How do you Check for Bed Bugs at Your Vacation Rental or Hotel

Bed bugs in hotel in TN | Leos Pest Control

Are you counting down the days until you leave for your next vacation? Amidst the excitement of visiting a new area and experiencing new cultures, many people often overlook one major concern— a bed bug infestation in your hotel or Airbnb. Bed bugs are like tiny hitchhikers that will sneakily hitch a ride back to your home on your clothes or luggage. Bringing home bed bugs can be an unpleasant experience and should be handled by a professional extermination company like Leo's Pest Control. This guide will discuss signs of bed bugs in your hotel and how to check for bed bugs in your Airbnb or hotel, preventing these unpleasant souvenirs from coming home with you.

Bed Bugs While Traveling

Bed bugs are known to be extremely sneaky, hiding in tiny spaces and surviving for long periods of time without food. This allows them to often go unnoticed in your luggage, clothes, or personal items, hitching a ride back to your home. Whether you are staging in a hotel, Airbnb, or at the home of a loved one, bringing home bed bugs can be a real concern.

After they have found a comfortable hiding spot in your belongings, bed bugs will go unnoticed until they begin to reproduce and spread once you have returned home. A few bed bugs can rapidly become a large infestation, leading to itchy bites, a disruption in your sleep, and increased stress as you fight these resilient pests.

How to Check for Bed Bugs 

It is important to take precautions to prevent bed bugs while traveling. Understanding and checking for signs of bed bugs in a hotel or rental is extremely important in stopping the spread of bed bugs. When you check in to your accommodations, follow these few steps first to ensure your home for the night is bed bug-free: 

  • Examine Bedding: Before you plop down on the bed, check the blankets, mattress seams, and box springs for signs of bed bugs. If you see reddish-brown bugs, tiny white eggs, skin casings, and small black stains (fecal matter), there is a good chance the room is infested with bed bugs.
  • Check upholstery: If there is a bed bug infestation, you can often find signs of bed bugs hiding in small cracks or crevices of furniture, headboards, and nightstands. 
  • Protect your belongings: Use the elevated luggage racks to keep your luggage off the ground and bed. When you return home, thoroughly inspect your belongings outside and look for signs of bed bugs.
  • Securely store clothes: Keeping clothes and personal items in plastic bags will prevent bedbugs from infesting your items and coming home with you.
  • Use a flashlight: A flashlight will help you inspect the dark corners of your hotel or rental for signs of bed bug activity.

How to Stop Bed Bugs from Hitching a Ride 

No one wants their travel memories tarnished with the nightmare of bringing home bed bugs. By following these few steps, you can prevent bed bugs from coming home with you:

  • Store your items and clothing in plastic bags or packing cubes to block bed bugs from infesting your belongings.
  • Swap your soft fabric luggage for a hard-shell suitcase. Hard-shell suitcases have fewer areas for bed bugs to hide in and are easier to keep clean.
  • Make sure to wash all clothing in hot water, even pieces you did not wear, in hot water. The hot water will kill any bed bugs and their eggs.
  • Once you return, vacuum and clean your luggage and inspect it for signs of bed bugs before you bring it inside your home. 

Prevent Bed Bugs with Leo's Pest Control

Sometimes, even if you have vigilantly checked your Airbnb or hotel for bed bugs, these elusive pests can still make it home with you. If you have a bed bug infestation, it is essential to seek the help of a professional pest control company immediately before a small infestation becomes a nightmare.  At Leo's Pest Control, our technicians have the knowledge and expertise to effectively eliminate bed bug infestations and keep them away for good.

Contact Leo's Pest Control today so you can enjoy your travels worry-free. 

Is a House Centipede a Friend or a Foe?

Centipede in bathtub in Tennessee

House centipedes in Briston, TN may not receive the warmest welcome due to their elongated bodies, numerous legs, and quick movements. They will usually be encountered in dim, moist locations such as your basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces, where they actively prey on other common household pests. Although their appearance can be frightening, House centipedes are generally harmless to humans and can even play a helpful role in managing other pest populations.

Are House Centipedes Dangerous?

Centipedes do have venomous fangs that they employ to kill their prey, but the venom they carry is not considered dangerous to humans. A bite from a house centipede might lead to a minor, localized reaction, that is much like a bee sting. Such incidents are exceedingly rare and typically occur only when the centipede is directly touched or senses a threat. In most cases, they will avoid human contact and are more interested in finding food sources.

Are House Centipedes Beneficial?

House centipedes can be beneficial in your home, especially when it comes to managing other pest populations. Their primary diet includes household pests such as insects, spiders, ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and various small arthropods. House centipedes are most active during the night. Their nocturnal hunting behavior equips them to effectively target other pests that tend to remain hidden during daylight hours. Their adeptness at locating and accessing areas like cracks, crevices, and dark corners enables them to focus on pests that might be hidden in these difficult-to-reach areas of your home. 

What If I See a Centipede in My Home?

If you encounter a house centipede, there’s no reason to be startled. Here’s what you should do if you see a centipede in your home:

  • Stay Calm: House centipedes are more interested in finding food (other insects). than interacting with humans. Remember that they are not dangerous to you.
  • Observe from a Distance: If the house centipede is not causing any immediate issues, you can simply observe it from a safe distance. This can be an opportunity to appreciate its unique appearance and behavior.
  • Do Not Squash It: While it might be tempting to squash the house centipede, it’s better to avoid doing so. Not only does it serve no significant purpose, but it can also release a mild odor that some people find unpleasant.

House Centipedes Can Be a Sign of a More Significant Pest Problem: Contact the Experts

House centipedes do play a helpful role in managing pests, but their appearance indoors may be a sign of a more significant pest problem. They tend to thrive in areas where their preferred prey is abundant. If you happen to see house centipedes in your Bristol, TN home, it is highly advisable to reach out to pest control experts, such as those at Leo’s Pest Control. Our team can assist you not only with house centipedes but also with addressing any underlying pest infestations their presence may indicate.

Crane Fly or Mosquito? A Case of Mistaken Identities

Crane fly on leaf in Tennessee

One of summer’s most notorious pests are mosquitoes. They can quickly ruin any summer gathering, leaving you and your guests itching for days after encountering this bloodsucking pest. Before you grab your bug spray or light your citronella candles, knowing what pest you are battling is important: Is it a crane fly or mosquito? Learn to differentiate between the harmless crane fly and the relentless, biting mosquito with our expert guide.

Mosquito vs. Crane Fly – How To Spot The Differences

Crane flies and mosquitoes share many similarities, but knowing a few key differences between the two will quickly turn you into an expert insect identifier.

  • Physical Characteristics – The easiest way to tell the difference between a mosquito and a crane fly is size. Crane flies can grow to a massive 1 to 2 inches long, earning them the nickname mosquito hawk. Mature mosquitoes grow to be less than half that size, measuring under 1/2”. Another difference between these two pests is the shape of their body. Mosquitoes are known for their curved back, whereas crane flies have straight bodies.
  • Diet – The diet of crane flies and mosquitoes is vastly different. Crane flies eat a varied diet of vegetation, roots, algae, and insects. A mosquito’s diet is based on gender; male mosquitoes feed on nectar and pollen, while female mosquitoes require blood from humans or animals to reproduce.
  • Habitat – Mosquitoes and crane flies share a similar habitat. They both seek out areas with stagnant water to lay their eggs. Once fully mature, a crane fly generally stays in the same area, buzzing around bodies of water and tall grass. While mosquitoes start out close to standing water, female mosquitoes often travel away from nesting sites in search of humans or animals to feed on to produce eggs.
  • Risk – Mosquitoes are known for their itchy bites, transmitting diseases like Zika, West Nile Virus, and Yellow Fever. Crane flies lack a long proboscis, the sharp, needle-like mouthpiece mosquitoes use to pierce skin, and do not have the jaw strength to bite humans even if they wanted to try to bite. Although similar in appearance to mosquitoes, crane flies are completely harmless.

Keep Buzzing Pests Away With Leo’s Pest Control

Whether it is a massive crane fly or a biting mosquito, the presence of these pests can ruin your lovely summer evenings outdoors. With help from the pest control experts at Leo’s Pest Control, you can stop swatting bugs and get back to enjoying your backyard.

For over 55 years, Leo’s Pest Control has been a leader in fast, effective, and lasting pest control services in the Bristol, Tennessee, area. Our licensed exterminators are dedicated to exceptional service, allowing you to reclaim your space from pests. Bid farewell to pest-related woes and contact Leo’s Pest Control today!

How To Protect Your Pets From Ticks This Summer

Person checking for ticks on their dog

Playing outside in the summer sun can be a lot of fun for you and your furry friends. However, there’s one problem that can turn a great day outdoors into an itchy and unpleasant experience: ticks. These tiny pests may seem harmless, but they can cause a whole host of health issues for our pets. 

From Lyme disease to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ticks can transmit a number of diseases to our dogs that can lead to long-term complications. Thankfully, there are several ways you can prevent ticks from latching onto your pets. To protect your dog from ticks this summer, follow these tips:

Perform Daily Tick Inspections

Every time you and your pets step outdoors, you run the risk of picking up a tick. A daily inspection can help you swiftly identify and remove these pests. After coming indoors, take a few minutes to check your dog’s fur for signs of ticks. Be sure to look in common hiding spots, such as between toes or inside of the ears. 

Avoid Tall Grass

Ticks love hanging out in grassy areas with a lot of dense vegetation, so be vigilant when venturing into the wilderness. Choose well-maintained paths and avoid letting your pup romp around in overgrown areas. To make your property less attractive to ticks and other pests, you can also keep your yard neat and tidy with regular mowing and landscaping. 

Regularly Bathe Your Pets

Regular baths are not just for fresh-smelling fur; they are also a way to battle against ticks. Use a mild dog-friendly shampoo to cleanse away any lurking critters. Remember to double-check for any ticks that may be hiding out while you wash your dog. 

Talk to Your Veterinarian

Veterinarians know which tick prevention products are safe for your pets and worth the investment. They can recommend effective repellents to keep ticks off your dog. Schedule a chat with your vet to discuss the best tick prevention options for your pet’s unique needs.

Call Leo’s Pest Control

If your property is under a tick siege, it is time to call in the professionals. Investing in expert tick extermination services can help get rid of these pests quickly and prevent them from coming back. At Leo’s, we’re proud to offer a satisfaction guarantee that ensures your property is pest-free* long-term.

Do not let ticks ruin your day or harm your dog’s health. Call Leo’s Pest Control today and say goodbye to those pesky parasites.

The Spring Swarms of Termite Season

close up of termites eating through wood

Spring is a beautiful time of the year, but it also brings some unwanted visitors to your home: swarming termites. Termites are wood-destroying insects that can cause severe damage to your property and compromise its structural integrity. Thus, it is crucial to understand what kind of termites swarm, why they swarm, and how to stop and control them.

Why Do Termites Swarm?

Termites swarm to reproduce and establish new colonies. Swarming is a natural phenomenon that occurs when a mature termite colony reaches a certain size and finds favorable environmental conditions. Swarming typically occurs in spring, but some termites in other regions may do it in summer or fall.

Winged termites emerge from their nests in large numbers and fly in search of mates and suitable locations to start new colonies. Light and moisture attract them, so they often swarm around windows, doors, lights, or vents. After finding a mate, they shed their wings and burrow into the soil or wood to lay eggs and form a new colony.

Which Termites Swarm?

Over 2,000 types of termites exist worldwide, and the U.S. has at least 50 of them. The eastern subterranean termite is the most prevalent type of termite that can invade your Bristol, Tennessee, house. This termite lives underground and feeds on wood and cellulose materials. It can build extensive tunnels and galleries to reach its food sources above ground. It can also enter your home through cracks or gaps in the foundation, walls, or floors.

Eastern subterranean termites swarm in spring, usually between March and May. They swarm during the day, especially after a warm rain. They have black or dark brown bodies and translucent wings that are twice as long as their bodies. They are about 1/4 inch long and look like flying ants.

How to Prevent and Control Termites

Swarming termites may indicate the presence of an active termite infestation close to your property. You must take immediate action to stop additional damage and protect your property. Here are tips to prevent and control termites:

  • Look for signs of termite activity, such as discarded wings, mud tubes, wood damage, or live or dead termites.
  • Eliminate any sources of moisture or wood contact around your home. 
  • Fix any leaks or drainage problems in your plumbing system. 
  • Keep gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris. Avoid stacking firewood or mulch near your foundation or siding.
  • Seal any openings or cracks in your foundation, walls, or floors. Use caulk, mesh, or steel wool to block potential termite entry points.
  • Inspect your home for any signs of termite activity or damage. Pay close attention to locations like porches, crawl spaces, attics, and basements susceptible to moisture or wood touch.

Call a Professional Exterminator

It is best to hire a professional if you suspect a termite infestation or want to prevent one. A professional exterminator can inspect your home thoroughly and identify the type and extent of the infestation. They can then apply the most appropriate treatment methods based on your situation and preferences.

Call Leo’s Pest Control Today

Termites are a significant threat to your peace of mind and your home. Do not let them ruin your spring season. If you need help with termite prevention or elimination in your home in Bristol, TN, contact us today. We offer free estimates and guaranteed results for all our pest control services.

Time to Bite Back: Mosquito Prevention Made Easy

An adult sprayed bug spray onto a child's arm.

Residents of Bristol TN can all agree the city and surrounding area has so much to offer; rolling hills with lush forests, beautiful caves, and flowing rivers. Unfortunately, having all that water means an easy breeding ground for mosquitoes

Most of us have been bitten by a mosquito at some point in our lives and will probably be bitten again. However, when it comes to your home and yard, there’s are measures you can take to make sure your small slice of paradise is safer.

The Do’s of Mosquito Prevention:

Preventing mosquitoes from taking up residence in your yard is top of the list for many homeowners. Use these proven mosquito prevention measures below:

  • Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes need standing water to breed. As the temperatures rise, stagnant water provides them the perfect place to breed. Utilizing proper soil drainage and emptying containers that hold water in your yard will keep them from getting settled in.
  • Use Screens and Netting: Having your porch, windows, and doors netted and screened off will keep mosquitoes and even other pests from getting to you. If mosquitoes can’t reach you, they can’t bite you!
  • Set Out Traps: Mosquito traps are a good source of hands-off mosquito extermination. These traps use a combination of heat from a UV lamp and carbon dioxide emission to draw these pests in. Often taking the shape of an unobtrusive bucket or latern, mosquitoes are drawn in and stuck forever.

The Don’ts of Mosquito Prevention:

You may be tempted to go for some other cost effective D.I.Y mosquito prevention hacks. However, the following activities will do little to keep you from getting munched on in the near future:

  • Don’t Use Citronella Candles: Citronella candles do repel mosquitoes but only in a small radius. Furthermore, it’s not advised to use them inside of the house as citronella can also harm our lungs if the gasses are trapped in an enclosed space.
  • Don’t Use Bug Zappers: Mosquitoes largely hunt with an acute sense of smell, not by light. This means that while moths and other bugs are drawn to zappers, they’re poor at mosquito extermination. 
  • Don’t Use Essential Oils: While essential oils do a good job of making you smell nice, they’ll do little to hide you from mosquitoes. It’s best to use an EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET or Piciardin instead. 

Mosquito Prevention Professionals

At the end of the day, the best thing to do is call the professionals at Leo’s Pest Control. We have over half a century of experience in pest control and prevention. Offering both residential and commercial pest control, we have you covered not only in your home but where you work. With PestFree365+ we offer protection from over 30 common household pests, including mosquitoes. With ongoing pest control, we make sure that you can live pest-free* all year long.

Contact our experts today for a free quote on our award-winning pest control today!

Pest Prevention through Spring Cleaning

A worker power washing a deck to control pests in yard.

Spring is almost here. With the weather warming up, the pests are waking up as well. Now is the time to look around your home and yard for ways you could ensure being as pest-free* as possible. Typical springtime pests in Bristol, Tennessee that would be unwelcome guests – Ants, roaches, rodents and termites. By having a thorough spring cleaning regime, homeowners can start prevent pests for the year the come.

Tips for Spring Cleaning for Pest Prevention

Clean and Inspect Kitchen

Anywhere there is food or water you are likely to attract various pests. They could hibernate in colder seasons under your sink or in your cabinets. Ants are common culprits as they are drawn to food debris.
Some preventative inspection can be done that includes:

  • Always store food in tightly sealed containers or refrigerators. Keep kitchen counters and floors clean of food debris.
  • Seal holes under or around cabinets, and walls that lead to the outside.
  • Check pipes for leaks.

Clean Pantry

Not only are ants and roaches drawn to where food is stored, but also known to this area are: Cigarette Beetle, Confused Flour Beetle, Indian Meal Moth and Sawtooth Grain Beetle. While they don’t pose a health risk, they will ruin your food. Did you stock up on flour, sugar or cake mixes for the holiday season? Check the expiration date and consider transferring dry goods to airtight, sealed containers of plastic, metal or glass. This can help keep pests at bay.

Dry goods can harbor insects from the grocery store, so always check packages for tears or holes before bringing them home.

Declutter Closets

Warmer weather means it’s time to swap out your winter clothes for lighter springtime wear. This is a great time to declutter. An overstuffed closet can be home to pests like spiders looking for a home. Decluttering is a perfect time to donate items no longer worn or clothes your children have outgrown. Once decluttered, vacuum all corners to get rid of any hiding pests.

Trim Shrubs and Cut Back Trees

Trim back trees and bushes, as they could be used as bridges to gain access to your house. Keep your lawn mowed and weeds down. Don’t let piles of yard trimmings or brush accumulate as this becomes a perfect place for pests to hide.

Declutter and Clean Attic

Mice are prone to take up residence in your attic, as they are looking for a nice warm, dry place to nest. The best way to prevent this is to seal any holes leading outside, remember mice can enter through a hole the size of a dime. Declutter by donating things you don’t use and storing items in tightly sealed plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes. This helps eliminate clutter and will keep your stored items pest-free*.

Examine Your Homes Exterior

Check for cracks or holes in your foundation or siding. How about your windows? Any opening leading into your home is an invitation for pests to enter. Ants are spring and summertime pests that typically invade your home through tiny cracks or holes around your doors or windows. Dark cluttered places are very attractive hiding places for spiders, ants, cockroaches and rodents. Minimizing any clutter discourages pests from taking up residence by taking away their hideouts. Remove anything collecting standing water. Buckets, pots and tires become breeding grounds for mosquitos.

Trash Cans

Make sure your trash can lids are tight fitting and using trash bags adds an extra layer of pest prevention and control. 

Remove Firewood Away from Your Home

Stacks of firewood can attract many insects, including termites. It acts as both shelter and a food supply. To keep pulp-eating pests out of your home’s woodwork, move your firewood away from any buildings.

Pest Control on Call

Eliminating anything that could attract insects or pests to your home is the most proactive thing you can do to prevent infestations. While you cannot prevent everything, the professionals at Leo’s Pest Control can provide the exterminating help you need. Call us today for a free quote.

The Dangers of the Kissing Bug

a closeup of a kissing bug on a plant outdoors

A kissing bug? The name sounds almost endearing. But once you learn more about them, they become far less appealing. Different people have different ideas of romance, but it’s safe to say that none of them include a blood-hungry parasite with a particular passion for biting your face. Kissing bugs are really just a cutesy name attached to a pest in the same category as ticks, mosquitos, and fleas – and just like any of its siblings, it can be a carrier of disease.

With kissing bugs comes the threat of Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite that causes Chagas disease. It’s passed when kissing bugs defecate after feeding, and if it’s rubbed into any break in the skin you risk catching the illness. That’s why it’s so important to know what kissing bugs look like, how to keep them away, and who you can trust for extermination services.

Identifying Kissing Bugs

Kissing bugs are known for their elongated, oval-shaped bodies. They can be colored in shades of brown or black (occasionally with red, yellow, or tan markings on their abdomen), and are between ¾ to 1¼ inches. 

These parasitic pests have their origins in Mexico and Central and South America. In recent times, though, they’ve been spotted in several regions of the United States – including Bristol and Johnson City TN. Kissing bugs primarily live outdoors near their usual hosts, which may include many wild and domesticated animals as well as humans. But they have been known to come into homes through open doors and windows, where they may hide in pet bedding and other secluded areas.

Treating a Kissing Bug Bite 

How do you know if you have a kissing bug bite? They look similar to other bug bites, skin irritations or infections, often taking the form of 2-15 marks in one particular area. This could be anywhere on your body, but especially around your mouth or eyes. They might itch, but for certain people, you may only need an ice pack and an antihistamine. 

Chagas disease may be a health concern in warmer parts of the country. The early symptoms feel similar to a bad flu with fever, nausea and general fatigue. In severe cases, you may even experience swollen eyelids. If that happens, it’s vital you seek medical attention immediately.

Preventing Kissing Bugs

The good news is that kissing bugs don’t usually infest homes in Bristol and Johnson City TN. But since we’re close to so much farmland it’s something we should prepare for. You can do this in a similar way to how you’d exclude many other pests by sealing cracks and gaps in your home or putting screens in your windows. 

If you have animals, keep their cages away from your property, or wash their indoor bedding on a regular basis. And since kissing bugs are so drawn to light, consider turning off your outdoor lights overnight. If you do all this and still end up with an infestation, you can trust Leo's Pest Control to treat your property with skill and expertise.

Leo's Pest Control for Kissing Bug Extermination

At Leo's Pest Control, we’ve been providing residential and commercial pest control since 1967. We’ve dedicated ourselves to helping our friends and neighbors in Virginia and Tennessee live better and more pest-free* lives. Whether that’s through our year-round PestFree365+ program or TAP Pest Control Insulation, we have many ways to help. So if you’re a homeowner in Bristol and Johnson City TN, you don’t have to play host to kissing bugs or any other amorous pests. Contact us today to get your free quote and kick them out for good! 

TAP® Insulation: Frequently Asked Questions

a termite and cockroach, white background

If you’ve explored our websites and the services we offer for homes in and around the Bristol and Johnson City TN area, you’ve probably heard of TAP® Insulation. And maybe you have some questions – like, why would a pest control company install insulation? What can TAP do that other materials cannot? If you’re wondering this service is right for your home, keep reading for the answers to any questions you may have!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is TAP Insulation? 

TAP® stands for Thermal Acoustical Pest Control insulation. It’s a form of loose-fill cellulose that’s chemically treated to act as a pesticide.

Q. How Does TAP Insulation Kill Pests? 

The cellulose that makes up TAP insulation is treated with boric acid, a naturally occurring mineral that isn’t harmful to pets, children or adults unless ingested in large quantities. But when smaller insect pests come into contact with it, the powder gets into their system when they groom themselves and others. Insects are unable to pass the acid, and they eventually die of malnutrition or dehydration.

Q. What Pests can TAP Insulation Kill?

TAP can kill a variety of smaller insect pests. This includes Formosan termites and ants, to bugs as big as snails, roaches and beetles.

Q. Is TAP Environmentally Friendly? 

TAP Insulation is environmentally friendly in several aspects. The cellulose we use is made up of 80% recycled material. Not only that, but when you use TAP, you’re actively keeping other, alternative and less-biodegradable materials from winding up in landfills.

Q. How is TAP Insulation Installed? 

TAP is made from loose-fill cellulose that can easily be blown into attics, or into the wall voids of newly constructed properties. It also easily covers any existing insulation, allowing you added protection without added inconvenience.

Q. How Does TAP Rank as an Insulator?

Not only is TAP an effective pesticide with the potential to last indefinitely, but it also functions as a high-quality insulator for the home. It slows down the transfer of heat, which allows your home to stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. And, while it doesn’t have the R-Rating of spray foam, it still ranks higher than fiberglass in terms of noise-canceling capabilities.

Leo’s Pest Control for TAP® Insulation

As a homeowner in Bristol and Johnson City TN, there’s no way to completely avoid the risk of pest infestations. What you can do, however, is to take every precaution available to you. And TAP Insulation, when installed correctly, is the best step you can take to keep infestations from ever getting the chance to form. There’s no effort on your part, all you need to do is schedule installation and enjoy a more pest-resistant home. Contact Leo’s Pest Control today to schedule an estimate! Or, if you want to know more, visit our TAP Insulation page.

How to Identify Termite Holes in Wood

Termite holes in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

If you’ve ever discovered tiny round holes in wood and wondered what could’ve caused them, you may have encountered termite exit holes! When certain termite species swarm in the spring and summer, they leave their nests and, in doing so, tunnel through wood. The kick-out holes they leave behind are soon thereafter plugged by remaining termites, which is a characteristic that helps set apart termite holes from those left by other wood-destroying insects. While it’s hard to know for sure what type of insect left behind exit holes in wood without the help of an exterminator, there are a few ways you can learn how to identify termite holes.

Do Subterranean Termites Create Exit Holes?

No, only drywood termites leave behind termite holes. Although subterranean termites swarm just like other termites in the spring and summer, they leave their nests in a very different manner. True to their name, subterranean termites build nests underground and travel through mud tubes. These mud tubes also serve the purpose of being their exit from the nest. Seeing holes on a wooden structure, then, is typically indicative of drywood termite activity. This is because drywood termites typically infest wood above ground that is drier. In order to vacate the nest, they must bore through the wood.

Wood Holes from Wood-Destroying Insects

There are many types of wood-destroying insects that are capable of creating tiny, round holes in wood. Needless to say, this makes it difficult to know whether you’re dealing with termites of some other insect. The most common wood-destroying insects include carpenter bees, carpenter ants, powderpost beetles, and bark beetles, among others. All of these insects have unique behaviors and different wood preferences, making it difficult to know which wood-boring insect you’re dealing with. For this reason, it’s best to contact your local pest control experts for help identifying any suspected exit holes. We also have additional articles about termite damage in our termite learning center.

What Does a Termite Kick-Out Hole Look Like?

There are several unique characteristics of exit holes that help differentiate them from holes left by other insects. These include:

  • Termite kick-out holes are round and no bigger than ⅛ of an inch.
  • After the swarmer termites leave the nest, the termite nymphs within the nest will use a paste made out of frass to plug the holes.
  • It is rare to see uncovered termite holes, as the nymphs work quickly after the swarmers depart.
  • The kicked-out wood looks like tiny mustard seeds and can appear in a pile.

Identifying Termite Holes in Tennessee

It can be distressing to discover tiny, round holes in any wood structure within or outside your property. In order to identify or rule out termite activity, it’s crucial to enlist the help of a professional pest control expert. Contact the termite exterminators at Leo’s Pest Control today to learn how we can help!