Wasps and bees, particularly the yellowjacket wasps, can be a significant nuisance in Colorado, especially later in the summer when they gather at outdoor food areas. Despite their bothersome presence, these insects are generally beneficial for their roles as pest predators and pollinators. Social wasp colonies start in spring with a single fertilized female and grow through the summer. By season’s end, colonies can host hundreds of individuals, including potential new queens.

Western Yellowjackets

Social wasps build nests from chewed wood and paper. These nests are small early in the season but expand as more wasps are raised. Unlike other social wasps, the western yellowjacket primarily scavenges dead insects, earthworms, and other carrion, including garbage, making their scavenging habit a serious nuisance. Yellowjackets, mistaken for honey bees due to their coloring but not as hairy, usually nest underground and can become aggressive if their nests are disturbed. Sometimes, their nests may be located in dark, enclosed parts of a building, like crawl spaces or wall voids.

Baldfaced Hornets

In contrast, hornets build large, visible grayish paper nests in trees, shrubs, and under building eaves. Hornets feed their young live insects, such as caterpillars, and do not share the scavenging habit of yellowjackets. The most common species in Colorado is the baldfaced hornet. Their nests often attract attention because of their large size, but hornets rarely sting unless the colony is seriously disturbed.

European Paper Wasps

Paper wasps, known for their open-cell paper nests, are commonly found under building overhangs. The European paper wasp, a newer species in Colorado, tends to nest in small cavities on building sides, inside metal gutters and poles, outdoor grills, and similar areas. These wasps have a more slender body compared to other social wasps. Typically, native paper wasps sport a reddish-brown and yellow coloration, while the European paper wasp features shiny black and yellow markings, making it easy to confuse with a yellowjacket.

Paper wasps are valuable as they prey on caterpillars and other insects without scavenging. Nevertheless, the European paper wasp’s tendency to nest in various yard locations has significantly increased the frequency of stings from this group of wasps.

Controlling Social Wasps

Control of these wasps is best handled by waiting until the nests are abandoned in the fall. However, an insecticide may be necessary for immediate issues, especially when nests are large and problematic. It is estimated that the western yellowjacket is responsible for at least 90 percent of the bee stings in Colorado.

Many concerns with social wasps occur late in the season when colonies grow large, and the above-ground nests of hornets and paper wasps become apparent. If the wasps are not causing a problem, the best solution is to wait until the nest is abandoned in the fall. The nest can be safely removed in the winter or, if left alone, will break up during late fall and winter. For active nests that are causing problems, contact Front Range Pest for safe and effective removal of aggressive stinging insect hives.

Preventing Aggressive Stings

To prevent wasp and hornet stings, it’s important to minimize the factors that attract these insects. Avoid wearing bright colors or floral patterns, which can attract wasps. Be cautious with scents, as perfumes, lotions, and scented shampoos can also draw them in. When outdoors, keep food covered, especially sweet foods and proteins, as they appeal to wasps. Garbage bins should be securely covered and located away from central areas of activity. When drinking sweet beverages outdoors, use containers with lids to prevent wasps from entering. Avoid sudden movements when a wasp or hornet is near, as these can provoke an attack

Protecting Yourself and Others from Stings

The most severe reaction to an insect sting is an allergic one. If you discover a nest or multiple stinging insects, contact Front Range Pest to safely remove and eliminate dangerous hives from your property. Protect yourself and others by seeking medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Hives, itching, and swelling in areas other than where you were stung.
• Abdominal cramping, severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing.
• Hoarseness, swelling of the tongue or throat, or trouble swallowing.
• Dizziness or a significant drop in blood pressure.
• Loss of consciousness or cardiac arrest.

For prompt, safe removal of aggressive stinging insect hives, contact the experts at Front Range Pest today!

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Pigeons, while often charming urban dwellers, can become a significant nuisance for property owners, particularly when it comes to maintaining clean and functional solar panels and rooftops. Their nesting habits and droppings not only create unsightly messes but can also cause long-term damage to building structures and reduce the efficiency of solar panels. Here’s a guide on how to effectively pigeon-proof your property, including crucial steps to protect your solar installations.

Understanding the Risks

Pigeons are attracted to building ledges, roof spaces, and solar panel arrays for shelter and nesting. Their droppings are acidic and can erode and corrode building materials over time. For solar panel owners, accumulated pigeon droppings and nesting materials can block sunlight and significantly diminish energy production. Furthermore, the moisture from nests and droppings can lead to mold and water damage.

Starting with Prevention

Install Bird Spikes: These are long, needle-like rods used for bird control. They can be attached along ledges, roofs, and even on solar panel edges to prevent pigeons from landing and nesting. Ensure the spikes are of high quality and weather-resistant to avoid frequent replacements.

Use Netting: Placing netting around solar panels or across large roof areas can deter pigeons from accessing potential nesting sites. The net should be robust and securely fixed to outlast environmental wear and tear.

Bird Slopes: Installing slopes on ledges can prevent pigeons from gaining a foothold. These are slippery panels that are angled and positioned in potential roosting spots, making it impossible for pigeons to nest.

Optical Gel Disks: These disks create an optical illusion of fire, which scares pigeons away without causing them harm. They can be strategically placed around roofs and solar panels.

Acoustic Deterrents: Devices that emit sounds unpleasant to pigeons can also be effective, especially when combined with other methods. These can be set to activate when motion is detected.

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

• Regular Inspections: Check your roof and solar panel areas regularly for signs of pigeon activity. Early detection can prevent extensive damage and nesting.

• Clean Regularly: If pigeons have been near your solar panels or roofing, regular cleaning is necessary to remove droppings and nesting materials, which helps maintain the functionality and hygiene of the space.

Professional Help

If pigeon proofing becomes overwhelming, or if the pigeon population around your property is substantial, it’s worth calling the pros at Front Range Pest. Our wildlife control experts can install pigeon deterrents in hard-to-reach areas safely and offer more sophisticated solutions to deter birds.

Legal Considerations

Always ensure that your bird control methods are humane and comply with local wildlife protection laws. Pigeons are protected under wildlife conservation acts in many areas, and certain deterrents may be restricted. At Front Range Pest, we strictly adhere to Colorado and Wyoming state laws for all pest control-related issues.

Protect your property and maintain a clean, healthy environment by effectively pigeon-proofing against nuisance birds. Contact Front Range Pest for an assessment of your situation.

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Contending with pests like bed bugs can cause significant distress and concern. These tiny, blood-sucking insects are infamous for infiltrating homes and businesses, creating discomfort, health risks, and financial damage. Immediate measures are crucial if you suspect a bed bug presence. In this article, we explore how Front Range Pest skillfully and discreetly handles the detection and eradication of bed bugs.

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Despite their knack for hiding, bed bugs leave clear indicators of their presence. Watch for these signs when inspecting your area:

• Bites: Search for clusters or lines of itchy, red bites on your body, indicative of bed bug bites.
• Small, Rusty Stains: Notice tiny bloodstains on your sheets or mattress, resulting from their feeding habits.
• Eggs and Exoskeletons: Check crevices in your mattress, furniture, and walls for tiny, egg-like structures or shed skins.
• Unusual, Musty Smell: A large infestation may produce a distinct, sweet, musty odor.

Why Choose Front Range Pest for Bed Bug Issues?

Front Range Pest is your dependable ally in discreet and effective bed bug removal. Here’s why our service is superior:

• Professional Expertise: Our well-trained technicians excel in pinpointing and removing bed bugs, ensuring thorough and effective extermination.
• Confidential Service: Understanding the sensitivity of bed bug issues, we perform our services discreetly to avoid drawing attention to your premises.
• Safe, Eco-Friendly Methods: Our treatments are both potent and safe for your family, pets, and the environment, focusing on sustainable practices.
• Comprehensive Follow-Up: We conduct detailed inspections after treatment to guarantee all bed bugs are eliminated, providing continued peace of mind.

Effective Bed Bug Extermination Strategy

Our proven strategy for tackling bed bug infestations includes:

• Inspection: We begin with a detailed inspection to assess the infestation’s extent, which informs our treatment approach.
• Treatment: We apply a combination of heat and chemical treatments, using specialized equipment to eradicate bed bugs throughout their lifecycle.
• Proactive Measures: We offer advice on preventative measures to help keep your environment bed bug-free.

Bed bugs can quickly turn your living or working space into a source of anxiety and discomfort. Timely intervention is essential to manage a bed bug problem. The experts at Front Range Pest are ready to help you detect and eliminate bed bugs, ensuring the comfort and safety of your space.

Don’t let bed bugs take over your property – reach out to Front Range Pest for effective control solutions today!

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The warm seasons bring sunshine and outdoor fun, but they also bring increased activity from stinging insects like bees, wasps, hornets, and yellowjackets. While these insects play vital roles in the ecosystem, they can pose significant risks to human health and safety, particularly when they nest close to human habitats. Understanding the behavior of these aggressive stingers and taking proactive measures to manage them can help you enjoy the warmer months in peace and safety.

In Colorado, the four main types of stinging insects you’re most likely to encounter are:

Honey Bees – Honey bees are hairy and exhibit an orange or yellow-orange hue, though some may be dark gray. They are generally not aggressive and will only sting to defend their colony. Most stings happen accidentally, such as when someone steps on a bee while barefoot or traps a bee in their clothing. Bees foraging on flowers are not prone to attack and play a crucial role in pollination. They are usually not considered pests. Bees have a barbed stinger that remains embedded in the skin, leaving behind a poison sac and causing the bee to die after stinging.

Wasps – Wasps, including species like paper wasps, are recognized for their distinctive nests made from a paper-like material created from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times during an encounter, making them particularly daunting when disturbed. They also serve as important pollinators; though less effective than bees, wasps frequent various plants and contribute to the pollination process.

Yellowjackets – These are a type of ground-nesting wasp that can be very aggressive, especially near food or when their nests are disturbed. They are commonly seen during the later summer and early fall. Yellowjackets are particularly attracted to human food, making outdoor events like picnics and barbecues prime encounters with these bold and defensive insects.

Hornets – Specifically, the bald-faced hornet, which is actually a type of yellowjacket, is noted for its large size and distinctive, white-marked face. Hornets build large, visible nests and can be quite aggressive if their space is infringed upon. Additionally, bald-faced hornets prey on other insects, helping to control pest populations.

Controlling Stinging Insects & Removing Their Nests

Controlling and removing wasp and hornet nests from your property requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and effectiveness. Before attempting any removal, it’s crucial to correctly identify the species, as this will influence the approach and timing. If the nest is small and relatively accessible, you can use an over-the-counter wasp or hornet spray. These insecticides are designed to be applied from a distance, allowing you to spray the nest from several feet away. Aim to soak the nest thoroughly, preferably at night when wasps and hornets are less active. It’s important to check the nest the following day and reapply if necessary.

For larger nests or those situated in difficult-to-reach areas, or if you’re allergic to stings, it’s safer and more prudent to call Front Range Pest. We have the expertise, equipment, and protective gear needed to manage the removal effectively and minimize the risk of stings. Additionally, we can provide advice on preventing future infestations, such as sealing entry points in your home’s exterior and maintaining a clean environment free of food residues that might attract these insects.

Bees are generally non-aggressive and should be preserved when possible. For hives that are too close for comfort (located near a busy entryway, playground, etc.) contact us or a local beekeeper for rehoming. It’s important to relocate their entire nesting habitat, as any remaining wax combs and honey may damage your home’s structure, but also attract rodents and other insects.

Reducing the Presence of Stinging Insects

Maintain Your Yard: Regular yard maintenance can reduce nesting opportunities for stinging insects. Keep your garden tidy, mow the lawn regularly, and trim bushes and trees away from your home.

Manage Attractants: Be mindful of exposed food during outdoor activities. Cover food containers and dispose of garbage promptly in sealed trash bins to avoid attracting yellowjackets and other pests.

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks and small openings. Wasps and hornets can create nests in wall cavities or under eaves. Sealing these points can prevent them from establishing nests inside or near your dwelling.

When Stings Happen

Despite all precautions, stings can happen. It’s essential to know how to respond:

• Remain calm and slowly move away from the area to avoid provoking further stings.
• Check to see whether the stinger is still in the skin. A bee’s barbed stinger typically remains embedded in the skin, while wasps may only leave their stingers behind if they’re swatted away and the stinger breaks off in the skin. If a stinger is present, remove it with tweezers.
• Treat the sting site with ice to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Leave the ice in place for five minutes to reduce blood flow, which helps your body’s defensive action against the venom.
• Ibuprofen, Benadryl, or acetaminophen can help reduce pain. Apply Calamine lotion to the affected area throughout the day to decrease itching. Scratching the affected area may spread the venom, thus lengthening the healing process.
• Monitor for allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or rapid heartbeat. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.

Do not attempt to remove an aggressive stinging insect hive yourself! Contact the experts for prompt, safe removal!

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Most people look forward to spring, with warm days, green grass, and budding flowers. However, it’s also the beginning of general pest and insect season, bringing ants, spiders, stinging insects, and wasps closer to our homes. With proactive measures and expert insights, you can enjoy the warmer months in peace, without unwelcome guests. Here’s your guide to preparing for the upcoming pest season.

Understanding the Threat

Around April, we see a significant increase in pest activity. The warmer temperatures are perfect for ants to start their forays into homes in search of food. Spiders come out of hiding to prey on these insects, often making their way into our living spaces. Stinging insects like wasps and other flying nuisances become more active, building nests that can pose risks to your family and pets.

Early Prevention is Key

• Seal Entry Points: Begin with a thorough inspection of your home. Seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and the foundation to block entry points for pests.

• Eliminate Standing Water: Stagnant water is a breeding ground for many insects. Ensure gutters are clean and downspouts are directing water away from your home. Repair leaky faucets and ensure your yard drains properly to discourage pests.

• Keep Your Yard Tidy: Overgrown vegetation can provide shelter and breeding sites for pests. Keep your lawn trimmed and remove debris where insects could nest.

• Store Food and Waste Properly: Ensure food is stored in sealed containers and keep your kitchen clean. Regularly dispose of garbage in sealed receptacles to avoid attracting ants and other pests.

Professional Pest Control Services

While DIY measures are a good start, professional pest control services such as Front Range Pest offer the expertise and resources needed to protect your home. We provide:

• Customized Treatment Plans: Tailored strategies that address your area’s specific pests and your home’s unique vulnerabilities.

• Preventative Treatments: Regularly scheduled treatments throughout the season can prevent infestations before they start.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home is protected against pests allows you to enjoy your summer without worry.

Stay Vigilant

Regularly inspect your home for signs of pests. Catching an issue early can make a significant difference in the ease and cost of treatment. Look for signs like ant trails, spider webs, or wasp nests forming under eaves.

As we embrace the warmer months in Colorado and Wyoming, don’t let pests dampen your spirits. By taking early preventative measures and contacting Front Range Pest for unruly pest situations, you can protect your home and enjoy a pest-free summer. Remember, the key to effective pest management is not just to react but to prepare. So, let’s get ready for the season and ensure our homes and businesses remain a sanctuary setting for us, not for pests.

For a prompt inspection of your pest problem, contact us for a reliable, effective solution! 

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

As the snow melts and the days lengthen, Colorado residents might notice more than just the return of warm weather and blooming flowers. Spring marks the beginning of the roosting season for many bat species, a natural process that can lead to close encounters with these winged inhabitants, particularly in the cozy confines of our attics and barns.

Understanding Bats

Bats are a crucial part of Colorado’s ecosystem, essential in controlling insect populations and pollinating plants. Colorado is home to 18 bat species, including the Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus) and the Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus), known to roost in human structures. Bats inhabit all types of environments throughout the state, ranging from the eastern plains and lofty mountain woodlands to the western deserts and even in urban areas from countryside villages to the heart of Denver. They play a crucial role in pollinating flora and agricultural produce and managing insect numbers, as all species of bats in our region consume insects.

Why Bats Choose Attics

Attics offer a warm, sheltered environment for bats to roost, breed, and rear their young. These spaces mimic the natural cavities found in trees, providing a perfect substitute for bat colonies. During spring, female bats seek out safe places to form maternity colonies and give birth, making attics an attractive option.

If a single bat enters a building, often it’s because a door or window was left open. Typically, the bat will exit on its own if there’s an open window or door. Should the bat remain indoors, you can gently capture and release it with these steps:

• Wear leather gloves, wait for the bat to land, then cover it with a small container.
• Insert a piece of cardboard between the container and the wall, allowing the bat to fall into the container.
• Release the bat outside, ideally near trees or shelter.

Identifying a Bat Infestation

A bat colony in your house can pose a significant health risk to humans and domestic animals, and the noise and odors from a large group can be bothersome. Such colonies often represent maternity roosts. Convincing these bats to vacate can be challenging, as common deterrents like mothballs and ultrasonic devices are ineffective. Moreover, using pesticides or poisons against bats is illegal, as this could lead to dead bats decomposing within your home and increase the risk of exposure to humans and pets. The signs of a bat infestation include:

• Noises: Scratching, squeaking, or crawling sounds in walls or attics, especially at dusk or dawn.
• Guano: Bat droppings resemble mouse droppings but are larger and contain insect parts.
• Stains: Grease marks where bats enter and exit, along with urine stains on walls or insulation.
• Odor: A strong, musky odor from bat guano and urine.

While bats play a beneficial role outdoors, they may cause health risks inside your home. Bat guano can harbor the fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease. Moreover, although rare, bats can carry rabies, a risk to humans and pets if bitten.

Preventing and Managing Bat Infestations

If bats have already taken up residence, consider hiring a pest control professional specializing in humane bat removal, such as Front Range Pest. We can implement exclusion methods that allow bats to leave but prevent them from returning without harming them. Excluding bats, especially maternity roosts, is best done in late summer or fall to ensure the young bats can independently forage.

Pre-Spring Bat Inspection & Exclusion:

• Check your attic: Look for entry points, such as cracks or holes in the roof, vents, or eaves.
• Inspect the entire building: Seach for entry points, such as chimneys, vents, and gaps in soffits or joists, and look for signs like staining or bat droppings that indicate entrances.
• Conduct observations: At dusk to see where bats enter/exit the building.
• Monitor Active Entrances: Over several evenings to gauge the size of the bat colony.
• Install One-Way Bat Exclusion Devices: At entrance points, allowing bats to leave but preventing their return.
• Make Needed Repairs: Seal up all other potential entry points near the exclusion sites, including gaps larger than ¼ inch.
• Keep the exclusion devices in place for at least a week to ensure all bats have exited.
• Remove the devices and permanently seal the entry points.
• Maintain the property by trimming tree branches away from the house to limit access.

Coexisting with Bats

It’s important to remember that bats are protected under Colorado law and benefit the environment. Any attempt to remove or deter bats must be humane and comply with state regulations. Consider creating a bat-friendly environment on your property, such as installing a bat house. This can provide bats with an alternative roosting spot away from your home while allowing them to continue their vital role in the ecosystem. As spring approaches in Colorado, being mindful of our winged neighbors and taking proactive steps can ensure a peaceful coexistence. By understanding bats’ habits and needs, we can appreciate their role in our environment while keeping our homes safe and healthy.

If you suspect bats in your home or office, contact Front Range Pest for humane and effective removal.

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com