Crazy, snaky worms in your garden? Could be jumping worms, Amynthas spp.

 

 

Last week we met hammerhead worms as they slithered around a landscape preying on hapless earthworms and mildly terrorizing homeowners and their pets. This week we once again depart from our usual six-legged theme to meet another invader from Asia which is now a pariah in our gardens and natural landscapes. Despite not having legs, these snaky wigglers go by the name of jumping worms. Jumping worms are not close kin to hammerhead worms, which belong to the clan of repulsive creatures including liver flukes and tapeworms. Jumping worms are annelids, relatives of more familiar non-native earthworms like nightcrawlers, those large soil dwellers we gathered after a rainstorm to use for fish bait. One of the most common species of earthworm is the European nightcrawler, Lumbricus terrestris. Its deep vertical burrows help aerate soil, facilitating gas exchange for the roots of plants. Its burrowing behavior helps to reduce soil compaction and allows water to infiltrate soil, thereby giving plants critical raw material for photosynthesis. Waste products excreted by earthworms, called castings, are rich in nutrients vital to plants and act as a natural fertilizer, improving soil structure and fertility. 

If worms in your garden behave more like snakes than slowly moving nightcrawlers, it’s a good bet that they are jumping worms. Wrangling them for fish bait can be challenging. Watch as one begins to drop its tail, a clever trick called autotomy which may help it escape from predators.

But not all worms create deep burrows in soil. Nor do they feed on soil and organic material underground, facilitating a slow steady release of nutrients to plants. Some worms make their living on the surface of the soil in what is called the epigeic zone. This is the realm of jumping worms, and several species have invaded North America dating back to the 1800s. One species of jumping worm, Amynthas agrestis, has been in Maryland since the 1930’s. Jumping worms also seem to be spreading throughout our nation. A report in 2021 enumerated 15 states with jumping worms. A peek at the current jumping worm map in iNaturalist indicates their presence in more than three dozen states. Jumping worms are highly active and slither with rapid snake-like movements when plucked from the soil. When harassed by humans and presumable predators, they will drop their tail segments in a feat called autotomy. The missing tail can be regenerated by the worm. This may give a would-be predator an appeasement snack while allowing the rest of the worm to escape and live another day.

What threat do jumping worms pose? Their ability to rapidly breakdown leaf litter at the soil surface and their lack of creating burrows in the soil dramatically alters the composition and subsurface nutrient content of soil. Soil infested with jumping worms tends to be drier with a consistency similar to coffee grounds. This radically changes the diversity and composition of micro and macro-organisms that live in the soil. As a result, well-established associations of microbes, plants, and animals in our forests and managed landscapes are disrupted. Scientists suggest that these perturbations disfavor our native flora and fauna and open the door for invasions of non-native species. Management of these invaders mirrors that of other soil borne invaders, including hammerhead worms. Jumping worms move in soil and soil amendments including mulch, so prevention is the key. When purchasing mulch be sure it has been processed, meaning that it has been heated to a temperature that will kill all life stages of jumping worms. Unprocessed mulch purchased in bags or bulk can be placed in the sun for several days in their bags or covered with plastic sheets if purchased in bulk. Several days of temperatures of 105 Fahrenheit or better will kill the worms and “cocoons” that harbor their eggs. Soil on tools, pails, or footwear may also transport eggs from one location to another, as will movement of plants from infested soils. When you find these snaky devils in your soil, bag them and destroy them by whatever means is your pleasure and dispose of them in the garbage. Don’t trade plants with others if your flower beds are infested. Anglers may also unwittingly move jumping worms if they purchased worms commercially for fishing. Purchasing something with a name like Alabama Jumper or Georgia Jumper is asking for trouble. Even if you buy good old nightcrawlers, when you are done fishing and left with a Styrofoam cup of dirt, please don’t leave it on the riverbank. It may contain eggs of jumping worms. Put it in a sealed plastic bag if you can and dispose of it in a garbage can.

To learn more about jumping worms, please click on this link:  https://extension.umd.edu/resource/invasive-jumping-worms

Acknowledgements

We thank Deak and Sheri for sharing their jumping worms which served as the inspiration for this episode. Dr. Shrewsbury was the worm wrangler and provided lovely images of worms. Our thanks to her. “Invasive Jumping Worms That Violently Thrash If Handled Now in at Least 15 U.S. States” by  Jason Murdock, “ Invasive Jumping Worms” by Christa Carignan, and “Jumping/Crazy/Snake Worms – Amynthas spp.” by  Tawny Simisky and Dr. Olga Kostromytska where consulted to prepare this episode.

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Rhode Island is known for its hundreds of miles of New England coastline, fresh seafood, charming villages, vibrant art scenes, and miles of trails. From historic homes to bustling cities, “Little Rhody” has no shortage of things to do, see, and experience.  

Unfortunately, a diverse population of insects is among the list of things residents will experience. With various service locations in Rhode Island, Catseye Pest Control has first-hand experience with some of the unique insects that homeowners and businesses encounter. We also have the equipment and expertise needed to eliminate these common Rhode Island bugs.  

Ants  

Ants are the most common pest across the country, and Rhode Island is no exception. Fortunately, out of more than 12,000 species in existence, only about 25 typically infest homes and businesses. Two common ants that invade homes in Rhode Island include carpenter and odorous house ants.  

Carpenter Ants  

Carpenter ants are large and may bite when threatened. More problematic is the carpenter ant’s preference for tunneling into dead and damaged wood. They can live in wall voids, attics, crawlspaces, and other areas. Because they live inside wood, you may not see live ants, but you may notice piles of sawdust and insulation near nest entrances. 

Odorous House Ants  

When threatened or crushed, these ants release a strong blue cheese-like scent as part of their defense mechanism. They often nest under toilet seats, inside dishwashers, inside wall voids, or anywhere that is warm and close to water. Although they don’t sting, bite, or damage structures, they can contaminate food.  

Ticks  

Ticks are dangerous parasites related to arachnids like spiders and mites. They feed on the blood of humans, pets, and other animals. Not only are they notoriously tricky to spot until they start feeding, but they can also spread serious diseases like Lyme disease and Colorado tick fever. Tick prevention and awareness are vital for keeping people and pets healthy.  

Deer Tick  

The deer tick, also called a blacklegged tick, typically feeds on deer. These ticks can spread Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. These reddish-brown pests frequent wooded areas like trails and forests but can be found anywhere deer roam. 

Dog Tick  

The American dog tick is reddish-brown with light yellow or white markings. Although these parasites prefer feeding on dogs, they can also feed on humans. Dog ticks spread tularemia and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, an illness that causes rash, fever, and other symptoms. 

Lone Star Tick  

Although the Lone Star tick was once more common in the Southern United States, it has made its way into New England and the Northeast. This tick has a characteristic white spot on its back. A bite from a Lone Star tick can cause Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI), characterized by an expanding rash. These ticks may also carry Ehrlichiosis, which causes fever and muscle pain. Bites can also trigger an Alpha-gal allergy, which can cause a serious allergic reaction from eating foods like pork and beef.  

Bed Bugs  

Bed bugs are a problem throughout New England and across the country. These small blood feeders hitch a ride on clothing, luggage, and upholstered items. Once they reach indoor spaces, bed bugs find dark, out of the way crevices to nest in and only come out to feed. Common areas where these pests nest include the seams of mattresses and box springs, the underside of wall hangings, the folds of curtains, and along the crevices in baseboards.  

Cockroaches  

Although it’s rare, cockroaches can actually bite humans. The larger problem, however, is that these pests are a health hazard that spread germs and can trigger allergic responses. Cockroaches have existed for thousands of years and can be notoriously challenging to eliminate. 

American Cockroaches  

One of the larger species found in Rhode Island, the American cockroach has a reddish-brown body that is up to 1 1/2 inches long. They hide in shady areas and eat meat and plants. These cockroaches can easily contaminate food sources, counters, floors, and other areas and can cause digestive illnesses. American cockroaches can also trigger an allergic reaction in people sensitive to their droppings or skin shedding. 

Oriental Cockroaches  

These cockroaches are among the few outdoor scavengers that have a strong drive for water. They often can be found in bacteria-laden areas like sewers and trash zones with decomposing food, making them dangerous sources of contamination. Oriental cockroaches are black or dark brown with bodies about 1 inch in size. 

German Cockroaches  

German cockroaches have wings but rarely fly, preferring to stay in low, concealed spots. They have small, tan, or light brown bodies with two vertical stripes and average 1/2 inch in size. These cockroaches prefer staying together in groups and are known for emitting a musty scent that can mimic a moldy smell.  

Flies  

This buzzing pest can be downright dangerous because it can carry organisms that cause serious diseases like typhoid fever, dysentery, and anthrax. Different types of flies enjoy different habitats and food sources. Some of the most common types include the house fly, fruit fly, and gnats.  

House Fly  

People sometimes call the common house fly a “filth” fly in a nod to its love of organic matter (both decaying and fresh) and the likelihood of it spreading diseases. House flies have characteristically loud buzzes, red eyes, and bodies with four black stripes. 

Fruit Fly  

These tiny terrors affect people worldwide on every continent, except Antarctica. Fruit flies don’t bite humans, but they can be irritating. They feed on organic matter — not just in fruit bowls but also in the garbage. Fruit flies have small tan bodies and are challenging to spot until they appear in large groups.  

Gnats  

Gnats look a lot like fruit flies but with black bodies. They don’t bite humans or pets, but they feed on decaying plant matter and plant roots and can transmit pathogens to plants that humans eat. Infestations are common in greenhouses and in over-watered potted plants. Eliminating these pests typically requires allowing the soil to dry out, which, unfortunately, could also kill the plant.  

Mosquitoes  

Whether you’re hitting the beach, taking a hike, or relaxing outdoors, protecting yourself and your loved ones from the itchy bites of mosquitoes is a must. These buzzing insects can spread diseases, including West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and using EPA-registered insect repellents can be helpful. Additionally, removing sources of standing water in outdoor spaces can help reduce mosquito breeding grounds.  

Spiders  

Rhode Island’s spiders may look scary, but many are beneficial to outdoor spaces because they eat other insects, which helps naturally control pest populations. The common house spider can grow up to 5/16 inch and has a body in colors ranging from brown to off-white. You may also encounter one of the following spiders in the state: 

Bark Crab Spider  

With coloring that resembles tree bark and a sideways walk that looks similar to a crab, this arachnid makes it easy to understand how it got its name. Its black body sports cream-colored or tan speckles and a flat, wide abdomen. Bark crab spiders eat insects and can be found in wooded areas and parks.  

Arrow-Shaped Micrathena 

This colorful orbweaver spider spins intricate webs and has a distinct, triangular-shaped body. Females have sharp spines on their abdomens and typically have red bodies with bright yellow on the abdomens. Males are usually black with white around the edges. These spiders are venomous to other insects but harmless to humans.  

Eastern Harvestman 

The Eastern harvestman is an arachnid that looks like a spider but doesn’t have fangs or venom. They use their long legs to move around and to help them sense their surroundings. The Eastern harvestman has a dark, round body that lets it easily blend into the environment. It can spray a strong-smelling component from its first pair of legs as part of its defense system.  

Black Widow Spider 

Black widow spiders aren’t usually a significant problem in New England, but they have been spotted here in Rhode Island. The black widow is renowned for its strong venom, painful bite, and females’ habit of biting and killing their mates.  

Termites 

These Rhode Island bugs are more than just a nuisance — termites can cause widespread destruction to properties. The most common species found in Rhode Island is the eastern subterranean termite, which thrives in moist, dark environments. Termites can be difficult to find and require professional intervention to eliminate them. 

Other Unique Rhode Island Bugs 

From ladybugs to “assassins,” the Ocean State contains some of the most remarkable bugs and insects found in New England.  

Cow Killer Ants 

Also commonly called “red velvet ants,” these insects aren’t ants at all but a type of wasp. Females don’t have wings, which gives them an appearance that resembles huge red and black ants. Males have wings and look more like a wasp. These insects have powerful, painful stings and lay their eggs inside beehives. When the eggs hatch, young cow killer ants eat the bumble bee larvae inside the hive.  

Assassin Bugs 

This category of insects contains about 200 different species, with bodies ranging from brown or gray to black, orange, yellow, and red. Assassin bugs have six legs and narrow heads, and they prey on other insects. They can be beneficial outdoors, but they have sharp beaks and painful, venomous stings that don’t discriminate.  

Wheel Bugs 

This type of assassin bug has a spiny, wheel-shaped back and a vicious looking fang on top of its head. Wheel bugs use their fangs to stab their victims multiple times. Although they typically feed on insects, wheel bugs can also stab humans with their fangs.  

The Masked Hunter 

Another species of assassin bug, the masked hunter has a painfully strong fang that it can use to repeatedly stab anything — or anyone — that gets in its way. Young masked hunters are covered in sticky hairs that get coated in dirt, dust, and lint, making them look like a creature from another planet. This insect’s primary diet consists of bed bugs, so seeing masked hunters typically signals a bed bug infestation. 

Evergreen Bag Moth  

Not a worm at all but actually a type of moth, these pests create bags from silk and plant foliage. From Providence to Barrington and beyond, these moths cause significant damage to host trees, which include arborvitae, juniper, pine, sycamore, maple, and cedar. Females don’t have wings and look similar to grubs, while males are dark, winged, and hairy. When a young bagworm caterpillar lands on its host, it attaches to it, with only its head and thorax emerging as it moves.  

American Pelecinid Wasp 

Despite its fearsome appearance, the American pelecinid wasp doesn’t sting. Females use their long, tail-like abdomens to deposit eggs on the backs of underground grubs. When the eggs hatch, the young wasps burrow inside the grub and use it as a food source. 

Beetles 

Some beetles carry toxic substances, while others can infect plants with diseases or damage them. With more than 450 species of ladybugs, they are among the more common beetles in Rhode Island. In addition to these dome-shaped beetles with shiny red, orange, or yellow bodies, the state is also home to many other types of beetles. The calligrapha beetle looks similar but has calligraphy-like swirls on its yellow, orange, brown, white, or gray body. Antelope beetles feed on rotting wood and look formidable with their large, wide heads and long pinchers.  

Stink Bugs 

Although these smelly pests are sometimes confused with beetles, stink bugs belong to the halyomorpha family, known as “true” bugs. They have a shield-like back and are typically brown or green. These insects eat vegetation, including popular crops like tomatoes and apples. Stink bugs often move indoors when the weather gets cold and are harmless to people. However, they do release a characteristic odor that is not pleasant.  

Best Ways to Prevent and Control Pests in Rhode Island 

Knowing what to look for is only part of the solution. Prevention and control vary widely from pest to pest, but residents can typically follow various standard recommendations for all pests. Keeping foliage trimmed back from buildings, keeping food neatly stored, and securing garbage are important practices for reducing the risk of pests making their way indoors.  

However, the best way to keep homes, businesses, and other establishments pest-free is with routine preventive treatments and professional pest control. Catseye Pest Control’s Platinum Home Protection is the best defense against pest damage and dangers. This comprehensive program is customized for each client. We provide pest removal, seal gaps and cracks, apply environmentally safe pest deterrents around the perimeter, and more. With bi-monthly follow-ups and our 100% service guarantee, this protection offers the ultimate peace of mind.  

Contact Catseye Today 

Whether you have caught sight of some creepy crawlies or you simply want to prevent any pests from invading, Catseye can help. Our trained, licensed technicians will perform a thorough inspection inside and outdoors before creating a custom plan to keep your property pest-free. Schedule an inspection of your Rhode Island home or business today to get started. 

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Ok, I know, this is supposed to be Bug of the Week, not Worm of the Week, but sometimes something so weird and creepy pops up that we need to spend some time on it. Last week a friend called and inquired if I had ever heard of hammerhead worms. I have heard of hammerhead sharks, hammerhead flies, and, of course M C Hammer from back in the day, but hammerhead worms, not so much. Turns out that a residence in northern Virginia is beset with creepy, slithering, predatory flatworms which make early morning forays to hunt and dine on unsuspecting earthworms, molluscs, and other small invertebrates in the landscape, as well as each other. These rascals from Asia are largely unseen in the lawn but clearly visible as they glide in slow motion across a driveway on a cool dewy morning.

Attempts to capture and remove the worms results in spontaneous fracturing of their bodies. Is this the demise of these creepy invaders? Not at all. Here’s why not. My first encounter with the clan of flatworms, the Platyhelminthes, was in high school biology where we met cute cross-eyed planaria. We were encouraged to cut these creatures in half so we could observe the mysterious and baffling phenomenon of body part regeneration. That’s right, slice these little guys in half and they fully regenerate the complementary portions of each body part, a miraculous two from one deal. Well, as members of the flatworm clan, it turns out that hammerhead worms can also regenerate missing body parts. My friend reported the individual segments of his fractured hammerhead worms independently slithered off the driveway into the grass where we can assume that they regenerated missing parts and resumed their hunt for small invertebrates. Hammerhead worms lack true mouthparts and they don’t chomp prey with jaws as do beetles or wasps. These flatworms immobilize victims with a coating of sticky slime, evert part of their digestive tract, and plunge it into the prey, where they slurp up body fluids and small particles of tissue.

In a small Tupperware bowl filled with soil and earthworms, hammerhead worms reveal how they got their name and how they roll. Their genus, Bipalium, is Latin for two-shovel and their expanded head does indeed resemble a two-sided shovel or spade. Watch as one cruises the container, investigating soil with its expanded head. Awhile later, I found it caressing the carcass of an earthworm. Potent tetrodotoxin secreted by the worm may help it subdue prey. Soon thereafter the worm investigated the deflated remains of one of its kin. Hammerhead worms are cannibalistic. Worms courtesy of Kevin Ambrose.

While this was my first encounter with hammerhead worms, they have been here in the US since 1901. They are commonly found in greenhouses in more than 14 states. Beyond greenhouses, iNaturalist reports thousands of sightings of hammerhead worms throughout the US, including several here in the DMV. So be on the lookout for these slimy rascals and if you spot one, please add your sighting to iNaturalist and maybe report your find to the state Department of Agriculture.  

Oh, there is one last bit of creepy business associated with hammerhead worms. I had to wonder how this kind of slow-moving creature could assail and capture prey including more massive earthworms or slugs. In addition to super sticky slime, hammerhead worms have one more trick to subdue prey. They secrete potent, paralyzing tetrodotoxin, the same lethal toxin found in puffer fish. Tetrodotoxin is believed to incapacitate large prey so they can be consumed by the worm. This nasty toxin may also help the worm defend itself from its own predators. Domestic animals that contact or consume these worms may experience discomfort or illness and people who have handled the worm report skin irritations. So, heed the warning delivered by the Hammer back in the 90’s when he said “you can’t touch this.”    

To learn more about hammerhead worms in the DMV, please click on this link:  https://www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2023/07/22/hammerhead-worms-invasive-poisonous-dc/

Acknowledgements

Bug of the Week thanks Kevin Ambrose for sharing images and specimens of hammerhead worms that served as the inspiration for this episode. Articles used to prepare this story include the following: “Land Planarians, Bipalium kewense Moseley and Dolichoplana striata Moseley (Tricladida: Terricola)” by P. M. Choate and R. A. Dunn, “Confirmation and Distribution of Tetrodotoxin for the First Time in Terrestrial Invertebrates: Two Terrestrial Flatworm Species (Bipalium adventitium and Bipalium kewense) by Amber N. Stokes, Peter K. Ducey, Lorin Neuman-Lee, Charles T. Hanifin, Susannah S. French, Michael E. Pfrender, Edmund D. Brodie III, Edmund D. Brodie Jr., and “Hammerhead flatworm/Hammerhead slug” by the Texas Invasive Species Institute. We also thank Joan Hahn for introducing students to the wonders of flatworms and biology at Randolph High School.

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Bats around the world continue to face critical threats to their population. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature lists more than 200 species of bats across 60 countries as critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable. Of the 40 or so species that live in the United States, more than half are declining in number or already endangered. Among the nine species that call New England home, approximately five bats are listed on state or federal endangered species lists.  

Considering the essential role that bats play in maintaining the ecosystem, protecting these flying mammals is critical. Bats consume mosquitoes — eating as much as their body weight or about 1,200 mosquitoes every night, which helps keep the population of these harmful insects in check. Additionally, bats that feed on nectar and fruit help pollinate plants. 

Understanding the vital roles these often misunderstood animals play is only the beginning of the fight to protect them from extinction. Knowing the right steps to take if a bat enters your home is essential if you live in an area with bats. The process starts with professional bat control and removal.  

Why Are Bats Endangered?  

Declining bat populations can be traced to multiple challenges. In some cases, hunting and killing bats occurs because people aren’t informed about how they keep the ecosystem healthy and rarely harm humans. Climate change and loss of habitats due to the development of wilderness areas also contribute to the problem, particularly during the winter when bats need shelter to hibernate.  

Additionally, one of the biggest challenges bats face is a disease called white-nose syndrome. It affects bats all over the world and has been especially vicious here in New England. WBUR News called it a decade of “carnage,” with bat populations that were once in the thousands reduced to a dozen or fewer bats.  

This fungal disease causes the animals to wake up during hibernation, making it impossible for them to survive the winter. Since white-nose syndrome was first identified in 2006, it has killed millions of bats in New England and across North America. 

Endangered Species of Bats in North America  

Many animal species are protected by the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This federal measure provides protection for many bats, including the Hawaiian hoary, gray, Mariana fruit, and Virginia big-eared bats. It restricts how and when bats can be removed from homes and other buildings and puts additional measures in place to aid in the conservation of bat species.  

Some bats that aren’t on the federal list of endangered species may have protection under state laws and regulations. For example, in New England, the state-designated endangered bat species include the following:  

• The tricolored bat has a unique look with fur on its back that is dark gray at the base, yellow-brown in the middle, and dark brown at the tips. 
• The Northern long-eared bat has light brown fur that looks uniform across much of its body, except its back, which has fur that’s lighter at the tips. 
• The little brown bat has glossy brown fur and a two-toned appearance on its back and light fur on its underside.  
• The Eastern small-footed bat is one of the smallest species and has short, pink forearms, a black facial mask and ears, and golden fur.  
• The Indiana bat has short, blunt ears, a long tail, small hind feet, and pinkish-brown fur.  

What Can Be Done to Help?  

Across the globe, conservation efforts are in place to find ways to help protect bats. Researchers are trying to find treatments for white-nose syndrome, and various ESA and state regulations help protect bats from harm. Additionally, many biologists, researchers, and pest control companies are working to raise awareness of the importance of these animals.  

Ways that everyday people can help include getting involved in bat conservation and spreading facts to help others learn about how this wildlife species benefits the ecosystem. Other ways to get involved include: 

• Turning off unnecessary lights to minimize light pollution, which can disrupt bats’ habits. 
• Minimizing the use of pesticides in and around your home provides more insects for bats to eat. 
• Creating bat-friendly habitats and roosting sites by leaving dying and dead trees in place if they don’t create a hazard. 
• Planting a garden to attract insects, which also helps with plant pollination in addition to providing a food source for bats. 
• Building and installing bat houses to provide essential roosting spots and a safe place for females to raise their young.  
• Avoiding the use of poisons or trying to kill or remove bats on your own, which is illegal and inhumane.  

Instead, call for professional help if bats have invaded interior spaces where it isn’t safe. The professionals at Catseye Pest Control have the experience, equipment, and knowledge to safely remove bats according to all regulations.  

Professional Bat Removal and Control Services 

Professional bat control is a must. Bats can only be removed at certain times of year to ensure that mothers can raise their young and preserve the population. Additionally, professionals can recommend the most effective, humane, and chemical-free options to remove and control bats from homes and buildings.  

For example, residential exclusion systems provide a permanent barrier to protect vulnerable areas and prevent bats from entering the home. Commercial exclusion systems provide similar benefits for commercial structures. These systems target key areas of a building with a rigid barrier that seals the building off to keep bats, rodents, and other wildlife out.  

Additionally, with programs like Catseye’s Platinum Home Protection, you can rest assured that you get the best preventive services. It covers everything from insects and rodents to nuisance wildlife like bats. Technicians remove any pests on the premises, seal off any gaps or openings, and provide monitoring and bi-monthly follow-ups for the ultimate peace of mind. 

Contact Catseye Today to Learn More 

If you find a bat in your house or business, the best course of action is to call the experts.  

Our bat removal program encompasses multiple visits and uses several techniques to remove bats permanently without harming them. We also provide cleanup services and our exclusive Cat-Guard Exclusion Systems to deliver a safe, permanent solution. 

To get started, schedule an inspection of your home, garage, business, or other structure today.

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While strolling along Cedar Creek in the wilds of Virginia, we noticed several gnarly leaves on American elm trees lining a trail by the creek. Once verdant and unscathed foliage now bore the telltale signatures of mandibulate insects dining on them. The usual suspects for defoliation of elms include caterpillars like the spiny elm caterpillar which turns into the lovely mourning cloak butterfly or the elm spanworm whose adult stage is a rather pretty white moth. However, two species of beetles, one native to North America and one from Europe, also find American elms delectable. In this natural setting, defoliation was the handiwork of the gorgeous larger elm leaf beetle. Larger elm leaf beetles emerge from their wintering refuge in the soil and move to leaves of elms and other woodland trees to feed and lay eggs in spring. Larvae and adults feed on soft leaf tissue between tough leaf veins, leaving behind a reticulate network of leaf tissue in a characteristic pattern called skeletonization. Larvae develop through the summer and autumn before moving to the soil, where they overwinter and molt to the pupal stage. This pretty native beetle is only an occasional pest of elms in landscapes. When populations of larger elm leaf beetles increase, parasitic tachinid flies attack and kill the beetles, thereby reducing damage caused by this interesting leaf-muncher.

A beautiful larger elm leaf beetle surveys the possibilities from the edge of a leaf while nearby another adult battles a forest of hairs on the stem of a wild berry plant. Larger elm leaf beetle larvae chew ragged holes in leaves, often leaving behind tough leaf veins.

That was the wild, but let’s visit the city where American elms and other species of elms face a far more serious pest called the elm leaf beetle. Elm leaf beetle is native in Europe and first arrived in the US in the 1930s, where it now occupies states from coast to coast and border to border wherever elm trees grow.  After spending the leafless winter in protected locations on the ground, in spring adults move to new leaves to feed, mate, and lay eggs on leaves. Each female can lay between 600 to 800 eggs. Larvae hatch from eggs, eat soft leaf tissues, and skeletonize leaves in a manner similar to their larger elm leaf beetle cousins. When development is complete, larvae move to bark crevices on the tree or soil beneath the tree to pupate. Later in summer a new generation of adults move to the canopy to dine, mate, and lay eggs. These eggs hatch into a second generation of larvae which continue to ravage leaves of the elms. As summer wanes, larvae complete development and overwinter as adults. In warmer parts of our land, there may be 3 or 4 generations of elm leaf beetles annually. With climate change, new regions of the US could someday experience additional generations. 

Elm leaf beetles are found on every continent except Antarctica and punish several species of elms as well as Japanese zelkova. However, with the importation and release of a tiny egg-killing wasp and a small parasitic fly that attacks other life stages of the beetle, populations of elm leaf beetle have declined dramatically in several areas of the US. Here in the DMV the status of elm leaf beetles has changed dramatically from major pest status in the ‘70s to minor pest status today. Reuniting a non-native pest with its complement of non-native parasites in an invaded land has proven to be a highly effective management tactic for several alien invaders in the US and in other lands.

Acknowledgements

Bug of the Week thanks an anonymous Virginia Park Ranger who spotted the larger elm leaf beetles at Natural Bridge State Park, which inspired this episode. References used for this story include “The larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli (Say)” by D. Anderson and C.S. Papp, “The Larger Elm Leaf Beetle, Monocesta coryli (Say), an Occasional Pest of Elms in Florida (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)” by Michael C. Thomas, “The Elm Leaf Beetle, Xanthogallerucae luteola” by Andrew Lawson, and “Larger Elm Leaf Beetle” by Steven Frank and James Baker.  

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Generally speaking, when we think of raptors we think of birds of prey like hawks or falcons or, if you are not a purist, maybe even non-feathered reptiles like velociraptors, made famous in Jurassic Park. Actually, raptor comes from the Latin word rapere, which means “to seize or take by force.” The term raptorial pops up in the entomological lexicon when we talk about the highly modified forelegs of some predatory insects. Their frontmost pair of legs has been shaped by millions of years of evolution for the express purpose of capturing and holding prey. They have evolved in at least four orders of insects, including the Mantodea (mantises), Neuroptera (mantisflies), Diptera (dance flies and others), and Hemiptera (ambush bugs and others).

This small mantisfly stopped by for a short photoshoot. Notice its spiny forelegs designed by nature to snare unsuspecting prey. After glamming for the camera, it flicked me off and said “see ya’ later.” Placed on a milkweed in my garden, it groomed for a few moments, bowed twice, and took flight. Though similar in appearance, mantisflies are not close relatives of praying mantises.

Last week while bumbling around the wilds of the Potomac we had the good fortune of encountering two of these clever predators, a pretty green mantisfly adult, Zeugomantispa minuta, and a tiny juvenile praying mantis, likely the Chinese mantis, Tenodera sinensis.  Raptorial forelegs of both mantisflies and mantises are endowed with sharp spines perfect for snaring prey. The joint where femur and tibia meet is a hinge. Strong internal muscles contract and draw the femur and tibia together, allowing deadly spines to grasp the hapless victim, preventing its escape. At less than an inch in length, the adult green mantisfly is tiny. It is dwarfed by its near namesake the praying mantis, which in the case of the Chinese mantis can be almost five times larger. As adults, both the mantisfly and mantis are sit-and-wait predators which ambush and capture a wide variety of unsuspecting insects that venture too near these motionless and cryptically colored predators. Mantisflies are also reported to actively hunt their prey. Not surprisingly, the green mantisfly takes small soft-bodied prey, including aphids. However, large mantises like the Chinese mantis eat small reptiles, amphibians, and hummingbirds in addition to insects. So, don’t place that hummingbird feeder near a plant or structure where a hungry mantis may be lurking. And yes, females do practice sexual cannibalism and sometimes consume their mates. Courtship in mantises is a risky proposition for the guys. Watch out boy, she’ll chew you up. She’s a man eater!

Legs are used for stalking and catching prey, and grooming legs appears to be important business even for small praying mantises. Watch as this youngster slowly stalks a fly. As the fly (upper left corner) comes into range, the mantis makes a lightning-fast strike. Did raptorial legs of the mantis hit the mark? You bet. Resting on a lower leaf, the mantis enjoys a well-earned meal held snugly by its spiny forelegs.

While adults of both of these insects share similar dining styles, juvenile stages differ dramatically in their behaviors and cuisine. Juvenile mantises, called nymphs, are also sit-and-wait predators like the adults and feast on many small invertebrates as meals. Juvenile mantisflies are predators or parasitoids of other arthropods, including several kinds of insects such as larval stages of beetles, moths, butterflies, bees, ants, wasps, flies, termites, and spiders. Our friend the green mantisfly is in the subfamily Mantispinae. Larvae in this group are only known to feed on spider eggs within egg sacs of spiders. Tiny hatchling larvae may either seek out and directly penetrate a spider egg sac, or they may hang out on a leaf, hitch a ride with a passing female spider, and when she constructs an egg sac they will hop off and enter the egg sac. Once inside the egg sac, larvae dine on nutrient rich spider eggs before completing their development and pupating.

Despite their similar appearance and mode of capturing prey, praying mantises and mantisflies are not closely related to each other.  Striking similarities of their remarkable raptorial legs are a fascinating example of evolution shaping morphological structure to the similar function of capturing prey in two very different predators.     

Acknowledgements

Bug of the Week thanks Eloise for discovering the tiny praying mantis that served as the inspiration for this episode. Dr. Shrewsbury provided insights into feeding behaviors of larval mantisflies. “Functional morphology of the raptorial forelegs in Mantispa styriaca (Insecta: Neuroptera)” by Sebastian Büsse, Fabian Bäumler & Stanislav N. Gorb, and “Vision in the mantispid: a sit-and-wait and stalking predatory insect” by Karl Kral, were consulted as references for this story.

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Last July we met the pleasant reddish-brown stag beetle and learned about the male’s prodigious horns, battle gear used for combat with other male stag beetles to secure access to females and their breeding sites in decaying stumps and rotting wood. This week we meet the giant stag beetle discovered by an avid insect and nature lover in coastal Virginia. The rack on the male giant stag beetle simply dwarfs mandibular ornamentation of other stag beetles here in the DMV and throughout the United States. Stag beetles are relatives of rhinoceros beetles we met in a previous episode. Male rhinoceros beetles, like our indigenous Hercules beetle, also use prodigious horns on their head to battle competitors for access to females. Amazingly large horns on rhinoceros beetles and ridiculously giant jaws of stag beetles may confer a selective advantage in winning the favors of comely female beetles, hence the continued selective pressure for large weaponry.

Stag beetles dwell in damp forest woodlands where females seek moist decaying stumps or decomposing logs, often in low-lying undisturbed forests. Wet decaying wood serves as the favored location for female beetles to deposit eggs. Larvae, aka grubs, hatch from these eggs and develop over a period of one to two years as they consume lignified tissues of their woody hosts. Stag beetle larvae house a rich microbial community in their gut. These symbionts release nutrients locked in tough woody tissues, making these goodies available to support the growth and development of stag beetle grubs. Along with several other species of wood digesting insects, lucanid larvae play a critical role in recycling organic matter in forests around the world. Adult lucanid beetles are reported to dine on fermenting exudates of plants and sweet honeydew excreted by sap-sucking insects. As you will see in the video, they are also very fond of fruit. As a house guest and star of this episode, our elephant stag beetle demonstrated a particular preference for cherries over grapes and bananas. Lucky for us and him that cherries are in season. The important role of these forest recyclers is imperiled as natural forested lands disappear and become housing developments, business parks, or heavily managed landscapes. A close relative of our elephant stag beetle, the charismatic Lucanus cervus, has declined dramatically in some parts of Europe.  

Check out the jaws on a male reddish-brown stag beetle. Now look at the jaws on the largest stag beetle in the US, the elephant stag beetle. Wow! Watch as this handsome male explores the trunk of a maple tree. The ginormous mandibles are battle-gear used to combat other males for mating rites to female stag beetles. Before returning this one to the wild, I invited this guy in for a fruity snack. Watch as his tiny mouthparts beneath his jaws lap up juicy liquids. With grapes, bananas, and cherries on the menu, cherries turned out to be the winner. Good choice.

Stag beetles are noisy, somewhat clumsy fliers and they create quite a buzz as they zoom though the forest or zero in on your porch light at nighttime. If you are a bug geek like me, you might just want to hold one of these large stag beetles. Worried about those jaws? Well, my house guest did test his jaws on my index finger and although this resulted in a brief adrenaline rush, his jaws failed to break my skin or inflict any pain. Not recommending that you try this, just saying. Stag beetles have very sticky claws at the tips of their feet which enable them to climb trees and grip tightly to nosy humans. According to the Maryland Biodiversity Project, July is an excellent month to spot these fascinating creatures here in the DMV. Head for the forest to catch a glimpse of these giants of the beetle world.

Watch this amazing National Geographic video to see how stag beetles use their supersized jaws to defeat competitors and gain access to mates: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VWFreC4onI

Acknowledgements

Bug of the Week thanks insect lover Jackie for sharing her handsome stag beetle with us. We consulted these references for this episode: “Stag beetles” by Eric P. Benson, “Divergence in Gut Bacterial Community Structure between Male and Female Stag Beetles Odontolabis fallaciosa (Coleoptera, Lucanidae)” by  Xia Wan, Yu Jiang, Yuyan Cao, Binghua Sun and Xingjia Xiang, “Insights into the ecology, genetics and distribution of Lucanus elaphus Fabricius (Coleoptera: Lucanidae), North America’s giant stag beetle” by Michael Ulyshen, Louis  Zachos, John Stireman, Thomas Sheehan, and Ryan Garrick, and “Distribution of Lucanus elaphus Linnaeus (Coleoptera: Lucanidae) in North America” by C. L. Staines.

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Flea Control Isn’t a DIY Project

Fleas are more than just an itchy nuisance. These tiny, bloodsucking parasites reproduce quickly, with females laying up to 40 eggs daily. Females often lay eggs on their hosts, including dogs, cats, and birds, and those eggs can easily fall off, which is how infestations spread so easily around a large area.  

The tiny pests can live up to one year, and survive for weeks between feedings, making fleas particularly challenging to get rid of once they arrive. Additionally, although fleas don’t live on humans, they often bite them, typically around the ankles and feet. Flea bites can cause an allergic reaction and potentially spread germs that cause typhus or the plague.  

Because of fleas’ rapid reproduction and far-reaching potential to spread, prompt professional pest control for a flea infestation is essential. While many people think treating their pets is enough, the entire environment requires treatment to ensure thorough removal of all fleas. DIY approaches rarely eliminate all the eggs, leaving you with a new generation that is just waiting to emerge.  

Let’s take a closer look at the types of fleas that are common to the region and the benefits of professional flea pest control.  

Types of Fleas in North America  

Adult fleas are typically no bigger than a grain of rice, with bodies that span 1/8 inch long. They don’t have wings, but these bloodsucking parasites can jump extremely long distances and have the stamina to jump up to 30,000 times in a row if needed.  

Fleas have been around for millennia, with more than 2,500 species in existence. All fleas feed on warm-blooded hosts. However, when fleas invade human spaces, they are usually one of two species: dog fleas or cat fleas.  

Dog Flea  

These fleas typically measure about 1/16 of an inch long, with brown or brownish-black bodies that look reddish-brown after feeding. As the name implies, this flea prefers feeding on canines. However, dog fleas also feed on other animals, most commonly rabbits. These fleas will bite humans as well, potentially spreading germs or tapeworm parasites to them. 

Dog fleas can survive without feeding for months. Additionally, when dogs and rabbits are not available, these fleas will feed on other animals, including birds and humans. A dog flea bite can cause intense itching and bite marks that look like a red dot with a red circle surrounding it. 

Cat Flea  

Out of the thousands of species, the cat flea is the most common type of flea. Although the dog flea is found in the United States, the cat flea accounts for the majority of flea infestations on both cats and dogs.  

Cat fleas look similar to dog fleas, with bodies that range anywhere from 1/32 to 1/8 of an inch long. They may be dark brown or reddish-brown in color, and they lay tiny, oval-shaped white eggs that are typically about 1/64 inch long. After feeding, cat fleas lay their eggs on the host, and they hatch within three weeks or less, beginning the new generation’s lifecycle. Cat fleas can enter homes, businesses, and other spaces on pets, stray animals, and wildlife such as foxes, rats, and opossums. The bites look similar to those caused by dog fleas.  

Professional Flea Control Services 

Flea control isn’t a DIY proposition. If you have pets, you should work with your veterinarian to ensure you are using the best possible treatment for them. Likewise, working with a professional pest control company ensures you effectively eliminate all fleas from the property in a safe manner.  

If you notice your pet is itching more than normal or you find tiny bites that look like a red dot surrounded by a tiny red halo, prompt action is essential. Just treating your pet for fleas is not enough because it is very likely that tiny flea eggs fell off your pet’s body (or the body of another host like nuisance wildlife). This means that flea eggs could be widely dispersed around your property.  

Catseye Pest Control uses a three-step process to eliminate fleas and restore your peace of mind. What can you expect from our flea control solutions for homes and businesses? For starters, we will work with you every step of the way, providing guidance for the actions you need to take both before and after flea treatments.  

Preparing for Professional Flea Control Services 

Cleaning before treatment can help remove fleas and trigger pupae to leave their cocoons. This helps increase the efficacy of the treatment. If you aren’t able to clean and vacuum the entire interior, focus on high-traffic areas, carpeting and floors, pet bedding, and furniture. 

What to Expect During the Visit 

We take an innovative approach to not only eliminate adult fleas, but also prevent reproduction and disrupt development. In doing so, we can eradicate fleas now and help prevent infestations in the future. Our three-step process begins with a thorough inspection of the property. From there, we create a customized treatment plan specific to your unique property. Our flea treatment begins with exterminating adult fleas, but it also includes an insect growth regulator that prevents new fleas from reproducing, effectively disrupting future lifecycles. 

Schedule Your Free Inspection Today 

The faster you get professional pest control for a flea infestation, the better the infestation can be contained. Catseye’s treatment plan is tailored to your unique property and circumstances, and it can also help prevent future infestations.  

Turn to the trusted experts at the first sign of fleas — itching, scratching, tiny bites, or visible eggs. Contact us for more flea control information or to schedule your free inspection today.  

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Invasive species of plants and insects levy billions of dollars of losses to crops, forests, and gardens annually in the US. Some of the most noisome plant invaders of agricultural lands are exotic thistles such as bull thistle, Scotch thistle, and musk thistle. While admiring a gorgeous pollinator meadow in Natural Bridge, Virginia, we were introduced to yet another pretty invasive thistle with the curious moniker of spiny plumeless thistle, Carduus acanthoides. These prickly rascals invaded the meadow and were crowding out flowering native plants, beauties that help support our pollinators and other beneficial insects. On closer inspection, several spiny thistles clearly were suffering from a bad case of blossom rot and defoliation. Tiny beetles behind this mayhem were weevils from afar known as thistle head weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus. How did this saga begin?

Noxious spiny plumeless thistles are native to Europe and Asia and were first detected in the US in Camden, New Jersey, in 1878. Agricultural scientists searched the realms of several invasive thistles and discovered the thistle head weevil, which is native to parts of Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Weevils were introduced into Canada in 1968 with subsequent introductions to California, Virginia, and Montana in 1969 for the purpose of putting a beat-down on several species of non-native thistles. Populations of thistle head weevils from Virginia were then redistributed to other states. As we wandered the meadow, every spiny thistle we encountered was under attack or bore the scars of attack by these small beetles as they munched leaves, defecated, found romance, and laid eggs on the bracts and leaves of developing flower heads. While defoliation caused by adult feeding weakens thistles, the coup de gras comes when adults deposit eggs on developing flower heads, weevil larvae subsequently hatch and then consume reproductive plant tissues before flowers can form and produce seeds. This foils reproduction in infested thistles. Scientists in Oklahoma report that thistle head weevils can reduce invasive thistles by 90% or more in 10 years or less following their introduction to an infested area. Thistle head weevils are prodigious reproducers with each female capable of laying 100 to 200 eggs during her one-year life cycle.

Spiny plumeless thistles, native to Eurasia, have invaded this pretty pollinator meadow in Virginia. But thistles are besieged by small exotic beetles called thistle head weevils, leaf munchers that deposit eggs in developing flower heads. Weevil larvae hatch from eggs and bore through the flower head, eliminating the flower’s ability to produce seeds. Over a period of several years these beetles can dramatically reduce invasive thistle populations in an area. Unfortunately, they also attack thistles native to North America, imperiling some endemic species. Watch as a mating pair is soon joined by other hungry weevils.

We just met thistle head weevils playing the role of Dr. Jekyll. Now let’s meet Mr. Hyde. Following the release of thistle head weevils in North America in the 1960’s, scientists discovered that the host range of the weevil included some 22 species of native North American thistles. Thistle head weevils pose a serious threat to many endemic thistles, including a California native on the federal endangered species list called the Suisun thistle. Since the time of the first introductions of thistle head weevils to the US, and with greater understanding of potential harm the weevil might cause to native thistles, in 2000 USDA cancelled all permits for interstate movement of the thistle head weevil. Nonetheless, for better or for worse, thistle head weevils are here to stay as terminators of noxious invasive thistles. The big “oops” is the thistle head weevil’s ongoing threat to our home-grown native thistles.  

Acknowledgements

Bug of the Week thanks Dr. Paula Shrewsbury for images that served as the inspiration for this episode. The following articles provided interesting facts and information for this story: “Musk thistle weevils take a stand against pasture bullies” by Lacey Newlin, “Rhinocyllus conicus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)” by L. T. Kok”, “Invasive species: What everyone needs to know” by D. Simberloff, and “Rhinocyllus conicus” and “Larinus planus” Integrated Weed Control Program Staff, Washington State University.

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More than 86 million homes across the United States have at least one pet who is a valued member of the household. Keeping your pets happy, healthy, and safe means protecting them from hazards, and that includes pests like insects, rodents, and nuisance wildlife. But is pet-friendly pest control possible?

Absolutely, but it’s essential to talk to pest technicians about your concerns and let them know about any and all pets and livestock on the property. The best course of action is to rely on professionals who have a proven track record of prioritizing the safety of people, pets, livestock, and the environment.

Catseye Pest Control’s modern pest control methods and integrated pest management (IPM) approach do just that and more.

Pest Control Services with Your Needs in Mind

Pesticides aren’t always the appropriate go-to solution. However, when chemical treatments are necessary, the products and application used for that treatment make a significant difference. Today’s household pesticides include low concentrations of chemicals, allowing them to effectively eliminate insects while safeguarding pets (and people). Additionally, the size of the droplets is large enough to prevent it from lingering in the air for extended periods. 

For most pest treatments, it’s best to keep pets, livestock, and people out of the treated area until the treatment dries. This can take one to two hours, but you should talk to your licensed professional for precise guidance on timing based on the treatment they use. 

Catseye’s approach to pest control takes dog safety, cat safety, and the safety of other pets into consideration. Our pet-friendly pest control services include the following: 

Eco-Friendly, Pet-Friendly Pest Control with an IPM Approach 

With an IPM approach, the focus shifts to prevention and maintenance rather than relying heavily on chemical treatments. It begins with a free, thorough inspection of the property that allows technicians to identify what might be drawing pests to the property, how they are getting in, and how to effectively stop them.

We will provide tips on preventing infestations, like securing trash and food items, promptly fixing leaky plumbing, and eliminating standing water outdoors. The inspection also helps our technicians develop a customized treatment plan, which may include making structural repairs, monitoring areas for pests, and using pest products as needed.

Organic and Environmentally-Friendly Services

Modern pest control methods have so many strategies available, including options like biological control. This tactic involves introducing a pest’s natural predators to the area to achieve control without using pesticides. Our environmentally-friendly services target the pest or pests infesting your home, yard, or other area on your property, while allowing us to minimize the use of pesticides.

All our services are safe for pets when you take precautions, as recommended by technicians.

Organic Tick and Mosquito Control: Ticks and mosquitoes are so much more than just outdoor nuisances. These pests pose a significant health threat to people and pets alike. Catseye’s organic tick and mosquito program relies on natural products that are safer for pets, people, and the environment. In addition to providing effective monthly organic treatments around your property, this program also provides tips to help you prevent future infestations.

Wildlife Exclusion Systems: What if you could stop pests from ever entering your property without having to use any chemicals at all? That’s exactly what Catseye’s revolutionary environmentally friendly nuisance wildlife exclusion systems offer. These permanent, chemical-free barriers provide targeted protection to areas that are vulnerable to infiltration by pests like rodents and nuisance wildlife. Each system is guaranteed to provide a long-term solution to protect you, your family, and your pets. 

Platinum Home Protection: Year-round monitoring, maintenance, and prevention is a winning strategy for defending a home against pests of all types. Our Platinum Home Protection includes pest removal inside and outside as well as sealing gaps to prevent pests from finding their way inside. We also perform routine treatments with environmentally-friendly spray to deter pests and prevent infestations. Bi-monthly follow-ups allow us to keep up with any issues. Additionally, we will come to you within 24 hours if you spot a pest in between visits. 

Protect Your Pets and Keep the Pests Outside 

Keeping your pets safe means protecting them from harmful exposure to chemicals. It also requires maintaining a pest-free environment. Insects, rodents, and wildlife can carry dangerous pathogens that could make both people and animals ill.

Choosing the right pest control company can make all the difference in preventing problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends looking for a company with the following traits: 

• Licensed by state and/or local agencies and willing to disclose its certification and training requirements 
• Willing to discuss the treatment plan and address any concerns you may have in addition to providing special instructions to keep your pets safe
• Reputable, with an excellent track record for providing efficient care and good customer service 
• Offers a service guarantee and provides transparency about any stipulations related to it 

Catseye Prioritizes Your Interests and Your Pet’s Safety

Our highly trained, licensed professionals are always happy to talk about any and all safety precautions that you should take before, during, and after treatment to safeguard your family and pets. We are always able to provide the label for any products we plan to use for you to review. We strive to provide top-notch customer service and safe, effective treatments that eliminate pests while minimizing dangers.

We take your safety seriously. Contact Catseye today to learn more about our pet-friendly pest control services.

 

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