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In honor of the year’s spookiest holiday, check out a few scary facts about the bugs, insects and pests that are all around us. 

• Spiders alternate their legs when walking.  Spiders will keep four legs touching the ground and four legs off the ground and they are able to walk on both horizontal and vertical surfaces.

• Bed bugs checkout of hotels and can live with you in your home.  Bed bugs can thrive in single-family homes, apartments, hospitals, college dorm rooms, office buildings, schools, buses, trains, movie theaters, retail stores and just about anywhere that humans are.

• Cockroaches can live without their head for a month.  Yes, it is true for a particular species of cockroaches  because they have an open circulatory system with little pressure, beheading will not result in a lot of blood loss and a lot of the functions of a roaches brain are decentralized.

• Scorpions can go a year without food.  Scorpions have a leisurely approach to hunting, which mostly involves sitting and waiting, meaning they use very few nutrients.

• Houseflies either defecates or regurgitates when they land. Flies have a liquid diet, which means everything goes right through their tiny digestive systems.

• Bees have two stomachs.  One stomach is for food and the other is to contain the nectar. This stops the honey the bee produces from being contaminated.

For many homeowners, just the thought of spider’s web in their living room or bed bugs nesting under the covers can turn their home a haunted one. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) informs homeowners that the Fall months are typical pest infestations as insects and rodents are seeking shelter from the cooler weather that rolls in.

At Florida Pest Control Center we have specially trained and licensed pest control professionals that can provide the detection of the infestations, the treatment, as well as the prevention and extermination methods needed to eliminate these pests for good. Call us today at 954-945-5050

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Local: 954-945-5050

With September being back-to-school, let’s look at some basic pest control 101 tips for around South Florida.  Whether it’s insects, rodents, bed bugs, iguanas or anything else – these pests  are not a pretty sight to see. Learn how you can prevent them from entering your location altogether with these pest control tips.

In The Kitchen

Cook in the kitchen and eat in the kitchen, keeping all food in one main area.  Make it a house rule to only eat in the kitchen/dining area and not in other areas of the home.  The fewer areas exposed to food, the less risk of any type of pest invasion you’ll have.

Mop, sweep or Swiffer whatever you choose but it is best to clean the floor daily. Missing a few days may be just enough to attract some unwanted insects to a buffet feast.

Clear the drain and run the disposal. Be sure that any slow-moving drains are cleared and cleaned. Bugs often enter the home searching for water, so it is best to repair leaky sinks and drains in your home.

In The Pantry

Store food properly in and around the kitchen pantry. Insect and bugs can get into all but the most tightly sealed packaging – bags, cardboard, etc. Be sure to store items in the pantry in containers that properly seal. It is always recommended to place dry goods like sugars, flours, and bulk mixes in airtight containers.

Consider storage of fruits and vegetables. Many ripe fresh foods attract ants, fruit flies, and many other pests so eat them quickly and store them properly.

In The Closets

Wash, Dry, Store – you always want to put away clean clothes. Clothes that are dirty will certainly attract bugs.

In Garbage Bins

Time to take out the trash.  Make sure to clean out the various garbage bins and recyclable bins used to temporarily store garbage. Another great tip is to go a step further and rinse out plastic, glass, and metal containers that are being recycled.

Put a lid on your trash. Garbage can lids on trash will keep bugs out, keep smells in, and help keep critters and infestations away. Choose bins and buckets with lids when shopping for garbage and recycling containers.

Don’t Forget Outside Areas

Trim Trees.  Insects and critters love to have an easy way on to and into your home.  It is best to prune foliage near the house and make sure nothing is touching the roof lines. Bushes, trees, and shrubs that touch your home will welcome in the bugs like a red carpet. 

Another area to consider are any screens.  Window screens, porch door screens, patio screens, etc.  It is best to repair or replace broken screens on windows and doors right away. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free estimate, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)  or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555

Local: 954-945-5050

Summer is almost over and the months of August and September reflex a change in the year with back-to-school time.   Bugs are the last thing on you mind but they should be paid attention to as your year transitions.  Did you know…there are a common set of bugs that spread very easily on school campuses and into homes at the beginning of the school year.  Here are the top five common bugs and things to avoid this school season.    

Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs are like little hitchhikers that attach to anything.  They travel quickly onto clothing, inside backpacks, around dorms and even on bus seats.   They seek food from the blood of animals or humans.  It is best to check for signs of bed bugs if you hear there has been a breakout at the school or on the campus.

Head Lice

Head Lice are best friends and love to share. They are tiny parasites that feed on human blood on or around the scalp area and can live for about one month.   They can easily move from person to person, so if you have a young child in an environment where children share everything it is best to be cautious.  Especially with any head related items such as headbands, hats, brushes, and hair ties.

Fruit Flies

These flies love school lunch.  They are a type of fly that can pass along bacteria and pathogens very easily which can be harmful down the road.  It is best to pack your child’s snacks in plastic bags or containers and have your child throw away any uneaten food.

Roaches

Roaches are pests that take a liking to children and messy college students that don’t pick up after themselves and leave a food trail around them.   Make sure to clean any crumbs and throw away garbage in tightly sealed receptacles, especially in a dorm environment.

Ants

Ants love snacks almost as much as your children, and when kids eat together, and crumbs go everywhere – ants will be sure to make an appearance. If ants find their way into your child’s lunchbox, they can be brought easily into your home.  It is best to clean out the lunchbox after every meal and to keep food in sealed containers.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free estimate, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555

Local: 954-945-5050

As mentioned in our post last month, it is termite swarming season.  Here are additional points to consider during the summer months in Florida.

Do Termites live in groups or alone?

Termites live in groups and will not survive if it is alone.  Termites live in colonies ranging in number from several thousand to millions. Like other insects, the colonies can include different roles such as a  king and queen that are responsible for reproduction and there are worker termites and nymphs.  

Can your home have more than one termite colony?

Yes, it is not uncommon for several colonies of termites to occupy one area of a home or structure.  However, they do not intermingle from one to the other.  

Do termites live exceptionally long?

The role of the termite determines the number of years they are alive.  The queen or reproduction termite may live for decades whereas a worker termite may live from one to two years.

What happens after a swarm?

After swarming, subterranean termites will attempt to pair with a swarmer of the opposite sex within the colony. First that locate a habitat to establish a new colony of their own which requires moist soil, preferably in direct contact with wood. The termite colony that produced the swarmers will continue to be active after the swarm has taken place.

Termite Seasonal Calendar:

• Subterranean termites swarm during the spring and summer months.
• Formosan termites swarm at night during the late spring.
• Conehead termites disperse in swarms, often after the first heavy rain of the spring. 
• Drywood termite swarm at night, from April through July and a variation call tropical smooth-headed can swarm throughout the year.

Keep in mind:

Termites are not a type of pest that can be controlled with do it yourself measures and should be addressed and removed by professionals.

If you suspect any kind of termite infestation, contact our team of licensed pest control professionals to conduct an inspection and develop an effective action plan for removal.  For more information, or to schedule termite service, reach out to us today.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free termite inspection, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)  or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555  Local: 954-945-5050

We have officially entered termite swarming season!  Here are a few key points to consider during the summer months in Florida.

Does a Swarm of Termites Mean You Are in Trouble?

Although termite swarmers are not the wood-eating members of the termite family, it can be a good indicator that there may be a hazardous termite presence. Seeing a swarm of termites or flying termites in or outside of your residence is cause for concern and you should get a termite inspection right away.  

Do Termites Have Droppings?

A frequent misconception is that termites leave droppings of wood or sawdust.  Not true.  Termites ingest the wood they devour and will leave behind dark brown colored pellets in the surrounding areas.

Is the Problem Gone Once I Kill the Swarmer’s?

No, simply killing off what you are able to see does not mean the termites are completely gone as others may be lurking around.  The termite family also consists of termite workers which are the ones to create the true damage to your home.  These worker termites will chew through wood in and around your home and can completely destroy structures.  Often, the infestation can go on for many months and even years without being noticed. 

Termite Seasonal Calendar:

• Subterranean termites swarm during the spring and summer months.
• Formosan termites swarm at night during the late spring.
• Conehead termites disperse in swarms, often after the first heavy rain of the spring. 
• Drywood termite swarm at night, from April through July and a variation call tropical smooth-headed can swarm throughout the year.

Keep in mind:

Termites are not a type of pest that can be controlled with do it yourself measures and should be addressed and removed by professionals.

If you suspect any kind of termite infestation, contact our team of licensed pest control professionals to conduct an inspection and develop an effective action plan for removal.  For more information, or to schedule termite service, reach out to us today.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free termite inspection, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555  Local: 954-945-5050

They are not invited guests, but we have all seen cockroaches, mice, spiders, and even snakes inside our South Florida homes. So how are pests and critters getting into the home? These unwanted  pests can actually find multiple entry points into your home. They enter through any open crack, an exposed hole and even through the pipe system.

Here are a few offenders:

• Snakes. Snakes glide their way through pipes in your bathroom, laundry room, kitchen, and the toilet. They even use these pipes to travel from room to room whether water is in them or not. 

• Insects. Insects are not only disgusting, but they are also unhealthy. Some of the insects that travel in and out of your draining system may actually carry a disease.

• Rodents.  Mice and rats often squeeze their way into a home through holes even as tiny as a nickel. Just like insects, these rodents also carry diseases but even more so, they can actually clog drains and do damage to your home.  

These critters need water, food, and shelter in order to survive and will make their home inside your home. It is a necessity to make sure your home is protected by sealing up any cracks and exposed holes as well as covering any open pipes that connect to your home.  Covering these entry points with wire mesh and sealants will provide the protection you need.  Safeguard your home today by scheduling an inspection and let our professional’s get your home pest free.

If you see any critters or pests, Florida Pest Control Center is here to help. For more information, or to schedule termite service, reach out to us today.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free estimate, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)  or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Warm weather, blooming flowers … spring is in the air.  Also in the air are swarming termites.  Spring is the beginning of peak pest season, when most insects are coming out of their winter hiding spots, mating and also finding their way into our homes. One of the most common springtime pests is also one of biggest threats to a home – termites.

Did you know?  Termites can cause well over $2 billion in structural damage to homes each year. That is more than fires and storms combined. Our highly trained professional technicians offer South Florida with superior termite control. Florida Pest Control Center provides:

• Guaranteed inspections
• Residential termite control
• Commercial termite control
• Subterranean termite control
• Drywood termite control
• Formosan termite control

If you have been finding piles of insect wings in your home, you may be understandably puzzled. This is not a sign of a new infestation. These wings are left behind by the swarmer’s, who shed their wings after a time. If you see this, it is a sign of a big problem that needs to be fixed as quickly as possible.

Termites live and thrive in colonies underground. If your home happens to be on or near a termite colony’s nest, they could swarm in your home.  Swarming termites tend to last only about 30 minutes. Since termites do not fly around very well, many do not make it to a new nest. If they enter your house first they typically will not make it to nest.

If you see termite swarmer’s, or are noticing the signs termites leave behind, Florida Pest Control Center is here to help. For more information, or to schedule termite service, reach out to us today.

Terminate the Termites with Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) is the termite terminator, the Florida expert in treating all types of termites.  FPCC professionals analyze and evaluate each infestation to determine the most effective treatment. 

Using the most advanced technologies to safely eliminate termites, FPCC pest control may recommend heat treatment, foam termiticide through pumps, liquid treatment through soil rods and injections, ground barriers, or a combination of these.  

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free estimate, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)  or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Terminate your termites today!

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555

Local: 954-945-5050

Spring is the beginning of termite season.  Here are a few commonly asked questions and answers. 

What time of year do termites usually appear?

Most species of subterranean termite’s swarm during the spring and summer months, typically on a warm day and after a rainfall. Drywood termites and a particular species of subterranean termite called the R. hageni typically swarm during the late summer or fall months, from August through November.

What are swarming termites?

Termites live and thrive in colonies underground. Sometime during the year, typically in the spring and early summer months, the younger termites will fly from their nest via mud tubes they have created for just this purpose – to mate and locate a new nest site and sources of food. If your home happens to be on or near a termite colony’s nest, they could swarm in your home.

How long does a swarming episode last? 

Swarming termites tend to last only about 30 minutes. They tend to take place in spring and early summer. Since termites do not fly around very well, many do not make it to a new nest. If they enter your house first they typically will not make it to nest.

Do termites bite?

Not to worry as termites do not bite humans. The only danger that you and your family may come across is getting near a swarm of termites in your home while they quickly look for a way to get outside.

Can termites do damage to a home?

Yes, without a doubt.  Termites can do damage to a home or structure for many years without being detected. This causes the wood to have a weathered and tattered look and should be addressed.  When termites feed on wood, it becomes brittle and hollow and you can easily break off pieces of wood. 

If you see termite swarmer’s, or are noticing the signs termites leave behind, Florida Pest Control Center is here to help. For more information, or to schedule termite service, reach out to us today.

Terminate the Termites with Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) is the termite terminator, the Florida expert in treating all types of termites.  FPCC professionals analyze and evaluate each infestation to determine the most effective treatment. 

Using the most advanced technologies to safely eliminate termites, FPCC pest control may recommend heat treatment, foam termiticide through pumps, liquid treatment through soil rods and injections, ground barriers, or a combination of these.  

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free estimate, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)  or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Terminate your termites today!

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555

Local: 954-945-5050

How do you know when it is time to tent for drywood termites? A structural tent fumigation is strongly considered when one or more of the following conditions are present in the home or structure:

• Swarming for Multiple Years
• Termites in Inaccessible Areas
• Multiple Points of Infestation
• Termite Swarms in Attic
• Termites in Wood Areas of Home

Structural Tent Fumigation Process

There are a variety of fumigation processes for executing a structural tent fumigation based on several factors, including size of the residence, pest being fumigated, concentration of fumigant, and other considerations.  The typical process is as follows:

The initial process involves covering the termite and bug infested home with heavy tarps and a securely sealed and labeled area.  Then the fumigant is slowly introduced. The home remains sealed for roughly a day or 12-36 hours in order to allow the toxic fumigant to penetrate throughout the wooded areas of the home.

After the 24 hour timespan, the fumigation company will remove the tarps and allow the aeration process to begin. The home still remains on lockdown during this time, as it is not yet safe for re-entry.

After airing it out for a day, the fumigation company returns with specialized equipment to monitor the concentration of any remaining gas in all parts of the home. Provided gas levels are below what is required for safe re-entry, the homeowners can re-enter. However, if gas is still detected in certain parts of the home, the aeration will continue until such time that it is safe for occupying.

Do you suspect that your home has termites?  Call us for an inspection today.

Terminate the Termites with Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) is the termite terminator, the Florida expert in treating all types of termites.  FPCC professionals analyze and evaluate each infestation to determine the most effective treatment. 

Using the most advanced technologies to safely eliminate termites, FPCC pest control may recommend heat treatment, foam termiticide through pumps, liquid treatment through soil rods and injections, ground barriers, or a combination of these.  

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

For more information or for a free estimate, please visit us at Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) or contact the Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) at 866-697-3555 today.   Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)services are licensed, insured, and guaranteed. 

Terminate your termites today!

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Toll-Free:866-697‑3555

Local: 954-945-5050

Did you know that a rat can chew through various holes to get into your home?  So, how do you keep rodents out of your space?

In South Florida there are not many winter problems that homeowners face – there is no snow to shovel and no furnace to tend to.  However, there can be an increase of rodents invading your home looking for warmer areas and a food source.  At Florida Pest Control Center, we have the following recommendations to prepare for these little critters:

Outside

Top recommendation is to seal all your garbage inside either metal or closed trash cans. Then, get rid of anything in your yard that gives a rodent a place to stay – such as buckets and containers. These types of  ground cover can be attractive to rats since it provides shelter and warmth or shade when needed.  Next, consider your sheds and any outdoor storage areas.  A cluttered space can hold a large number of rodents. 

If the exterior of your home contains a garden of any sort, consider adding a type of decoy.  A plastic owl is a typical decoy; however, it is recommended to use something that is light in weight so it moves and floats in the breeze.

Inside

Remember to cover any open space that is connected to your home as it is an invitation to rats, mice and other outside critters that are looking for both warmth and food.  Cover any crack, hole, and opening into your house down to the smallest of gaps.

The best material that can be used to cover and fill in any open holes is copper wool as rodents dislike this texture.  Other options such as caulk or foam still can be chewed through and do not provide adequate coverage.

Worst-Case Scenario

It you do find the telltale rat or mouse droppings and you do not want to deal with the kill vs. trap-and-release dilemma —do not hesitate to call a professional. At Florida Pest Control Center we have specially trained and licensed pest control professionals that can provide the detection of the infestations, the treatment, as well as the prevention and extermination methods needed to eliminate these pests for good. The longer the rodents are in your house, the more droppings (that may carry disease), and the more damage they will likely do.

Let the professionals deal with the rodents for you.  Call us today at 954-945-5050.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC) employs comprehensive, state-of-the art technologies, chemical, and non-chemical treatments to eliminate pest problems in residential homes, businesses, hospitals, medical facilities, group homes, and apartment and condominium buildings.  Our highly trained professionals provide a fast, complete solution to your termites, ants, mosquitoes, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and other pest infestations. 

Safe.  We use the safest treatments available.

Easy.  We make it as easy as we can on you and your family.

Effective.  Our treatments will effectively remove bed bugs from your home.

Florida Pest Control Center (FPCC)

Local: 954-945-5050