Increased Arachnid Activity

If you haven't taken notice already, you may start to see an increase in spider activity in the next couple of weeks as the temperatures begin to cool off making way for Fall. While it is not widely known, male spiders typically seek a mate around late Summer early Fall. This includes tarantula spiders, which according to Mount Diablo State Park rangers, they have already begun seeing tarantulas popping up early due to the cooler temperatures. Be advised that mating season usually lasts through the end of October. 

It's good to keep in mind that while tarantulas are intimidating to look at (for all you arachnophobes!) they are quite docile and non-aggressive unless provoked (which we DO NOT recommend!) Most female tarantulas remain in their burrow, so if you run into a tarantula while out hiking or if you live on acreage, chances are it's a male. Fun fact: Male tarantulas have been known to search for up to four miles to find a mate! Kind of romantic! 

On a separate note, general household spiders will also be seeking mates around this time frame. As always, we recommend staying consistent with your pest control services and doing your best to eliminate the arachnids main food source which are of course other bugs, but most importantly FLIES. If you find yourself having a particularly intense fly infestation, whether outside or inside your home, we recommend picking up a fly catcher or trap at either Home Depot or Lowes to help out. These usually cost anywhere from $5.00 to $7.00 depending on the brand or type you buy. Making sure your trash bids are secure and covered is also a good idea, since this is a popular place for spiders to set up camp. (Coincidence? We think not.) 

We hope this helps answer some of your questions about the increase in spider activity as of lately. If ever you have a concern or need your pest control technician to come back out to do a respray for you, don't hesitate to give us a call!

The House Fly

House Fly

The house fly is the most common fly with an expected life span of less than a month.  They typically stay within 1-2 miles from where they were born, and the batches of eggs are usually in groups of 100 or more. Flies are only able to feed on liquids but can turn a solid into a liquid. A single house fly can carry over 100 different diseases for this reason along with the annoying factor we do not want them flying around us, or our homes. There are some things that can be done in your home to help keep them away.

• Darken the house, close blinds, flies are attracted to light
• Keep pet food covered as much as possible
• Shut windows
• Repair torn blinds
• Cover trash can
• Keep kitchen counter tops clean
• Throw away rotten food/ fruit, flies can lay eggs on spoiled fruit
• Spray them with Windex, this will dampen their wings and make it easier for you to swat

If you find that all your attempts are failing give Black Knight Pest Control a call and we have several things that we can do to help you with your house fly invasion. A quote is always free so call today and stop the buzzing !

Black Knight Pest Control 951.694.8100