Avoiding Roaches in the Spring: Tips for Homeowners

three dead roaches on the floor of a home

Spring is the season of rebirth and rejuvenation. This time of year is also when pests like cockroaches become more active. Cockroaches are a prevalent nuisance in many houses and can be particularly troublesome in Albuquerque, New Mexico. They are a significant danger to public health because they can spread infectious bacteria that can cause sickness.

The American Cockroach

This is the largest of the three most prevalent roach species found in Albuquerque homes. They are reddish-brown and can be two inches long. They frequently inhabit basements, baths, and other warm, moist areas. They are scavengers who consume nearly anything, including paper, clothing, and food scraps.

The German Cockroach

This is a small but troublesome pest common in many Albuquerque homes. They are light brown and can be 5/8 of an inch long. German cockroaches frequently inhabit bathrooms and kitchens because they love warm, humid conditions. They are also scavengers and will eat almost anything.

The Oriental Cockroach

This is the least common of the three most common species of cockroaches found in Albuquerque homes. They are dark brown or black and can grow to a length of 1 1/4 inches. Oriental cockroaches frequently inhabit basements, crawl areas, and other cool, wet environments. They are scavengers who will eat almost anything, including decaying organic matter.

Identifying a Roach Infestation

Identifying a cockroach infestation as soon as possible is crucial because they are notoriously difficult to eradicate. Common signs of a roach infestation include:

  • Spotting live cockroaches in the house.
  • Finding cockroach eggs and feces in your home.
  • Detecting an oily or musty smell in your home.

What Attracts Roaches to Your Home?

Several things in your house can attract roaches, such as:

  • Food: Since roaches will consume nearly anything, preserving your food in sealed containers and cleaning up spills and crumbs as soon as possible is crucial.
  • Water: You should fix any leaks or drips in your home since roaches require water to survive.
  • Shelter: Roaches like to hide in dark, secluded areas. So, declutter your home and seal up any cracks or crevices where they can hide.

How to Prevent a Roach Infestation

Taking precautions is the best approach to prevent a roach infestation. Here are some tips to keep roaches out of your home:

  • Keep your home clean.
  • Declutter your home.
  • Use roach bait in areas where roaches frequent but avoid using too much, as this can repel them.

Call a Professional Exterminator

It is crucial to contact a qualified exterminator if you have roaches in your house. They have the expertise and tools to eliminate roaches from your home safely and effectively. They can also offer suggestions on how to stop infestations from happening again.

If you identify a roach infestation in your Albuquerque home, do not hesitate to call Pest Defense Solutions Albuquerque. Our team of professional exterminators can identify the source of the problem and provide practical solutions to get rid of roaches for good. Contact us for a free assessment and assistance in securing your house against these troublesome pests.

10 Key German Cockroach Facts to Know

German cockroaches in Santa Fe NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Many property owners in Albuquerque NM are well-accustomed to cockroach infestations. In our area, if you’re dealing with roaches indoors, there’s a very good chance they are German cockroaches. This species causes the most problems for homes, multi-family units, restaurants, food processing facilities, and indoor spaces. In addition to simply having an unsettling presence, German cockroaches have a rapid reproductive cycle and are capable of carrying dangerous pathogens. To learn more about German cockroaches and what you can do to stop them read on. Our cockroach exterminators at Pest Defense Solutions have laid out some facts and prevention tips that you have to know!

10 German Cockroach Facts

German cockroaches may look somewhat similar to their American and brown-banded counterparts, but they’re quite different. Here are our top 10 facts to know about German cockroaches:

  1. German cockroaches are best identified by their pronotum (protective plate behind the head), which has two longitudinal dark stripes.
  2. These roaches are most commonly found in residential and commercial kitchens or bathrooms.
  3. German cockroaches typically prefer areas of high temperatures and high humidity.
  4. German cockroaches only live indoors. While rare, they can live outside in warm weather.
  5. German cockroaches have an extremely quick rate of reproduction. This means they can spread throughout a building quickly.
  6. The ootheca (egg case) of the German cockroach contains between 35–40 eggs which take one month to hatch.
  7. German cockroaches can carry or transmit diseases and pathogens that can endanger humans.
  8. German cockroach infestations can cause severe asthmatic reactions in some people.
  9. They are able to climb on smooth surfaces because they have a sticky pad on their feet.
  10. German cockroaches prefer to spend their lives hidden in dark areas. They are known to hide inside walls, behind cabinets, inside appliances, and other rarely accessed areas.

How to Prevent a German Cockroach Infestation

As with all roaches, keeping German cockroaches out of your property requires regular maintenance and preventative efforts on your end. By keeping a clean, tidy property, you are effectively lessening the risk of an infestation. Roaches love filth and are attracted to clutter, as it can provide them with hiding places. Take these steps regularly to prevent a German cockroach infestation:

  • Take out your trash often and use sealable lids on your bins. 
  • Inspect the outside of your home for cracks leading in and the inside of your home for leaks.
  • Wipe up spills and sweep up crumbs promptly after they are spilled.
  • Store food in airtight containers and wash dishes as soon as you’re done eating.

Effective & Long-Lasting German Cockroach Control

Roaches prefer to stay hidden, so seeing them out during the day is a sign of a large infestation. As soon as you notice a single roach in your Santa Fe NM property, it’s time to call your local pest control company. Our roach exterminators at Pest Defense Solutions have years of experience providing residents and businesses alike with full-service German cockroach extermination. You can trust we will work to keep roaches out of your property all year long. Reach out today for a free quote!

5 Easy Tips to Prevent Pests in Your Kitchen

Ants are a common kitchen pest problem in Albuquerque NM homes - Pest Defense Solutions

From family gatherings and birthday parties to get-togethers with friends and holiday baking days, a kitchen is the hub of any home. No matter how often you use your kitchen, it’s imperative to keep your surroundings clean and sanitized. One of the biggest threats to the cleanliness of your home is a pest infestation. Unfortunately, kitchens are somewhat of a haven for pests with the endless access to food and water. To prevent pests in your kitchen, it’s important to be proactive about making sure your environment doesn’t attract bugs in the first place. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to help with six easy tips for a pest-free kitchen—read on to learn more!

What Pests Infest Kitchens?

Both residential and commercial kitchens can be prone to all types of pest problems. The most common pests we see infesting kitchens here in Albuquerque NM are:

  • Pantry pests. True to name, these moths, beetles, and bugs infest dried goods and foods in your pantry, which can be any baker’s worst nightmare.
  • Ants. A small ant problem can quickly turn into a large one if ants have found a source of food or water in your kitchen
  • Cockroaches. Roaches love filth and feed on sewer and drain sludge. Many species love to hide behind appliances and are especially troublesome in the food service industry.
  • Flies. From drain flies to fungus gnats, flies can be a true nuisance in the kitchen and can affect your business’ reputation.
  • Rodents. Attracted to warmth and food, small house mice can take shelter behind your appliances and are attracted to food crumbs and garbage.

Infographic on preventing kitchen pests in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Tips to Keep Pests Out of Your Kitchen

Keeping a pest-free kitchen requires knowledge of what attracts them in the first place. The best tips to prevent pests around your sink, pantry, or other appliances are:

  1. Maintain a clean kitchen. Always clean up after meals and avoid crumbs and spills. Clean your floors regularly and avoid clutter.
  2. Seal cracks and fix leaks. Inspect your kitchen for leaky pipes or crevices around your windows. Seal off or repair issues as necessary.
  3. Organize. It’s important to seal all dried goods and foods in airtight containers. Regularly go through your pantry and keep things organized.
  4. Check your groceries. When buying certain goods at the store, inspect food items for tears or signs of damage to avoid pantry pests.
  5. Clean up after your pet. All types of pests love pet food! Store in airtight containers and never leave food bowls out overnight.

Kitchen Pest Control Services in Albuquerque NM

An infestation in your kitchen isn’t just gross—it’s dangerous! Pests can contaminate food and transmit dangerous diseases, making it all the more important to have a clean, pest-free kitchen. If you’ve done all you can and are still seeing pests around your appliances, it’s time to team up with the experts at Pest Defense Solutions. Contact us today to get started!

What Pests Are Attracted to Leaky Pipes?

Cockroaches are known to linger in pipes and plumbing in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Discovering you have a plumbing issue or water leak in your home is one of the worst things a homeowner can experience. One of the other worst things? A pest infestation! Unfortunately, these two instances often go hand in hand. This is because insects and other pests are attracted to areas with excessive moisture. Needless to say, one broken water pipe or even a leak can quickly lead to pests coming out of the woodworks and into your home. For this reason, it’s important to always be on the lookout for leaky pipes or issues in your home if you want to prevent pest problems as well. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to tell you everything you need to know about leaky pipes and pests in your Albuquerque home.

Pests Attracted to Water

Water is one of the main pest attractants. While most need water just for survival, many others are drawn to the environment caused by excess moisture. The four most common pests that are known to dwell in areas with excess moisture are as follows:

  1. Termites: If a broken pipe has caused water damage in the very structure of your home, you can be sure termites are to follow. Subterranean termites in particular are attracted to moist wood and soil. When there are unattended-to leaky pipes or plumbing issues, you could be leaving your home vulnerable to termites.
  2. Ants: These tiny pests will appear seemingly out of nowhere when excess moisture is abundant. Leaky faucets or spilled water from a pet’s bowl can bring ants out in the hundreds. In addition to your typical house ant, water can be a main attractant to the wood-destroying carpenter ant as well.
  3. Cockroaches: Roaches may be known for their resiliency, but they aren’t as strong as you’d think. Without water for a week, a roach will not survive. Cockroaches also love to linger inside of pipes and plumbing fixtures. An issue can quickly introduce roaches into other parts of the house.
  4. Rodents: Rats and mice alike are always looking for a water supply. Leaky pipes or broken faucets in your crawl space or laundry room can provide a haven for rodents. The last thing you want is rodents scurrying around when you have a plumbing issue, making it important to prevent them.

How to Prevent Leaky Pipes

Preventing pests requires preventing the conditions that would attract them in the first place. Always be on the lookout for signs of excess moisture in your home. Regularly inspect to ensure your faucets aren’t dripping, your drains aren’t clogging, and there are no leaks from your fridge, washing machine, or dishwasher. If there are problems, get them fixed right away with professional help. Additionally, consider running a dehumidifier in areas of your home that are more prone to moisture!

Leaky Pipes & Pests in Albuquerque Homes

The last thing you want is a full-blown infestation, making it important to contact your local exterminator after noticing a pest problem. At Pest Defense Solutions, we will work hard to get rid of any pest problems and provide you with tips to prevent future ones.

What is Pest Seasonality?

Ants are a common seasonal pest in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Here in Albuquerque NM, we deal with pest problems all year long. Of course, spring and summer sees an increase in pest activity, but pests are active in the fall and winter months as well. Pest seasonality is a term used to describe pest activity in fall, winter, spring, and summer. In order to better prepare yourself for an infestation, it’s important to know what pests are most common during different parts of the year. Following information released by the NPMA, the team at Pest Defense Solutions is here to share need-to-know info on pest seasonality in our area.

Pests in the Fall and Winter Months

Our mild and wet summer may mean a longer mosquito and tick season that may last through the fall months. Because we don’t experience the harsh cold winters that many parts of the country do, we can expect to deal with pest infestations through the winter months. One of the biggest pest threats this time of year is rodents, who will seek out shelter indoors this time of year. Ants and cockroaches may also find a way inside to seek out moisture that they may be lacking outside.

Winter pests in the South Central United States map
Rodent
Fly
Mosquito
Ant
Cockroach

Spring & Summer Pests in Albuquerque

Every spring and summer, you can expect pest activity to rise again. Our weather encourages all types of pests to reproduce and thrive throughout most of the year. Here’s the ones to look out for:

  • Flies. While mostly a nuisance, fly populations boom in the summertime and can quickly ruin your outdoor events.
  • Stinging insects. Bees, wasps, and hornets will construct nests near residential properties and can be a threat to families.
  • Termites. Our climate is a haven for termites, who swarm in the spring and are at full force in the summertime.
  • Mosquitoes. Mosquitoes lay a lot of eggs in standing water during the summer months, which is when they’re most problematic.

Pest Seasonality Prevention and Control

No matter what season it is, you don’t want to deal with a pest problem. The best way to prevent seasonal pests is to work with a professional pest control company that can protect you year-round. At Pest Defense Solutions, our exterminators will work with you to determine a custom pest control plan suited to the unique needs of your home.

The Danger of Summer Cockroach Infestations

Cockroaches are a common summer pest problem in albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Here at Pest Defense Solutions, we get a lot of calls for cockroach problems during the summer months. While roaches are a year-round pest problem in Albuquerque, their populations explode with the heat of the summer. Most roach species are drawn to humidity, which is why in-home infestations are so common this time of year. Cockroach infestations can be frustrating to get rid of, not to mention altogether dangerous. To avoid dealing with a summertime roach infestation, it’s best to learn how to keep them out altogether. Our team has gathered our top tips for cockroach prevention–keep reading to learn more!

How Dangerous are Roaches?

Cockroaches are known to be gross, but they are one of the more dangerous types of pests. Especially in the summer months, cockroach infestations can explode in size. When you have an infestation, roaches can spread germs and filth. Some of the bacteria and germs they carry can lead to a number of transmitted diseases. The presence of roaches has also been known to trigger allergies in certain individuals. Due to the dangers associated with their activity, it’s important to know what you can do to keep them out of your home or business.

5 Tips to Keep Cockroaches away

Even seeing a single roach in your property can be bad news. To avoid a sighting altogether, there are a few things you can do to prevent cockroaches:

  • Seal cracks and crevices in your property. Also install screens over doors and windows.
  • Regularly clean your bathrooms and kitchens. Promptly wipe up messes, crumbs, and spills, and avoid clutter.
  • Securely seal food and store in the refrigerator. Use tight-fitting lids on trash cans.
  • Promptly fix leaky/broken pipes to avoid excess moisture problems inside the property.
  • Pick up all pet food and pet food bowls after mealtimes—never leave food out overnight.

Summer Cockroach Infestations in Albuquerque

If you’ve done all you can to prevent a cockroach problem but have noticed them in your property, it’s crucial to act fast. Roaches are infamously difficult to get rid of without the help of a professional, and DIY cockroach control can be fruitless. The roach exterminators at Pest Defense Solutions can help ensure you stay roach-free in the summer and all year long.

Are Pests Triggering Your Allergies This Spring?

Pests can trigger allergies in the spring here in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Many people deal with spring allergies this time of year. Runny nose, itchy eyes…the symptoms can range from mild to severe and definitely disrupt our daily lives. With the weather warming up and trees blooming, it’s easy to blame allergies on springtime. But what if there’s more to it? With May being National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, the Pest Defense Solutions team wants to shine light on the dangers of pest allergens. Spring allergies can be triggered by a number of typical household pests, making it important to know how to prevent them! Read on to learn our top tips for keeping pest allergens out of your Albuquerque home this spring.

How to Get Rid of Pest Allergens

Thankfully, you can prevent pest allergens in your property by practicing basic pest prevention tips! Some of these include:

  • Store food in sealed containers and clean kitchens on a daily basis.
  • Dispose of garbage regularly and use a tight-fitting lid.
  • Seal cracks and holes in homes, including entry points for utilities and pipes, screen doors, and windows.
  • Keep your basements and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry!
  • Wash blankets, rugs, and bedding in hot water or get them dry-cleaned.
  • Vacuum and dust your property on a regular basis.
  • Keep pet food sealed in a tight container and wash food bowls.

Pests that Cause Allergies

You may be wondering what pests cause allergies in the first place. A lot of research has proven that cockroach droppings, skins, saliva, and more contribute to allergies and asthma, particularly in children. A roach infestation is often known to exacerbate allergic reactions. In addition, stinging insects such as yellow jackets and fire ants can cause allergic reactions for certain individuals.

In any case, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you suffer from an allergic reaction. Severe symptoms include shortness of breath, dizziness, swollen throat, and wheezing.

Professional Pest Allergen Prevention

Staying safe from pest allergens means staying away from pests in the first place! By keeping pests out of your home, you can greatly reduce the chance of having your seasonal allergies triggered by pests. For help keeping pests out of your property, our team is here to help. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can keep your family safe in spring and all year long.

6 Important Pests of 2020

2020 pests to look out for in your Albuquerque NM home this year - Pest Defense Solutions

Hindsight may be 20/20, but when it comes to protecting your family and home against pests this year, you can be proactive with the help of Pest Defense Solutions. We are helping homeowners prepare for the upcoming pest season by offering insight into anticipated pest activity.

At Pest Defense Solutions, we have examined trends, company data and our own field experiences to determine the following six pest predictions. Additionally, we have provided preventative tips to help keep your home pest-free this year.


Mosquitoes

Disease-spreading mosquitoes, such as the yellow fever mosquito and the Asian tiger mosquito, have recently surged in some Western states. These mosquitoes, as well as the common house mosquito, spread diseases such as the Zika virus, West Nile virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). A bite from a mosquito can also spread the parasite that causes heartworm in pets.

Homeowner Tips: West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, can increase with rising populations. And, mosquitoes only need one tablespoon of water to lay their eggs! To protect yourself and your family, dispose of any standing water around your home and always wear an EPA-approved insect repellent when spending any time outdoors.


Rats

Rat populations have increased over the past several years, and this may be partly due to warmer than usual winters. We can expect to see that trend continue as rodent populations, especially in suburban areas, increase. Warmer winters, a booming construction pipeline, lack of sanitation control, and lack of affordable housing are all issues that have advanced the swell of recent rat activity.

Homeowner Tips: To prevent rodents from entering your home, utilize the following prevention tips: Keep shrubs and trees cut back from home, especially thick ground cover that can serve as hiding places for rats. Ensure that trees do not overhang, touching the roof of your home. Seal any exterior openings larger than a nickel with rodent-proof material such as hardware cloth or flashing. Finally, seal and tie trash bags, placing them into garbage cans with tight-fitting lids.


Termites

Termites are one of the most destructive pests, causing homeowners in the United States $6 billion in property damages each year. These wood-destroying pests are a constant challenge for homeowners in the Western U.S., and this year, termites could prove to be even more damaging. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions have seen an increase in activity from subterranean and dampwood termites in many areas this year.

Homeowner Tips: Earth-to-wood contact provides an avenue for termites to enter homes and structures. To deter termites, eliminate soil to wood contact and avoid moisture accumulations near your homes’ foundation. Termites can be present for years before homeowners ever see signs of their activity, causing considerable and costly damage. Avoid these costs by having a termite protection plan in place. Speak to your pest control provider about risk and protection options for your home.


Cockroaches

Cockroach populations have increased dramatically over the past several years, due in large part to warmer weather and increased rainfall. Cockroaches carry diseases, infest stored food, and then spread these diseases through their excrement. Cockroach removal is vital as infestations can be serious if not taken care of in a timely manner.

Homeowner Tips: To deter an infestation, cockroach-proof your home by sealing small cracks and crevices around windows and door frames with a silicone-based caulk. Keep a clean kitchen, sweeping, mopping and wiping up any spills. Check that door seals, including the one on your garage, are in place and intact. If you’re experiencing cockroach problems, speak with your pest control professional to determine the best solution for your home.


Flies

If you have noticed more flies this past year, you are not alone. Although they’re more active in the summer, house flies reproduce year-round. Filth flies – house flies, bottle flies, flesh flies – generally live and breed near human habitats and their numbers have increased in recent years. Increasing population density, waste management practices that haven’t kept pace with growth, and a general trend toward a warming climate for the fly pressure all contribute to increasing this disease-spreading insect.

Homeowner Tips: The house fly and other types of “filth flies” are not only nuisance pests; they also have the potential to spread the disease to humans and animals. To protect yourself and your family, repair any damaged screens on windows and doors. Keep trash stored away from your home and make sure that all trash cans have tight-fitting lids.


Spiders

Spiders are carnivores, eating other insects and thriving in wet environments. Increased moisture leads to an increase in the insects that spiders eat as a food resource. Heavy rain and warmer temperatures have created the perfect conditions for insects and spiders to flourish. Although beneficial for our ecosystem, most people prefer spiders to stay outside where they belong.

Homeowner Tips: To keep spiders out of your home, keep food put away in tightly sealed storage containers. This will help eliminate ants, roaches and other pests, which will leave spiders with no food source. If the thought of spiders lurking is alarming, try changing your white outdoor light bulbs to yellow light bulbs, which attract fewer insects that can serve as food for the spiders. There are a few species of spiders that can live indoors and need to be controlled by spider removal experts.


The experts at Pest Defense Solutions agree that a proactive approach can help eliminate pest issues before they appear. With these pest predictions in mind, take time to evaluate your current pest control plan and make sure that you have the protection you need to protect yourself and your family from pests this year.