Insects

RECOGNIZE A STRIPED COCKROACH

Start by determining the size of the insect.

Striped cockroaches (Supella longipalpa), which are also called brown-banded cockroaches or furniture cockroaches, are between 10 and 14 mm in length as adults. They are one of the smallest species of cockroaches. To give an idea of their size, it is sufficient to point out that they have a length which is less than the diameter of a euro cent coin (16.25 mm) if one omits the antennae.

Try to find two yellow-brown stripes.

Despite what one of the names of this cockroach (brown-banded cockroach) may suggest, it is not identified by brown bands, but by two yellowish bands that surround the abdomen. Look for a large one in the lower part of the abdomen and a thinner one running down the middle.

Take into account the climate of your region.

Striped cockroaches generally live in warm, dry climates. If you have a cockroach problem and you live in an area with a humid climate and medium to low temperatures, you are probably dealing with a different species of cockroach.

Look for a water source near your home.

Striped cockroaches hate moisture and are rarely found around a water source. If you’ve seen a cockroach near the toilet bowl or near a sink, it’s probably not a brown-banded cockroach.

See if the cockroach has wings.

The striped cockroach flies away when disturbed. If you see a cockroach flying around, it’s probably a brown-banded cockroach.

TO RECOGNIZE A GERMAN COCKROACH

Start by assessing the size of the roach.

German cockroaches are a little longer than the striped cockroaches. They reach a length (without antennae) between 13 and 16 mm as adults, which is about the diameter of a penny.

Look for two black bands.

The German cockroach can be recognized by two dark stripes that extend across its back from the head to the bottom of the wings. These bands are often dark brown and can sometimes be almost black.

Observe the behavior of the cockroach towards water.

German cockroaches love humidity and heat. They can usually be seen in the kitchen or bathroom wandering around a sink or basin. They are also often found in garbage cans where they go to look for their food.

Consider the number of roaches.

German cockroaches are the most common cockroaches found in homes where they tend to congregate. If you think your home is overrun with cockroaches, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with German cockroaches.

RECOGNIZE AN AMERICAN COCKROACH

Start by assessing the size of the roach. American cockroaches are a large species of cockroaches, as they can be up to 5 cm in length as adults. If you place such a cockroach next to a one-euro coin, it appears twice as long as the diameter of the coin (23.25 mm).

Pay attention to the color of the cockroach.

The American cockroaches are distinguished from other cockroaches by their brown color going to the red that reminds amber. Indeed, most other cockroaches have a dark brown or black body. Try to see if the cockroach in front of you has a body that emits red glow. Also look for two large dark brown spots just behind the head which are the only two areas of the body that are not red in this species.

See if the body is shiny.

American cockroaches have a characteristic red color, but they are also particularly bright. Their body and wings are perfectly shiny, but this does not make them attractive.

Pay attention to the type of food the cockroach eats. American cockroaches are very fond of moist foods, such as those of humans or their pets, which makes them particularly harmful insects. If you see a large cockroach eating your food or your dog’s or cat’s food, it is most likely an American cockroach.

RECOGNIZE AN ORIENTAL COCKROACH

Assess the size of the cockroach.

Oriental cockroaches are generally one centimeter long when fully grown, which is about half the diameter of a 10 cent euro coin (19.75 mm). They have a tube-shaped body that is the same width from the top of the head to the end of the abdomen. Female oriental cockroaches are larger than their male counterparts,

Examine the color of the cockroach.

Oriental cockroaches are a very dark brown color. They can even appear black under certain lighting conditions. Other than their characteristic color, there are no other features, such as stripes or dots, to distinguish them from other roach species.

Examine the wings of the cockroach.

Male oriental cockroaches have wings that cover about three quarters of their abdomen while their female counterparts do not. Although they have these organs, males cannot fly.

Pay attention to the places where you encounter cockroaches.

Oriental cockroaches can survive a long, cold winter outdoors because they are able to burrow under a protective layer of material such as plant moss. In indoor environments, they tend to settle in dark and humid places. They can often be found in the pipes of cool cellars.

Pay attention to the odors that cockroaches can give off.

There is often an unpleasant musty smell from areas that are infested with Oriental cockroaches. These fumes are due to the chemicals that these cockroaches secrete to communicate with each other.

TIPS

• If you have to deal with a cockroach infestation, you are going to have to take drastic measures to eliminate these pests. If you spare a small area of your home, you leave them a space where they can breed and you will have to do the disinfecting work again.
• German cockroaches have a preference for prepared foods and therefore are most likely to be found in the kitchen.
• Striped cockroaches often hide in dark, warm places like the spaces between shelves in a closet.
• If you have a cockroach problem, store your food in airtight boxes to protect it from contamination. You should also keep garbage in closed containers.
• Oriental cockroaches often enter homes through pipes and drainage systems to settle in dark, cool places like basements.

https://www.a-extermination.com/fr/autres-bestioles/coquerelles/

ASIAN LADYBUGS

The Asian lady beetle first appeared in North America in the early 1980s. This insect had the mission to control in a biological way the population of aphids that damage our crops, especially corn. Like any invader, the Asian ladybug can be a threat to our homes, but it is much more of a threat to the environment. Here are the dangers associated with the presence of this species of ladybug, as well as some good solutions to avoid them.

ASIAN LADYBUGS DANGEROUS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT ?

These small insects that feed on aphids are invading in impressive numbers in our homes in Quebec (invasion of ladybugs) remain harmless to humans. These little yellow beasts with black spots can bite us, but cases are rare and fortunately for us they do not transmit any disease. On the other hand, this type of ladybug represents a real danger for biodiversity. Indeed, this insect originating from China lives much longer than the other species of ladybugs present in Quebec and its larvae can attack the larvae of other ladybugs, or even those of other insects, thus threatening their reproduction cycle.

DAMAGE CAUSED BY ASIAN LADYBUGS IN OUR AREA

It is during the fall that our growers harvest the corn by destroying the place where the Asian lady beetles have taken refuge during the summer. This is when their nuisance is felt the most. With the arrival of the cold Canadian winter and these small insects not yet accustomed to the cold, they will try to find refuge in our homes by following the sun’s rays and infiltrating through all the openings they can find. Older, light-colored homes are most susceptible to prolonged invasion. This provides an excellent food supply for rodents that may move into your home.

By hiring an insect exterminator, you will no longer run the risk of being exposed to a rodent infestation.

5 TIPS TO EXTERMINATE ASIAN LADYBUGS

1. Use diatomaceous earth as a repellent for ladybugs:
   Simply sprinkle diatomaceous earth in the ladybugs’ favorite places
2. Use camphor as a natural repellent:
   Simply mix camphor essential oil with water and spray the solution on areas where ladybugs hang out.
3. Use a garlic-based repellent:
   Place 2 or 3 cloves of garlic in a saucepan and boil with water until they soften, then crush with a fork to release the juice. Then use a sieve and add about 4 liters of water to the solution. Finally, spray the repellent in the various places where the ladybugs walk.
4. Build a little house for ladybugs:
   In this case, you can build a small turret for these ladybugs as for the bees.
5. Use cayenne pepper:
   Mix 150 grams of infused cayenne pepper in 2 cups of boiling water then let cool and add 4 teaspoons of dish soap. It’s ok you can spray now the places where ladybugs are usually found.

TO GET RID OF ASIAN LADYBUGS

There are not many solutions against the invasion of Asian ladybugs. The best solution is to ensure that your home is well sealed and that potential entrances are well caulked. Check the framing of your windows, install screens and check the tightness of the joints. You can also install a light trap outside your home to prevent the intrusion of these insects. But the best solution is to call a specialist in insect extermination.

No matter what time of year it is, you are never safe from an ant invasion in your home. Despite their small size, ants can spread quickly throughout your home and damage the structure. This is why it is important to call a professional exterminator as soon as possible!

THE DIFFERENT SPECIES OF ANTS

There are several types of these social insects of which we can name the pharaoh ants, black ants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, etc. This is why it is recommended that you call ant extermination experts to prevent your property from being damaged.

HOW TO RECOGNIZE CARPENTER ANTS ?

In Canada, the red carpenter ant and the black carpenter ant are the two most common species and measure between 0.24 and 1 inch. The red carpenter ant is known by its blackish body with a brown-tinged thorax while the black carpenter ant is entirely black with brown tints.

The queen carpenter ant has a lifespan of about 17 years while the workers have a lifespan of only 7 years. Ant nests can easily reach 2000 ants after 3 years, which is nowadays called a new colony of carpenter ants.

SIGN OF CARPENTER ANTS

There are five different ways to detect its presence.

• Fine sawdust on the floor.
• A cloud of winged ants.
• Visible ants circulating everywhere.
• Invasion in the food.
• Breakage of structures (window or door sill).

HOW TO KEEP ANTS AWAY NATURALLY ?

Here are 10 natural methods that we recommend you use to get rid of carpenter ants:

• You can put coffee grounds at the bottom of the walls.
• You can simply draw a line with chalk on the windowsill.
• You can cut lemon slices and place them near the entry points.
• You can put a branch of lavender or small bags of lavender in places where they usually go.
• Just like with lavender, you can place cinnamon sticks in strategic locations.
• You can simply spray white vinegar or liquid black soap on their spots.
• You can spray peppermint in essential oil. Your home will feel good and at the same time you will keep them away.
• You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth in the corners and cracks. It will act as an ecological and natural insecticide.
• You can place 2 or 3 lids filled with baking soda and sugar in strategic locations like cinnamon sticks.
• You can also use certain chemicals such as dishwashing liquid orhousehold alcohol. (Spray directly on these foraging insects).

GET RID OF CARPENTER ANTS BY TAKING PHYSICAL ACTION

Here are 5 tips to help you get rid of these insects:

• Get rid of wet and rotten wood around buildings.
• Remove firewood and do not store it near buildings.
• Do not bury stumps or wood debris near buildings.
• Find a solution to moisture problems in the home.
• Store food in airtight containers.

Do not hesitate to call a specialist in ant extermination.

Of course, having wasps in the house is not an option to consider, as they pose a huge danger, especially if children live with us. Therefore, here we will tell you everything you need to know about these pests and give you tips to help you eliminate them and keep your family well protected.

WHAT ARE WASPS?

They are flying insects present in almost all regions of the world, which belong to the family Hympenoptera and the subgroup Apocrita. Some people tend to confuse them with bees, but wasps are distinguished by the small size that separates their abdomen from their thorax. They are particularly known for the danger of their sting, which has earned them a place on the podium of the most feared insects by humans and animals.

Despite their terrifying nature, some species are harmless to humans. In fact, they tend to be solitary and help control other pests that attack crops and also have an important and very specific pollination function as in the case of the fig tree, whose flowers are fertilized by wasps.

As far as their appearance is concerned, these animals have a pointed abdomen and a very small size that separates the belly from the tail. They can vary their colors from classic black to more vivid and striking colors depending on the species they belong to. They usually build their nests with wood fibers that they extract from the bark of trees and chew until they become a clay-like paste.

WHY DO WASPS APPEAR?

Wasps are present everywhere in the world, except in the polar regions. They can be fine in deserts, jungles or forests and survive without any problem. They must proliferate during the summer season, because the milder temperatures favor them. However, in winter, only the queen wasp takes refuge in the nest to survive, while the others die.

Temperature being an important factor for them, they prefer to settle in sunny places. They also like to nest in cracks in walls and ceilings. Therefore, if your home is full of cracks everywhere, you will probably find wasps.

If you have a garden, you’ll probably notice them because they seek out the wood fiber they pull from trees and combine it with their saliva to create the paste that will form their nests. In addition, gardens provide them with important food sources, such as other insects with which they satisfy their appetite and that of their larvae.

WASP STING

In case you didn’t know, the wasps have a small sting which they use to attack their prey or defend themselves if they feel threatened and, of course, humans are not immune to being a perfect target for these animals and their terrible sting, which tend to inject poison.

In most cases, wasp stings do not represent a greater danger, as they are characterized by a fairly brief discomfort, which involves redness of the area and mild pain that lasts only a few hours. However, some people are highly allergic to the venom of these insects. Therefore, if they receive a shot, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible, as the consequences can be fatal.

As for the symptoms that occur after a wasp sting, they can be:

• Swelling of the lips and throat.
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Decrease in blood pressure.
• Fainting
• Difficulty breathing
• Hives
• Inflammation and redness in the area of the sting.

If you are allergic to wasp stings, or if you think your health is deteriorating after being stung by one, it is best to seek medical attention immediately after the first symptoms of an allergic reaction.

ARE WASPS DANGEROUS?

While it is true that some species are not a threat to humans, we keep thinking that wasps are very dangerous insects. When they nest in areas inhabited by humans, they automatically become a potential danger. In fact, they are toxic animals that tend to cause major accidents in humans. For this reason, it is considered a dangerous species that must be controlled, either by moving the hive to a remote area or, in the worst case, by fighting it.

To give you an idea, these animals are the cause of many deaths in some countries, even more than spiders and snakes.

As you can see, wasp stings can not only be very annoying and painful, but they can also lead to death, either by anaphylaxis, which occurs when the insect stings someone sensitive to its poison, or poisoning. In case of massive bites, this means that these animals are even more dangerous than one might think.

HOW TO ELIMINATE WASPS?

To control wasp infestations, we must proceed with theelimination of wasp nests and put an end to the conditions favorable to the development of these insects, spraying insecticides and filling the cracks and grooves with cement, putty or other materials. However, it is very important to consult a exterminator expert before using any pesticide, as there could be side effects or be extremely toxic in its application. It is also important to remove food sources such as other insects, fallen fruit from trees, garbage, etc., as they attract these insects.

In addition, there are traps that are ideal for exterminate wasps outdoors These are traps in which a container is placed containing a substance attractive to these insects, which contains a hole in which they enter and, falling into the liquid, they die drowned. These traps can be placed in gardens or in areas most frequented by these pests, to reduce the risk of bites.

As for the aerosols sold at the supermarket, some of them are not effective in killing wasps, but they can be used to keep them away. On the other hand, you can acquire repellent creams or lotions to apply on our skin and avoid getting stung, or resort to some products that are usually applied on the edges of swimming pools, barbecues or on plants, but are usually quite dangerous for humans.

HOME REMEDIES TO ELIMINATE WASPS

If you are looking for a more natural and practical alternative to control these terrible insects, you can try the ‘home’ remedies below:

SOAP AND WATER

It is a natural, non-toxic insecticide that you can prepare with simple ingredients and is readily available. You should only mix a quarter cup of liquid dish soap with 1 liter of hot water, which you should throw on the hive, making sure to protect yourself with covered clothes (or wear protective clothing), and then move away as quickly as possible. We recommend that you do this at night, when the wasps are at rest.

BORAX POWDER

This product is extremely useful for eliminating many types of pests, including wasps. The best part is that, as a natural insecticide, it is completely harmless to humans unless applied in excessive amounts. If you have the opportunity, take some borax and put it in the wasp hive, if not, just spread it in the areas where these insects tend to be, it will only be a matter of time for them to disappear from there.

VINAIGRE

Vinegar is a powerful natural repellent against many types of insects. To take advantage of its properties, take a container and fill it with equal parts vinegar and water. Then, spray it on the hive and in areas where wasps travel.

MORE TIPS FOR KILLING WASPS

If you want to explore other options for getting rid of these bugs, don’t miss the tips we have left.

SCENTED CANDLES

It may sound simple, but it is quite effective. Some candles have a strawberry scent and are ideal for repelling wasps. You can light a few in your home to keep these insects out while giving off a fragrant atmosphere.

CUCUMBER SLICES

Even easier! Wasps hate the smell of cucumbers, so simply cut slices and place them in the areas most frequented by these animals.

Now that you know all about wasps, we hope you can manage this annoying affair using our practical tips.

Ready to get rid of invasive wasps? Calling an exterminator is the most effective solution! Contact us now!

HOW ARE LICE SPREAD ?

Lice move by crawling, as they cannot jump or fly. They are spread through close person-to-person contact. On rare occasions, they may pass on personal items such as hats or hairbrushes. Personal hygiene and cleanliness are not related to the presence of lice. You can’t get animal lice either. Lice do not transmit disease.

Lice are more common in crowded and confined living conditions.

You may be infested with head lice if:

• You come into close contact with someone who has lice.
• Touch the clothes or bedding of someone who has lice.
• Share hats, towels, brushes or combs from someone who has lice.

WHO IS AT RISK OF GETTING LICE ?

In most cases, lice affect children between the ages of 3 and 11 and their families. This is because young children often have their heads close together when they play at school.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF LICE?

Symptoms of lice include:

• Tingling sensation in the head
• Frequent itching caused by an allergic reaction to bites Itchy wounds
• Sometimes wounds can become infected with bacteria
• Small red bumps on the scalp, neck and shoulders (bumps can cause scabies and suppuration)
• Small white spots (eggs or nits) near the root of each hair that are difficult to remove.
• Difficulty sleeping, as lice are more active in the dark

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE LICE ?

In general, the diagnosis of lice is obtained by seeing lice or nits on the head. Because they are very small and move quickly, you may need to use a magnifying glass and a fine-toothed comb to detect lice or nits.

Lice can be difficult to see. You have to observe very closely. Wear disposable gloves and examine the person’s head under a bright light. Full sun or the brightest lights in your home during the day work well. Using a magnifying glass can help.

To check for head lice:

• Divide the hair down to the scalp in very small sections.
• Examine the scalp and hair for lice and moving eggs.
• Check the whole head in this way.
• Look closely at the top of the neck and the ears (the most frequented areas for eggs).

Children and adults should be treated immediately if lice or nits are found.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR LICE ?

Lice treatments available from pharmacists include over-the-counter and prescription shampoos, creams and lotions. If you want to use an over-the-counter treatment and you don’t know which one to use or how to use it, consult your doctor or pharmacist. You should also ask your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you want to use a treatment for a young child.

Follow these steps when using a lice treatment:

• Apply the product according to the instructions. Apply only to the scalp and hair. You should not use it on any other hair.
• Use only one product at a time, unless your doctor tells you to use two different types at once.
• Pay attention to the instructions: Check how long to apply the medication in your hair and how you should rinse it out.
• After rinsing, use a fine-toothed comb or a special comb to remove dead lice and nits.
• After each treatment, check your head for remaining lice and nits. Comb out nits and lice every few days. Do this for two to three weeks to make sure all lice and nits are gone.

All persons living in the home and other close members should be checked and treated if necessary. If an over-the-counter treatment doesn’t work for you, you can ask your doctor for a prescription product.

HOW CAN LICE BE PREVENTED ?

There are steps you can take to prevent the spread of lice. If you already have lice, in addition to treatment, you should:

• Wash your clothes, bedding and towels in hot water and dry them on the hottest cycle of the dryer.
• Soak your combs and brushes in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Vacuum the floor and furniture, especially where you are sitting or lying down.
• If you can’t wash certain items, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.

To prevent your children from spreading lice:

• Teach children to avoid direct contact when playing or doing other activities.
• Teach children not to share clothing and other items that go on their heads, such as headphones, hair ties and headphones.
• If your child has lice, check the school and/or daycare rules. Your child may not be able to attend until the lice have been completely treated.

There is no clear scientific evidence that lice can be suffocated with home remedies such as mayonnaise, olive oil or similar substances. You should not use kerosene or gasoline, they are dangerous and flammable.

POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS

Some people develop a skin infection by scratching. Antihistamines can help relieve itching.

WHEN TO CONTACT A HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL

Check with your doctor if:

• You still have symptoms after home treatment.
• There are reddened or tender areas of skin, which could mean an infection.

ALWAYS CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL FOR HIGH QUALITY LICE EXTERMINATION

Ready to get rid of invasive lice?
Contact our experts now!

Let’s be clear from the start: a simple sting is not enough to identify the culprit.

Remaining skins and molting eggs are just two of the signs that could indicate a bed bug problem.

This article can be a kind of shock therapy if you are one of the hundreds or even thousands of people who think they have a bed bug problem simply because they woke up one night after being bitten on the body.

And here’s another slap in the face: even a doctor may not be able to accurately identify the origin of a puncture just by looking at it.

Physicians and exterminator technicians must consider all the evidence found and put bites in context. You must investigate thoroughly to find the culprit.

HOW TO CHECK FOR BED BUGS

There are a number of common pieces of evidence you should look for to confirm the presence of bed bugs in your bedroom.

This process should be followed if you are inspecting your own room or the room of a 5 star luxury hotel. Remember, bed bugs can go anywhere with anyone.

Here are the 3 key questions:

CAN YOU SEE THEM?

Although they are very small (usually 4 to 5 mm), it is possible to see bed bugs with the naked eye. You might even see nymphs and eggs if you are well trained. People often confuse them with dust mites.

The body of bed bugs is very thin and allows them to penetrate through very narrow cracks and crevices. The best way to picture the size of bed bugs is to think of a credit card. Any place you can insert a card is an area where a bed bug can take refuge.

WHERE CAN BED BUGS HIDE?

• In the whole structure of the bed, especially in the headboard
• Mattress seams
• On carpets and curtain seams
• On the baseboards
• Inside the holes where a screw is inserted
• Between the boards of the floor or platform
• Power outlet and electronic devices
• In cracked or broken plaster
• Behind the wallpaper
• Inside cabinets, watch out for drawers!
• Bedside tables

However, it can still be difficult to find real evidence of live insects unless you are dealing with a very severe infestation. In severe situations, it is said that the “wallpaper seemed to move” due to the number of bed bugs that were inside. Have you noticed any itching?

WHAT COLOR ARE THE BED BUGS?

They are usually brown and darker as they develop and turn red when fed.

LOOKING FOR EVIDENCE OF INFESTATION

You need to know 2 things to do a thorough inspection:

1. How to look for evidence?
2. What are the signs of a typical infestation?

• Bed bug eggs – they are very small, oval and whitish. Where is it? They are usually found in groups in cracks and crevices or attached to furniture or fixtures. The seams of the mattress are another place to inspect for your research.
• Bed bug droppings – can be identified as small black dots. Where is it? They are often found in mattresses. The excrement consists of your dried blood. Bed bugs usually defecate shortly after feeding. Although these droppings are very small (less than 1 mm) individually, their accumulation over time can produce a very obvious dark spot.
• Molting bed bugs must shed their skin in order to move on to the next stage of their life cycle. They have 5 molts until they become adults. Where is it? Remains of skins can be found behind headboards, along baseboards and in mattress seams.
• Sweet smell – in very severe infestations, a very characteristic and unpleasant odor may occur and make you feel nauseous.

If you find any of the above evidence, you are dealing with a bed bug infestation.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND THIS EVIDENCE?

Don’t hesitate for a moment, call an expert. Grandma’s remedies don’t work here. It’s not that we want to sell our services, but it’s the hard facts. Only an expert company can put an end to the problem.

Consider these 3 aspects:

1. Bed bugs can spread very easily from one room to another. They will use cracks in walls or ducts to disperse into their facilities.
2. You will continue to suffer until the problem is completely eliminated. While some people have no allergic reaction to bites, others may experience itching and a rash.
3. A female bed bug can lay between 200 and 500 eggs in just 2 months. An egg can develop into an adult in only 45 days (if the environment is favorable). The eggs are not affected by the insecticide.

Would you be able to stop it by yourself?