INVASIVE PEST SPECIES:
A GROWING PROBLEM FOR HOMEOWNERS
Rose Pest Solutions reminds homeowners to be cautious of insects of foreign origin
Invasive species, or insects of foreign origin, continue to grow in population, causing major issues for American homeowners and an increased need for pest control Chicagoland. Rose Pest Solutions Chicagoland, urges vigilance against invasive species including Formosan termites and red imported fire ants (RIFAs).
The Risk
“Like many other pests, invasive species tend to make their way into homes during the fall in search of resources and shelter for the winter months ahead,” said Bery Pannkuk, Director of Sales for Rose Pest Solutions. “Unfortunately, invasive species can cause severe property damage, and in some cases injury, once inside the home.”
NPMA warns about termites
Experts from the National Pest Management Association encourage homeowners to stay alert when it comes to invasive pest species like the Formosan termite. This particular species is more aggressive than native termites and can quickly chew through wood, leading to serious damage. In fact, termites are responsible for over five billion dollars in property damage each year. Knowing what to look for and acting early can help protect your home and your family.
Formosan Termite
Fire Ants
Another invasive pest species to be aware of is the red imported fire ant, most commonly found in the southern United States. These aggressive ants can swarm and sting multiple times when their nests are disturbed, often leaving behind painful welts. While they are not typically a threat to homes in the Midwest, it is important to stay cautious when traveling. Always be mindful in unfamiliar outdoor areas to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Red Imported Fire Ant (RIFA)
Because invasive pest species can threaten both your health and your home, the National Pest Management Association recommends taking a few simple steps to protect your space. Seal any cracks or small openings around the outside of your home, fix leaks or areas with excess moisture, and check regularly for signs of unwanted pests. If that sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—a Rose Pest Solutions technician is always ready to help you safeguard your home with expert care.
Residential Pest Control Chicago
“If an infestation is suspected, people should not attempt to control it with do-it-yourself measures,” added Pannkuk. “Instead, contact a licensed pest professional who can identify the species and effectively treat the problem.” There are so many awful gimmicks and “cure-all” products out in stores these days. I wouldn’t trust them if I were you!
Doing it yourself
When dealing with invasive pest species, guessing rarely works. If you do not know exactly what type of insect you are trying to eliminate, it can be difficult to choose a product that actually works. Even when you do know, many store bought treatments are not strong or effective enough to solve the issue completely. Ask yourself—are you really fixing the problem, or just covering up the symptoms? For lasting results, it is always best to call in a professional.
The Environmental Protection Agency labels products specifically for certain types of insects. When treating for pests, the label is the law. For example, the bottle of ant gel you bought for the small reddish brown ants in your kitchen will most likely not work for the larger black carpenter ants you see from time to time in your garage. Different bugs are attracted to different things. You wouldn’t feed a fish dog food, would you? If you’re not sure what to use, it’s worth calling a Rose professional. We know exactly what we’re doing and have the best professional products available. Plus, we stay up to date with the latest training and technology.
Residential Pest Control technician for Rose
We’ve got you covered
You may not have any visible signs of pests today, but who’s to say your child won’t come home from a slumber party tomorrow and bring bed bugs or cockroaches home? You should always be prepared. We have designed our pest control programs to be as easy on you as possible. You don’t even have to be home when we come out to complete your pest service (unless you want to of course!) One of our most popular residential pest control programs is described below.
Healthy Home Maintenance Plan
Provides year ’round protection against:
- ants
- centipedes
- cockroaches
- earwigs
- millipedes
- pillbugs
- silverfish
- spiders
- other crawling ocassional invaders
Gold Plan
Adds Protection Against:
- Rodents (mice, rats, voles, shrews, etc.)
Platinum Plan
Adds Protection Against:
- flying insects
- stinging insects
- asian beetles
- boxelder bugs
Our customers love that while on any of these programs, if activity happens between your quarterly services, we will come back out to take care of the problem at no extra charge! Each plan is customized to fit your home’s needs. We will address the root causes of the issue so you can rest easy!
