Arrow's 2011 Pest Predictions

With 2010 widely considered to be the "year of the bed bug," many of our customers have been asking what pests will be big this year. Here's our list (ranked in order) of pest predictions for 2011 that are guaranteed to make a major impact on homeowners nationwide:

1. Ants: Many homeowners may be surprised to learn that ants are at the top of our list for pests to be aware of this year. In fact, ant infestations are the number one reason why many homeowners call a pest professional. One of the biggest problems with treating ant infestations is that there are literally hundreds of different species, each requiring its own, unique method of treatment. New ant species are constantly being discovered, including the ever present odorous house ants and crazy rasberry ants. To avoid an infestation, a pest professional should be contacted immediately.
2. Termites: Everyone who lives in the South knows, "it's not if you're going to get termites, but when." Termites cause more than $5 billion in property damage each year, and many homeowners are not aware that their homeowner's insurance, most likely doesn't cover termite damage. Termites are present year round and homeowners should look for a 24/7 system to protect their homes, such as the new Sentricon® termite colony elimination system with Always Active® technology. Additionally, if signs of a termite infestation are suspected, it is important to call a pest professional immediately to prevent severe structural damage to the home.
3. Bed bugs: As mentioned above, last year was, with no question, the year of the bed bug. Cities all across the country experienced record numbers of infestations from these blood-sucking pests. Unfortunately, this year, bed bugs are predicted to be just as big of a problem, if not bigger due to their increased resistance to some treatment methods and their sophisticated hitchhiking abilities. Additionally, bed bug populations will continue to grow since most homeowners aren't aware they have bed bugs until there is an infestation. Bed bugs require professional treatment. There is no home remedy that will work; vigilance is key in dealing with bed bugs.
4. Fleas: In recent years, fleas have become more resistant to products currently sold on the market, allowing the breeding cycle to continue and making them harder to treat. Typically associated with the family pet, fleas can also bite humans because they are looking for a warm-blooded host to attack. To keep fleas from infesting the home, vacuum often and bathe furry loved ones frequently.
5. Cockroaches: Cockroaches are another pest to be aware of this year. These pests can wreak havoc on your health, potentially spreading 33 different kinds of bacteria and triggering asthma attacks in children. Since female cockroaches can lay up to 50 eggs at a time, a pest professional should be contacted immediately if an infestation is expected.

As always, be sure to check back with our blog throughout the year for tips on how to prevent these pests from entering your home!