In this Pest Profile series, we're highlighting the Kissing Bug. With such an innocent name, you’d think the kissing bug would be the unofficial mascot of Valentine’s Day. However, the insect, which is named for its habit of biting humans on and around the lips, is in no way connected to Cupid’s holiday. In fact, the disease spreading bug has a page on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's website and also has an entire research community dedicated to studying its habits at Texas A&M University.
We are in the thick of winter here in North Carolina, and that means pests are constantly looking for a warm place to stay. With that in mind, you may notice more stink bugs making their way inside as they look to keep warm.
Did you know stink bugs were named because of the odor they release when they’re crushed or when they sense a threat? There are more than 200 kinds of stink bugs in the United States with many also calling North Carolina home. This invasive species was first found in Pennsylvania in the 1990s. Stink bugs feed on plants, fruits, and crops, which makes them a huge threat to farms and gardens. The holiday season is here once again. Naturally, you don't want pests to make an appearance in your home during holiday parties, family get-togethers, and festive fun. Here are our top 10 tips for a pest-free holiday season so you can enjoy your Christmas and New Year celebrations without worrying about unwanted bugs and critters:
The holidays bring feelings of celebration and togetherness – yet, you don’t want to bring pests along with your holiday cheer. The last thing you want to deal with among the festivities is a pest infestation. Keeping up with pest control can make your holiday go even smoother and prepare your home for a pest-free spring.
It's a common misconception that when cold weather moves in, pests are moving out. That couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is that in the colder months, pests are looking for a warm place to stay... and might actually try to move into your home or property.
Pests that come out during the fall season in North Carolina, like spiders and ants, aren't affected by cold temperatures. In addition, several pests have various ways to deal with cold weather and the elements, so snow and freezing rain doesn't necessarily affect them. |