A bed bug nymph feeding on host (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Residents of Arizona who plan on travelling to California for summer vacation… Watch out for bedbugs. We’ve all heard horrifying tales of bed bugs – one of the earliest rhymes most children learn is “goodnight, sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite”. But did you know that these nasty pests don’t necessarily just reside in your bed?

That’s right – bed bugs can also lurk in carpet, furniture, along floorboards, and any other place where they have access to warm bodies. Bed bugs survive off of one thing and one thing alone – blood. So anywhere they have access to a meal, bed bugs can dwell.

Bed Bug Outbreak in Starbucks

A Starbucks in Northern California recently discovered this the hard way. Bed bugs were found lurking in the dark crevices between the sofa cushions at the Starbucks located at 1686 S. Bascome Avenue in Campbell, California. Even worse yet, according to a recent news report of bed bugs, the manager of the coffee shop was aware of the problem and stated that he’d known of it for at least two months. That means that for two months patrons were being susceptible to being bitten by bed bugs – and possibly even taking the pests home with them.

Bed Bug Infestation in Stockton

The Starbucks in Campbell isn’t the only location in Northern California to make the news for their bed bug outbreak, however. A low-income senior housing facility in Stockton was recently discovered to be overrun with bedbugs. Apparently it’s not the first time the complex has been infected with bed bugs – some residents say that this has been an ongoing problem for years.

Adult bed bug, Cimex lectularius (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Although housing authorities claim that they have been spraying the complex repeatedly over the course of several months, they believe that the bed bugs are constantly being brought in by tenants who let prostitutes and homeless people stay in their apartment units. These types of individuals can carry bed bugs on them, according to the housing authority officials.

However, bed bugs aren’t necessarily a sign of uncleanliness. Bed bugs can be found in the cleanest of places; it’s often clutter that makes them hard to get rid of.

Bed Bug Control

Regardless of how these bed bugs are spreading, it sounds like Starbucks and the senior housing project could both definitely benefit from investing in some bed bug pest control to help get these nasty critters under control.

The next time you go out to enjoy a cup of coffee, you might want to think twice before making yourself comfy on the sofa or chairs. You never know what may be lurking beneath the cushions.

About the author: Chris is a blogger for a New Jersey pest control company.

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Guest Post Published by Bulwark

Bulwark Exterminating At Phoenix Neon Splash Dash

The weather was perfect as the sun set over Scottsdale’s Talking Stick Resort. Over 6,000 runners and spectators, dressed in white and neon clothing, eagerly awaited the start of the Neon Slash Dash 5K run. Before and after the race, participants got an up close look at some of Arizona’s native scorpions. Black lights lit up Arizona Bark scorpions and Desert Hairy scorpions so they eerily glowed, just like many of the neon clad runners.

Runners and spectators shared horror stories of their own about times they had been stung by a scorpion. Each took turns shining black lights on the scorpions and gasped as they would glow a bright green.

The scorpion professionals of Bulwark Pest Control were also on hand, with a couple of impressive scorpion trucks, to answer any questions about the stinging scorpions. One fortunate winner also received a free initial scorpion service by winning a raffle drawing.

Bulwark exterminating also fielded a team of runners for the Neon Splash dash; adequately named Team Scorpion. Everyone in attendance had a great time during the event, and Bulwark Exterminating will definitely be back next year.

The Neon Splash Dash In Phoenix

The brightest and wildest running event to ever hit the Phoenix, AZ area is the Neon Splash Dash. Runners get squirted by super intense ultraviolet glow water as they sprint, jog, walk, and even dance through music enhanced glow zones. Jammin’ music keeps you pumped to ensure you cross the finish line… Cross the finish line completely covered in neon glow water.

After the race, the party goes on with a massive dance party as a DJ continues to pump out the hit music during the Neon Splash Dash’s after glow party. Neon clad racers visit also visit vendors, and get their pictures taken under the ominous black lights. It’s an event like none other.

Learn more about the Neon Splash Dash by clicking here.

Phoenix Scorpion Control

Runners and spectators of the Neon Slash Dash had the opportunity to get educated by Bulwark Exterminating as to the importance of professional scorpion control in Phoenix. Scorpion control can be the difference between getting stung by a scorpion, and resting easy at night knowing your home is protected.

If you live in the valley of the sun, and want to live scorpion free, get Phoenix scorpion control.

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Published by Bulwark

Culex mosquitos (Culex quinquefasciatus shown) are biological vectors that transmit West Nile Virus. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

West Nile Already Confirmed In Maricopa County

In Arizona, the deadly West Nile Virus has already been confirmed for 2013, by Maricopa County officials. Maricopa County’s Environmental Protective Services got an early start this year, setting mosquito traps, and testing the trapped mosquitoes for West Nile.

During this trapping, officials confirmed the presence of West Nile, as mosquitoes tested positive for the virus. This discovery marks the earliest West Nile season has begun in Arizona in quite some time. This is because of the especially wet winter, with above average temperatures this spring.

The wet winter and warm spring mean, in all likelihood, an increase of mosquito activity throughout Maricopa County this summer. East Valley cities, like Queen Creek, Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa should continue to be a hot zone for both mosquito and West Nile activity this upcoming year.

In 2012, Maricopa County reported 168 positive mosquito samples and 76 lab-confirmed human cases with two reported deaths.

West Nile Virus: What You Need To Know

West Nile Virus is spread to both humans and animals by mosquitoes, more specifically mosquito bites. Only a very small percentage of mosquitoes carry the virus.
Birds commonly carry West Nile Virus, and that’s how the virus is spread. A mosquito bites an infected bird, and then bites a human.

Once a person is infected with West Nile Virus, the chance of feeling any symptoms or getting sick is quite low. In fact, most will not feel any symptoms at all… maybe a mild fever.

Less than one out of 150 people who become infected with West Nile will develop a more serious form of the infection, such as meningitis or encephalitis. These infections can require hospitalization, treatment, and supportive care. As of today, there is no human vaccine for the virus.

Mosquito larvæ of the genus Culex. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Steps To Prevent Mosquitoes & Mosquito Bites

• Remove stagnant water (puddles, flowerpots, tire swings, etc.) from around your property.
• Limit outdoor activity during the dusk and dawn hours.
• When outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants.
• Apply mosquito repellent that contains DEET
• Anything that can carry water after a storm (toys, wheelbarrows) needs to be stored upside down.
• Discard anything that you’re not using, that can collect water.
• If you have a tire swing on your property, drill holes in the bottom so it won’t collect stagnant water.
• Don’t leave doors or windows open, and check screens for holes.
• Frequently change the water in your pet’s dish, and bird bath.
• Mosquito control needs to be a neighborhood initiative. Encourage others around you to take similar precautions.

Phoenix Pest Control

If you are seeing a lot of mosquitoes around your property, take the above mentioned steps to ensure you do not contract the West Nile Virus. Take extra precautions with professional pest control.

Mosquito Control

General Pest Control

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Published by Bulwark

CBS 5 – KPHO

Bulwark Scorpion Control Makes The Evening News

So far, 2013 has proven to be a year for scorpions. Phoenix, AZ residents have been seeing an increase of these stinging pests; as they creep around homes and properties this spring. This increase in scorpion activity is due to the hotter than usual spring temps, combined with a very wet winter. This combination provides ideal condition for scorpion breeding, which in turn, means more scorpion sighting.

Residents of the Phoenix Valley have desperately needed some answers regarding the increase of scorpions this spring. CBS 5 News (KPHO) in Phoenix was one of the first outlets to jump on the scorpion story… And when they needed answers, they turned to the scorpion experts at Bulwark Exterminating!

CBS 5 reporter Colton Shone came along as Bulwark technician, Devin Conner, made a house call to treat a scorpion infested home in the valley.

Darren Desylvia and his family have been having problems with scorpions.

“As long as the sheets are off of the floor, the scorpions won’t be able to climb up.” He found these the other day… “One was along the house outside and the other was right along the sliding glass door.”

Darren believes that Bulwark’s scorpion control efforts will pay off huge this year, and that he and his family will no longer have to live in fear of the malevolent pests.

Bulwark was more than happy to help out.

Arizona Bark Scorpions

Scorpions come in all sizes, shapes, and colors; but the most common of the Arizona scorpions is the Arizona Bark Scorpion. Not only are these scorpions the most common, they are the most dangerous.

Arizona Bark Scorpions are a yellowish tan in color, and are about two inches in length. These scorpions are most active at night, feeding on crickets and cockroaches. They come into homes looking for water. They are difficult to spot, since they blend in so well with the terrain. The best way to spot a scorpion in your yard or in your home is with a black light. Chemicals in the scorpion’s exoskeleton cause them to glow brightly.

Scorpion Control Phoenix

When CBS News was in need of some expert advice and help dealing with scorpions, they called the best, and so should you. For professional scorpion control, call Bulwark Pest Control today!

To read the transcript of the CBS News broadcast in its entirety, click the link below:

Scorpions Popping Up in Phoenix-Area Homes Earlier.

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Published by Bulwark

Photo by Rich Ayrey

A variety of different species of scorpions, some 50 overall, call Arizona home. Remarkably, scorpion species are still being discovered.

There have been six different mountain scorpions discovered recently, including two this year alone. These discoveries were made in the Santa Catalina Mountains near metropolitan Tucson, AZ.

Arizona Mountains Home To Newly Discovered Scorpions- Two In Fact

Imagine camping in the Tucson mountains. You’re doing a little exploring, turning over rocks and such. You turn over a piece of bark, and see something you’ve never seen before. A unique scorpion!

That’s exactly what happened to a Dr. Rich Ayrey, and his wife, last month. The new scorpion species was discovered in the Santa Catalina Mountains, and when they saw it, they knew they had found something special.

The new discovery of the Vaejovis deboerae came just a short time after Ayrey found a separate and new species of scorpion named Vaejovis brysoni in the same mountains. Pictures of this scorpion, pictured above, went viral because of the white colored babies the scorpion was carrying on her back.

As a scorpion enthusiast, and an avid outdoorsman, Dr. Ayrey has assisted in discovering, cataloging, and naming five different species of scorpions. Ayrey, and other entomologists were surprised that the two different species of mountain scorpions were found so close together. Typically, scorpions are territorial. They don’t like sharing their range.

The entomologists were also surprised that the new scorpions went undiscovered for so long, since they were so close to metro Tucson. Most new species discoveries come from areas untouched by man, like the rainforest. It’s just more proof of how little we really know about the creatures living in our own backyards.

Characteristics of Newly Discovered Scorpions

Mountain scorpions, like the two new discovered scorpions, are dark brown in color. They range in size, but full grown they are about two inches in length. These scorpions live in elevations around 6,000 feet. They are also shaped differently then other scorpions, with different proportions and claws.

Like all other scorpions, these newly discovered species birth live baby scorpions, in which the mother will carry on her back. The new scorpion species venom is expected to be less toxic, just like other mountain scorpions, then that of a bark scorpion. A sting by a mountain scorpion fells much like that of a bee sting.

Just What We Need, Another Type of Scorpion

These newly discovered scorpions have left Arizonians thinking, “Just what we need, another type of scorpion.” This is because of the reputation of the Arizona Bark Scorpion.

These newly discovered scorpions have stings equivalent to that of a bee sting. Unfortunately, the most common scorpion in Arizona, the Arizona Bark Scorpion, has a sting that’s much more malicious. Bark scorpion stings are very painful, and very common. You don’t want these scorpions anywhere near you or your family. Get Phoenix Scorpion Control.

Scorpion Control Phoenix

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Published by Bulwark

Termites (Photo credit: Gnilenkov Aleksey)

Termites have been to blame for billions of dollars of damages to homes in the US each and every year.  Chemical treatments have long been the option used to fight infestations.  However, many of the agents previously used have been banned due to their effect on other parts of our ecosystem, namely the way(s) their toxicity affected humans.  We have since studied these critters and learned about them, their environments, their reproduction, and their habits.  As a result, today we have more reliable and safer methods of termite extermination.

Foam Aerosols

Aerosols are a big hit because of their ease of use.  You simply spray any cracks found along the walls and floors.  Be sure to spray any tubes and mounds you find as well.  They’re also popular because they leave no odor or stain.

Termiticide Concentrates

Termiticide is a pesticide used to kill… you guessed it, termites!  Concentrates are made of termiticides by the elimination of its base (often water or oil). Usually, those mixed with water are deemed less toxic.

Sprays

Termicide can also come in just a liquid form and is then often used as a spray.  Sprays are effective against killing the termites that you see.  The only residual outcome they produce is that some work as a repellant.  Understand that as a repellent, this does not mean that such a spray would cause an evacuation of termites that are in a home.   A spray as a repellant will simply keep them away from the area that is sprayed

Stakes

Termite stakes are used as baits.  Staking your home offers to these wood-eaters what they want (wood) plus a little something extra (poison).  This is a slow-acting poison though, allowing the forging termites enough time to get back to their colony and infect the other members.  Baits and stakes are a more complete option and are recommended for infestations for just about any type of pest.

With any termite control products, remember you are using chemicals and some are toxic to humans and pets.  Be sure to use caution and read all labels for safety and direction.  You should only use chemicals for their recommended use as expressed on packaging.  Once you have completed your termite extermination, you’ll want to keep your home safe from these termites.  Be sure that your termite plan involves a maintenance plan.  This will save you time, money, and effort in the future.

This article was written by Crystal Pontington. Crystal is a member of the National Home Builders Association and frequently publishes articles that relate to home maintenance, including termite treatments and other pest control issues.

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Guest Post Published by Bulwark

Phoenix Area Hospital Reportedly Battling Bedbugs

Imagine being fast asleep in a hospital room guest chair when you are suddenly awakened by tiny, horrific bites. That’s exactly what happened to a Valley couple last week.

According to a AZCentral report, a valley woman was waiting for her husband to recover from a surgery at Mountain Vista Medical Center in Mesa, AZ.

Kathy Troutt claims to be bitten by tiny bloodsucking bedbugs that she found in inside the arms of a hospital guest chair. After the incident, the woman snapped a quick picture of the tiny culprit, and informed the hospital staff.

The couple was relocated to a different hospital room, and the room with the alleged bedbug infestation was quarantined for bedbugs.

Troutt is adamant that she didn’t bring the bedbugs into the hospital herself. When asked, she responded, “I’m certain that these did not come from me.”

While no direct public comment has been made about the incident, the Mountain Vista CEO did release the following statement:

“Our hospital follows rigorous protocols regarding pest control. If an issue is brought to our attention, it is dealt with promptly and effectively.”

Update About Incident On Yelp

Arlin Troutt, the husband to the woman who was reportedly attacked by the bedbugs, made a post on Mountain Vista Medical Center’s Yelp page suggesting that there was more to the story. Read for yourself:

http://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=A39b_3uuC9mnj-TpW2levw

Bed Bug (Photo credit: agrilifetoday)

Bedbugs

The above story illustrates that bedbug infestations are not limited to dilapidated apartment units or trailer parks. Bedbug infestations can even occur in the cleanest and most sterile of places… A hospital!

Bedbugs do not discriminate. They affect both the rich and poor alike. In fact, even celebrities battle bedbug infestations. These bloodsucking pests hitchhike on clothing and luggage looking for their next meal. Once transported, they will hide out in the furniture, mattresses, bedding, and along the floorboards of your home; awaiting their next blood meal. Bedbugs are a dark brown/red color. They are flat and oblong shaped.

Having bedbugs is nothing to be ashamed of– It does require a professional pest control strategy. If you suspect you have bedbugs in your home, get pest control today!

Phoenix Pest Control

Phoenix Bedbug Control

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Published by Bulwark

Hail Damage

In October of 2010 a vicious hailstorm attacked Phoenix causing more than 2.7 million dollars in property damage. The storm impacted a colossal amount of homeowners and motorists who were stuck dealing with damage and insurance claims. For many homeowners the main victim was the roof which generally costs anywhere between ten to twenty thousand dollars to replace. Although the storm was considered a rare occurrence it is definitely a lesson to the wise on the importance of keeping a quality roof over their heads.

Flash Floods

Even with the progressive improvements of drainage in the Phoenix area, there is no doubt that flash floods are uncontrollable. Arizona is infamous for its colossal rainfall in a short amount of time, typically during monsoon season. The amount of water that accumulates in such a small amount of time can be life-threatening on the streets and damaging to one’s home. There are certain steps homeowners can take to protect their homes from these floods: elevate and flood-proof the home, create openings in the foundation that allow flood water to go in and out, install backflow valves, install sump pumps and purchase flood insurance.

Wind Damage           

Monsoon season is not a time of joy as it delivers the blow of high winds, dust storms and downpours. It is during this time of the season that homes are faced with the challenge of persevering through the rough weather conditions. For example, manufactured homes are not as sturdy as stick-built homes and do not tend to hold up well against the monsoon winds. In addition, there is a vast amount of debris as well as falling trees and power lines that wreak havoc on cars, homes and businesses.

Dust Storms  

Then there is the well-known “HABOOB” which is a blinding dust storm that is common between the months of May and September. The overall violence of this storm can lead to property damage and unsafe conditions. Whether it is hail, wind, dust or a flood, Arizona is sure to bring a fair amount of Mother Nature’s fury on its residents. The best method to weather the storm is to be prepared. Proper home insurance, roof maintenance and other home improvements can protect our homes and families.

Featured images:

• License: Creative Commons image source

Hi, I’m Barry and I’m the author of numerous home repair articles that discuss topics such as how to have Phoenix storm damage repairs made by trustworthy, licensed contractors like DVP Professional Builders.

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Guest Post Published by Bulwark

English: Ground bugs (Arocatus roeselii). Français : Des punaises rouges et noires (Arocatus roeselii). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Pest control is a service you hope you never need. However, you typically only think about it when it’s too late and something has gone terribly wrong. Whether it’s termites compromising your home’s foundation, vampire bats terrorizing the attic, a lonely skunk looking to share a meal with the family cat, or one of a hundred other varieties of pest invasion, having to call pest control is just not a situation you generally want to be in.

Don’t worry though, we have put together a first-class checklist for your convenience. We’re calling it “The ABC’s of Pest Control” and it’s designed to help you avoid all manner of inconvenient encounters!

A) Get Informed

There is no point in you wasting your time preparing for a honey badger invasion in the middle of Alaska. Grizzly bear repellent, however, might be entirely warranted. The key is knowing what varieties of animals call your immediate vicinity home. Educate yourselves. There are a plethora of ways to do this, but the simplest would be doing an online search or obtaining some basic info from your local government’s Parks & Rec Department. Be thorough. Start basic and then continue your research more thoroughly. Look into common insect problems. Have termites been an issue in your area? In some areas, local varieties of ants pose a much greater risk to homes than termites. There is no default. Every area is unique. Preventative pest control is all about being informed.

B) Prepare

This step, obviously, is 100% dependent on obtaining effective information. Knowing, however, does you no good whatsoever if you do not act on it. In keeping with the research trend, look into effective ways to put your pest information to good use. Plant trees and bushes that naturally repel local invaders. Spray repellents or post repellent torches for the larger sized varmints. Put a fresh coat of sealant around the floorboards and foundation of your home. The possible combinations of preventative pest control are virtually endless. Consult a local pest control service if possible. While the internet can offer large quantities of general information, local businesses and individuals can typically provide much more specific, and consequently, effective information concerning the unique area in which you live. Don’t be bashful. A lot can be gained simply from asking.

C) Have Backup Ready

No matter how well you prepare, there is only so much you can do preventatively. Critters have a tendency of sneaking in at some point, one way or another. You can certainly opt to remove these pesky nuisances yourself from time to time, but certain pests will inevitably require professional assistance, and the last you want to be doing is shuffling through a phone book or manipulating online search terms while a skunk is chilling on your brand new living room sofa. If you took the time in step B to visit your local pest control professionals, this won’t be an issue. Having a number for quick calling on hand will make the whole ordeal much less stressful for you, your family, and maybe even the pests themselves.

We hope this basic guide helps you keep the critters at bay. Pest control is something every homeowner faces, but it doesn’t have to be a life-halter. Follow our ABC’s of Pest Control, and hopefully you’ll be pest free in 2013.

About the Author
Tiffany Olson lives in breathtaking Northern California where she creeps and crawls through life as a friend, a daughter, and Communications Manager at a small (but growing) web company. Her job is to educate people on a variety of mind bending topics, including pest control in Fremont, CA. Is your mind bent?

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Guest Post Published by Bulwark

Here’s a few tidbits about Valentine’s day you probably didn’t know.

Cupid wasn’t perfect. The Roman god of desire and affection, and son of the goddess Venus, Cupid and his famed bow and arrow have transcended the centuries from one legend to another. In most cases his arrow was on target, but in others, love grew cold. In Vergil’s Aeneid, Cupid plays matchmaker between Dido and Aeneas, but the legend ended in epic tragedy.

Valentine’s Day is expensive. Really expensive. US consumers are expected to spend around 13 billions dollars on Valentine’s Day purchases. The average consumer is expected to spend $116.21 this holiday season. There will be an estimated 180 million cards exchanged and 196 million flowers gifted.

Make or break. An astonishing 53% of women say they are willing to end their current relationship if they are not given a gift on Valentine’s Day. (We at Bulwark may or may not support that 53% of disgruntled women. Ok, we do! Come on, fellas!)

Just in time for Thanksgiving. On average, 11,000 children are conceived on Valentine’s Day. Count ahead 9 months, and they should get here just in time for Turkey Day.

Need help? There are still a few days left until D-Day, so if you need a little help trying to set something up last minute, you have your choice of 904 licensed dating services nationwide. Good luck!

And if you learn anything from a pest control company on having a successful Valentine’s Day, remember this…