America

    Introduction to Types of Ticks

    Several Tick Types in America can be the carriers of dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis. The knowledge of the most common Tick Types and the signs of tick growth in pets can be a certain protection for pets from these tick bites.

    5 Common Tick Types in the United States

    5 Tick Types that are currently in the United States, and that are most likely to come into contact with your dog are-

    1. American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)

    • The American dog tick has always been one of the most common Tick Types in the US. Adult specimens are about to be found just at first glance due to the combination of their brown bodies with white or silver markings on their backs. When engorged, female ticks change color to gray.
    • American dog ticks are well known for causing diseases like tularemia to dogs and humans. Dogs seem to be their preferred victims but they can easily switch to other species. For example, people in addition to cattle and wildlife.
    • These ticks are mainly seen in the spring and early summer. After a feast, the female tick may spawn thousands of eggs, hence an infestation is hard to be rectified. Ticks virtually never infest buildings but are quite a threat where there is a little canopy of trees outdoors.

    2. Blacklegged Tick

    • Western regions know it by the name blacklegged tick, and in the east, it goes by the name deer tick. The black-legged tick is tinier than the dog tick yet it is very dangerous. The adult black-legged tick is about 0.9×0.5mm in size and is almost two times smaller than the adult dog tick. They are usually found in grassy and woodland areas.
    • Due to global warming, the ticks are increasing. They are mostly present in the Midwest and Northeast and along the Pacific Coast. They are predominant in areas where the rodent reservoirs are and later transmits to humans.
    • These ticks are well known for being the transmitters of Lyme disease, as well as babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. Nymphs of these species are dangerous since they can hardly be detected. These tick species are active from spring to the end of autumn, and one bite can transmit Lyme disease if the tick is not removed in time.

    3. Lone Star Tick

    • This tick has a single white dot on the back of the adult female. Lone Star ticks are not only aggressive biters but are also very likely to bite dogs, humans, and wildlife. They cause red and itchy rashes and transmit ehrlichiosis, tularemia, as well as another disease-STARI.
    • Important- Some people, that have been bitten by the Lone Star ticks, become allergic to meat, and this disease is called alpha-gal syndrome. These ticks are most active during early spring and late fall.

    4. Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus)

    • Brown dog ticks are bicolored and have a conical, elongated form. The larvae, nymphs, and adults of this species are the cause of a theoretical illness called erliquiosis, amongst the symptoms of which are: headache, sore muscles, fever, etc. Toddlers, seniors, and the one with weaker immunity are the most likely to catch the infection.
    • Brown dog ticks are only found indoors, so their hosts are strictly limited to dogs, and they survive by remaining in one place an entire life-cycle. The ticks can move from a pet to its owner and cause severe symptoms. The transmission of the pathogens to the bloodstream can lead to the growth of the disease.

    5. Rocky Mountain Wood Tick (Dermacentor andersoni)

    • Rocky Mountain wood tick can be found in the states near Rocky Mountains and in the parts of the Pacific Northwest. These are similar to the American dog tick, which has a red-brown body with silver spots.
    • Mostly these ticks are active during the spring and the beginning of the summer. Their preferred habitats are grassy, bush, or forest areas in highlands. The infection by Rocky Mountain Wood Tick from one host to another can be Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, and tularemia.
    • Moreover, they have the potential to cause tick paralysis in canines and humans-a rare but very serious condition. If you go hiking or camping in the Rockies, don’t forget to check your dog (and yourself) in time after every outdoor adventure!

    Conclusion

    If you’re a pet owner, one of the responsibly common things to do is get yourself familiar with the Tick Types in America for dog protective measures and for the safety of your family.

    The thorough understanding of a species individual behavior, and risky diseases is quite crucial when it comes to seeking the best preventative measures while some other strategies like regular tick checks, unstoppable prevention, and on-time extraction will give the results. The constant protection of your pet (and yourself) against ticks is important.

  • Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick: A 2 Year Process

    Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick: A 2 Year Process

    The Life cycle of blacklegged tick or a deer tick. It is an extremely small spider-like creature that is known for giving Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis by its bite. These dangerous parasites are the reason for most of the infection cases with Lyme disease in 14 states in the northern part of the country. Ticks are carriers of the infectious agents and they are distributed to humans by a bite of the parasites during the absorption of human blood by the latter.

    Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick

    The Life Cycle of the blacklegged (Deer) tick, Ixodes scapularis, takes place during two or even three years and consists of the four stages:

    1. Egg Stage-

    In early spring, after feeding on a host, adult female blacklegged ticks lay thousands of eggs in moist, sheltered spots near animal trails or under leaf litter.

    These eggs are tiny, often red-brown in color, and almost invisible to the naked eye. Laying eggs in such strategic locations ensures the next generation will have easy access to passing hosts.

    2. Larva Stage-

    The eggs hatch into six-legged larvae, sometimes known as “seed ticks.” These larvae are really tiny-no larger than a grain of sand-hungry and thirsty for their first “blood” meal.

    The most delicious dishes for the newborn ticks are small mammals, such as a mouse or a bird such as a sparrow. They don’t spread the diseases while in the larvae stage, biting an unhealthy animal, they can acquire bacteria that cause Lyme disease.

     After three days of sucking, the larvae leaves the host, transforms into nymphs, and are often to be found in the hiding place.

    3. Nymph Stage-

    The following spring, nymphs are out and now with eight legs and a little bit bigger than their former size, approximately poppy seed in size.

    The danger with a Tick Life Cycle is its very next phase, i.e. nymphs.

    They are active at the period between May till July and are mainly responsible for the transmission of pathogens that cause tick-borne-diseases.

    The main reason is due to the fact that they are small, difficult to see and also they can pick up the infection from their larval feeding. The nymphs fall off the host after feeding, and molt once more to become adults.

    4. Adult Stage

    Adult blacklegged ticks are most likely to be seen in the fall and will continue being active throughout the winter if it never gets too cold. Adults are easier to spot due to their larger size. Females are easily identifiable by the red-brown body and black legs they have. This is the time the ticks move towards bigger hosts like deer, dogs, or even humans.

    Females need another full blood meal for reproducing, but males only mate and shortly thereafter, they die. Once the female has mates, she will lay eggs in the spring, and the Tick Life Cycle will begin again.

    Features of the Blacklegged (Deer) Tick

    Host Switching- One of the features that distinguish Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick is that blacklegged ticks usually have a different host at every stage. This increases their exposure to a wide range of animals and thus the possibility of disease transmission. For pet owners, it means that the dog is likely to be exposed to ticks. He has been on wildlife before and were carrying dangerous pathogens.

    Conclusion: Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick

    The Life Cycle of Blacklegged (Deer) Tick is a process that starts with an egg and ends with an adult tick. Each stage being a chance for the tick to acquire a host and transmit disease. This article has explained the Tick Life Cycle and the best ways to avoid the tick seasons. This ensures that your dear pets do not fall sick from tick-borne diseases. It is important that you provide vet-approved products for tick prevention and make sure that your yard is always clean. It is worth noting that with knowledge and care, you can still enjoy your outdoor activities. Have fun with your pets in a safe, and a no-tick environment!

  • Bed Bug Vs Tick: Hidden Dangers at Home

    Bed Bug Vs Tick: Hidden Dangers at Home

    Bed bugs and ticks both are disgusting creatures. They suck the blood out of your body and can be very dangerous to you. They are totally different in the ways they live, the health threats they pose, and the ways in which they can enter your home. The hot topic of the bed bug vs tick dispute is usually started by pet owners. However, to be safe from the itchy bites and diseases that bed bugs and ticks can cause is to understand their unique characteristics.

    Tick vs. Bed Bug: How to Know If It’s a Tick or a Bed Bug

    The physical appearances of these pests show that at a distance, they are similar in size, both wingless, and round. But after close examination, the differences are clear to see:

    • Size and Shape: The common bed bug measures 4-5 mm in length ( apple seed), is elongated, and flattens out.

    Ticks are usually smaller, around 3-5 mm, but when they get bloated with blood, their size can be triple and reach 10 mm. Right after feeding, the ticks become swollen, whereas the bed bugs still look somewhat thin.

    • Color: Bed bugs change from red or brown and become more transparent after they have swollen up due to the blood. Ticks are initially brown or dark brown, but when they feed, they may become grey or light red.
    • Legs: Insects have six legs, which is true of the bed bug, while ticks have eight legs.
    • Movement: One of the more basic ways of identifying them is that bed bugs search for a host that they can suck blood from, sometimes, they roam around without the host even realizing it. Ticks, on the contrary, remain in a passive state known as “questing,” where they simply lie in hiding on leaves and appears not to be moving.

    If you see a bug with eight legs and a round inflated body hanging onto your dog, it is probably a tick. If the bug is flat, the color is red-brown, and it is seen under your bed, then most likely it is a bed bug.

    A Guide on How to Distinguish Tick Bites vs Bed Bug Bites

    bed-bug

    Both bugs can cause irritated and itchy marks, but their appearance, effects, and ways of transmission differ:

    Bed Bug Bites-

    • These are usually small, red, and itchy spots that are frequently in lines or groups on the skin that is exposed, e.g. arms, neck, or back.
    • Bed bugs prefer to bite the same place several times, usually at night, after what they go back to their shelters.
    • Bed bug bites are certainly very uncomfortable and sometimes can cause allergic reactions to humans or pets.
    • However, they are still the non-carriers and not the source of diseases to the man and pets.

    Tick Bites:

    • Ticks adhere to the host’s skin and suck blood there for more than one day.
    • Afterward, the bite is first quite unexpressed and people do not feel anything but the tick continues to adhere.
    • If the tick brings a disease, the symptoms will probably appear later as a spot or sore area, fever, or muscle and joint aches.
    • The following are common diseases caused by tick bite-
    • Lyme disease
    • Rocky Mountain spotted fever
    • Anaplasmosis
    • Ehrlichiosis
    • Ticks-thus posing a greater health risk than bed bug bites.

    Real-life example: Imagine your dog is continuously rubbing behind the ear. Your search reveals a tick that has anchored. This is a common sign of tick bite. On the contrary, a person who wakes up with a sense of itching, crosses over the arm, with small reddened hives, and this may be a sign of bed bug bites.

    The Places They Live and the Signs of an Infestation

    Knowing the environment where these bugs can be found and their penetration into your house will aid you in taking preventive measures:

    Bed Bugs: These are some of the most common pests that are found in the house and they are mostly found indoors and can be found in the folds of the mattress, the bed frame, the furniture, behind the wallpaper or the socket when they are not draining their food sources by feeding on humans. Bed bugs are nighttime insects and only come out at night to feed.

    tick

    Ticks: Ticks are commonly found in grass or woods. A very common way for ticks to get onto people and pets is through hikes in the mentioned environments. Ticks may choose to travel indoors by most commonly clinging on the clothes of people or the fur of animals. Ticks do not colonize indoors like bed bugs do, but they may still be present in household spaces. They can attach themselves to animals or be hidden in pet beddings.

    • You will find ticks on your pet’s fur around the ears, neck, and underbelly.
    • Ticks on your own skin or clothing after being outdoors.

    Note- While it’s almost always a bed bug if it’s found in your bed! Ticks usually are on the pets or humans.

    Conclusion: Bed Bug vs Tick

    The difference between bed bug vs tick is critical to the well-being of both owners and pets. Bed bugs, at the most, cause itchy bites. However, they do not spread diseases. But Ticks transfer dangerous bacteria and viruses to humans and animals. Therefore, it is important to know their habits. It will help recognize early warning signs to make your home safe, healthy and pest-free.

  • Centipede vs Millipede: Which One’s in Your Home?

    Centipede vs Millipede: Which One’s in Your Home?

    When you see something small and creepy crawling that has way too many legs. Do you wonder if it a centipede or a millipede? Telling them apart actually matters. It helps you figure out whether you’re dealing with a harmless pest or a harmful disease carrier. A lot of homeowners get confused between the two. But once you learn the difference between centipede vs millipede, everything becomes easy. It can help you protect your home and keep the pests under control.

    Centipede vs Millipede: One is a predator and the other’s a decomposer

    The distinction between centipedes and millipedes often causes people to mix them up.  Although they share similar names and live in similar environments they remain distinct creatures. Centipedes show quick movements and hunting behaviour yet millipedes move slowly as they break down plant matter through decomposition.

    The natural habitats of centipedes and millipedes include leaf-covered areas and soil and damp basements. Each species possesses distinct body structures and leg patterns and separate behavioral characteristics.

    Therefore, effective pest control starts with understanding these distinctions and using them to protect your home.

    How Many Legs Does a Centipede Have

    How-Many-Legs-Does-a-Centipede-Have (1)

    People often ask about the number of legs each of them have, when they talk about centipede vs millipede. Many of them want to know, how many legs does a centipede have and the response is going to shock you!

    Even though their name suggests otherwise, centipedes do not have one hundred legs. On the contrary, centipedes have a range of legs 30 to 382, usually, depending on the species. Centipedes have one pair of legs per body segment while the total number of legs is always an odd number of pairs. That is the only reason you will not find a centipede with 100 legs. They are flat and flexible in appearance.

    Centipedes Legs is the most prominent characteristic. The first pair of legs has been converted into poison fangs, and centipedes use these fangs to catch and paralyze their prey in milliseconds. If you see an insect in your house with a flat-body, who is also a fast runner with legs coming out of their sides, then you are likely to have a centipede. Based on these differences in how they operate in the ecosystem, the examination of the centipede vs millipede scenario would find centipedes as the runners and exploiters.

    How Many Legs Does a Millipede Have: The Truth Might Surprise You.

    People think that there are thousand legs in a millipede, but the majority of the millipede population has far fewer legs. In real terms, if the question is how many legs does a millipede have, the vast majority will answer something between 80 and 400 legs, but still you may find an odd species with 750 legs or even more.

    Millipede has two pairs of legs, and not just one. Their legs are shorter and point down straight, which makes millipedes look round. As they grow, millipedes add segments and legs, so the number may change during their life.

    Millipedes cannot be characterized as aggressive creatures. Instead, they crawl very slowly through the soil, eating decaying plants while also working as recyclers of the nutrients back to the earth. If followed by danger, millipedes may secrete an odorless but repulsive fluid in the face of danger. In the centipede vs millipede battle, millipedes are the kind recyclers, not the killers.

    Conclusion: Centipede vs Millipede

    In short, finding out the centipede vs millipede difference is a must. Millipedes are slow, round and long creatures that eat dead plants and thus they recycle nutrients. Centipedes on the other hand are the fast ones. These guys feed on other insects, so they’re also not all bad. So next time, remember: centipede vs millipede isn’t just a battle of legs it’s about knowing your home’s tiny invaders.

    So, next time you ask yourself how many legs does a millipede have, remember that millipedes always have more legs than centipedes, but never reach a thousand. By knowing all this, you can make your house a comfortable place to stay.

  • Dragon Millipedes: Explore the Unique Pest!

    Dragon Millipedes: Explore the Unique Pest!

    The dragon millipedes is one of the most visually striking and attractive in the natural world. Its lively colors and the horned, dragon-like texture are the reasons why the millipede was loved by the people. Even though it may look scary, the dragon millipede is an example of how nature employs color to survive.

    All About dragon millipedes

    The dragon millipedes are so unique in their shapes. The spiny projections they carry on their bodies make them look like dragons. The majority of the species are of small size, with the length being no more than 3 centimeters (1.2 inches). They have low stature, and each of the segments have lateral folds which produce a shape similar to a dragon.

    The best thing about a dragon millipede is that it can produce a poison called hydrogen cyanide for its defense. This poisonous substance is used to scare predators and at the same time, it makes the millipede smell like almonds.

    While many species of millipedes are brightly colored, those that live in caves, on the contrary, are losing their color. Some even appear pale or completely transparent.

    Pink Dragon Millipede

    pink-dragon-millipedes

    One of the species of millipedes, the Pink Dragon Millipede (Desmoxytes purpurosea) is the most popular. It is also the most attractive one genetically. First found in Thailand, this of millipede won recognition from many other lands because of the incredibly bright pink body.

    The pink color of the millipede tells the predators not to approach it as it has a protective device inside – the poison that it releases when it is being attacked by the predators.

    The Pink Dragon Millipede is about 3 centimeters long, it has a spiny, flattened body that makes it look like a miniature dragon. Mostly, it is seen on the ground on leaf litter, especially after it rains. And no aggressive behavior is often reported as its main trait.

    In most cases, the millipede will not attack you even if it looks like that! It is usually hiding and trying to avoid confrontation through chemical defenses.

    Places They Are Found In

    Dragon millipede species are predominantly from Southeast Asia with the highest number coming from countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, and southern China. An example is The Pink Dragon Millipede. There were other species in otjer the parts of the world like India, Sri Lanka, etc can be the habitat of as well as the result of the unintentional transportation by human beings.

    The habitation of the vibrant rainforests and damp leaf litter and decaying wood where most of the dragon millipede species are found favors the life of those insects. Some species have developed cave-dwelling characters to an extent where they have evolved very long legs and antennae or reduced the colors or completely lost the colors.

    Are They Dangerous?

    The dragon millipede is not regarded as a danger to the human race, it is not to say that they are not able to spray with a toxic chemical liquid as a means of its natural defense. If a human being gives it a feeling of being threatened, it naturally secretes hydrogen cyanide, a toxic chemical that is used as a warning to its aggressors and is also the source of the almond smell usually associated with millipedes. This secretion is toxic; however, the dosage the millipede issues out is of no harm to healthy adults when they come into a brief touch. Still, it is highly recommended that one should avoid touching the millipedes without any equipment, particularly if you have cuts or sensitive skin, and always wash your hands thoroughly after any contact.

    No children and animals should try to handle these millipedes. Why? Because they are so small and their bodies are so thin, therefore they can easily get killed. Another reason is that their chemical defenses could cause a mild irritation.

    Dragon Millipedes Conclusion

    The dragon millipede definitely stands as a prime example of nature’s creativity. It has a unique body structure, and chemical defenses, to survive in a region. You may be fascinated by the radiant pink color of the Pink Dragon Millipede. These millipedes give you a sneak peek at the natural world’s amazing things. With the proper care and treatment, these animals are harmless to people, and a popular choice among exotic pet lovers. If you ever come across a dragon millipede, take your time to glorify its beauty from a close distance

  • Natural Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

    Natural Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

    I am assuming you are among the vast majority of pet owners who have a sincere wish for your pet to stay healthy and happy. You do not want your pet to suffer from harsh chemical treatments. In this case, a natural flea and tick prevention for dogs can be your saviour. This not only grants you peace of mind but also provides a much-needed itch-free summer for your beloved pet.

    Profits from organic and eco-friendly companies are on the rise since pet parents want to keep their pets safe!

    Introduction To Natural Flea and Tick Control

    It’s not only that fleas and ticks are a bother because they can lead to skin irritation, allergies, and transmit canine diseases.  Using natural flea and tick control is essential. They help not only in getting rid of the bugs in a more natural way but are also contributing to the less polluted world. And I’ve seen people wanting more and more eco-friendly products.

    5 Ways to Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks Naturally

    Ways-to-Get-Rid-of-Fleas-and-Ticks-Naturally

    Educate yourself about the natural options that Mother Nature provides for keeping the house and your pet free from fleas and ticks. Here are a few natural methods:

    1. Yard Hygiene: It has been scientifically proven that flea exposure can be reduced by taking care of your lawn hygiene. Mashed lawn, for instance, can not only be infected by ticks and flea eggs but also be a home and a well-furnished dining area for them.
    2. Use Oils: Animals attract mites, fleas, and ticks because of their odor. Essential oils like cedarwood can be used. You just have to dilute them with water. The essential oils serve as a natural method to keep ticks and fleas away without the risks of toxic chemicals.
    3. Diatomaceous Earth: Food-grade diatomaceous earth serves as a natural flea killer when you spread it on carpets and bedding and scatter it across your yard. The natural dehydration properties of this powder eliminate fleas effectively. Make sure to avoid exposing your dog’s eyes and lungs to this substance.
    4. Bathing and Grooming of Pets: Mild pet-safe shampoo during regular baths effectively removes fleas and ticks from your pet. A flea comb should be used between baths to remove any remaining fleas.
    5. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: Spray your dog with apple cider vinegar mixed solution through a bottle while avoiding their face area. The scent from this mixture protects dogs from fleas and ticks while remaining harmless to their health.

    Natural Tick and Flea Control for your Pet Dogs

    Consistency is key when it comes to Natural Tick and Flea Control for dogs!

    • Daily checks: Running your hands through your dog’s fur after outdoor activities helps you detect hitchhikers and take timely measures.
    • Natural Sprays: Essential oils with an active ingredient like cedar or peppermint will help. Such products can keep your pet safe all the time with no side effects from chemicals.
    • Environmental Control: Handle your house and garden with the same care you give your pet. The flea life cycle can be interrupted through regular vacuuming and washing dog bedding and applying natural repellents to both indoor and outdoor areas.
    • Good Health: The main focus of the wellness process should be on-
      • Good nutrition
      • Regular exercise
      • Stress reduction

    In case you are living in a high-risk area or your dog is an outdoor pet most of the time, then natural product aid from your vet will be a great help. Combining natural ways with vet-recommended products will give your dog complete protection.

    Healthy Diet Plan for your Dogs

    • A strong immune system is the first step of a natural defense strategy for the health of your dog. Feeding your dog a fresh, whole-food diet -a good blend of lean meats, veggies, and healthy fats – can be the first thing you should consider if you want to keep the fleas and ticks away. On the contrary, over-processed food and sugar can attract pests.
    • Supplements: By the recommendation of the veterinarian, few types of supplements like Brewer’s yeast, omega-3 fatty acids, or a small dose of garlic are known to have anti-flea properties.
    • Hydration: Clean water and the right diet ensures the skin of your dog is always in a healthy condition.

    Flea and Tick Pills for Dogs

    Flea-and-Tick-Pills-for-Dogs

    Natural means of repelling pests are good, but at times, you need something more that during peak flea & ticks season. This is where flea and tick pills for dogs come into play.

    These pills that are given by mouth are recommended by a veterinarian and provide long-lasting defense against fleas and ticks, since they also kill the pests that are inside the dog. The flea and tick pills can be a real game-changer for dogs that have sensitive skin.

    Always follow your vet’s advice when using flea and tick pills for dogs. Discuss any health concerns or potential medication interactions before starting.

    Conclusion

    Do not make the mistake of thinking that you can only save your dog from fleas and ticks by choosing either one of the safety measures. For example, by using natural flea and tick prevention for dogs , it is possible to keep your beloved pet free from fleas and tickles and happy and healthy. Besides that, the combination of these smart habits, a balanced diet, and, if required, flea and tick pills for dogs are also important.

  • How Do I Get Rid of Drain Flies Overnight?

    How Do I Get Rid of Drain Flies Overnight?

    Ever seen tiny flies buzzing around the drains? Quite a several households in the United States suffer from drain flies, also known as sewer flies or moth flies, mostly in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. We will help you know the tips and tricks of How do I get rid of drain flies and what are the most suitable way to keep your home free from these pests.

    Identification and Understanding of Drain Flies

    Characteristic of drain flies are-

    • The drain flies are small and are 1/8 inches long.
    • They have hairy bodies and hairy wings that resemble those of moths.
    • The common name are ‘sewer flies’ or “moth flies”.
    • Their favorite spots are moist surroundings, the organic matter that builds up inside drains, sewer lines, and even in standing water near refrigerators and washing machines.
    • You’ll find them resting on walls near sinks or bathtubs, or see them flying in short. Their larvae feeds on the cheeky gunk in your pipes making your kitchen and bathroom drains the ideal breeding colonies.
    • Many of you don’t realize how much dirt exists in the drains, but if you put a clear piece of tape over the drain, and check in the morning, you will find some flies stuck in the tape, you’ll know.

    Are Drain Flies Harmful to You?

    Are-Drain-Flies-Harmful

    Many people ask, are drain flies harmful? My answer to that is they do not bite or sting and do not carry any diseases that are harmful to us. However, the presence of these small flies can cause sanitation issues and can be a reason behind the origin of other health hazards.

    Even though drain flies do not sting directly, they can be carriers of germs and pathogenic agents from the foul-smelling areas where they breed. They can cause allergy and asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. Drain flies usually show up in unclean conditions that makes the air worse, and if they keep coming back, it could mean a clogged drain which might cause more drain problems in future.

    Are Drain Flies Harmful in the sense of biting or stinging? No. But they are a nuisance, can worsen respiratory conditions, and signal that your drains need attention.

    7 Simple Steps on How Do I Get Rid of Drain Flies

    Simple-Steps-to-Get-Rid-of-Drain-Flies

    If your home is already infested with drain flies, here is a time-proven, detailed method for the step-by-step that can be taken to get rid of drain flies in your house, which is efficient and practical:

    1. Locate the Source

     Look for which drains are affected by using tape traps or visually examining the area.

    2. Manual Cleaning

    Get a pipe brush and thoroughly clean the insides of infested drain and remove all the organic residues.

    3. Boiling Water

    For 7 days, continue to pour a kettle of boiling water into the drain to kill the larvae and clear the channel of dirt.

    4. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

    Boiling Water: For a week, keep pouring boiling water down the drain and wash away the gunk.

    5. Apply Drain Cleaner (If Necessary)

    An enzymatic or microbial drain cleaner will be perfect for stubborn infestation, as it is specifically produced for organic matter digestion, and these are chemical-free cleaners that won’t harm the pipes. Other drain cleaners can damage the pipe with their strength.

    6. Adult Fly Traps

    Set up a bowl of apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap near the drain. The flies that come close to it, get caught. Another good alternative is to cover a bowl of vinegar with a plastic wrap, drill holes in it and allow the insect to go in but not come out.

    Make it a habit to check and wash the drains out, eliminating flies and eggs, until there are no more signs of the pest. If the problem exists even after the cleaning has been done, the flies have probably made their way deeper into the plumbing system or sewer lines. In that case, you should consider hiring a professional pest control or plumbing service for help.

    Conclusion

    Drain flies represent a typical pest problem which homeowners can effectively control. Drain flies disappear when you eliminate their breeding sites through proper drain maintenance and cleaning. You may wonder Are Drain Flies Harmful, they are not directly dangerous but can be a cause to major hygiene problems.

    To know how do i get rid of drain flies and expert pest control tips and solutions across the United States, trust SayNoPest as your go-to resource.

  • Types of Flies & How to Stop Them

    Types of Flies & How to Stop Them

    If you have ever inhaled an intruder who was buzzing in your kitchen, or seen tiny insects circling your fruit bowl, congratulations, flies have invaded your home. Flies are the most common insects that are sharing your home with you. To recognize the Types of Flies in your place and learn how to stop them is the first step to effective prevention and control.

    How many species of flies exist?

    There are 120,000 described species on a global scale with probably lots of those still yet to be discovered. In the United States, there are several Types of Flies, which enter the house, expose you to diseases, and, of course, make it uncomfortable for you to stay at home. Knowing the species enables you to direct your anti-insect actions and save your health.

    Top 7 Types of Flies

    Types-of-Flies

    The idea is to elucidate the most prevalent Types of Flies across the US.

    1. House Flies

    The classic nuisance, house flies are grey with four black stripes on their thorax and measure about 1/8–1/4 inch long. They reproduce in decaying organic materials like dung, and other waste from which they hatch fast due to favorable temperatures and are disease carriers.

    2. Drain Flies (Moth Flies)

    Drain flies are small, shaggy, and are often taken for moths mainly due to their coloring and size. Moist areas of the house like drains, sewer systems and sink lines provide a suitable breeding ground for these flies. They turn into larvae and eat up the leftover organic matter in the pipes which consequently combine to be a sign of plumbing problems or lack of hygiene.

    3. Fruit Flies

    Small, about 1/8 inch long, tan, or dark brown with red eyes shining, fruit flies are primarily attracted to ripe fruits, vegetables, and sweet liquids. The rapid breeding cycle of these flies allow females to produce 500 eggs which hatch into new flies within 24 hours thus causing fast infestations during summer.

    4. Blow Flies

    Green or Blue Bottle Flies are also called the blow flies because of their sparkling green coat. They are a bit bigger than house flies. These flies lay their eggs in decaying meat or carcasses and the presence of these flies can be an indicator of a sanitation problem or a rotten animal in walls or attics.

    5. Fungus Gnats

    These are one of the craziest groups of flies and these flies are quite similar to mosquitoes. Fungus gnat larvae utilize fungi and rotting plant matter as their food, even though they do not sting, they can be dangerous if they feed on your plant’s roots. The growth of the plant will stop.

    6. Cluster Flies

    Cluster flies are different from those of house flies since they are more prominent, with darker color that reside in lofts or wall voids, especially in late winter and spring. To get through winter, they gather in huge numbers indoors, but they neither breed nor spread diseases.

    7. Horse Flies

    Horse flies are larger, more violent, and they have itchy bites and are mostly found in water, next to the farm, and in the woods. They can cause allergic reactions besides the transmission of diseases to animals.

    Places Flies Are Attracted To

    Places-flies-are-attacted-to

    The environments that attract flies consist of areas which offer food sources and moisture together and suitable breeding sites. All Types of Flies primarily have four main attractants:

    • Flies seek out moist organic waste materials that exist in garbage containers and compost heaps and food leftovers. Both food sources and suitable breeding sites exist in unsealed trash and leftover food.
    • Fruit flies along with various other fly species love overripe produce and sweet liquids including fermented beverages such as soda and liquor and vinegar.
    • The breeding grounds for drain flies and fungus gnats exist in humid environments that standing water and moisture sources create including leaky pipes and water-filled plant saucers.
    • House flies and blow flies are strongly in favor of to animal carcasses and pet waste because these items provide both food sources and breeding opportunities.

    Know how to Prevent Flies

    Keeping flies out requires a proactive approach. Here’s how you can deter all Types of Flies:

    • Maintain Cleanliness
    • Manage Moisture
    • Seal Entry Points
    • Use Traps and Baits
    • Professional Help

    Conclusion (Understanding the Types of Flies)

    Effective pest control requires proper identification of the different fly species that invade residential and commercial spaces. Professional pest control experts are always there for you when pest infestations become challenging to manage. They will free you from fly infestations and provide a fly-free environment.