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

Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor's – Serving Northern Virginia, Richmond, Springfield, Sterling, Fredericksburg, and surrounding areasEntomologists from Ehrlich Pest Control 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 Ehrlich Pest Control 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 Ehrlich Pest Control. “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 Ehrlich Pest Control. “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 for Ehrlich Pest Control. “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.

4 Types of Wasp Nests in Virginia

Wasp nest identification in Virginia - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor'sVirginia summertime is known for its sunny weather and, unfortunately, influx of insects! Wasps are a common summer pest, and their activity can be a nuisance when you’re spending time outdoors. More likely than not, you’ll come across a paper wasp, mud dauber, bald-faced hornet, or yellowjacket this summer. That said, no one wants a nest built on or near their home. It’s important to know how to identify different types of wasp nests in order to know what you’re dealing with. The team at Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s has tips on identifying the different kinds of nests you may encounter this summer–read on to learn more!

4 Common Wasp Nests

Many wasps are confused for yellowjackets, but they’re all different in several ways. The easiest way to identify them is to learn what their nests look like:

  • Paper wasps
    • Look like upside-down umbrellas
    • These nests are more open, with cells visible
    • They are typically supported by a single stalk and made out of a papery substance
    • Found beneath eaves of structures, in attics and wall voids, and in other enclosed areas
  • Mud daubers
    • Nests are built by female wasps only
    • They are small and tubular in size, often looking like organ pipes.
    • Typically found in cracks or crevices that are sheltered
    • Often found under eaves, garages, attics, or on the sides of buildings.

Learn how to differentiate between different wasp nests in North Springfield VA - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor's

  • Yellowjackets
    • Consist of a papery material and have a single opening
    • Interior can contain up to 100 tiers of cells
    • Also nest underground, sometimes with thousands of members
    • Otherwise build nests in hollow trees, under porches, and a number of other areas
  • Bald-faced hornets
    • Almost always at least three feet off the ground
    • Consist of chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva
    • Can grow to the size of a football or basketball
    • Usually in trees, bushes, or wooded areas, but also can be on buildings

How to Remove Wasp Nests Safely

DIY nest removal is never a good idea. Not only could there be thousands of stinging insects inside the nest, they also could be aggressive and sting repeatedly. This is especially dangerous for anyone who is allergic to wasp stings. When you notice a nest forming on or near your home, try to stay away. Always call the wasp removal experts at Ehrlich for assistance and advice. Our team has the experience needed to provide quick, safe nest removal services.

3 Summertime Wasps You May Encounter

Learn about summertime wasps in the Virginia area - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor'sEveryone looks forward to summertime in Northern Virginia. Warming temperatures bring about more opportunities to spend time outdoors. Unfortunately, wasps love the warmer weather as much as you do! There are three summertime wasps that tend to be most prevalent this time of year: yellow jackets, mud daubers, and paper wasps. If you see signs of stinging insect activity or nests built near your home or business, it’s important to stay away and call your local pest control company. Keep reading for facts on these summertime wasps from the experts at Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s.

Common Wasps in the Summer

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are the most common and most infamous type of wasp. In the summer, particularly late summer, these wasps can get very aggressive. Their nests can contain upwards of or more than 1,000 workers, making them very dangerous to knock down without the help of a professional. These wasps usually will not bother you unless they feel threatened. When they do sting, yellow jackets are capable of stinging repeatedly.

Mud Daubers

Just as their name suggests, mud daubers build nests out of mud. These wasps can be easily told apart from other stinging insects because they are mostly black with light-colored markings or a metallic sheen. Their bodies are long and slender with a thread-like waist. Their nests are often located in covered areas, particularly sheds and attics. Mud daubers are less social than many types of wasps, and are also less aggressive–they will only sting unless threatened or handled.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps construct umbrella-shaped nests in a paper-like material. These nests often hang from tree branches and twigs, as well as porch ceilings and door railings. A mature nest can have between 20-30 adult wasps living inside. While social in nature, paper wasps are not as aggressive as yellow jackets. However, they may sting to defend their nests, which can be rather dangerous. Paper wasp stings are especially potent and could trigger an allergic reaction, making it important to avoid their nests.

Common summertime wasps in Virginia - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor's.

Tips for Preventing Summertime Wasps

To prevent encounters with wasps this it’s important to regularly keep an eye out for nests that may have formed on or near your property. To avoid getting stung when you go outdoors, it’s important to stay away from things that attract wasps. Avoid leaving food or drinks outdoors, seal your garbage cans securely, and install screens on your windows and doors. Never swat at wasps to avoid making them more aggressive and likely to sting.

How to Stay Safe From Wasps

If you do notice a wasp problem or a nest, always contact a professional wasp control expert. Wasp nests can contain many more stinging insects than you think, making it a risk to attempt to knock it down yourself. The team at Ehrlich has the experience needed to provide wasp control services in a way that is safe for you and your family.

How to Prevent Springtime Pests

Prevent springtime pests by cleaning your Richmond or Northern Virginia home! Get Tips from Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor's.Spring is finally here! Many people welcome springtime with open arms. Unfortunately, that includes pests. This time of year is when pests start to peak in activity once more. To prevent the many types of pests that will likely look to invade your Virginia home, it’s important to implement some pest prevention measures into your spring cleaning! Keep reading for tips on common spring pest problems from the experts at Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s.

5 Cleaning Tips to Prevent Springtime Pests

Pests in spring are aggressive, but you don’t have to suffer from an infestation! There are several spring cleaning tips to lessen the risk of getting pests this time of year:

  1. Tidy up! Clean under furniture, wipe down surfaces, and inspect areas of your home that need some fixing up.
  2. Clean your windows and doors thoroughly. If you find any cracks or crevices make sure to securely seal them.
  3. Deep-clean your carpets and rugs. Vacuum, shampoo, or even steam cleaning works well.
  4. Sanitize and clean your kitchen with a focus on your appliances. Crumbs and spilled liquids welcome all types of insects and pests.
  5. Remove debris from your yard, and trim any shrubs or tree branches away from your home. Clear out your gutters and downspouts.

Pests to Look Out for This Spring

You know how to prevent them, but what exactly are the pests you need to worry about this time of year? Unfortunately, the list is rather long. There are five pests in particular that create trouble for property owners every spring: ants, stinging insects (wasps and hornets), stink bugs, termites, and rodents! Spring is simply the start of the pest season and can last well into the summer if pest control isn’t implemented right away. If you notice the signs of any of these pests, it’s important to act fast to prevent a full-blown infestation.

The Importance of Spring Pest Control

The time to protect your home from the onslaught of pests is now. By implementing preventative pest control into your spring cleaning, you can help reduce the risk of pest problems in the spring, winter, and fall. If you already have pests in your home, it’s time to call the experts at Ehrlich. Our exterminators will work with you to develop a pest control plan to keep you safe during each season.