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Get rid of Ants in Evansville, Indiana First off if you have an ant infestation in your home it isn't necessarily a sign that you are a poor housekeeper. Ants can be drawn to even the smallest amount of food or moisture. There are several types of ants that are found in the Evansville, Indiana area. Determining what type of ant you have we go a long way in finding out how to get rid of the ants. Yikes Pest Control deals with all types of ants in Southern Indiana, at anytime feel free to give us a call or send us a text for more information. Types of ants in Southern Indiana As mentioned earlier there are several types of ants in the Evansville, Newburgh, and Posey County area. While we do not have fire ants, we do have Carpenter Ants, odorous house ants, pavement ants, pharaoh ants, red velvet ants, and many many more. Odorous House Ants Odorous house ants are the most common pest ant species that I deal with, these colonies can reach a colony size of many thousands. The ants are roughly 1/8 to 3/16" long, their coloration is dark brown with light tan. When crushed they will emit a "rotten coconut" odor. Odorous house ants form satellite colonies in the spring and summer which expands the area that you may see them. In fact many times multiple houses are affected by the same colony. You usually see these ants trailing around the foundation of your home, in your landscaping, or in your kitchen on your counter. Or you may see single scout ants searching for food. Carpenter Ants Carpenter ants excavate wood out of dead, dying, or decaying trees or old tree stumps. They can be rather large with some species queens reaching up to an inch long. Carpenter ant colonies are much smaller than those of Odorous house ants, but can do actual damage to your home or structure. If windows allow moisture in you may find ant nests in your window sill. Red Velvet Ant You may be surprised to find out that Red Velvet ants are actually not ants at all. They are a type of wasp that actually hunts and kills ants. The wasp stings the ant and injects a venom that paralyzes the ants. Once paralyzed it takes back to its nest where it lay an egg inside of the ant's abdomen, which then eats the host and eventually hatches into a small grub like larva that will eat more of the ants until they pupate into adults. These are solitary wasps, but will emit a painful sting if stepped on. Pavement Ants Pavement ants nest in soil and construct trails to food sources. They can range from 1/8" to 3/8" long, their coloration is light brown with darker stripes on their abdomen. This is the ant where you may see two worker ants carrying a seed back to the colony. Pharaoh Ants Pharaoh ants are much smaller than Odorous house and Carpenter ants. You will likely not see this ant unless you have an infestation in your home or facility. The pharaoh ant is roughly 1/16" long, they contain several different colorations but are usually light tan to brown. You will see these ants in your kitchen or bathrooms, they are drawn to moisture. Ant Control in Newburgh, Indiana If you are currently seeing ants in or around your home you may ask what you can do to get rid of them or prevent ants from entering your home. This depends on the type of ant you are seeing. Some ants such as Carpenter ants you will need to find the source, search outside for a dead or dying tree or limb that overhangs your home. They can actually fall onto your roof and end up inside while looking for a way back into their nest. Once you find the source you can use a combination of dusts or baits to help eliminate the colony. Odorous house ants will need a combination of baits to attract ants and residual pesticides to help eliminate the entire colony. ant baits should be placed along the trail or in areas where heavier activity is found. The ant bait will be brought back to the nest and shared with the rest of the colony. Placing a residual insecticide between the nest and the bait helps to ensure that you get every ant in the colony and helps to ensure that they do not come back quickly. Odorous house ants do leave a pheromone which will draw ants back in the future. Until this pheromone wears away you may see these ant trails in the spring, in the fall, or after a heavy rainfall. Other ants will need to be eliminated using baits only. If you use a pesticide that repel ants they may seperate or "bud" into multiple colonies throughout your home or structure. Yikes Pest Control If you need help with ant identification or help eliminating an ant infestation do not hesitate to give us a call or text anytime! An ant problem can become very stressful very fast, one ant can turn into thousands before you know it and it always seems to happen right before you have an event scheduled. Let us get rid of the ants for you 812-604-7206. Get rid of Ants in your Kitchen call Yikes Pest Control!

What they are and how to get rid of Earwigs from your Evansville home Earwigs are a common household pest that can be difficult to get rid of. They are usually found in moist environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms. They can be identified by their pincers, which they use to catch prey. They feed on a variety of things, including decaying organic matter, insect larvae, and pet food. Earwigs thrive in moist environments because the dampness sustains them with moisture so they don't have to drink water like other insects do. Earwigs also prefer dark places where it is hard for humans to see them for this reason too. However earwigs can show up anywhere from your kitchen sink or bathtub drain all the way up into your attic space if there's enough access via cracks or gaps in the foundation. Earwigs are typically dark brown or black, but like most things they come in different colors, such as reddish orange and even green! They also have wing-like appendages on their backs that allow them to fly short distances at high speeds, which is how they manage to spread to other areas of your home. Earwigs can be difficult to get rid of because they are nocturnal, which means that during the day they will hide away in dark places or under things where it's moist and hidden from humans. What earwigs eat and what they do Earwigs are not particularly harmful to humans, but they can be a nuisance. They can invade your home in large numbers and they can be difficult to get rid of. The best way to get rid of earwigs is to identify and remove their food sources. You can also try using a pesticide or an insecticide. The earwig's most recognizable feature is its large pincers that it uses to catch prey. It can also use them to defend itself against predators, although it only rarely has to do this. The earwig usually eats decaying organic matter, but they will eat other things if their preferred food isn't available. They are capable of eating many types of insects, especially insect larvae. They also eat pet food and other things that are rich in protein. They will even eat meat if they can find it. Earwigs like moist environments, which is why they tend to invade homes. This makes the kitchen and bathroom good places for them to live (if you want earwigs to stay away from your home, you should fix any leaks). They can also be found outside under rocks and logs. How to identify an earwig Earwigs can be easily identified by their large pincers. They are also relatively easy to catch, so you can get a good look at them. They are usually dark brown or black in color and they have a smooth shell. They are about 1 inch long and they have six legs. They move very quickly, so it can be difficult to catch them. If you see an earwig in your home, the best thing to do is remove its food source. If there is a leak, you should fix it. You can also prevent them from getting into your home by sealing any cracks or crevices with caulk. If the earwigs are already in your home, you can use an insecticide to kill earwigs. Earwigs tend to invade homes in large numbers. This makes them more of a nuisance than anything. They usually come into houses through cracks and crevices near the foundation of the building. Why you need to get rid of earwig populations from your home Earwigs can be a nuisance in your home. They can be difficult to get rid of and can often find their way into damp, dark areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. They can be identified by their pincers, which they use to catch prey. They feed on a variety of things, including decaying organic matter, insect larvae, and pet food. While earwigs aren't typically known to bite humans, they can cause irritation if they come into contact with your skin. They can also damage your belongings by chewing on them. If you have an earwig infestation, it's important to take action to get rid of them. Prevention tactics for getting rid of earwigs infestations and what attract earwigs There are a few things you can do to prevent earwigs from invading your home in the first place. One of the most important things is to keep your home clean and free of clutter. Make sure to clean up any spilled food or drink, and store pet food and garbage in sealed containers. To prevent earwigs from entering your home, make sure to seal any cracks, holes, or crevices in kitchen cabinets or underneath counters. You can even do this with exterior doorways if earwigs are a common pest in your area. If you think an infestation is already underway, clean up any food crumbs and move the pet's food bowl away from the wall. It's also a good idea to store your pet's food more carefully as well. Remove leaf litter or debris from the yard. Earwigs won't want to cross an open area of dry soil or pavement, so getting rid of any large piles of leaves will keep them out. Traps , although largely ineffective, can be used to monitor earwig activity in your home. Top ten ways o keep Earwigs out of your Evansville Home. 10) Eliminate moist hiding places. Earwigs prefer dark moist areas to stay cool and safe. Clean up any water leaks, which can potentially harbor these pests. Fix leaky pipes and keep the area dry. Having a dehumidifier on hand can also help to eliminate these pests. 9) Keep food covered and off the floor. Food that is not properly stored or that falls onto the floor can attract Earwigs and other pests. Clean up any food crumbs, and make sure all countertops and tables are kept free of clutter and debris. 8) Block off any entrances. Earwigs are known to enter homes through cracks in the foundation, windowsills, and doors. Fill in all holes that are more than 1/4 inch wide with steel wool or caulk. You can also consider using weather stripping on your door to block out these pests. 7) Remove pet food. Earwigs are drawn to pet food, since it is often left out on the floor or in a feeder overnight. Make sure that there are no bowls of food out on counters or floors at night, and clean up any dropped crumbs right away. 6) Get rid of decaying plants/vegetation nearby. All kinds of plants can attract Earwigs. While having a few houseplants around the home might look nice, it may also invite these pests in. If there are dying or dead plants or flower beds nearby, clean up any debris that has been left behind to get rid of potential sources of food for Earwigs. 5) Use a vacuum. If you see Earwigs in your house, try to vacuum them up. This will not only help to quickly remove them from your home, but it will also prevent them from potentially gnawing on wiring or spreading into other areas. 4) Remove fallen trees and plants nearby. Having dead or dying trees around the home can lead to a buildup of decaying vegetation, which can attract Earwigs. If there is a tree branch hanging low over the home, trim it back so that it does not hang near any of your doors or windows. 3) Tighten up exterior entryways. If you have a crawlspace or basement that you enter from outside, try to get rid of any vegetation or rocks that are stacked near the entrance. Rocks and other debris can be used as shelter by Earwigs, so it is best to remove them completely. 2) Use sticky traps. These are typically placed upright along baseboards and under cabinets where they cannot easily be seen. When these pests cross over the adhesive surface on the traps, they get stuck and can be removed. 1) Use insecticides. There are a variety of different options that you can choose from when it comes to getting rid of Earwigs. Just consider your personal preferences and how safe the chemical is around food before making a purchase. Earwigs are a common household pest that can be difficult to get rid of. They are usually found in moist environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms. They feed on decaying organic matter, insect larvae, or pet food which makes them hard to detect until it is too late. Be sure to clean up any spills or clutter around your home if you want to keep these pests away! If earwigs have invaded your home for whatever reason, there are many different remedies available including traps- although largely ineffective-can be used with success when monitoring the activity of earwig populations inside homes. The most important thing is cleaning up spilled food or drink and storing anything edible in sealed containers so they don't make an appetizing meal for these critters. Have more questions? Give Yikes Pest Control a call! Yikes Pest Control

Powderpost beetles are not the most recognizable pests, but they can cause a lot of damage. They’re attracted to hardwoods like oak and ash wood, which is why you may notice them around homes or businesses in Posey County Indiana. These little pests bore holes into your home or place of business to lay their eggs; once hatched, larvae eat away at the wood until they pupate and emerge as adult beetles. If you see evidence of powderpost beetles-small holes with frass (a type of sawdust) around it-you should take action immediately to prevent further damage. Powderpost beetle infestations will only worsen if left untreated; it’s important that homeowners know how these destructive bugs behave and how to treat a powderpost beetle infestation. Powder post beetles are not the most recognizable pests, but they can cause a lot of damage Powder post beetles are a type of pest that is not always easy to identify. These pests are attracted to hardwoods like oak and ash, and will bore into the wood to lay their eggs. Once hatched, the larvae will consume the wood until they pupate and emerge as adult beetles. If you see evidence of powderpost beetles-small shotgun blast holes with frass (a fine powder of sawdust) around it-you should take action immediately to prevent further damage. Powderpost beetle infestations will only worsen if left untreated; it’s important that homeowners know how these destructive bugs behave and how to treat a powderpost beetle infestation. Evidence of powderpost beetles, (wood boring beetles) old activity vs new When looking for evidence of powderpost beetles, it is important to note the difference between old and new activity. Old activity will look like small holes in the infested wood surface. These exit holes are sign that the beetles have already hatched and are now pupating. New activity, on the other hand, will look like small holes with frass around it or a fresh color of wood on the inside of the hole. This is a sign that the larvae are currently feeding on the wood. If you only see old activity, it may be too late to take action (or the population may have died off), but you should still consult a professional to find out. If you only see new activity, there is still time to take action and prevent further damage. Once the adult beetles emerge they will lay eggs on the wood and the process will begin all over. Powderpost beetle infestations will only worsen infested wood if left untreated (adult beetles) If you have a powderpost beetle infestation in your home or place of business, it is important to take action to get rid of them as soon as possible. These pests can do significant damage to wood structures over time, and if left untreated, the infestation will only worsen. At just one-eighth of an inch in length, these pesky insects are not much to look at, but they can cause a significant amount of damage both in Posey County, IN and across the United States. These wood infesting beetles can, unfinished wood furniture, exposed wood surfaces, hardwood floors, stored lumber, and pretty much any wood that has a high wood moisture content. It is important to note, that while they are usually found in the crawlspace or basement of your home, they can move upward into your walls. The damage from these pests can be cataphoretic. Powderpost beetle infestations will only worsen if left untreated. These pests can do significant damage to wood structures over time, and if left untreated, the infestation will only worsen. If you have a powderpost beetle infestation in your home or place of business, it is important to take action immediately to get rid of them as soon as possible. The sooner you act on this problem before it worsens, the less chance there is for these destructive insects to make an even bigger mess than they already are! ====>If you need help getting rid of pesky powderpost beetles once and for all-whether they're living inside your walls contact Yikes Pest Control today today.

Are Murder Hornets in Indiana? Murder hornets are not native to Evansville, Indiana. The term "murder" is actually a misnomer for a specific type of hornet known as Vespa Crabro. The term "Murder Hornet" is slang and the hornets are not actually a true hornet species, rather they belong to the wasp family. The Vespa Crabro species is often mistaken for another species of hornet called Asian Giant Hornet (Vespa Mandarina). Both species of hornets have a very similar appearance and can be difficult to tell apart from one another. The Asian Giant Hornet is an invasive species with confirmed sittings in isolated locations in North America (Washington State) over the past year, but has not yet been seen in Indiana. So if what you saw was not a Asian Giant Hornet or murder hornet, then what was it? We have two types of hornet located in Southern Indiana. The Bald faced hornet, and the Eastern European Hornet. The Bald faced hornet is more common due to its size, but still is relatively not that common. These hornets are around 1.5 inches long with the queens reaching 2 inches in length. They are black, with white/yellow markings on the face. The bald faced hornet builds paper like nests under roofs and overhangs, hanging out of any opening they can find. These nests get to be about the size of a basket ball. These hornets build hanging paper nests that are shaped like a pine cone. They get very long in the fall when they have matured and will all be replaced in late winter for next year's queens, so if you see these in winter, do not worry. The European Hornet is the other species found in Southern Indiana, but they are even more rare than bald faced hornets and their nests look nothing like their bald faced cousins. These hornets are a little more than 1 inch long and have orange/brown coloring with brown legs. They have a very noticeable yellow band around the abdomen as well as a smaller one on the first segment of the thorax, just above the neck. European hornets will actually push other wasps, hornets, and bumblebees out of their nests as they begin to fill up. They also have a chemical defense that coats the legs on contact. These hornets build paper nests that look like an upside down umbrella or a heart on its side. The first year queens will over winter in the ground meeting places before building a nest in early spring. We also have another creature that gets confused with hornets from time to time. This would be the Cicada killer. The Cicada killer looks like a very large wasp with yellow/black coloring. They are about 1.5 inches long and appear to be very aggressive since they fly around with their stinger out. These creatures can sting if threatened, but are not aggressive. If you startle them while digging around the ground, they will sting as a defense mechanism. The cicada killer is actually a beneficial insect as it preys on the common cicada and helps to keep them under control. Cicada killers dig shallow burrows next to each other after mating in early spring, with the exception of the newly emerged females that do not have a nest to protect. They make a very noticeable buzzing sound in flight, which is normal. Asian Giant Hornets are not established in Indiana yet, but they have been found outside of their native range in recent years (eastern US). If you have a question, or would like your home treated to help prevent these pests please call or text Yikes Pest Control. 812-604-7206

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Near Evansville, Indiana Brown marmorated stink bugs, or BMSB for short, are one of the most invasive pests in North America. They were first spotted in Pennsylvania in 1998 and have been making their way east ever since. The good news is that they’re not harmful to humans but they can be quite a nuisance when they invade homes en masse during the fall and winter months. Learn more about this pest and what you can do to protect your home from them! What is the Brown marmorated stink bug and where does it come from The Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is an invasive species from Asia that was first spotted in the United States in 1998. This pest has quickly become a nuisance for many people, as they invade homes in large numbers in the fall and winter months. The BMSB can be distinguished from other stink bugs by its characteristic brown and green coloration, as well as the white bands on its antennae. It is a relatively large bug, measuring about 5/8 of an inch long. The BMSB originally came from China, Japan, and Taiwan, where it is considered a pest of agriculture. It feeds on a variety of plants, including fruit trees, vegetables, and row crops. In the United States, the BMSB has caused severe damage to grapes and peaches. The BMSB is now found throughout most of the Eastern United States. What are the causes of BMSB infestations in homes? The Brown marmorated stink bug is attracted to light-colored buildings because they can be seen through the translucent exoskeleton. Since this species does not fly well, it instead simply falls to the ground when its senses that gravity is increasing. When it reaches a building, it searches for a way inside. BMSBs find their way into homes as they search for cool and low-light locations to spend the winter months. How to identify a BMSB infestation If you think you have a Brown marmorated stink bug infestation in your home, there are a few things you can look for to confirm your suspicions. The most obvious sign of an infestation is the presence of large numbers of stink bugs clustered together. They can be found indoors and outdoors, but are more commonly seen inside buildings. Another sign that you may have a Brown marmorated stink bug infestation is damage to your property. Stink bugs often feed on fruit trees, vegetables, and row crops, so they may cause damage to these plants if they are present in large numbers. Finally, you can identify a Brown marmorated stink bug infestation by its characteristic brown and green coloration, as well as the white bands on its antennae. Why do we care about this pest and what can we do to stop them The Brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive species that has been causing a lot of damage in Indiana. This pest can be very harmful to homeowners, as they can invade homes in large numbers in the fall and winter months. They can also cause significant damage to crops, as they feed on the fruit and leaves of plants. Because of this, it is important for homeowners and farmers to take note of how they can control this pest. This bug was first found in the U.S. back in 1998 and has been steadily increasing its population since its introduction. This species feeds on a variety of fruits and vegetables, which makes it very harmful to crops and vegetation that growers have to protect. Also, homeowners should be aware that this pest has the ability to invade homes in large numbers and can cause damage to curtains, carpeting and other household items that they get trapped on. Controlling Brown marmorated stink bugs is not an easy task and requires a lot of planning and research by homeowners. First of all, it is important to figure out where the bugs are entering the home. If they seem to be getting indoors through a certain area such as windows and doors, you should block up those areas and make sure that there aren't any cracks or holes that allow this pest entry into your living space. These little buggers can also destroy flowers and crops, so it is important to cover your plants if you notice that they are under attack. Control If possible, homeowners should try to use physical control methods first. One method is to simply vacuuming them up, however this may not be practical because the pests can be very elusive and also will still try to invade your home. Another method is exclusion. Finally, homeowners should consider contacting a pest control professional. Natural ways to deter these pests, such as hanging dryer sheets throughout your home or planting certain flowers that they don't like near the entrances of your house (eucalyptus, lavender, thyme) There are several home remedies to deter these pests from invading your home. While there is no certainty as to whether these ideas work, if you are desperate you may give these a try. One way is to hang dryer sheets throughout your home; the smell of the fabric softener may deter the stink bugs. You can also plant certain flowers near the entrances of your house that the bugs don't like, such as eucalyptus, lavender, and thyme. These plants will create a barrier that will keep the bugs out. By spraying a mixture of water and dish soap on the surfaces of your house, you will create a barrier that is said to keep stink bugs out. You can also spray essential oils or diluted peppermint oil on windows and doors to deter these pests from entering. Although there is no scientific basis as to why this method would work, homeowners claim it is effective in keeping the bugs from coming inside. If these methods don't work, it may be time to call a professional pest exterminator. The professionals have highly effective methods of getting rid of stink bugs that homeowners don't own or care to use themselves. A professional will also ensure that all entry points are sealed properly so that the bugs will not be able to return. The Brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive species from Asia that has quickly become a nuisance for many people. Homeowners in Indiana have been experiencing the invasion of these pests, which invade homes in large numbers during fall and winter months. Fortunately there are some natural ways to deter them. If these methods don't work it may be time to call a professional pest exterminator who will use highly effective techniques on getting rid of the bugs without harming you and your family.

Ants vs Termites: What's the Difference? Termites and ants may look similar, but they have some major differences. Ants have a larger head, a narrow waist and a longer body than termites. They can also have one or two bent wings on their backs that are too short to allow them to fly long distances. Termites have long straight antennae, a broad waist and shorter legs than ants. Both insects have three pairs of jointed legs for walking and six legs in total. Ants and Termites look similar, but they have some major differences Ants and termites are both insects, and they share some similarities, but there are some major differences between them. Ants have a noticeably larger head, a narrow waist and a longer body than termites. They also have one or two bent wings on their backs that are too short to allow them to fly. Termites have long straight antennae, a broad waist and shorter legs than ants. Both insects have three pairs of jointed legs for walking and six legs in total. Ants vs Termites comparison chart Termites • Have wide waists, small heads and longer legs; antennae are straight and very long • Narrow waists, large heads and shorter legs; antennae are bent at a 90 degree angle • Live in colonies with a queen ant who is the only member able to reproduce. They have workers as well as soldiers • Have longer abdomens than ants • Shorter abdomens than ants • Live by themselves, except when they reproduce • Look similar to ants but have a shorter, broader waist and three pairs of legs on their thorax • Have one or two bent wings on their backs that are too short to allow them to fly Ants • Have narrow waists, small heads and longer legs; antennae are bent • large heads and shorter legs; antennae are straight • Live in colonies with a queen ant who is the only member able to reproduce. They have workers as well as soldiers • Can carry many times their weight on their backs The biggest difference between the two is what they eat The biggest difference between ants and termites is what they eat. Ants eat a variety of things, including sweets, meats and other insects. Termites eat mostly wood. This difference is due to the way each insect lives. Ants live in colonies with a queen ant who is the only member able to reproduce. They have workers as well as soldiers.

Call or Text 812-604-7206 Bed Bugs Bed bugs have quickly become the most feared of the common household pests in America and throughout the world. This is largely due to their resurgence in recent decades and how difficult they are to get rid of once an infestation occurs. Bed bugs can be found anywhere, from five-star resorts to low-budget motels, it's all a matter of who they attach themselves to. They are parasitic by nature latching on to their hosts the moment they find them, sucking human blood at night while hosts are sleeping. There has been a growing epidemic of bed bug infestation in recent years, and it is beginning to make an appearance all over the world. This article will focus on what bed bugs look like, how to identify them, where to look, and how to get rid of them. What do bed Bug bites look like? If you have been victim to bed bug bites then you already know what they can do. Although bed bugs are not known for being the most painful parasites on the planet, their bite is not fun at all. Bed bugs are not aggressive, but they are capable of feeding at night when host are sleeping. The will bite their host anywhere. To prevent infestation in your home it's important to learn what bed bug bites look like in order to identify them immediately. Bed bugs have a three-stage life cycle. During the first stage, eggs are laid on surfaces near where humans sleep. When these eggs hatch they immediately begin looking for blood meals in order to survive and grow into their second stage of life. The third stage is when it becomes more apparent that you have an infestation developing, this generally occurs about 6 months after the bed bug was introduced. The most common place for bed bugs to attach themselves is in locations where people are sleeping, generally beds or sofas. They will bite their host anywhere they can latch on to skin, but they prefer areas of the body that are not covered by clothing. Bed bugs are small, about the size of a tic. They are a brownish red color and have flat bodies.. Call or Text Yikes Pest Control Today 812-604-7206 How To Identify Bed Bug Bites: Live bed bugs prefer to bite in areas not covered with clothing so you may notice signs on your neck, arms, they use a combination of tactics to get around their hosts without being detected, using a set of specialized legs and their small size they are able to sneak onto their host before it is too late. They have been known to travel as much as 100 feet in one night so be careful where you lay down your head at night. Bed bugs may bite multiple times during each feeding session usually 3 bites in a row. Bites are generally not felt at first since they release an anesthetic into hosts skin that numbs the area, but after several hours swelling will occur where there are bite marks. This is because the body produces histamines to process out the foreign invader and cause irritation. If you wake up with multiple bite spots you may have a case of bed bugs, but it is good to be aware that other insects and biting pests can cause similar symptoms so it's important to be sure. If you believe your home may have become infested with adult bed bugs then the best course of action is to call a professional company who can come out and inspect your home. Call or Text 812-604-7206 How To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs, Evansville or a bed bug infestation There are several ways to get rid of bed bugs starting with heat treatment, vacuuming, steaming, and pesticides. Heat treatments were the go-to treatment for bed bugs in Evansville a few years ago, but this is quickly changing due to advances in pesticide technology. Yikes pest control uses a variety of different approaches for bed bug extermination. this allows them to not only stop the bites, but also help prevent them from coming back. First, you will need to vacuum your entire home from top to bottom including mattresses and sofas. If possible, take the time to move beds away from walls and vacuuming underneath them. You will also want to pay special attention to any cracks or crevices in the mattress that may have been a harborage point for bed bugs. Heavy bed bug infestations may require steaming. Yikes pest control uses a steamer that is capable of reaching close to 200 degrees in order to kill off all stages of life. If you are scheduled for a treatment then it's important that you remove all sheets and blankets from beds before the company comes out. Apprehend is one of the newest forms of treatment used by Yikes pest control and comes with several advantages over heat treatments to get rid of your bed bug infestations. The main advantage is the ability for long term control and the ability to also prevent bed bugs from coming back. This product is a combination of different types of pesticides that work by paralyzing and killing off any insects that come into contact with it, but it doesn't harm humans so it's safe for use in homes where children and pets may be present. Schedule a Free Inspection, Bed Bug Extermination Evansville, if you think you have a bed bug infestation in your box springs, bedding, sofa, furniture, or any other area of your home, there are many approaches you can take to get rid of them in Evansville, Indiana. Click here to schedule a free inspection, to get your house treated, or to request more information. Do you have a bed bug infestation? Bedbugs are not always easy to spot since they are nocturnal and can hide in many different places. Here are some signs your home may have a bed bug problem… If you notice any of these signs, please contact Yikes pest control today! The only way to stop the bites is to get rid of the bed bugs once and for all! Is It Dangerous to Have Bed Bugs? No, bed bugs cannot carry disease, cause malnutrition or allergic reactions. However, they do bite and often. Bed bug bites can be painful and itchy for some time after the initial bite occurs. They especially like to feed on their host when they are sleeping. If you notice any of these signs of bed bug activity then please contact Yikes pest control today! The only way to stop the bites is to get rid of the bed bugs once and for all! FAQ 1. What are bedbugs? Bedbugs are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals. Their flattened bodies make it easy for them to fit into tiny crevices–especially those found in mattresses, box springs, headboards, and bed frames. Bedbugs grow and multiply by laying eggs. Can you see them? Bedbugs are good at hiding. They hide in cracks and crevices during the day and come out to feed on their sleeping victims at night, usually when you're fast asleep. Bedbugs can flatten their bodies, making it possible for them to hide in places that seem too small for them. Their physical appearance is similar to a tick's. They have a flat body about the size of an apple seed and range in color from reddish brown to yellow ,orange, or light tan . After feeding on their host, they crawl into nearby cracks or crevices. Bedbugs feed every five to ten days depending on the conditions. What size are they? Bedbugs are small, flat bugs about the size of an apple seed. Bed bugs range in size from 1 to 7 millimeters, or the size of a pinhead to that of an apple seed. 2. Are bedbugs always found in beds? No. Bedbugs can live anywhere people sleep, such as the couches in your living room or even on your office chair at work. Just like their host, bedbugs need blood to survive and reproduce. They will hide in any place that is dark and where they won't be disturbed or exposed to extreme temperatures. 3. Do bedbugs transmit disease? No, not at all. Bedbugs are strictly parasites that feed on the blood of humans and other mammals or birds. They do not seek to or transmit disease . 4. what is it that attracts bedbugs to humans? Bedbugs are primarily attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide that humans, or any other animal, leave behind. They will crawl into creases in your clothes just to get close to you because of the temperature. What do bed bugs feed on? Bedbugs live by drinking blood, usually at night while their host sleeps. 5. Do bedbugs only come out at night? Yes. Bedbugs hide during the day and come out at night to feed. They tend to be most active at dawn and dusk , and are not usually out during the middle of the day. Bedbugs need blood to live, so they search for a host . The best time for bedbugs to gain access to people is when they sleep. 6. What are some signs of bedbugs? There are several signs of bedbugs, which include: seeing the bugs themselves, finding blood spots on sheets or furniture ,and noticing bite marks . Seeing the bugs itself is an obvious sign. If you notice small, red itchy bumps on your skin that look like mosquito bites, then there's a good chance that you might have been bitten by a bedbug. When you see blood spots on sheets or furniture ,it's a sign that there might be bedbugs in the area of where the blood was found. Bedbugs tend to leave small amounts of dried blood from their victims after they have been fed upon, so if you discover unexplained splotches on your sheets or mattress , it's a good idea to take a closer look. Bite marks can be another sign of bedbugs, especially if there are clusters of them in the same area . This is because many people tend to experience bites at roughly the same time and in close proximity to one another.

House mouse vs field mouse vs Norway Rat First lets start out by identifying what type of mouse you have in your home. the two most common types of house mice in the Evansville area are house mice, and Field mice. House Mice: -Weighs 1/2 oz to 3/4 oz - adult body length is typically 2.5 to 4 inches - tail length is about the same as the body - fur is usually light brown to black, with a lighter underbelly Field Mice: - Weighs 1/4 oz to 1/2 oz - adult body length is typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches - tail length is about one inch - fur is usually light brown or gray, with a lighter underbelly Now lets discuss some of the major differences between the two. - Field mice are very destructive in they're path to finding food. they will chew through wood, plastic, and thin sheet metal. They often make holes in the foundation or wall of homes they enter. - Field mice usually stay close to their nests; which are commonly found in grassy areas, wood piles, and sometimes in garages. - House mice more commonly referred to as 'hantavirus carriers'. they do not cause damage to property but they are known for being a carrier of the hantavirus. house mice rarely live past 12 months which makes them less harmful than field mice. - House mice are great climbers and can often be found in the upper levels of a home. Norway Rat: - reaches a length of 10-12 inches including the tail - Weighs 1/2 to 2 lbs - have a blunt nose, small eyes, and relatively small ears The Norway Rat is the largest of the these rodents. They are typically reddish brown or black in color with a lighter underbelly. How do you know if you have a mouse in your home? Having a rodent in your home can be one of the most unsettling experiences. As soon as you know or suspect that you have a mouse, rat, or other rodent in your home, it is important to take action. Mice are known for their ability to squeeze into very small spaces, so they can be hard to spot. There are a few clues that you can look for, such as if you see droppings around your home. Mice droppings are about the size of a grain of rice and have a pointed end. You might also hear noises in your walls or ceilings, especially at night. Signs of mice in your home 1. mouse droppings 2. sounds of mice 3. chewed wires or insulation 4. holes in your walls or ceilings 5. mouse urine odor 6. Gnaw Marks 7. shredded paper 8. tiny holes in food products such as cereal grains 9. seeing a mouse or mouse nest What to do if you have a mouse in your house? If you notice any signs of mice in your home, it is important to take action immediately. The longer you wait, the more likely mice will cause extensive damage. The first step in getting rid of mice is to inspect the areas where they are most active. You can do this by using a flashlight at night or when it is dark or by looking for signs that they have been there (see above). Once you have identified the areas where mice are active, you can take steps eliminate the activity. This might include using classic wooden snap traps with peanut butter traps or poison bait. It is important to be very careful when using traps or poison bait, as they can be dangerous if not used correctly. Always read the instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions. If you are uncomfortable using traps or poison bait, you can call pest control professionals. If you choose this route, make sure to do thorough research before hiring a company to ensure they are reliable and experienced. Yikes Pest Control out of Southern Indiana, would be able to offer this type of service. For information check out our website, or give us a call or text at 812-604-7206. If you live near Posey County, Evansville, r any surrounding area check out our rates HERE. How to get rid of a mouse in your house? Unless you catch the issue early you most likely have more than just one mouse. If you suspect you have a mouse infestation you need to take action immediately to get rid of these unwelcome guests. So how do you get rid of a mice that have decided to make your house their home? You have to be very strategic in your approach. Here are some tips to get rid of mice: Inspect : The first step is to identify the areas where the mice are active. You can do this by using a flashlight at night or when it is dark or by looking for signs that they have been there (see above). Once you have identified the areas where the mice are active, you can take steps to eliminate the activity. 1. Traps : One of the best ways to get rid of mice is with traps. You can use mouse traps or more advanced live catch traps . When using a trap, it is important to use bait. Mice eat just about anything they love peanut butter, so that is a good choice. You can also try chocolate, cat food, or other types of food/ pet food. Just make sure to use a small amount of the food. If you put too much, the mouse might steal the food without setting off the trap. 2. Bait stations or bait traps : Another option is to use poison bait . This option has its benefits and drawbacks. It is very effective, but can be dangerous if pets or children ingest it. If this is th option you choose make sure to place the bait in a tamper-proof container and keep it out of reach of children and pets. 3. Glue Boards or glue traps: Another option for getting rid of mice is glue boards. This is the least effective way to eliminate activity, and the least humane way to get rid of the mice. 4. Call a professional : If you are uncomfortable using traps or poison bait you can call pest control professionals. If you choose this route, make sure to do thorough research before hiring a company to ensure they are reliable and experienced. Once again Yikes Pest Control out of Southern Indiana, would be able to offer this type of service if you think you have a house mouse or field mouse inside of your home. Remember, if you find mice nests, nesting material, or dead mice in your home you should remove mice immediately. Tips for keeping mice out of your house. If you do not currently have an issue or just want to make sure more mice do not enter you home there are several preventative steps you can do to ensure that the mice stay out. 1. Make sure that all food is properly stored in glass or metal containers with sealed lids . This includes not only pet food but also any canned foods you have in your kitchen pantry. You may have noticed that mice are drawn to certain types of foods, so it is important to store food safely from these pests. 2. Keep your home clean . It is important to spend time each day cleaning out your counters, stovetops, and drawers to make sure that there are no crumbs or food residue left behind by you or your family members. If you have pets make sure they are also part of the cleaning process as well by cleaning up any food/water bowls, and pet beds. 3. Eliminate entry points : Mice can enter your home through a number of different points. Check for cracks around doors, windows, vents etc., fill in the cracks with caulk or sealant, exclude mice by replacing weather stripping if needed. Make sure to check plumbing as well as they may attempt to use the pipes to gain entry into your house. 4. Exclude outside: You can also seal up some of the holes that mice use to get into your home by using wire mesh, hardware cloth, steel wool, or metal sheeting. By excluding mice from entering your home you can lower the chance of having a rodent infestation inside. 5. Bait Stations: Another good way to make sure you don't have mice in your home is by placing a rodent bait station on the exterior of your home. These stations can be fitted to contain either active bait or snap traps and can catch activity prior to them creating a mouse population inside. Deter mice from entering your home by keeping an eye out for any signs, keeping all pet food mice may enjoy in airtight containers, sealing entry points, checking out possible nesting areas, checking out your home's foundation for any signs of access points. keeping food sources away from foundation. If you want help to get rid of the entire population of mice, mice nests, rats, or any other rodents, give us a call or text for a free quote. Yikes Pest Control 812-604-7206 www.yikespest.com

Spiders are finding their way indoors more often these days, you can't escape them. They are everywhere, including Southern Indiana. Knowing which ones to look out for can be crucial. Dangerous Spiders in Indiana Below are what I consider to be the top 3 dangerous spiders in Indiana that you will find in Southern Indiana. 1) Black Widow Spiders - The Black Widow Spider is Found throughout most of the Southern United States, this spider is very easy to identify by its jet-black color, round abdomen and the red hourglass shape on its underside. This spider is very aggressive and female Black Widow spiders have been known to kill the male after mating. They are extremely venomous but unless you happen to be allergic or sensitive to their toxin it usually would not be deadly, though they can prove fatal if untreated by antivenom. This spider is commonly found in dark, secluded areas indoors and outdoors such as underneath rocks, garages and crawlspaces. Good news though, This spider can be very easily prevented from entering your home or business by sealing openings around the outside of the structure, and applying a residual pesticide to high risk areas. You can identify the Black widow Spider by its jet black color, round abdomen and the red hourglass shape on its underside. 2) Brown Recluse Spiders - AKA fiddle back spiders This spider is usually found throughout Southern Indiana and everywhere else in the Southern United States as well. They are a light to medium brown color with a violin shaped marking on the head region, as you can see in my picture here. This spider is not aggressive at all and prefers to run away and hide in dark corners or dark areas, but will bite if they feel threatened. Brown recluse bites venom can be extremely dangerous to people who are sensitive or allergic, but is normally treatable by medical professionals. These spiders commonly get into wall voids or any area where clutter is found. Due to their reclusive nature, some people do not realize they have them in their homes for years, but it is actually a pretty common spider here in southern Indiana. You can identify the Brown recluse spider by its light to medium brown color and it usually has a violin shaped marking on the head region and six eyes located in pairs. They get to about the size of a half dollar. 3) Yellow Sac Spiders- Typically found throughout the Eastern United States, this spider is a very pale yellow color. These spiders can be identified by a small black dot just underneath its abdomen and long legs that have several joints. This spider does not build webs to snare their prey, instead they stalk their victims and attack them in the open. These spiders normally do not bite humans unless you happen to be in direct contact with them or their webs. Please note that this spider's venom is very potent but is also treatable by medical professionals if bitten. It is usually recommended to seek out immediate medical attention if bitten. Yikes Pest Control can help you control each of these types of spiders in the Evansville area. If you suspect you have a brown recluse bite, or any other spider bites you should seek medical attention or go to the emergency room. Other Indiana Spiders Yellow Garden Spider- Typically found throughout Indiana, this spider is very easy to identify by its bright yellow color. This spider builds large circular webs that are strong enough for you to walk right into. Wolf Spiders- Typically found throughout Indiana, this spider is very easy to identify by its light brown color and ability to run swiftly. They are one of the few species that will eat their young once they hatch, which is very strange if you ask me. Cellar Spiders- Typically found throughout most of the Eastern United States, this is a very common type of spider located in homes. They are not harmful to humans unless you happen to be allergic to their venom, but they can bite if you get too close. Please note that this spider's venom is not strong enough to cause harm in most cases, but it is still recommend that you avoid contact with them. Jumping Spiders- Typically found throughout Indiana, depending on the species, they can get to be about 3/4 of an inch. They are very hairy and get these large eyes that look like they glow in the dark. These spiders can bite if disturbed, but it doesn't really hurt and shouldn't cause any issues unless you happen to be allergic. Orb Weavers- Typically found throughout the Eastern and Central United States, this spider is very easy to identify by its web. Their webs are sticky and usually very large arches that build their webs directly in front of doorways and windows. Please note that this kind of spider's bite can cause severe pain but it should not cause too many issues unless you happen to be allergic. Eastern Parson Spider- Typically found throughout Indiana, this spider is very easy to identify by its black and white coloring. They are generally not harmful to humans unless you happen to be allergic, but they can bite if you get too close or disturb them. Yikes Pest Control Above was a list of most spiders you will encounter here in Southern Indiana, or at least the most dangerous ones found in Indiana. If you would like help identifying the spider you have seen, or would like to have your home treated to help prevent or control these and many more pest issues: Give us a call or Text at 812-604-7206

Brown marmorated stink bugs. This is the time of year brown Marmorated stinkbugs try to enter your home. They are an invasive species which have been in the Evansville area for over a decade. In the fall and early spring you will notice swarms on the outside of your house. Usually in late fall they will try to overwinter and trees. However, they may accidentally mistake cracks in the sill of your windows or doors for a nice place to overwinter. When this happens they will come out on warm winter days. They May come inside your house due to the warmer weather inside. However, They cannot complete their lifecycle indoors. This doesn't stop them from being a nuisance. To help control these pests Exclusion is your best option, along with a regular pest control service. Your pest control technician will treat eaves around windows and possible entry points with a liquid and a dust to help control them as they try to enter. However, this will not completely eliminate the problem. The treatment needs to be coupled with proper exclusion techniques. Early fall or late summer would be a good time for you to check your window sills, door sills, chimneys, and utilities to make sure that there are no possible entry points for them to overwinter inside of your house. Once they're in they lay eggs and There is no chemical treatment that can prevent these eggs from hatching. So the next spring or fall you will most likely see them again even if you are proactive at this point. Yikes, pest control has been dealing with Brown Marmorated Stinkbugs, since they opened their doors. Your Yikes pest control technician will identify possible entry points. And treat them to help prevent future activity. If you have any questions that you think Yikes Pest control can help with. For any issues. Please do not hesitate to give us a call at 812-604-7206. You can call or text anytime. Yikes Pest Control Evansville, Posey County, Newburgh 812-604-7206

Centipedes vs Millipedes There are may types of Centipedes and Millipedes located In southern Indiana in the Evansville/Newburgh area. This Blog is a attempt to go over the main differences. Remember, if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Yikes Pest Control at 812-604-7206. Send us a text with a picture and we can help identify what pest you are having an issue with. Both Centipedes and millipedes are often confused with each other. The confusion comes from the fact that both centipedes and millipedes have many legs, but there are big differences between them. Centipedes are insects with only one pair of legs per body segment, while millipedes are not insects but myriapods (mil = thousand, pod = foot). Millipedes do not have a thousand legs, they have two pairs of legs for each body segment. They appear to have many more legs than centipedes because their body segments are shorter and do not appear to possess a pair of legs. A typical centipede has 15-23 pairs of legs and the body is flattened from side to side. Millipedes, on the other hand, have between 20 and 200 pairs of legs. They are rounder than centipedes and look like they have many more legs than they actually do. Millipedes are slow (short legs) and harmless, eating only decaying organic matter such as leaves and wood. Millipedes prefer moist environments. They are mostly nocturnal and some species secrete a fluid that may be toxic to predators. Some millipedes can exude a substance from their pores that smells bad or is poisonous to eat, but the great majority of them are not dangerous to humans in any way. Millipedes belong to the class Diplopoda, an ancient group of arthropods with a fossil record going back to about 400 million years ago. Centipedes on the other hand have flattened bodies with one pair of legs per body segment. They are carnivores and move quickly and aggressively, attacking and eating millipedes in addition to spiders, silverfish, insects, earthworms and even mice. Only centipedes can actually harm humans and due to their venomous bite they are considered one of the most hated insects in Japanese culture. A centipede bites when threatened, but prefers to run away from humans. Some species of centipedes secrete a strong odor from glands near the rear end. Humans usually get bitten at night because centipedes are nocturnal. The type of Centipede I most often deal with in the Evansville, Indiana area is the house centipede. This household pest is most often found in basements, crawlspaces, or cracks in pavement. However, if the population is large enough they can be found in living areas of your house. This centipede is usually about an inch and a half long and has legs that are longer than its body is wide. If you would like help identifying or protecting your home from millipedes or centipedes, please give Yikes Pest Control a call or text. We are located here in Southern Indiana. www.yikespest.com Call or Text 812-604-7206