Professional vs. DIY Pest Control

DIY vs professional pest control in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

If you have a pest problem, you may feel inclined to try to get rid of it on your own. Unfortunately, DIY pest control is not reliable. A professional pest control company offers highly trained staff to handle disease-carrying and dangerous critters, and will eliminate your home pest control problem the first time, saving you time and money. When it comes to pest control problems, it simply isn’t worthwhile to take on the critters yourself. For one thing, if you don’t eliminate your infestation the first time you waste time and money. Relying on an expert pest control company means peace of mind as the job is done right, with a guarantee. At Leo’s Pest Control, we know how important it is to provide you with pest-free* living. Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of professional vs. DIY pest control.

Considerations for DIY vs. Professional Pest Control

At-home remedies for pest control are unreliable, timely, and can even be more expensive than you think. For quick, effective, and guaranteed results, it’s always best to use a professional exterminator such as Leo’s Pest Control. Read on for info on the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional pest control here in Bristol TN:

  1. Some pest control companies offer low-toxicity as well as organic options for home pest control. If you do opt for a chemical treatment to eliminate the pests in your home, it is much safer to leave the chemical application to the pros.
  2. For some types of pests or animals, the products prepared at the hardware store will not eliminate your problem. When you hire a professional pest control company, you will receive a recommended course of action and the expertise of someone highly trained to execute it with the right product to ensure your pests are gone for good.
  3. Did you know that some mice carry Hantavirus in their feces, and breathing it can be toxic to humans? Even if you don’t mind touching the creepy crawlers that might infest your home, there could be a risk involved when dealing with rodents, roaches, snakes, and more. In addition to disease, some pests are simply dangerous to approach and can cause harm by stinging, biting, or clawing.
  4. While you may be able to remove your pest control problems for a while, you may only be keeping the pests while the infestations keep on thriving. DIY pest control solutions are short-term solutions, which won’t work in the long run. A professional pest control company will search for the root cause and solve it.
  5. If your first, second, and third attempt to eliminate pests on your own fails, you have not only wasted money but precious time. An expert can deal with pests right away and save yourself the added frustration of time lost. Many people think professional pest control is expensive. But when you add up your own personal time, the money spent on different products, and the health and safety risks involved, most people find hiring a pro is the smartest option in the long run.

Professional Pest Control Services in Bristol TN

DIY pest control might sound like a good idea at the time, but it rarely delivers the results you need. To protect your property from pests all year long, a professional exterminator can make sure you never have to resort to DIY pest control methods again. For more information, contact the team at Leo’s Pest Control today!

 

 

Guide to Safely Removing Ticks

In the spring and summertime, ticks are not only one of the most common pests but also the most dangerous. Ticks are infamous for transmitting a number of diseases, namely Lyme disease. The good news is that this transmission is rare: only deer ticks can transmit it, and only some deer ticks are carriers of the disease. However, because there is a risk of tick-borne illness, it’s crucial to learn about safely removing ticks.

May is National Lyme Disease Awareness Month. The experts at Leo’s Pest Control are here to share a guide to safely removing ticks from you,a pet, or a family member. Keep reading to learn more!

Lyme Disease & Ticks

Certain deer ticks, also known as blacklegged ticks, carry and spread Lyme disease. These tiny parasitic insects can and will attach to any part of the body but are often found in the groin, scalp, and armpits. Unfortunately, most people are infected through the bites of nymph ticks, who feed in the spring and summertime.

The good news is that when a tick is safely removed within the first 24 hours, the chances of contracting a tick-borne illness are low. It is only when an infected tick has been attached for 36–48 hours can the bacterium be transmitted. You can protect yourself from the potential dangers of a tick bite by learning how to remove and dispose of the tick.

Tick removal guide - Leo's Pest Control in Bristol TNTick Removal Guide

When it comes to removing a tick, tweezers are the best tool. In fact, the following method is backed by the CDC and the ASPCA. Safely removing ticks is best done by adhering to the following steps:

  1. Grab a pair of fine-tipped tweezers. Carefully pull back any hair from the skin surrounding the tick.
  2. Firmly grasp the head or mouth of the tick with tweezers, as close to the skin as possible. Avoid grasping the tick’s body to the best of your ability, as this could inject the tick’s blood into the skin.
  3. Firmly and steadily pull the tick outward in a straight motion. Try to not twist the tweezers, as this could dislodge the head, leaving it embedded in your skin.
  4. As soon as the tick is removed, carefully clean the area of the bite, as well as your hands, with soap and water.
  5. To safely dispose of the tick, place it in a sealed bag or jar with alcohol. Another option is to flush the tick down the toilet. Do not crush the tick.

If you begin to notice a rash developing or any other symptoms after removing a tick, get in touch with your doctor immediately.

Professional Tick Control in Bristol TN

Ticks may be tiny, but they are one of the most dangerous pest problems. Learning how to prevent ticks and how to safely remove them in a timely manner is the key to staying safe from tick-borne illnesses. The experts at Leo’s Pest Control are here to answer any questions you may have about ticks—contact us today!

Can I Get Stung by a Carpenter Bee?

Carpenter bees rarely sting people in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

Stinging insects of any kind can be cause for concern. Many people confuse bees for wasps and vice versa, making it important to know which are more of a risk to be around. In general, carpenter bees are unlikely to sting anyone. These bees are busy nesting in wood, which is a whole other danger to be aware of with their presence.

While carpenter bee stings are rare, the experts at Leo’s Pest Control know how concerning insect stings of any kind can be for you and your family. Our bee control experts are here to share what you need to know about the dangers of carpenter bees in Bristol TN.

When Do Carpenter Bees Sting People?

Similar to most bees, carpenter bees will only sting when provoked or threatened. Here’s what to know about carpenter bee activity and what may motivate them to sting someone:

  1. Male carpenter bees don’t possess a stinger, making the chances of a sting even lower. Female carpenter bees possess a stinger.
  2. Typically, the females are hard at work excavating chambers for their brood. Male carpenter bees are territorial and tend to appear aggressive and dangerous, but this is just for show. The males spend a lot of time hovering near their nest to protect it. Their sole purpose is to mate and chase off predators, allowing females to safely rear offspring.
  3. The only time female carpenter bees will sting is when majorly threatened, handled, stepped on, swatted at, etc. For the most part, these bees are too busy to worry about stinging nearby people.

Do Carpenter Bees Damage Wood?

A common fear with carpenter bees is their wood-boring abilities. Carpenter bees tunnel through wood to lay their eggs. However, carpenter bee damage is minuscule compared to that done by carpenter ants or termites. Only when there are dozens of carpenter bees working away for a long period of time would you begin to see the damage of their activity. This is often seen in window sills, porches, roofs, etc.

The beneficial qualities of carpenter bees far outweigh any dangers they pose. As pollinators, these bees sustain themselves on nectar and pollinate plants as they go.

How to Control Carpenter Bees

Whether you’ve noticed an uptick in carpenter bee activity or are suspicious of wood damage from their activity, contact your local bee control experts at Leo’s Pest Control. Our team will help determine any carpenter bee problems you may be having and work to keep you safe from their activity year-round. Get in touch with us today to learn more!

I Think I Have Bed Bugs! How Did This Happen?

A bed bug found in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

One of the biggest issues with bed bugs is that they are difficult to detect. You could have a full-blown infestation in your mattress and not even know it until it’s too late! They might have found a way into your home on clothes, luggage, bags, or furniture, and will be happy to make a home in your bed, couch, or carpet.

So if you think you have bed bugs, what are you supposed to do to get rid of them? And how can you ensure that they don’t come back?

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to spot. Here are some qualities to look for to identify bed bugs:

  • Bed bugs are tiny insects, usually around 5 mm long, but can be as small as 1 mm, making them very elusive.
  • They are round and similar in shape to a beetle, but lack wings. 
  • Their color ranges from a light brown to a reddish-brown, getting darker as they progress towards their developed adult stage.

They might be called bed bugs, but these pests are happy to take refuge in a variety of soft, dense materials. Bed bugs can be found anywhere that people go – when we’re out in public, we may bring with us some undetected bed bugs from our homes, unintentionally passing them off to others.

Signs of Bed Bugs

These evasive pests might not make themselves known all too quickly. This makes it important to be educated on what a bed bug infestation looks like. Here are some places to look for signs that you have bed bugs in your home:

  1. Your skin. If you wake up in the morning with itchy patches on your skin and you see little red welts, these might be bed bug bites. The symptoms of these bites range from minor annoyance to serious allergic reactions.
  2. Your bedsheets. Noticing small, dark smears on your sheets might mean that there are bed bugs present. Look for spots that have a reddish-brown color, similar to dried blood. Bed bugs also shed their exoskeletons as they progress through their life cycle, so noticing groups of small black specks on your sheets could indicate that there are bed bugs lurking.
  3. Any other vulnerable places. Bed bugs are capable of living on your clothes, furniture, carpet, and other places with similar material consistencies. Keep an eye out when purchasing second-hand clothing and furniture.

Some people think that a bed bug infestation is a result of poor hygiene, but this is not the case. Anyone is susceptible, regardless of how well you maintain a clean home and healthy habits.

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Getting rid of bed bugs is a difficult task. You can try running your infested materials through a washer and dryer on high heat settings, followed by a thorough combing for bed bugs, eggs, and discarded waste. Ultimately, though, this might not be enough to tackle more serious infestations. If you find that your mattress is overrun with bed bugs, ask your local pest control company for help. Our specialists at Leo’s Pest Control are equipped to handle even the most severe cases of bed bug outbreaks. Contact us today for a free quote!

Can My Brick Home Get Termites?

Can brick homes get termites in Bristol TN- Leo's Pest Control

A common myth surrounding termites is that they only infest wooden homes. However, homes made of brick, stone, or other materials remain vulnerable to infestations in Bristol TN for several reasons. There are multiple factors that can attract termites to a building, no matter what materials it’s composed of. This is because termites are attracted to cellulose, which can be found in materials other than wood.

For Termite Awareness Week 2021, the experts at Leo’s Pest Control are here to share all you need to know about what may be putting your home at risk for termite problems. Keep reading to learn more!

What Types of Homes Get Termites?

There is a misconception that only wooden homes can be infested by termites. Unfortunately, this is simply not true. Brick homes, concrete homes, stucco homes, and stone homes can all be infested by termites. Wood stored near your home, moisture issues, wooden decks, and more could all put you at risk for a termite problem. If you notice any of the below risk factors, you could be unknowingly making your home a haven for termites.

What Attracts Termites to My Home?

No matter what type of home you have, the following may make your home more attractive to termites.

  1. Cellulose. Termites may be infamous for infesting wood, but they’re actually after the cellulose contained within! This cellulose is the main component that can be found in wallpaper, plants, mulch, drywall, and more.
  2. Moisture. Leaky pipes, broken sprinklers, or clogged gutters can all lead to moisture problems in your home. In turn, this could attract subterranean termites (not to mention hoards of other pests) inside.
  3. Access to soil. Subterranean termites need contact with soil to live. Any wood items, whether it’s your home, porch, or firewood in the yard, in contact with soil is at risk for a termite problem.
  4. Warmth. Termite problems are generally more common in warmer, humid parts of the world. This puts our Southern state at a higher risk of termite activity year-round.
  5. Decaying wood. If you have logs, trees, or stumps that are rotten or in decay, you can be sure termites will seek them out.
  6. Landscape. Termites can infest mulch, making it important to keep it away from the perimeter of your home. Also, trim back tree branches that may be too close to your property.

Protect Your Home From Termites

No matter what type of home you live in, it’s wise to team up with your local termite control experts at Leo’s Pest Control. Our exterminators can pinpoint exactly where you may be vulnerable to termites after a thorough inspection. Contact us today to learn more!

5 Signs You May Have a Termite Infestation

Damaged wood is a top sign of termites in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

Termites are one of the most dangerous pest problems, mainly due to the fact that they can cause a lot of damage on your property. Unfortunately, termites are difficult to detect until they’ve caused damage. To avoid a full-blown infestation, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the top signs you may have a termite problem. By discovering termites in the early stages, you can get help from a professional termite exterminator such as those with Leo’s Pest Control. Our team of termite experts is here to provide you with all you need to know about the signs of termites here in Bristol.

Most Common Signs of Termite Problems

Termites are pests that are rarely seen by homeowners. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t leave behind evidence of their activity. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Termite swarms
    • Every year, reproductive termites (also known as alates and swarmers) will leave their colony to mate and form new ones.
    • Swarmer termites are frequently mistaken for other flying insects, especially carpenter ants.
    • Seeing winged termites in the spring or summer months is a common sign of termites spreading.
  2. Piles of wings from swarmers
    • After they swarm, the reproductive termites no longer need their wings and will shed them.
    • Termite wings are all the same size and translucent in color.
    • After being shed, they can often appear in a pile together.
  3. Termite frass
    • As they tunnel through dry wood as well as when they swarm, drywood termites create kick-out holes in the wood.
    • This is when their droppings, also known as frass, can be found.
    • Termite frass most closely resembles sawdust or coffee grounds, and can appear in groups.
  4. Mud tubes
    • Subterranean termites nest underground but use mud tubes to travel.
    • These pencil-sized tubes protect the termites from outdoor elements.
    • Seeing mud tubes along the outside of your property is likely the number one sign of termites.
  5. Damage from termites
    • Seeing damage caused by termites is indicative of a serious infestation.
    • Damage most frequently appears in wood around the home. Common damage includes unexplained cracks on walls, beams, and rafters.
    • Termites can cause sagging wood in your floors, as well as hollow-sounding wood.
    • Sometimes wood damage can lead to weakened baseboards and floorboards.

Signs It’s Time to Call a Termite Control Company

If you think you’ve spotted any of the aforementioned signs of termites in or near your property, it’s best to call in your local termite exterminators. A thorough inspection from a trained technician can locate any termite problems in or around your home. To learn more about signs you may have a termite infestation, contact the experts at Leo’s today!

Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

Rodent control services in Bristol Tennessee; Call Leo's Pest Control

Entomologists from Leo’s parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

How to Tell the Difference Between Mice & Rats

Identify rats and mice in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

Mice and rats share many similar traits but differ in a number of important ways. All rodents share the common trait that is their incisor teeth, which never stop growing. This of course explains their habit of chewing and gnawing just about anything they can get their mouths on. However, the mouse and rat differ in several ways, and many people tend to get these two pests confused for one another. Both can be a nuisance, but it’s important to learn how to tell the difference between mice and rats in order to better prepare yourself for an infestation. At Leo’s Pest Control, our rodent experts are here to share their expert knowledge on the matter—keep reading to learn more!

6 Rat Facts

While rats differ in species, they all share a number of traits that makes them stand out from their mouse counterparts. Here’s how:

  • Most rats typically have larger bodies that are about 6–9 inches in size.
  • Rats have small, hairy ears and larger feet.
  • Their droppings are much bigger than those of mice at 10–20 mm long.
  • Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
  • Rats are opportunistic feeders that will eat meats, grains, seeds, and nearly anything else!

Mouse and rat identification in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

How Are Mice Different from Rats?

Mice are obviously much smaller than rats, but their differences don’t stop there. Here’s how to identify the difference between mice and rats:

  • Many mice species are just 2–4 inches long.
  • Mice typically have larger ears and tails compared to their body size.
  • The droppings mice leave behind have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
  • They are more prolific than rats: Mice produce 5–10 litters a year with up to 14 mice in each litter.
  • Mice are omnivores but mostly feed on seeds, grains, and fruits.

How to Know if You Have Rodent Problems

Unlike many types of pests, rodents will make their presence known rather quickly when they infest your property. Some of the most common signs you have rodents in your home include foul odors, odd noises, gnaw marks, chewed up nests, burrows or tunnels, and droppings or urine spots. Besides being a nuisance to get rid of, rats and mice alike are dangerous due to their ability to transmit some of the world’s worst diseases. As soon as you spot the signs of rats or mice, it’s crucial to contact your local rodent exterminator.

Mice & Rats in Bristol TN

Rodent infestations are more common than you want to think in our area. If you are unsure whether you have rats or mice infesting your property, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional. At Leo’s, we focus on rodent prevention and exclusion to stop rrodents from getting inside your home in the first place. Contact us today to learn more!

Reports of Rodents Surge During the Pandemic

Rodents are infesting more homes during the pandemic in Bristol TN - Leo's Pest Control

Rats and mice are typically common this time of year, but 2020 is seeing a surge in rodent activity due to the pandemic. With the shutdowns and restrictions put on restaurants and bars, rodents suddenly were deprived of their normal food source. This in turn caused them to look to residential homes for sustenance. Now with the weather getting colder, rodents will look to make their way inside your home for the coming months. This Rodent Awareness Week, it’s important to learn how to protect your home from rodents and all of the dangers they bring. Keep reading for expert tips from the team at Leo’s.

Rodents & Coronavirus

Rodents may be responsible for transmitting some of the world’s worst diseases, but COVID-19 is thankfully not one of them. Although there is no evidence to suggest that they are spreading this disease, there are still other diseases they are linked to. Also, a rodent infestation at any time can lead to structural damage.

Restaurant closures have caused an uptick in residential rodent sightings as rats and mice become bolder in their hunt for resources. This directly correlates to a bigger risk of infestations and rodent-spread issues. While they won’t transmit COVID-19 to you or your family, it remains crucial to keep these pests out and away from your home all year long.

Prevention Tips for Rodents

Now is the time to protect your property from rodents and the damage they can cause. Leo’s best rodent prevention tips are as follows.

  1. Securely store all food in metal or glass containers with tight-fitting lids.
  2. Clean inside the house and around the garden. Less clutter means fewer places to hide.
  3. Put outdoor garbage bags in metal garbage cans with securely fitted lids to stop them from feeding on contents.
  4. Seal off cracks and crevices around openings. Mice can squeeze inside holes the size of a dime.
  5. Clean up pet food and bird seed debris, and store pet food in robust containers with fitted lids, preferably above ground level.
  6. If you have a compost heap don’t include organic food waste, as this will attract them.
  7. Inspect your garage, attic, crawlspaces, and vents for potential rodent hiding spots.

Dealing With Rodents This Fall?

As mentioned previously, rodents are more abundant (and more aggressive) than ever. If you find yourself with a rodent infestation, it’s important to act fast. The rodent exterminators at Leo’s Pest Control can work with you to implement a custom rodent control plan. Contact us today to learn more.

Watch Out for Asian Lady Beetles This Fall

Asian lady beetles infest Bristol TN homes in the fall - Leo's Pest Control

The Asian lady beetle is often confused for a normal ladybug, but they are actually quite different. Asian lady beetles are a common fall pest problem as they look to seek shelter before the cold months ahead. Similarly to the boxelder bug and stink bug problems this time of year, Asian lady beetles will flock to the side of your home to bask in the sun on colder fall days. This is when they may crawl indoors through windows, doors, or other cracks and crevices. Once indoors, they’ll gravitate toward windows but can also be found in attics, in curtains, and more. While not the most dangerous pest problem, you definitely don’t want these beetles flying around your Bristol TN home! Read on for expert info on the Asian lady beetle from our team of experts at Leo’s Pest Control.

All About Asian Lady Beetles in Tennessee

It can be easy to misidentify an Asian lady beetle for a ladybug. Here’s how to tell them apart:

  1. Asian lady beetles are slightly larger than ladybugs.
  2. They can be off-red, orange, or even a mustard color.
  3. Asian lady beetles have two white oval markings on the spot behind their head.
  4. Some have an M-shaped mark on the pronotum.
  5. The beetles can leave behind an odorous fluid when crushed.

Tips to Keep Asian Lady Beetles Out in the Fall

When the temperature starts to dip in the fall months, Asian lady beetles will begin to look for shelter indoors. After basking in the sun on the south or western facing wall of a structure, they can get indoors through any opening. Our top tips to keep Asian lady beetles out of your home this fall include:

  • Repair or replace damaged screens on doors and windows.
  • Replace the weather stripping around windows and doors.
  • Use caulk to seal cracks around windows, doors, utility pipes, siding, behind chimneys, and around any other openings.
  • Possibly plant some mums in your garden or around your home. These beetles are not fans of the plants and will avoid them at all costs.
  • Try out a natural deterrent using citrus or citronella scents. Make a spray with orange or lemon essential oil diluted with water, and spray around your windows or doors.

How to Get Rid of Asian Lady Beetles

If you start to notice these insects inside your property, there’s no need to panic. These beetles may bite, but their bites are not known to be dangerous. You can use a vacuum cleaner to contain them, but make sure to dispose of them in a sealed bag. The residential exterminators at Leo’s know just how distressing any type of pest problem is inside your home, which is why we’re here to help. Contact us today for assistance with Asian lady beetles.