Pasadena has historically been America’s vacation spot because of our lush greenery and perfect weather. Unfortunately, this oasis is also home to numerous pests that seek every opportunity to get into our homes and cause us problems. At Vertex Pest Solutions we have over 25 years of experience dealing with pests in the Pasadena and Los Angeles areas.
Ant Control
There are hundreds of different species of ants that call California home. However, only a few species are known to invade homes in Pasadena. Depending on the species of ant, what attracts them to your home can vary. Knowing how to identify ants can be the key to keeping them out of your home. Here are the most common types of ants homeowners encounter in Pasadena:
- Fire Ants
- Honeypot Ants
- Argentine Ants
- Pavement Ants
- Pharaoh Ants
- Ghost Ants
- Carpenter Ants
Ant colonies can quickly become uncontrollable and may require the services of an ant exterminator. At Vertex Pest, we recommend that you contact us and ask about our ant control program at the first sign of any ant problems.
Spider Control
Almost everyone gets creeped out at the sight of a big, hairy spider. But we also know that spiders are beneficial and do not generally pose a threat to humans. However, spider infestations can be annoying and scary. There are also a few types of venomous spiders that can be found right here in Pasadena. When trying to control spiders it’s important to know how to identify them. Here are the two most venomous spiders in Pasadena.
Black widow spider
Probably the most easily recognizable spider in the world due to the red hourglass on the abdomens of the females. Males of the species are generally brown and smaller than females. The webs of black widow spiders appear messy in appearance but are much stronger than those of other species. Black widow spiders are nocturnal and prefer to live in places where humans rarely tread. Because of this, they are usually found in basements, crawl spaces, sheds, and barns. Black widow spider bites are very painful and can cause severe pain and muscle cramps. Bites are rarely fatal but you should seek medical attention if you are bitten by a black widow.
Brown widow spider
Brown widow spiders look a lot like black widows except they are a light brown color. The hourglass markings on their abdomens are typically orange instead of red. Much like its more famous cousin, the brown widow prefers to build its web in secluded, protected sites around homes and in trees and shrubs. But unlike black widows, these spiders enjoy places that are more exposed which brings them into more direct contact with humans such as:
- Buckets and flower pots
- Inside mailboxes
- Under eaves
- Sheds and garages
- Grips of garbage cans
- Under vehicles that have been stationary for long periods
Scorpion Control
What’s scarier than a spider? A spider with claws and a stinger. Scorpions are part of the arachnid family but they can pose a much bigger risk to humans than spiders. Usually, scorpions are reclusive, nocturnal creatures that shy away from humans. But scorpions will sting if they feel threatened and should be taken very seriously if you see one in your yard or home. There are three types of scorpions that can be found in our neck of the woods.
Arizona Hairy Scorpion
The Arizona hairy scorpion is the largest species living in North America. They are yellowish in color with black markings down its back. They’re considered very aggressive, so it is best to leave them alone if you see one. Although they are aggressive, their venom is not very toxic to humans.
Bark Scorpion
The bark scorpion takes the prize as the most venomous scorpion in North America. Measuring in at 3 inches, these little buggers can pack a punch. A sting from a bark scorpion should always be treated with medical attention. They’re attracted to our yards and homes by moisture from rain and irrigated lawns. Always use gloves and be cautious when lifting rocks or doing any landscaping outdoors.
Stripe-Tailed Scorpion
Appearing similar in size to the bark scorpion, the stripe-tailed scorpion has a larger tail and pinchers. It is characterized by brownish-tan stripes lining its back and tail. The stripe-tailed scorpion’s venom isn’t considered dangerous, but they’ve been known to seek shelter in shoes and boots.
If you notice a scorpion in your yard, do not attempt to remove it. Call the professionals at Vertex Pest Solutions for safe and effective scorpion removal.
Professional Pest Control in Pasadena
If you are having trouble controlling insects in your yard or home, call the professionals at Vertex Pest Solutions. We have the skills and the experience to deal with these kinds of pests and know how to remove them safely. From ant control to scorpion defense, we have seen it all and treated it all. Give us a call or leave a message on our contact page. Do you own a business? Check out our commercial pest services.