Camel Crickets – Everything You Need To Know

Camel crickets in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Most people have never heard of camel crickets. The truth is that most of us have probably encountered a camel cricket or two dozen in our lives, we just weren’t aware of what the creepy thing we were facing was exactly. A camel cricket is a part of the cricket family that has similarities to a spider in looks. In fact, many people will refer to this pest as a “spricket” or spider-cricket. In more formal terms, it is part of the Rhaphidophoridae family and has 6 legs with the two legs in the back being longer, two antennae, and a hump-shaped back.

Although relatively harmless, camel crickets can become a nuisance pest in homes because they feed on cloth and fabrics. For this reason, it’s important to learn how to identify camel crickets, as well as prevent them. The experts at Russell’s Pest Control are here to help—read on to learn all you need to know about these pests!

What Are Camel Crickets?

These pests prefer to live in dark wet environments. You will most often find them in basements, garages, greenhouses, sheds – anywhere where there is moisture and vegetation. They are essentially scavengers and will eat anything. And by anything, we are talking fungi on basement walls, scraps of food, rotting trash, fabric, dead animals and insects, feces, even each other! In this regard, they can be considered an asset as they will clean up the disgusting things found in your dank basement or garage. However, they can be a nuisance as they will chew through cloth and fabric like a moth.

Camel crickets are actually harmless to humans. They don’t bite, they don’t make noises like normal crickets, they don’t fly, and do not spread illness or disease. In order to defend themselves, they use their longer back legs to leap at their predators. The bad thing about this is that they may consider you a predator and leap at you, which can be somewhat terrifying for anyone.

How to Get Rid of Camel Crickets

While they aren’t harmful, no one wants to deal with camel crickets inside their home. Thankfully, there are a few ways you can get rid of these pests as well as keep them from coming back:

  1. Waterproof your basement, garage, and storage areas.
  2. Run a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home.
  3. Seal windows and cracks to prevent insects from getting in.
  4. Clean up and remove debris and other food sources, including pet food.
  5. Spray cracks and corners with natural peppermint oil.
  6. Set sticky traps, or homemade duct tape traps.

Need Help With Camel Crickets in Knoxville TN?

If you’ve done all you can to prevent camel crickets and are still noticing camel cricket activity, it’s time to turn to the experts. At Russell’s Pest Control, our pest control experts will work to determine what’s causing the camel cricket problem to begin with. From there, we can help you eliminate camel crickets with either a one-time service or can provide you with year-round protection with regular services. To get rid of camel crickets for good, contact us today!

Safe Tick Removal Tips

Tweezers are used to safely remove a tick - Russell's Pest Control in Knoxville TN

Here in Knoxville, we are used to dealing with a number of pests in the spring and summertime. Few pose more of a threat than ticks, who are infamous for carrying and potentially spreading Lyme disease. While this disease is rare, it’s nonetheless important to learn how to protect yourself from tick bites. When removed in the first 24 hours, the risk of tick-borne illnesses is low. For this reason, time is of the essence. With May being National Lyme Disease Awareness Month, the team at Russell’s Pest Control is here with their top tips for safe tick removal.

Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks don’t only spread Lyme disease, and certain types of ticks transmit other diseases. For example, dog ticks transmit Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, but not Lyme disease. Deer ticks, also known as blacklegged ticks, are the species known to transmit Lyme disease. These tiny parasitic insects can and will attach to any part of the body but are often found in the groin, scalp, and armpits.

Thankfully, the chances of contracting a tick-borne disease is low when the tick is safely removed within the first 24 hours of the bite. It is only when an infected tick has been attached for 36–48 hours can the bacterium be transmitted. Knowing how to promptly and safely remove ticks, then, is essential to stopping the transmission of Lyme disease.

Tick removal guide - Russell's Pest Control in Knoxville TNSteps For Safe Tick Removal

When you are bitten by a tick, it’s important to act quickly to remove it. Thankfully, you can typically do this right at home with a pair of fine-tipped tweezers. This method, backed by the CDC, is proven to safely and effectively remove ticks:

  • Firmly grasp the head or mouth of the tick with your tweezers, as close to the skin as possible. Avoid grasping the tick’s body to the best of your ability, as this could inject the tick’s blood into the skin.
  • Steadily pull the tick outward in a straight motion. Try to not twist the tweezers, as this could dislodge the head, leaving it embedded in your skin.
  • After the tick is removed, carefully clean the area of the bite, as well as your hands, with soap and water.
  • To safely dispose of the tick, place it in a sealed bag or jar with alcohol. Another option is to flush the tick down the toilet. Do not crush the tick.

If you notice a rash or other symptoms developing after a tick bite, immediately see your doctor.

Safe Tick Removal Services in Knoxville TN

Ticks are an important pest to keep in mind in the spring and summertime in our region. By knowing how to prevent a tick bite as well as how to remove a tick when you are bitten, you can stay safe from the dangers they pose. Learn more by contacting the experts at Russell’s Pest Control today!

After 17 years, Brood-X Cicadas are About to Surface

What cicadas will look like around Knoxville TN - Russel's Pest Control

At some point during the latter part of May, hundreds of billions of cicadas are going to emerge from the earth and take to the air.

Some people are freaked out and frightened by this generational event, but many others travel from across the United States to watch it all unfold! However it makes you feel, we can all agree it might be one of the most fascinating natural unfoldings that we have ever seen.

What Is a Cicada?

Cicadas are insects that hatch above ground, but quickly burrow into the earth and don’t reemerge for over a decade. A generation of cicadas emerges from the ground either every 17 years or every 13 years, depending on the brood. Brood X last emerged in 2004 and is gearing up to come back to the surface this May in areas all over the eastern part of the country.

You’ll be able to tell that something new is afoot by their unequivocal noises, but here are a few extra ways to tell cicadas apart from other insects:

  • Cicadas have small black bodies and two sets of long, clear wings, lined with orange markings.
  • Newly hatched cicadas, called nymphs, are light brown with a stumpier body.
  • There will be an incredible magnitude of new insects introduced to our environment, so you will be able to tell them apart by their incredible population size.
  • You will hear piercing, scream-like sounds that can even surpass 100 decibels in volume, similar to an ATV or a chainsaw.

What You Need to Know about Cicadas

Male cicadas are the ones that keep you up at night with their screeches. This is a mating call, and they create it through a lightning-fast repetition that flexes muscles in their abdomen. These devices are called tymbals, and they are specialized noise-making devices found in many insects. Cicadas amplify the noise beyond 20x its original volume by allowing it to reverberate in their bodies.

When a male cicada finds a mate, they will reproduce, dying shortly after. Female cicadas lay their eggs in treetops, and once the nymphs hatch, they make their way down to the ground to burrow in the dirt and look for tree roots to feed on.

Are Cicadas Dangerous?

It’s understandable that some people think that cicadas are dangerous – they mysteriously arise from the ground after many years in a screeching swarm of billions. Although their appearance can be frightening, the most damage that cicadas will do is some moderate destruction of tree roots as they feed. They actually serve as a delightful new food source for many kinds of animals and nourish trees in their area with necessary oxygen when their bodies decay.

What To Do About Cicadas in Knoxville TN

If you’re the kind of person that just can’t handle bugs or loud noises, the return of Brood X will not be fun. Unfortunately, there’s really not a lot that a pest control company can do to cicada-proof your house. There are simply too many of them to keep under control. Using bug spray on cicadas won’t even put a tiny dent in their numbers, and will probably poison the animals that prey on them.

That being said, if you’re experiencing a pest outbreak on your property, contact our experts at Russell’s Pest Control. We train our specialists to the newest standards of efficiency and environmental awareness, and we will routinely send technicians until your home is pest-free. Contact us today for a free quote!

How Tennessee Residents Can Keep Their Yards Mosquito-Free This Summer

Mosquito found in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Have you ever wondered why there are so many mosquitoes all over Tennessee? We happen to have ideal breeding conditions for them for about half of the year, starting as early as March and lasting into October. They can make use of even the tiniest spaces as breeding grounds, and their speedy reproductive cycle means that there will always be a quick turnaround of mosquito populations until it gets too cold. So how do we go about stopping them from living in our yards?

What Are Mosquitoes Attracted To?

To understand how to best repel mosquitoes, it is beneficial to know what they’re attracted to. Since their reproductive process is so fast, you’ll generally find mosquitoes around still water, which is where they lay their eggs. Mosquitoes make use of many different sources of standing water to breed, both natural and man-made. Look for tiny rafts of mosquito eggs in:

  • Ponds
  • Pools
  • Spas
  • Buckets
  • Gutters
  • Birdbaths
  • Anywhere else that rainwater collects

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk and tend to rest in protected places during the night and midday. If you have densely wooded areas of lots of shady trees around your home, you’re likely to experience a mosquito outbreak.

DIY Mosquito Repellent

So what can you do on your own to keep mosquitoes out of your yard? There are a number of DIY mosquito repellent options, and some work better than others. Here are three preventative measures that we consider to be the best options for Tennessee residents:

  1. Cover or pour out any standing water. If you have a pool or spa, keep it covered whenever it’s not in use so mosquitoes don’t lay their eggs on the water. Also, routinely inspect your yard for stagnant water that has collected.
  2. Keep your yard tidy. Keeping mosquitoes away means limiting the places that they might want to hang out in your yard. Make sure your trees and bushes are trimmed down.
  3. Set up equipment to deter mosquitoes. Depending on your yard and the severity of your problem, this could mean mosquito traps, mosquito nets, window and door screens, or fans. Some people like to use citronella candles as a natural mosquito repellent, but we find that they aren’t effective for more than a couple of hours.

Professional Mosquito Control in Knoxville TN

If your DIY tactics aren’t getting the job done, you can trust in your local mosquito extermination experts to remove them from your yard. At Russell’s Pest Control, we train our mosquito specialists to cater their approach to the unique situations they find in every yard. We use a variety of treatment methods, all of which employ strategies and products that are up to the latest standards of environmental awareness. If you have a mosquito outbreak in your yard, contact us today for a free quote!

It’s Time To Think About Mosquito Control In Knoxville

Mosquito biting Knoxville resident during spring - Russell's Pest Control

One of the upsides to the colder winter months here in Knoxville is the disappearance of mosquitoes. Unfortunately, they’ll be back to bug us again soon, and we’ll be in for several months of prime mosquito season. You can stop mosquito problems in your yard before they start by hiring our experts at Russell’s Pest Control – we know these pests and their tendencies inside and out.

The Dangers of Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can be quite a nuisance when you are trying to enjoy outdoor gatherings with family and friends. Beyond all the buzzing and biting, some species of mosquitoes are capable of transmitting dangerous diseases to their human hosts. Some notable examples are:

  • Malaria
  • Zika virus
  • West Nile virus
  • Dengue
  • Chikungunya virus, and more

Fortunately for us, the majority of mosquito-borne diseases are spread in areas with tropical or subtropical climates. This doesn’t exempt us from the potential of contracting an illness, however, so if you are experiencing severe headaches, nausea, muscle spasms, or stiffness that you think might be related to a recent mosquito bite, seek medical attention immediately.

Preventing a Mosquito Infestation

You can find some fairly simple mosquito prevention tips online, but most of them don’t tackle the issue at its root. We advise that you take these tips into account when preparing yourself for mosquito season:

  1. Most importantly, aim to eliminate or at least reduce the amount of standing water in your yard by turning over tools, toys, buckets, glasses, and other items that collect rainwater. Any amount of standing water serves as a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.
  2. Apply insect repellent before going outdoors. This is the best way to protect your exposed skin, but wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants with lighter colors will also prevent mosquito bites.
  3. Learn about mosquitoes’ habits. They tend to gather around water sources big and small, and they’re most active at dusk and dawn.
  4. Some people suggest using citronella candles to repel mosquitoes, but they are fairly ineffective, and their fumes are potentially harmful when inhaled.

The #1 mosquito prevention tip, of course, is to contact a professional pest control service that has experience with effective mosquito reduction and control.

Planning Ahead for Mosquito Season

The time to start thinking about mosquito control on your property is now, and Russell’s Pest Control is ready to help in the Eastern Tennessee area. On your initial treatment, our trained technicians will come out and inspect your yard for mosquito hot spots, including an examination of plant life around your home and any other potential breeding sites. We will then assign a specialist to return every month from April to September to maintain the area. Then you can finally relax in a yard that mosquitoes will steer clear of. Contact our team today!

Do Termites Infest Brick Homes?

Do termites infest brick homes in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Termites are infamous for causing a lot of wood damage. They obviously infest wooden homes, but what about structures built with brick, stone, or other materials? The bad news is that a termite infestation can still occur. This is because termites are attracted to more than just wood. In fact, anything containing cellulose is at risk of being infested with termites.

With Termite Awareness Week upon us, the experts at Russell’s Pest Control are here to share all you need to know about what may be putting your Knoxville home at risk for termites. Read on to learn more.

What Materials Attract Termites?

There is a misconception that only wooden homes can be infested by termites. Unfortunately, this is simply not true. Brick homes, concrete homes, stucco homes, and stone homes can all be infested by termites. Wood stored near your home, moisture issues, wooden decks, and more could all put you at risk for a termite problem. If you notice any of the risk factors listed below, your home could be vulnerable to a termite problem.

6 Things That Attract Termites to Your Home

Termites aren’t just out to infest wood. There are many factors at play that could make your home more attractive to these destructive pests:

  1. Moisture. Leaky pipes, broken sprinklers, or clogged gutters can all lead to moisture problems in your home. In turn, this could attract subterranean termites (not to mention hoards of other pests) inside.
  2. Cellulose. Termites may be infamous for infesting wood, but they’re actually after the cellulose contained within! This cellulose is a main component that can be found in wallpaper, plants, mulch, drywall, and more.
  3. Landscape. Termites can infest mulch, making it important to keep it away from the perimeter of your home. Also trim back tree branches that may be too close to your property.
  4. Access to soil. Subterranean termites need contact with soil to live. Any wood items, whether it’s your home, porch, or firewood in the yard, in contact with soil is at risk for a termite problem.
  5. Warmth. Termite problems are generally more common in warmer, humid parts of the world. This puts our Southern state at a higher risk of termite activity year-round.
  6. Decaying wood. If you have logs, trees, or stumps that are rotten or in decay, you can be sure termites will seek them out.

Termites in Knoxville Homes

Bottom line: When it comes to keeping your home safe from termites, it’s best to call an expert. The termite control experts at Russell’s Pest Control can thoroughly inspect your property and pinpoint any vulnerabilities that could make you prone to termite problems down the road. Contact us today!

Signs of Termites in Your Knoxville Home

Termite frass is a common sign of termites in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Here in Knoxville, termites are a year-round pest problem. However, the spring and summer months bring about an abundance of new termite infestations. In order to better prepare yourself for the upcoming termite season, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the most common signs of termites. Unlike other pests and insects that you may have dealt with before, termites are rarely actually seen. Instead, they will leave behind evidence of their presence. Knowing these signs of termites can help stop an infestation before it starts. The experts at Russell’s Pest Control are here to help with their expert knowledge on signs of termites–read on to learn more!

5 Signs of Termites

1. Drywood Termite Droppings

Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites nest within wood. As they tunnel through dry wood as well as when they swarm, drywood termites create kick-out holes in the wood. This is when their droppings, also known as frass, can be found. Termite frass most closely resembles sawdust or coffee grounds, and can appear in piles. Seeing this sign of termites makes it important to call a professional for closer inspection.

2. Swarming termites

In the springtime, reproductive termites will leave their colony to mate and form new ones. Swarming happens when a mature termite colony releases a number of swarmers from their existing nest. Reproductive termites, also known as alates or swarmers, can often be mistaken for other flying insects, especially carpenter ants. Seeing winged termites in the spring months is a sign of termites spreading.

3. Termite wings

After alates swarm and land in their new location, they will literally twist their wings off to discard them. This is because after flight, they will no longer need to fly. Termite wings are all the same size and translucent in color. These wings can often be seen in piles, which is indicative of termites forming their new colony nearby.

4. Mud tubes

Made from and used by subterranean termites, mud tubes are pencil-sized tunnels through which termites travel. True to their name, subterranean termites nest underground. In order to leave the nest and forage for food, they will build mud tubes out of their feces. This protects the termites from outdoor elements as it blocks out cool, dry air. Seeing mud tubes along the outside of your property is likely the number one sign of termites.

5. Damaged wood

Termites are infamous for damaging wood. This can appear in several ways. Typically, termite damage can cause unexplained cracks on walls, beams, and rafters. It can cause sagging wood in your floors, as well as hollow-sounding wood. Sometimes wood damage can lead to weakened baseboards and floorboards. In general, wood damage of any kind can be a major sign of a termite problem.

How to Inspect for Signs of Termite Problems

Seeing any of the above signs of termites means it’s time to call in a professional. A trained technician knows exactly what to look for when it comes to termites. Here in Knoxville, you can trust the experienced termite exterminators at Russell’s. Contact us today to learn more about finding signs of termites in or near your home.

Why Is Winter Pest Control Important? [2021 Update]

Why Is Winter Pest Control Important? - Russell's Pest Control in Knoxville TN

It happens time and time again. The moment some homeowners close windows and doors for the season, they think they are finally in the clear from ants, mosquitoes, and spiders for the year. During the summer months, these are some of the most common pests that we try to keep out. With the changing of the seasons in the fall and winter, many homeowners neglect to protect their home against pests that are common this time of year. Then, just a month or two later, their family could be spending their time wondering where that strange smell inside their home is coming from. Rodents, raccoons, and boxelder bugs are just a few pests known to make themselves at home in the wintertime with your family. For this reason, it’s crucial to invest in winter pest control.

Winter Pest Problems in Knoxville

There are several reasons that pest control is just as important in the winter as it is during the rest of the year. Pests do not take the season off, especially if they are already inside your home when the cold weather begins. A nice, warm house is a great spot for most pests to flourish no matter what the season is, and it is much easier for them to get in than it is for you to get them out. The main pest problems we face in the winter include:

  1. Overwintering bugs, such as the lady beetle or the boxelder bugs, are looking for a warm place to wait out winter and will gather by the hundreds inside your walls. They may slip out come spring leaving the homeowner none the wiser, but when this many bugs gather, it stands to reason that they will not all make it until April. This leaves behind a huge green light for other pests that might be looking for an easy meal to come in.
  2. Other pests like cockroaches and rodents also will look for warmer pastures in the winter. These types of pests naturally live where people do. This is because we often inadvertently provide some of the greatest sources of their basic necessities. Unfortunately, they bring with them a host of bacteria and disease that they will leave everywhere they go. They eat from our kitchen pantries and trashcans, they drink from faucets and pet dishes, and they rest in the walls, basements, and crawl spaces. Unlike hibernating pests, roaches, mice, and rats will nest and breed all year long right under your nose.

Trusted Winter Pest Control Services

It doesn’t take long for an infestation to spin out of control, even in winter. Whether there are boxelder bugs in your walls, or mice living in the basement, you need to protect your family and your home from the damaging effects of pests. For over 45 years Russell’s Pest Control has been a leader in the battle against unwanted pests using the latest technology in safe and effective pest removal. To learn how we can keep you safe from winter pest problems, contact our residential pest control experts today!

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

Logo of Russell's Pest Control in Knoxville TN

Entomologists from Russell’s parent company, Rentokil 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 Rentokil 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. “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. “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.

Prevent Boxelder Bugs & Stink Bugs This Fall

Stink bugs are a common fall invader in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Here in Knoxville, we are accustomed to seasonal pest problems. Few are more troublesome than boxelder and stink bug infestations. These fall invaders are known as such because they enter homes when temperatures drop to escape the impending winter months. They are of course also known for the foul odor they emit when stepped on or if they feel threatened. Although they aren’t too dangerous, their populations can grow to large numbers, making the very sight of them worrisome.

The real trouble is when boxelder bugs or stink bugs crawl their way into your home. The team at Russell’s is here with information about these fall invaders, including how to keep them away.

Stink Bug & Boxelder Bug Facts

These insects can and will easily make their way inside via any crack or crevice on the outside of your home in the fall and winter. Besides the odor they emit, it’s important to know a few facts about these fall invaders:

  1. Stink bug
    • Their backs look like shields, and they can blend easily within the foliage.
    • If threatened, these bugs release an odor.
    • There are two main types we see in the states: the brown marmorated stink bug and the green stink bug.
    • They do not bite or spread disease.
  2. Boxelder bug
    • These insects have dark brown bodies with unique red markings.
    • They emerge out of hibernation in the springtime.
    • True to their name, they live in boxelder trees as well as maple, ash, and fruit trees.
    • Their feces can leave a stain.

Stink bug and boxelder bug identification in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

How to Keep Fall Pests Out of Your Home

The key to preventing boxelder bugs & stink bugs this fall is to seal-proof your home. These steps will help prevent all sorts of pests. Inspect the perimeter of your home, focusing on areas around windows and doors. Check the caulk around the molding, seal up cracks around roof soffits and siding, and replace torn screens on doors or windows. It’s also important to clean and repair fences, decorative rocks, woodpiles, patio furniture, and your lawn. Lastly, make sure to trim back vegetation to avoid tree limbs and bushes touching your home.

When to Get an Exterminator for Fall Pests

These insects can get indoors more easily than you may want to believe. If you have an infestation indoors or want to further seal your home off against them, the team at Russell’s can help! Contact our residential exterminators today for more information on our boxelder bug and stink bug control tactics.