Living in North Scottsdale AZ & Unwanted Pests

Living among the desert landscape can offer serene views, brilliant sunsets and the feeling of getting away from the busy life.  It also means that you are sharing your land with some of Mother Nature’s creatures, and while you are all about preserving the natural landscape and it’s inhabitants, you don’t necessarily want them in your home.

If you are seasonal visitor or if this is your first time living in the heart of desert, here are a few of the common pests you may find throughout the Valley of the Sun, and what you can do to keep them at bay.

Scorpions

A common pest found in Arizona, scorpions are native to the desert environment.  They hide under rocks, patio furniture, decor and planters, woodpiles, pool equipment and around trees and bushes. The Bark Scorpion is one of the main types found in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.

Spiders

There are several different types of spiders in Arizona, however the most common would be the Black Widow and Arizona Brown Spiders.  The Arizona Brown Spider is often mistakenly referred to as the infamous brown recluse. The true brown recluse spider however does not occur in Arizona, but are found in the Midwest and northwest.

Termites

Termites are small insects that may cause damage to wood in structures.   Termites generally require moist environments. To satisfy this need, they usually nest in or near the soil and maintain some connection with the soil through tunnels in wood or tubes they construct. These tubes are made of soil with bits of wood, feces excrement, or other materials.  They can appear as dirt-like trails running up and down a wall that can be easily brushed away.

What You Can Do To Prevent Pests In Your Home

Here are a few steps you can take to help prevent these pests from making their way into your home:

• Screen all doors or windows that can be opened and all ventilation openings
• Install door sweeps and repair thresholds at the base of all exterior entry doors.
• Repair any leaky piping to prevent excess moisture
• Reduce clutter in garages, attics, and storage areas
• Trim weeds around the building foundation and remove firewood, building materials, and debris to discourage insects and spiders from living next to a structure.
• Control food sources for larger pests (crickets, cockroaches, flies etc.) by having your home treated by a professional pest control company on a regular basis

While there is no need to be in a constant state of worry over these pests, being aware of them and knowing what you can do to keep these unwanted guests out of your home will help you enjoy the beauty of the desert surroundings in Ancala even more.  Speak with a reputable pest control company in the area to help you formulate a plan of action to keep your home free of pests.