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monthly pest alert for September
Box Elder Bug
(Length 1/2 “)
Dark grey or black with red marks or triangles on their back. Boxelder bugs feed on maple and box elder trees and may infest buildings if these types of trees are close by. These bugs are looking for a shelter to over-winter. They are attracted to the south or west walls of structures warmed by the afternoon sunshine. Our tips for things you can do are the same as the Lady bug. See below:
Lady Beatles
(Length: 1/4")
The Asian Lady Beatle was imported to control aphids of pecan trees in Georgia. The imported insect thrived in our country and populations exploded and moved north as far as Ohio. Every fall people in East Tennessee are plagued with Lady beatles. Last fall we were involved in controlling an infestation in Sevierville. We filled a 5 gallon Shop-vac with the insects! After emptying the container we filled half of it again (seriously). Like the Box elder bug above, they are looking for places to over-winter.
Tips for Control
The best way to control Boxelder Bugs and Lady Beatles is by prevention. If it's too late and they are already inside, it takes a professional to find and treat the right areas to minimize the numbers of pests seen inside. If your home has experienced a problem with over-wintering pests, take the following steps next summer to prevent a recurrence:
• Seal as many cracks and holes on the outside of the home as possible, especially on the south and west walls where the sun heats the home during the late summer and fall.
• Be sure that all foundation and attic vents have tight-fitting screens.
• Have your Pest Solutions professional treat the outside west and south walls of the home near the eaves. This treatment should be completed in mid- to late August.
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