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Articles by Kevin Laycock
Zodiac signs as spiders
With Halloween around the corner, check out which spider represents each zodiac sign in this list created by StyleCaster. Aries is the zodiac sign of war, power, dominance and aggression, which is why they have a lot in common with the terrifying and gargantuan Brazilian wandering spider. This arachnid is one of the most deadly spiders in the world, preying on insects and small mammals in the dead of night. Their venom can cause death and even paralysis in humans.
Tips to control spiders
Most spiders are harmless and play an important role in controlling the insect population. However, they can be a nuisance pest, reproducing quickly and leaving cobwebs in hard-to-reach areas. They also might cause anxiety for homeowners, leading to calls and complaints. Most spider species prefer to live outdoors and feast on insects. When they make their way indoors, they are typically looking for prey or coming inside for warmth when the temperature drops outside.
Perimeter treatments for arthropods
Pyrethroid product labels have evolved to effectively restrict the total application volume that may be used to treat the exterior of a structure. A brief review of common label language will act as a reminder of the methods that may be employed for perimeter treatments. Applications may be made to the side of a building up to a maximum height of 3 feet above grade.
Excessive moisture attracts arthropods
One thing that all arthropod pests have in common is their constant quest for water. While some pest species meet their moisture requirements from the food they consume or hosts they feed upon, most arthropod pests depend on moisture gradients and microclimates to survive. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices directed toward reducing conducive conditions, modifying the environment, and eliminating moist microclimates can greatly improve your success.
Cooler weather brings out spiders
As the weather cools, customers may see spider activity in and around their homes. Lots of rain can cause insects to thrive, which become spider food. Spider activity is more obvious in fall as they grow larger, build webs and actively mate. Some spider species bite when disturbed, but most species are not harmful to humans. In addition to your prevention and control strategy, advise customers to get rid of indoor spiders by vacuuming to remove adults, egg sacs and webs.
Know your stored product pests
Editor’s Note: Questions for this month’s test were contributed by Greg Baumann; Foster Brusca; Doug Foster; Paul Hardy; Frank Meek, BCE; and Mark VanderWerp, BCE. Want to know how you did? The answers are listed at the bottom of the page.
Bringing Home The Baby
Here's the next in my series of Dad Chats, interviews giving expectant and new dads some tips based on the experience of others. Take a read!
Five Tips for Giving a Newborn a Bath
Our little one loves having his bath and has started splashing around now which is great. I have learned a great deal recently about bathing a newborn and I thought I should share it for any new parents out there wanting to learn some tips for bathing a newborn.
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