3 common types of scorpions in Las Vegas

You often hear about scorpions roaming the deserts of Arizona and southern California, but many call Las Vegas home too. Of the 1,500+ known scorpion species in existence, over 70 can be found here in the United States. But no matter the species, scorpions have some characteristics that are shared by all. Their tough exoskeletons and pair of pincers help to protect them from predators in the wild. Additionally, all types of scorpions have segmented bodies and four pairs of legs, including the most commonly found scorpions in Las Vegas, Nevada. We’ll take a deeper look at three such species found in homes and commercial businesses around here.

1. Bark scorpion

Shakespeare may have been referring to a fiery, Athenian woman when he said, “Though she be but little, she is fierce,” but the adage just happens to fit the bark scorpion perfectly too. As the most venomous scorpion in North America, the bark scorpion presents a significant threat to the residents of Las Vegas, Nevada.

How to identify a bark scorpion

The bark scorpion is a tan or yellowish pest averaging three inches in length. Its small body is made up of two parts, the abdomen (which includes the stinging tail) and the cephalothorax, a fusion of the head and thorax. The bark scorpion has eight legs in addition to its pair of pincers. Generally, bark scorpions hold their tails curled to the side, unlike other types of scorpions that hold them above the body. Learn more bark scorpion facts here.

Where are bark scorpions found?

Because bark scorpions can climb, they can be found in many various places, or at least at various levels. They prefer cool, moist environments, so they are often found hiding under rocks or burrowed beneath tree bark. Sometimes these habitats do not provide enough shelter from the warm temperatures of Las Vegas, and the scorpions are driven to the air-conditioned indoors.

With their marked climbing abilities, they have no trouble scaling vertical walls to make their way in. Once they get inside homes and businesses, bark scorpions often navigate toward dark closets or near sinks and bathtubs. Dark, damp basements and equipment storage areas may also provide an ideal environment for the pests.

What do bark scorpions eat?

As nocturnal creatures, you will not often find bark scorpions to be active during the day. They prefer to hunt at night, giving them protection from extreme heat. Bark scorpions can become vicious when hunting. They lie in wait and use the small hairs on their legs and underside to sense their prey when it comes near. Their pincers, or pedipalps, are fairly weak, so the scorpions must rely on the potent venom from their barbed tail to paralyze the prey before grabbing it with their pincers. Bark scorpions primarily eat cockroaches, spiders, moths, and other similar invertebrates.

Bark scorpion sting

The bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in North America, so its stings should not be taken lightly. Bark scorpions have especially poor eyesight, so when they feel threatened, they attack. Though they don’t specifically seek out humans, children and the elderly are at an increased risk of a severe reaction to a bark scorpion sting. Adverse reactions may vary based on the victim, and more severe symptoms may require medical attention. The site of the sting often swells, accompanied by severe pain. Affected persons can experience numbness, difficulty breathing, convulsions, and even foaming at the mouth.

2. Emperor scorpion

This regal arthropod is actually a popular exotic pet. Though many people are scared of them due to their dark color and large size, emperor scorpions are relatively non-threatening, to humans at least.

How to identify an emperor scorpion

The emperor scorpion comes in between the bark and desert hairy scorpions at a length of eight inches. Though it is not the longest scorpion, it is the largest, commonly weighing up to 30 grams. Their shiny, black bodies blend in well amongst the forest debris and leaves in which they often reside. As a communal species, emperor scorpions are found living in large numbers.

What do emperor scorpions eat?

Insects make up the primary food group of an emperor scorpion’s diet. Specifically, these scorpions often feed on termites and can often be found living in termite mounds. As avid termite hunters, we thank them for their help.

Emperor scorpion sting

Adult scorpions do not often sting as a method of killing their prey or otherwise. When they do sting in defense, they sometimes will not even inject venom. Like other species, the emperor scorpion has poor eyesight, so it can be quick on the defense when it senses a potential threat. Luckily, most people are not affected by emperor scorpion venom, so the only danger to humans is a painful pinch.

3. Desert hairy scorpion

This furry pincher looks much more menacing than it is, unless, of course, you’re its next meal or a male desert hairy scorpion. Occasionally, the female desert hairy scorpion will eat her mate after mating.

How to identify a desert hairy scorpion

The desert hairy scorpion, named for the hairs on its tail, is the longest scorpion species found in the United States. Measuring an average of six inches in length, these scorpions are generally tan or olive green in color.

Where are desert hairy scorpions found?

Believe it or not, desert hairy scorpions are sometimes kept as pets, where they can live up to twenty years (double the life expectancy of a desert hairy scorpion in the wild). Otherwise, you might find them in abandoned burrows, crevices, or in ornamental plants. They seek shaded areas to avoid the Las Vegas sun. They may also gravitate toward cool, dark places in your home or business such as cabinets and attics.

What do hairy desert scorpions eat?

Because they are so large, desert hairy scorpions often have larger prey than other scorpion species. They are carnivorous but are not after humans. Desert hairy scorpions may go after other invertebrates of similar size or even lizards and small animals.

Desert hairy scorpion sting

Desert hairy scorpions are not aggressive and have very weak venom. Their sting resembles that of a bee, and they, like most scorpions, will only sting when provoked.

How to prevent scorpions

There are measures that you can take to prevent scorpions from entering your home or business.

  • Bark scorpions can enter a crack as small as 1/16 of an inch, to ensure that any holes or cracks are sealed. Door sweeps can also be helpful in blocking scorpion entrance.
  • Keep the grass short to make it more difficult for these pests to hide.
  • They may also hide among collections of trash, debris, and logs, so these should be kept away from Las Vegas residences and businesses.

How to get rid of scorpions in your home and business

Though they are generally shy, scorpions can be dangerous. Since you are never quite sure how you’ll react to a scorpion sting, it is best to leave scorpion control to the experts. We have the proper training and equipment to effectively remove scorpions from your property.
If you’re seeing scorpions around your home or business in Las Vegas, give Rentokil a call or contact us online. Our pest specialists can take care of your scorpion problem and give you peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Disinfecting Services

Here in Las Vegas, the coronavirus continues to surge. With cases continuing to rise, it can be overwhelming and distressing to know how to best protect yourself and your property from the dangers of COVID-19. At Rentokil of Las Vegas, we are committed to limiting the spread of coronavirus in our communities with our commercial disinfection services. Whether your hotel has had a recent case of COVID-19 or you’re looking to safely reopen a property and want to take all precautions, our disinfecting service can help. Our experts are here to answer many of the commonly asked questions about our commercial disinfection service.

Are Commercial Disinfecting Services Safe?

You can trust that our services are completely safe and follow strict guidelines. All of our technicians are trained to uphold a number of safety protocols. A few of the safety measures we take during the service include:

  • All technicians will wear suitable PPE, including respirators, N95 masks, goggles, coveralls, rubber boots, and more.
  • Every technician is extensively trained in safety procedures to minimize risks in exposed environments.
  • During every stage of the disinfection service, a team member will ensure safety procedures are applied and comply with legislative requirements. 

How Long Does Disinfection Take?

Before we begin our service, a trained technician will walk you through what to expect, including how long the service may take. The time it takes for our disinfecting service depends on several factors, including the size of the building. Different types of buildings will take varying amounts of time to disinfect the space needed. No matter the time it takes to disinfect your property, the premises will be safe for use in about half an hour after the treatment. There are also different levels of disinfection available depending on the contamination, which can affect the time our services will take.

What Type of Disinfectant is Used?

Basic cleaning products won’t hold up against the virus, making it important to use a registered product. Western utilizes an EPA-approved disinfectant that is registered on List N, which is a registry for products approved for use against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This disinfectant is highly effective and proven to kill not just disease-causing bacteria but also viruses and fungi. We will work with your facility and provide written documentation of the product used to disinfect your property.

Trusted Disinfection Services in Las Vegas

We are dedicated to working with you to meet your every need before, during, and after the commercial disinfection service. Our commercial disinfection service is ideal for any high-traffic business, including rec centers, schools, grocery stores, hotels, restaurants, and more. To schedule service, contact our team of experts today!

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

Entomologists from Western Exterminator 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 Western Exterminator 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 with Western Exterminator. “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 with Western Exterminator. “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 Keep Pests Out of Your Attic

Although we don’t experience the cold winters many parts of the country do, winter pest problems are nonetheless a problem for homeowners in Las Vegas. Certain insects and pests often try to make their way indoors in the fall and winter to wait out the cooler months ahead. This can be a major nuisance for property owners, as no one wants to deal with an infestation this time of year. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to prevent these pests from getting inside in the first place. Keep reading for top tips from the team at Rentokil.

What Pests Are Common in the Winter?

With less drastic temperature changes, many pests are a year-round problem for homeowners in the Las Vegas area. That said, it’s important to know which ones may be looking to get inside your home this time of year. The most common culprits include:

  1. House mice: These mice prefer secluded areas and will look to nest in your attic using insulation and other stored items.
  2. Roof rats: Just as their name suggests, roof rats can squeeze their way indoors and up to the attic in your home.
  3. Spiders: House spiders are typically harmless, but black widows are known to get indoors this time of year.
  4. German cockroaches: As one of the most common roaches, they are known to be especially troublesome in the winter.

Preventing Winter Pest Problems

The key to avoiding overwintering pests is to deny them access inside in the first place. Trim overhanging tree branches, overgrown bushes, and vines away from your home to limit roof access to pests. In addition, secure your chimney with a chimney cap, and install wire mesh over any vents or roof openings. If you keep your garbage cans outdoors, make sure to keep them secure with tight-fitting lids. Lastly, keep everything organized in plastic bins in your attic. Look for gaps or openings and seal them with steel wool or caulk. A combination of these efforts should effectively keep all pests out of your attic and home through the winter months.

Attic Pests in Las Vegas

If you’re hearing odd noises in your attic, there’s a good chance you have unwelcome guests up there. Always call a professional pest control expert before investigating, as attic pest problems can be dangerous and hazardous to get rid of on your own. Contact the team at Rentokil today for more information!

The Difference Between Mouse & Rat Problems

Rodents are two of the most common pest problems. Rats and mice are alike in the fact that they both have incisors that never stop growing. They also both can carry and spread diseases. However, rats and mice are different in many ways as well. Because they both can be a danger for you and your family, it’s important to learn how to identify rats and mice. At Western Exterminator of Las Vegas, our team wants to ensure our customers are aware of the pest threats they may face. Knowing the differences between mouse and rat problems can help. Our experts have compiled all the information you need to know—read on to learn more.

7 Facts About Rats

Rats are typically bigger and occasionally more aggressive than mice. Here’s what else you need to know:

  • Rats have thicker bodies and tails that are shorter than the length of their body.
  • They possess small hairy ears and larger feet.
  • They weigh anywhere from 150 to 300 grams.
  • Rat droppings are banana-shaped and much bigger than mice droppings at 10–20 mm long.
  • Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
  • Rats are adventurous, omnivorous eaters who will feed on a variety of grains and meats.
  • They forage overnight and nest in garages, trees, and basements.

Mouse and rat identification in Henderson Las Vegas NV - Western Exterminator of Las Vegas

How do Mice Differ From Rats?

Mice are obviously smaller than rats, but they have other differences as well:

  • The house mouse is usually just 2–4 inches long.
  • Mice have larger ears and a longer tail compared to its body length.
  • Mice are often gray or brown in color, with a lighter shade or white color on their bellies.
  • Mice droppings have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
  • Most mice feed on fruits, seeds, grains, and occasionally meat.
  • They produce 5–10 litters a year with up to 14 mice in each litter.
  • Mice forage at dusk and nest in attics, garages, basements, and more.

Dangers of Rodents

Rats and mice are similar in that they both can pose a threat to the safety of you and your family with their activities. Rodents are infamous for their ability to carry and spread a number of potentially dangerous diseases. They also can trigger allergies in people. A rodent problem can be a mess to clean up due to the amount of droppings and urine left behind. Lastly, they can cause significant damage to your home. Both mice and rats will chew through insulation, cardboard, wood, and electrical wiring. Due to this reason alone, always contact your local rodent exterminator for help with rat or mouse problems.

Rats and Mice in Las Vegas

The bottom line is that you don’t want rats or mice infesting your property. They both can be dangerous and destructive. As soon as you spot the signs of an infestation, it’s time to contact the rodent exterminators at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas.

Worried About Rodents During the Pandemic?

Here in Las Vegas, pest infestations are a year-round problem. Rodents are one of the most common fall pest problems, and they have been made worse this year by the pandemic. When restaurants and bars closed down or limited operations, rodents suddenly found themselves without their typical source of food. This forced them to look elsewhere and to compete for the little resources available. Unfortunately, this has led to a direct increase in residential infestations. Rodents aren’t just a nuisance—they can be very dangerous if they infest your property. For this reason alone, it’s crucial to learn how to prevent them. This Rodent Awareness Week, the Western Exterminator team is sharing their top tips for rodent prevention.

Are Rats & Mice More Dangerous During COVID-19?

We all know rats and mice have been linked to a number of dangerous diseases, but what about COVID-19? Thankfully, there is no current evidence or research to show that rodents are transmitting the current strain (SARS-CoV-2) to humans. Here’s what we do know about rodents during the pandemic:

  • With the shelter in place orders, there have been a number of reported cases of rats and mice becoming more bold and rampant in the absence of food sources.
  • The surge in rodent activity leads to a bigger risk of infestations and rodent-spread issues.
  • They won’t COVID-19 to you or your family, but rodents still can spread other diseases including hantavirus, salmonellosis, and more.
  • Once inside your home, rodents can cause damage with their chewing and nesting habits.

Best Rodent Prevention Tips

The last thing you have time to deal with right now is a rodent infestation. Here are our top tips to keep them away during the pandemic:

  1. Store all food securely. Make sure all open food is sealed in tight-fitting containers with lids.
  2. Seal holes around pipes. Use caulk or wire wool to cover up gaps and openings near pipes and other openings.
  3. Cover vents. Install mesh screens on your vents. Also, consider installing screens on doors and windows.
  4. Use tight lids on trash cans. Rodents love to rummage in the garbage! If possible, keep your trash cans sealed.
  5. Protect eaves. Fix any damaged roofing and use wire mesh to seal gaps in your eaves.

Fall Rodent Infestations in Las Vegas

All year long, the team at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas is committed to protecting our customers from pest problems. This Rodent Awareness Week, we are shedding a light on the rise of rat infestations. If you need assistance protecting your property, our rodent exterminators can help. Contact us today to learn more!

Can I Get a Termite Infestation in the Fall or Winter?

Here in Las Vegas, we are used to dealing with all types of pests all year long. As much as we might wish termites were only a seasonal pest problem, they are active throughout the entire year. Termites famously swarm in the spring and summer, but can actually swarm all the way through October. Regardless of whether you see them swarming or not, termites are hard at work every month of the year. Colonies can grow at a constant rate, and damage from an infestation usually takes a year or two to actually show up in your property. Discovering termites in your property can happen any month of the year, which is why it’s so important to constantly protect your property from them.

Fall Termite Problems in Las Vegas

The queen termite will reproduce and lay eggs all year long, allowing the colony to grow at a constant rate. The more mature a colony is, the more damage can be made to your home. If you have an infestation festering in your property for more than two years, it is very likely to begin to notice the signs of damage, even in the fall and winter months.

If and when we have cold winter weather, termites will simply burrow further underground to stay warm. This is why it’s unlikely to see termites this time of year. However, it’s crucial to always be on the lookout for these wood-destroying pests and the damage they may be causing.

How Do You Look For Termites in Your Home?

Termites are infamous for being difficult to detect until you have a serious infestation. After a year or two of their activity, you will start to see some of the following signs of termites and their damage:

  • Mud tubes
  • Discarded swarmer wings
  • Termite frass (feces)
  • Drywall discoloration
  • Loose tiles or buckling floors
  • Bubbling or uneven paint on walls
  • Holes in drywall
  • Hollow-sounding or crumbling wood

Preventing Fall Termite Infestations

Preventing termites means being proactive about safeguarding your home against them all year long. This is best done with a professional termite exterminator such as Western Exterminator. We have a number of termite treatment options designed to keep you safe from an infestation ever starting in the first place. Contact us today to learn more!

Fall Rodent Infestation Prevention Tips

Here in Las Vegas, we don’t experience the drastic seasonal changes some parts of the country do. But that’s not to say we don’t experience seasonal pest problems! One of the most common pest infestations in the fall are rodents. Rats and mice alike will get indoors as soon as the temperature begins to dip. Once inside, they can cause a ruckus and spread potentially dangerous germs and disease. Here at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas, we understand how distressing a rodent infestation can be for you and your family. For that reason, we are here to share our top fall rodent infestation prevention tips.

Tips & Tricks to Prevent Rats & Mice

The key to rodent control is prevention. By making your property less attractive to the pests, you can effectively prevent an infestation. Our top tips include:

  1. Keep your yard trimmed and neat. Any trees or vines close to your home will welcome rats onto your roof.
  2. Store all food securely. Keep all open food in tight-fitting containers with lids.
  3. Seal cracks and crevices. Use caulk or wire wool to cover up gaps and openings near pipes and other openings.
  4. Cover vents. Install mesh screens on your vents. Also consider installing screens on doors and windows.
  5. Use tight lids on trash cans. Rodents love to rummage in the garbage! If possible, keep your trash cans sealed and stored.
  6. Cover and protect your eaves. Fix any damaged roofing and use wire mesh to seal gaps in your eaves.

How Dangerous are Fall Rodent Problems?

If you’re hearing rustling in the walls or gnawing noises, chances are you may have a rodent problem. For the most part, rats and mice will take shelter in the attic, basement, and garage. They also will infest kitchens, laundry rooms, and are highly likely to invade your trash cans if given the chance. A rat or mouse problem often begins when the rodents get in through your chimney, pipes, air vents, and more. With incisors that never stop growing, their chewing habits can be destructive. They also are known carriers of germs and bacteria that can cause disease. For this reason alone, it’s crucial to learn how to keep rodents away for good.

Rodent Prevention in the Fall Months

A rat or mouse infestation is bad news all around. As soon as you notice the signs of rodents in your property, or if you want to implement exclusion tactics, contact the rodent exterminators at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas.

2 Spiders to Look Out For This Fall

Spiders are a common pest problem here in the Las Vegas area throughout the entire year. However, they are more abundant in the late summer and fall months. Spiders usually hatch in the springtime. By the time August and September roll around, they can seem to be in full force! Most spiders get into homes to look for food, water, and shelter. Thankfully, most spiders in your home are typically harmless and will avoid you altogether. The same cannot be said for the black widow and brown recluse spiders, which are known to be more aggressive and can administer a nasty bite when threatened. For this reason alone, it’s important to learn how to identify these spiders.

Dangerous Spiders in Las Vegas

The black widow and brown recluse spiders are dangerous any time of year, but are often seeing in or around your home in the late summer/early fall. Due to the fact that these spiders can sting when threatened, it’s important to know how to identify them:

  1. Brown recluse spiders. These spiders have a darker brown violin-shaped mark on their brown bodies. They build loose, dome-shaped webs for shelter. A brown recluse bite is known to be very painful.
  2. Black widows. These spiders have a characteristic red hourglass shape on its body. They build sticky, tangled cobwebs in garages, sheds, and near the ground. They can bite when they feel threatened.

Keeping Spiders Out in the Fall

Spiders can get into your home any time. But because their populations are so large this time of year, you likely are noticing more of them in your home. Some of Western Exterminator’s best tips for preventing spiders include:

  • Trimming your lawn and bushes. Overgrown bushes, shrubs, piles of wood, and more can attract spiders to your property and eventually indoors.
  • Cleaning your home on a regular basis. Doing so can prevent insects that spiders like to prey on and eliminate hiding spots for pests.
  • Sealing any cracks and crevices. Inspect the inside and outside of your property for tiny spots that may be inviting spiders in, and seal properly.
  • Installing or repairing screens on doors and windows. Holes or crevices in screens will easily invite spiders (and other pests) inside.
  • Inspecting boxes and used furniture prior to bringing them inside. Adult spiders or egg sacs could be nestled in old unopened boxes.

What to Do About Fall Pest Infestations

If you have spiders or any other bugs inside your home this time of year, it can be hard to know how to get rid of them! A professional spider control company such as Rentokil can help control current infestations as well as prevent future ones.

How to Keep Pests Away From Your Patio

Outdoors, pests are a fact of life. Here in Las Vegas, we are used to the influx of insects in the summer and fall months. You’re likely looking to spend time outside in your backyard or on your patio with the summer winding down. You also likely don’t want to deal with any pests when you do so. While it can be difficult to avoid insects altogether in your yard, there are a few things you can do to make your property less attractive to pests.

The team at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas are here to share their top outdoor pest-proof tips.

What Pests Are In My Las Vegas Backyard?

The warm weather invites all types of pests and insects. Whether you have an outdoor living set or a play set for your kids, it’s important to know what pests you might encounter right in your backyard. These are the pests you’re likely to see or have problems with:

Pest-Free Outdoor Living Tips and Tricks

If you are planning to have family barbecues or gardening sessions outdoors, you don’t want to deal with pests. It’s important to know how to make your yard less attractive to insects. Some of our top tips include:

  • Get rid of standing water. Stagnant water is one of the biggest attractants for mosquitoes.
  • Keep your lawn and shrubs trimmed. Ticks and mosquitoes will shelter in overgrown vegetation or tall grass.
  • Know how to identify nests or ant hills. Even a tiny mound can contain thousands of ants inside.
  • Inspect all wood structures. Wood-destroying pests (carpenter ants and termites) will damage your wooden decks or porches.
  • Apply an insect repellent. Most store-bought repellent containing DEET will help repel mosquitoes and ticks.
  • Clean your patio or space regularly. Spills or leftover food will surely bring ants around.

Long-Term Pest Prevention For Your Yard

Keeping pests away from your property can be difficult. If you’ve done all you can to prevent pests in your outdoor living space and still find yourself with scorpions or a wasp nest, contact the residential exterminators at Western Exterminator today. We are committed to keeping our customers safe from pests both inside and outside the home.