Monthly Archives: May 2019

Not-so Lady(like) Bugs

One of the most easily recognizable pests we deal with is the Asian beetle. Its orange body, adorned with black spots, is commonly mistook for the ladybug. Despite its name, the ladybug is in fact not a bug at all; it is actually a member of the same family as the Asian beetle. They look quite alike at first glance, but a closer look reveals some of their many differences. While similar in color, the lady bug is a richer, deeper red than the orange shell of the Asian beetle, with fewer black spots (most ladybugs have 7-9 spots). The ladybug is featured in children’s nursery rhymes; it is also seen as a symbol of good luck by many (especially those with 7 spots!). Some consider ladybugs to be a symbol of the Virgin Mary in Christian culture.

Ladybugs, for the most part, are beneficial to the environment. They feed on crop-destroying aphids and scale insects. While Asian beetles are also a predator to pest insects, they have taken over native species since their first introduction into the United States. They have hefty appetites and tend to feed on non-pest insects as well, including Monarch butterfly eggs and larvae. These beetles are more aggressive and will even bite! Asian beetles have become such a problem in vineyards have actually begun to affect the taste of wine— as they are collected with the grapes and included in the winemaking process.

Asian Beetles In The Home

Like boxelder bugs and stink bugs, Asian beetles seek warmth during the colder months. They crawl into the home through cracks in poorly excluded siding, ridge vents, crawl space vents, or even the foundation to overwinter between the walls. If the home is seasonal, they will hibernate in the walls and can be quite the shock to unsuspecting visitors upon turning on the heat. When the temperature rises, the Asian beetles awaken from their hibernation and seek to be closer to the heat source. They will exploit any available openings to make it into the living space of the home.

From there, they crawl and fly around, congregating at windows; it’s not unusual to see thousands of Asian beetles congregated in an area. If something disturbs them, they secrete a yellow, odorous substance that can stain walls and furniture. Their mouths are small but they have a reputation of being biters— though the bite is not very painful, some may have an allergic reaction which ranges from general eye problems such as pink eye to hay fever, asthma, and/or hives. Reactions can be triggered by handling the beetles and touching your eyes, so it is important to always wash your hands after touching!

Asian Beetles vs Dogs

In addition to being potentially harmful to humans, Asian beetles are a threat to dogs as well. If a dog ingests the beetles, their tough exoskeleton, made of a tough substance called “chitin” does not break down easily. It is similar to the hull of a popcorn kernel in consistency. Asian beetles are able to secure themselves to the roof of a dogs mouth, congregating at the palate. Due to their hard, thickened wing covers their rounded shape proves difficult for a dog’s tongue to remove. The yellow, odorous substance mentioned earlier is called hemolymph, and is secreted when they feel threatened. It tastes just as bad as it smells, which is why dogs will attempt to eat more Asian beetles to rid their mouths of the foul taste.

Hemolymph is corrosive and can cause chemical burns in both the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. If the chemical burns are not treated properly, an infection may develop and with time could become serious. While the threat to dogs is there, it is relatively unlikely. Most of the time upon even smelling the hemolymph, canines will steer clear.

Preventing Asian Beetles

Exclusion will help to prevent Asian beetles from entering the home in the fall and will prevent an infestation. Sealing where the foundation meets the siding, around windows, piping, eaves, along with repairing a popped ridge vent and caulking any visible cracks will help keep these fall invaders out. Ensuring all window and door screens fit tightly and are free of holes will also help to keep the beetles outdoors. If you find dead Asian beetles near your windows and doors, the carcasses can be easily vacuumed up. It is important to note that handling Asian beetles gently will prevent squashing them and releasing the hemolymph, which does have a potential to stain.

Proper exclusion and chemical treatments in the spring are ultimately the most effective means of prevention. We specialize in this type of clean-up, eradication, and exclusion. If you are experiencing an issue with Asian beetles, do not hesitate to give us a call today!

Sources:

Fitzsimmons, Paula. “Asian Lady Beetles: Could They Harm Your Dog?” PetMD, 25 Oct. 2017, www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/poisoning-toxicity/asian-lady-beetles-could-they-harm-your-dog.

Lupo, Lisa Jo. “How to Tell the Difference Between Good and Bad Ladybugs.” The Spruce, The Spruce, 27 Mar. 2019, www.thespruce.com/good-and-bad-ladybugs-2656236.

Mighty Mosquitoes

Zika. West Nile. Malaria. Encephalitis. These are but a few of the dangerous diseases commonly associated with mosquitoes. While the threat for these diseases is nowhere near as high in the United States as it is in other countries, it is still something to be mindful of; as the mosquito’s real danger goes well beyond the prick of a sting or the resulting, itchy welt. According to the CDC, mosquitoes kill more people per year around the world than any other living creature! With these astronomical numbers, it is no wonder that we are always on high alert for these insects, especially when traveling.

It is important to know that mosquitoes are simply a vector for transmitting disease; the original host is usually a bird, and in some cases horses or deer. In Michigan, the bird suspects include Blue Jays, robins, and crows, which is why their populations are monitored by health officials. The insects feed on the blood of the infected animal, and then move on from host to host. Interestingly enough, it is only the female mosquitoes that bite as they require blood to develop eggs. Males, on the other hand, are rather innocuous, feeding on plant nectars and juices instead.

Mosquito Lifecycle

Michigan has roughly 60 different species of mosquito, including Aedes Egypti, Anopheles, and Culex; All 60 species fall into 3 main categories: permanent water, floodwater, and artificial container/tree hole mosquitoes. Aptly named, all three require some type of standing water source to breed and grow, such as ponds, flooded areas, old tires and water-filled buckets.

All mosquitoes start out as an egg which hatch when they are exposed to water. The larvae, called “wigglers” because of their movement patterns, will molt several times before turning into a pupa. In the pupa, or “tumbler”, stage the mosquito will not feed. This is the final stage before they emerge from the water as adults. Adult female mosquitoes can lay up to 100 eggs about every third night after mating only once! After laying three sets the mosquito will die; her eggs will hatch, thus starting the lifecycle over again. While this cycle typically takes up to two weeks, it can range from 4 days to as long as a month.

Zika and Mosquitoes

Since mosquitoes are cold-blooded, spring is the season in which they become active— hibernating once the temperatures drop below 50 degrees. In the extreme South and Hawaii, mosquito season has been known to last throughout the year! This is why we must be mindful when traveling abroad. Many of the diseases spread most commonly by mosquitoes are contracted in countries outside of the US; most prevalently the Zika virus. It is, however, important to know that while there is no current local transmission of the Zika virus in the United States, infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects; it transfers from a pregnant woman to her fetus. A great resource to remain up-to-date on Zika can be found here.

Other Threats

Despite the threat of Zika being minimal, there are other, more easily contracted ailments. Malaria and West Nile are the most well-known, and although both transmit through the insect’s bite there are several differences; primarily, malaria is a parasite, whereas the West Nile is a virus. Only Anopheles—and only females—can transmit malaria. Malaria is caused by plasmodium, a one-celled parasite. The female Anopheles mosquito picks up the disease by drinking the blood of the infected. Unfortunately, malaria kills 80% of its hosts.

On the other hand, only around 20% of those infected with the West Nile virus exhibit mild flu-like symptoms; it is easy to beat. If you do exhibit symptoms, however, there are no medications to treat the illness, though ver-the-counter pain medications can assist in relieving the flu-like symptoms. It is important to know that less than 1% of those infected with West Nile present with serious symptoms developing into neurologic illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Another, far less threatening issue caused by mosquitoes is nuisance of their bites. The red, itchy bumps are simply a summertime annoyance. The bumps are caused by histamine produced by the body to fight off the foreign substance (mosquito saliva) that enters the area through the broken skin. Some people react worse than others who become more tolerant to a mosquito’s saliva over time. For many, the reaction remains consistent, and mosquito bites continue to be an annoyance.

Treating Mosquitoes

There is no way to eliminate all of the mosquitoes on one’s property, but they can be controlled. One of these tools is to larvicide any standing water that cannot be emptied out around a home. These areas may include ponds and catch basins. Another tool is to chemically treat the barrier of the property or area. If you’re not a prime candidate for a barrier treatment, consider purchasing a fan for the deck, patio or lawn! Mosquitoes are not strong fliers, so a fan swathing back and forth will keep them out of the area you’re trying to enjoy. This will make your BBQ or family gathering much more enjoyable while also being eco-friendly. Maintaining awareness of the dangers that surround mosquitoes is by far the best method of protecting yourself from a potentially dangerous illness.

Sources:

Travelers’ Health
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-travel-information

Mosquitoes in Michigan: Here’s What To Know To Help Keep Them Away
Frank McGeorge – https://www.clickondetroit.com/health/mosquitoes-in-michigan-heres-what-you-need-to-know-the-facts

Tips and Dangers Associated with Mosquitoes in Michigan
Laura Sternberg – https://www.tripsavvy.com/mosquitoes-in-michigan-1085463

West Nile Virus | West Nile Virus | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html

Malaria | About Malaria – Biology | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/about/biology/index.html

What’s the buzz about?

We want to save the bees, but keep them away from ourselves and our loved ones, right? Approximately 86 people die from run-in’s with these insects every year, typically from anaphylaxis which is commonly associated with an allergy. All bee species in Michigan are considered important pollinators, as they fly from flower to flower spreading pollen, so it is illegal to kill some species. Removal and control are the best methods to combat a bee infestation.

Bees make their hives in anything hollow; including tree stumps and unfortunately the walls of our homes or other structures. They are disturbed whenever the structure in which their hive is built is disturbed; the vibrations from any outside movement cause the bees to become very unhappy, and in many cases this is when stings occur. That being said, There are 3 main types of bees in Michigan, and it is important to know which ones you are dealing with in the event you notice them buzzing around your homes and/or structures this summer.

Bumble bees

Bumble bees are large insects that are black and yellow in color with a seemingly fuzzy appearance. There are 15-18 different species of bumble bees in Michigan and the surrounding states. They are ground-nesting; their hives are usually smaller hives than honey bees. Bumble bees are important pollinators and are often found circling the purple cone flower. In recent years, due to a lack of these flowers in gardens, the bumble pee population has significantly decreased. Bumble bees like to keep to themselves, as they are not considered aggressive and only sting if they feel their nest has been threatened. Queen and worker bees have the ability to sting repeatedly, as their stingers are not barbed, so stinging does not kill the bee.

Carpenter bees

Carpenter bees are large insects whose life only spans up to one year. Females rarely sting and males completely lack the ability to, so they are not considered dangerous. True to their name, these bees bore into raw wood, such as deck timbers, especially if it’s weathered or has starter holes. As a result, this can cause severe damage to log and wood-sided structures. Contrary to popular belief, these bees do not eat the wood, they simply hollow out and live in it. Nectar from flowering plants is their main food source; so, like other native bees, carpenter bees are important plant pollinators, thriving in gardens and in some crops.

Honey bees

Honeybees are one of the more popular bees, despite representing only a small percent of bee species. They measure at about 15mm in length and range anywhere from golden yellow to black in color. They make their hives in anything hollow, such as tree stumps damaged by carpenter ants or inside of the walls of home or frequented structures can become damaged over time as the hive grows and is filled with honey. Honey is a sweet and viscous food substance derived from plants that serves various purposes to humans. Honey not only contains some nutrients and antioxidants, but is considered to be a “less bad” alternative to white sugar and is low in cholesterol! The bees make honey as a food source for the winter months, so even experienced bee keepers must be careful as to how much honey they harvest from hives to sell.

During their mating season in the spring months, honey bees swarm which can cause quite a disturbance to customers. A honey bee stinger is barbed, so it is unable to remove the stinger upon stinging a person. They rupture their abdomen in an attempt to get away, which not only leaves behind the stinger but also part of its abdomen and digestive tract, plus muscles and nerves. This kills the bee, making the honey bee the only bee to die after stinging.

It is important to know that these bees are extremely beneficial and protected federally; so, it is illegal to kill them. Eradication must include the help of a licensed beekeeper, of which we have a couple to recommend.

Benefits of honey bees include:

Pollination
- Honeybees are among the most popular of all the pollinators. They are an integral part of our ecosystem!
Honey
- Honey has been used by humans for millions of years. It is not only a healthier alternative to white sugar but tastes wonderful on its own!
Beeswax
- Used for candles and beauty products
Royal jelly, propolis and bee pollen
- All of which have medicinal benefits

It is important to know that certain predatory wasps are commonly misidentified as bees. The yellow jacket, despite its black and yellow thorax, is in fact a wasp. Due to their intense aggression and ability to chase and sting victims, bees have gotten a bad reputation amongst people. We will discuss yellow jackets at length on a later date, but it is important to know that there is a difference upon discovering a hive. Bees, for the most part, just enjoy flying around mind their own while stimulating the ecosystem as they go.

Proper handling is important when dealing with any sort of bee or their hive, so it is important to call a licensed pest control professional. We have been keeping properties free of bees in Northern Michigan for 25 years, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us today!

Tick-ed Off

I was driving yesterday, windows down, my hair blowing in the breeze. Beside me in the passenger seat, our German Shorthaired Pointer, Milo, sprawled out lazily, enjoying the rare occurrence of riding shotgun. He laid his head back, both ears flopping over to expose the smooth inside. That’s when I saw it. Strange and definitely foreign looking, I ran my thumb over what looked to be a large skin tag on the inside of his left year. My initial thought was that it had to be a tick, as I had read multiple pieces detailing this year’s influx in tick populations. That being said, Milo has been on tick medication for the majority of his life and I didn’t think much of the ‘epidemic’. However, seeing one latching onto him was entirely different.

When my husband came home (he’s the bug guy, not me) he immediately checked the ear. Sure enough, there it was. A female deer tick! She wasn’t fully burrowed into Milo’s skin just yet, which made extracting her fairly simple. This was both of our first run-ins with discovering a tick on a dog, and we are now fully aware of how rampant they are this year.

All about Ticks

Ticks are tiny insects, typically the size of a sesame seed. They feed on blood from humans and other animals. Ticks partially burrow into the skin, and prefer to feed in heavily vascular areas like the head. The danger associated with ticks is simple: Lyme disease. The CDC reports more than 300,000 cases of Lyme disease each year, and health officials believe that 75% of these cases are caused by ticks. White-footed mice and chipmunks are the most well-known hosts of Lyme disease due to the bacteria they house. When a tick, and most commonly a deer tick, feeds on these rodents, they become a vector for the disease and transfer it to humans and other animals as a result.

Lyme disease manifests itself as a multi-system inflammatory disease that affects the skin in its early, localized stage. It starts out as a red rash in a bullseye pattern around the bite mark. From there, it spreads to the joints, nervous system, and other organ systems in its later, more advanced stages. If diagnosed in its early stages and immediately treated with antibiotics, Lyme disease is almost always cured. The disease in its later stages can also be treated effectively, but because the rate of progression and individual response to treatment varies from patient to patient. In humans, an attached tick must take a blood meal and then transmit the bacterium, borrelia burgdorferi, to infect a host with Lyme disease. In most cases, a tick requires at least 36 to 48 hours to have enough time to feed and spread the bacterium.

Tips for keeping Ticks away:

Keep firewood and debris away from home
Hang bird feeders away from the home
Mow yards and pathways regularly
Wear long pants and long sleeves while walking through tall grass or in the woods
Apply DEET insect repellent to clothing before walking through tall grass or in the woods
Always check yourself or have someone else inspect you for ticks after walking outside
Make sure pets are on flea and tick medication from their vet

Contrary to popular belief, ticks do not jump on to their hosts. They hang out in heavily wooded areas and on shrubs, bushes, and tall grasses, waiting for the hosts to brush up against the vegetation. If you find a tick on your skin, it needs to be removed immediately. Make sure to thoroughly inspect all clothing after being outdoors— always check children and pets. If a tick burrows deeply into your skin, seek care of a professional. Mouth parts left behind can cause infection!

How to remove a tick yourself

Using tweezers, gently grab the tick as close as possible to its mouth. The body of the tick should be above the skin. Avoid touching the tick with bare hands! Using nitrile gloves is beneficial.
Lift the tick from the skin with even force. ensuring you are squeezing the mouth.Squeezing can cause the stomach contents to leak from the mouth, which can cause infection. Do not pull, turn, or twist the tick as this increases the chances of separating the mouth from the body. Make sure to remove all mouth pieces and remnants left behind.
Upon removal, clean the area with soap and water.

Hogarth’s now offers a new method of tick control; a multi-year process that results in 88% total population reduction of ticks in the first year, and up to 97.3% of ticks by the end of the second year. If you have discovered a tick on yourself, your child, or your pet, do not hesitate to give us a call. This kind of pest prevention requires continual effort. We will be happy to help remediate this potentially dangerous problem. Keep your pets and loved ones safe this summer season!