Virginia Beach, with its humid subtropical climate and proximity to water, offers the perfect environment for a variety of pests. Homeowners and businesses in the area often face seasonal infestations that can become a nuisance or even a health hazard. In this blog, we’ll explore five of the most common pests in Virginia Beach and how professional Virginia Beach exterminators handle these invaders effectively.
1. Termites
Termites are a major concern in Virginia Beach, particularly the Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes). Termites are responsible for billions of dollars in property damage annually in the U.S., with Virginia being one of the states most affected. In fact, one in five homes in Virginia is at risk of termite damage, costing homeowners an average of $3,000 per infestation.
How Exterminators Handle Termites
Exterminators use a combination of liquid termiticides and baiting systems to control termites. Liquid termiticides are injected into the soil around a structure’s foundation to create a barrier that kills termites when they come into contact. Baiting systems involve placing termite bait stations around the property, which attract termites and then poison the colony from within. Regular monitoring and follow-up treatments are crucial to long-term control.
2. Ants
Virginia Beach is home to several species of ants, including odorous house ants (Tapinoma sessile), Argentine ants (Linepithema humile), and carpenter ants (Camponotus spp.). Carpenter ants, in particular, can cause significant damage by burrowing into wood, while odorous house ants contaminate food and emit a foul smell when crushed.
How Exterminators Handle Ants
Exterminators first identify the ant species to determine the most effective treatment. For carpenter ants, pest control professionals often use a combination of liquid and gel baits to eliminate colonies both inside and outside the home. Non-repellent insecticides are also applied to affected areas to ensure that ants unknowingly spread the poison throughout their colony.
In cases of Argentine or odorous ants, Virginia Beach exterminator use perimeter sprays and bait traps. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent re-infestation, especially during Virginia’s warmer months when ant activity peaks.
3. Mosquitoes
Given Virginia Beach’s coastal environment, mosquitoes thrive in the region, especially during the humid summer months. In addition to their annoying bites, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). According to the Virginia Department of Health, cases of mosquito-borne illnesses have been recorded in the area, making mosquito control a public health priority.
How Exterminators Handle Mosquitoes
Exterminators typically use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques to control mosquito populations. This involves eliminating breeding grounds such as standing water and applying larvicides to areas where mosquito eggs are likely to hatch. Adult mosquitoes are treated with fogging and misting systems that apply insecticide to outdoor areas.
Many professional services also offer ongoing treatments during peak mosquito season (from April to October) to keep populations under control and reduce the risk of disease transmission.
4. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are among the most common household pests in Virginia Beach, with species like the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) and German cockroach (Blattella germanica) thriving in the area. These pests are not only unsightly but also carry diseases and allergens that can trigger asthma and allergic reactions, especially in children.
How Exterminators Handle Cockroaches
Effective cockroach control starts with a thorough inspection of the property to locate hiding spots and breeding grounds. Exterminators use a combination of baits, traps, and insect growth regulators (IGRs) to disrupt the cockroach life cycle. For severe infestations, professionals may use residual insecticides to target hard-to-reach areas such as cracks and crevices.
Ongoing maintenance, including sanitation measures, is crucial to preventing cockroach infestations from returning. Homeowners are often advised to fix leaks, seal entry points, and maintain a clean environment to reduce cockroach attractants.
5. Rodents
Rats and mice are common pests in Virginia Beach, particularly the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) and house mouse (Mus musculus). Rodents can cause significant property damage by gnawing through wires, insulation, and even wood. Additionally, they can contaminate food supplies and spread diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella.
How Exterminators Handle Rodents
Rodent control typically involves a multi-pronged approach. Exterminators start by sealing entry points and setting traps (both snap traps and live traps) in areas where rodent activity has been observed. Bait stations are also used to eliminate rodents without posing a risk to pets or children.
In some cases, exterminators may use rodenticides strategically, particularly in hard-to-reach areas like attics and crawl spaces. Exclusion techniques, such as sealing cracks, holes, and gaps in the home’s foundation, are essential to long-term rodent control.
Why Hire a Professional Exterminator?
Dealing with pests requires more than just off-the-shelf products. Professional exterminators in Virginia Beach have the expertise, tools, and techniques to handle infestations safely and effectively. With access to industrial-grade chemicals and a deep understanding of local pest behaviors, exterminators can provide long-term solutions that DIY methods often fail to achieve.
In addition to eliminating pests, exterminators also provide preventative services, such as inspections and routine treatments, to keep homes and businesses pest-free year-round. Given the climate and geography of Virginia Beach, ongoing pest control is essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment.
Conclusion
From termites to mosquitoes, pests are a persistent problem in Virginia Beach, but they don’t have to be. Professional exterminators offer a range of solutions tailored to the specific pest problems in this region. By staying proactive and seeking professional help, you can protect your property and family from the damage and health risks associated with common pests.
For Virginia Beach residents dealing with pests, it’s essential to act quickly. The sooner you address an infestation, the easier it is to eliminate, and the less likely it is to cause costly damage or health issues.
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