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Wood beetles

Wood beetles

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Wood beetles

Somewhere along the line, some wood beetles laid some eggs in this tree and the larva did some burrowing. In most cases only cosmetic damage is seen and there is no risk of secondary infestation within the home. I have seen some homes where it is a pleasing sight to have this in the wood, while others may not like the look. Ambrosia beetles create a staining within the wood and can look quite nice. Powderpost beetles are often associated with a re-infestation, I have seen art work brought back into the US with these potential issues. In one case we froze the Giraffe for approximately 2 weeks and that took care of the problem. This is a part of IPM or Integrated Pest Management.

What do you look for?

  • Before bringing back any wood into the US please check for issues. Most lumber is treated or inspected.
  • Damage to the wood.
  • Sometimes these bugs expel wood pellets similar to Drywood termites.
  • Any change to the appearance of the wood.
  • Any winged insects within the home, can be identified by a Pest Professional. Call ProBest Pest management 602-249-7378 or 623-414-0176

 

Termites tunneling

Termites tunneling

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Termites tunneling in the soil around your home is inevitable. Stopping them before they get into your home must be absolute.  Termiticides have come a long way since the 1950’s  – some good and some maybe not so good. But all in all this all depends on how you stand on repellent, non-repellent and baiting?

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tymdqc5XBBE[/embedyt]

 

In the 50’s Chlordanes usage was curtailed and replaced with shorter life termiticides. Chlordane lasted or had half life of approximately 50 years. OK I know some will argue but in plain language, EPA didn’t want it to last that long in the soil. Soon came shorter life in soil termiticides and newer type classes like Premise which is a non-repellent. Then came Termidor oh and I forgot some new baits like active ingredients Hexaflumuron and noviflumuron. These are baits that are placed into the soil and eaten by termites which then affects molting. My personal opinion especially in Arizona is that it is extremely hot and this in turn heats up the bait station. So I think putting a pesticide in place permanently is the way to prevent Termites tunneling. Termidor stays where you put while Premise can move up and down depending on water activity. We also perform WDIIR or Wood Destroying Infestation Inspection Reports. No matter where you live in the South termite are active usually year round. Depending on your location some moderate to heavy infestations can occur. Florida for instance is greater than Arizona due to moisture. Where you have more water and building codes that lean towards conducive conditions you will find termites.

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