Pest Control Info
Melrose, MA

Anopheles mosquitoes, having a brownish-yellow hue and measuring up to 5 millimeters in body length, display nocturnal activity patterns, and lack specificity in choosing host feeding locations. The successful completion of their lifecycle requires access to water sources, particularly for the purpose of egg-laying. Anopheles mosquitoes are infamous for their ability to transmit malaria.

Periplaneta americana, commonly known as American cockroaches, have a characteristic reddish-brown body with a yellow band outlining their pronotum. They are one of the largest cockroach species in Massachusetts, capable of growing up to 3 inches in length. American cockroaches are omnivorous and have a diverse diet that includes organic matter, sweets, and human or pet food. They are known to spread diseases and contaminate food and surfaces.

Camponotus pennsylvanicus, or carpenter ant, are black in color with butter yellow colored hair on their abdomen. They range in size from 6 to 14 millimeters. This carpenter ant is extremely destructive and will nest and burrow in wooden structures such as fence posts or buildings. While they do eat fruit and nectar, they are also fierce predators who will eat many other pests. When the opportunity presents itself, they will also scavenge for human food and trash.

Deer mice, commonly recognized by their typical round and brown appearance, possess cream-colored underbellies and elongated tails, reaching sizes ranging from 5 to 8 inches in length. During colder seasons, they seek refuge indoors, nesting among cluttered storage areas or small, cave-like spaces in Melrose households. Omnivorous in nature, they feed on both plants and insects.

Eastern Parson Spiders are named for their dark body color and light colored collar that might resemble a pastor or priest. They have thick bodies and reach over 1.5 inches in size. True to their ground spider nature, they do not spin webs and will hide out on the ground waiting for insects to come by so they can quickly ambush and eat them. Parson spiders often seek warmth and will hide in clothing or bedding. If bitten, being aware of the bite site is important and seeking medical attention might be necessary especially when allergic reactions occur.

In Melrose, MA, European Hornets (Vespa crabro) exhibit brown and yellow striped bodies and can reach up to 1 3/8 inches in length. They prefer to construct their nests in concealed and low traffic locations such as hollow trees, barns, and attics. European Hornets mainly feed on fruit, flies, yellow jackets, grasshoppers, and honey bees. They are generally nocturnal and prefer to capture their prey during dark hours. Though they pose minimal risk to humans and only attack when they perceive a threat, preventative measures can be taken to deter them from nesting in residential areas.

Deer Ticks are reddish-brown in color with a hard black exterior and only reach 3 millimeters in length. They are one of the most well known species of ticks since they are responsible for spreading Lyme disease. They wait in tall grass and brush filled areas until a host walks by and then will attach themselves until they are full. If you have been bitten by a deer tick, it’s important to follow instructions closely to remove them properly in order to avoid bursting their body and releasing the bacteria inside of them.

Cimex lectularius, commonly known as bed bugs, exhibit a warm brown coloration and possess a maximum length of 7 millimeters. These hematophagous insects exclusively subsist on blood and prefer habitats situated in close proximity to humans and animals. In particular, bed bugs are known to dwell in mattresses, bedding, and headboards, where they are able to stealthily feed on sleeping humans. To prevent infestations, it is recommended to vacuum frequently, avoid storing loose items under beds, and maintain cleanliness to minimize potential hiding places for bed bugs.