San Antonio Carpenter Ants Destructive

San Antonio Carpenter Ants Destructive

Those small, winged, insects that you’ve seen tunneling through wood on your San Antonio property may not be termite… It could be a Carpenter ant.

In San Antonio, the Carpenter ant most frequently comes in two varieties: The Black Carpenter ant (Camponotus pennsylvanicus), and the regular or generic Carpenter ant (Camponotus vicinus). Both are equally destructive.

The Carpenter Ants of San Antonio

Of all the different species of ant, the largest grouping happens to be the Carpenter ant. While some ants like the Fire ant are known for their painful stings, the Carpenter ant is most well known for their destructive nesting behavior.

Carpenter ants make their nests by tunneling through wood, in which they do not eat; and it is because of this behavior many San Antonio homeowners confuse these ant pests for termites.

Both the Carpenter ant and the Black Carpenter ant measure ¼ to ½ inch in length. Carpenter ants have a black head, a black abdomen, but had a dark reddish colored thorax. The Black Carpenter ant has black legs, with dull black body. A circular ring of gold colored hairs that circle the Black Carpenter ant’s abdomen make it easy to distinguish from other ant pest.

Both the Carpenter ant and the Black Carpenter ant can also have wings.

Damage Caused By San Antonio Carpenter Ants

If your San Antonio home has wood that is easily accessible from outdoor areas; or if your property has wood piles, tree stumps, or unused or abandoned wood leftover from a construction project you may be susceptible for carpenter ants. Carpenter ants will nest in the wooden structures on your property, and even in your home. This can be very destructive. As their innate tunneling behavior kicks in, Carpenter ants chew through wood. Dead, rotten, decaying wood or logs seem to be the ant’s preferred nesting choice; but old, cracking furniture, trees, tree stumps, and home structures are also vulnerable.

Carpenter ant nesting behaviors devastate the reliability of anything made of wood, including your home or furniture. Like I mentioned, these vicious ants robustly gnaw through wood, building tunnels for their nests. If you see piles of sawdust near any wood on your property, it’s a solid indication that you are dealing with a pest problem… A problem that could be very serious. Carpenter ants should not be taken lightly. If you suspect an infestation, or are seeing sawdust piles, have your home inspected by a licensed ant control professional.

San Antonio Pest Control For Carpenter Ants

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Published by Bulwark

Texas Retirement Communities: The ‘Independent Living’ Option

Texas ranks 7th in the nation as a choice location, among retirees, who wish to spend their ‘Golden Years’ in a state that offers plenty of warm weather and sunshine.

‘Independent Living’ in Texas is as popular as Texas is large!  Throughout the state, a multitude of Independent Living facilities are available.  In the Arlington area, for example, there are 22 Independent Living communities to choose from.   Dallas has 25 locations, San Antonio and Austin have 18, Corpus Christie and its surrounding area has 30– the list goes on!

What Is ‘Independent Living’?

‘Independent Living’, as it pertains to retired individuals, refers to retirement communities designed, specifically, for seniors 55 years and greater who maintain good health and do not require assistance or supervision of their daily activities.  Many Independent Living facilities offer housekeeping and laundry services; and on-site medical-staff are often available to attend to the health needs of residents, if needed.  For individuals who have chosen an Independent Living lifestyle, self-sufficiency is still a very important component in their lives!

These fortunate retirees live in attractive, single units, resembling apartments, and are in charge of their own schedules and daily care.   Each complex is occupied by like-minded adults who enjoy the freedom to come and go as each one pleases.   Since the residents are close in age and share a history of many life experiences, a true sense of community emerges and, for many, close friendships develop and become cherished and appreciated.

A variety of planned activities within the communities are enjoyed; and shuttled transportation is often provided so residents can take in the festivities within the surrounding communities.

What Amenities Are Offered?

Independent Retirement Communities are self-contained and though each community may be managed slightly differently, each facility will offer niceties, which could include:

— hair salons

—libraries

— fitness/ game rooms and spa treatments

— live entertainment

— private movie theaters

—outdoor gardening and craft classes

— walking trails

For the more spirited residents, Poker games and ‘Movin To The Beat’ dance and exercise classes keep  minds strong and spirits high.

Discover the many other programs and activities that are available from any number of Independent Living Communities within the many metropolitan areas of Texas!

Who Qualifies For Independent Living?

If a person is 55 years or better, he or she should be able to easily perform a variety of daily tasks, such as:

— Using the telephone:  Being able to dial numbers, look up numbers, etc.

— Managing medications:  Taking correct dosages of appropriate prescriptions

— Preparing meals:  Planning and fixing meals, safely, and making appropriate, healthy food choices

— Housekeeping:  Maintaining a safe, hygienic living area or being able to arrange hired staff to provide the service

— Shopping:  Ability to purchase needed items, including groceries, and making arrangements to transport purchases from store to home.

— Transportation:  Being able to drive safely or use public transportation for errands or visits to local family or friends

As the passage of time dictates, assessments of your senior’s functional abilities will be on-going to determine any modifications that might be necessary for his or her care requirements.  Assessments will help tailor the care plan to best meet the needs of your loved one.

Independent Living Retirement Communities are dedicated to enriching the lives of their senior population with signature services for those who value their freedom and independence.

Independent Retirement Communities provide an atmosphere for young-minded seniors to develop friendships, maintain a continued feeling of security, feel empowered with a sense of autonomy, and enjoy life to the fullest with others who share common interests.

Miss Carlson is a retired school teacher and grandmother who now writes on the topic of independent living.

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Guest Post Published by Bulwark

Texas Bedbug Laws

Bed Bug (Photo credit: agrilifetoday)

Across much of the United States, bedbug infestations have reached epidemic levels; and the State of Texas has not been immune to these tiny bloodsuckers. In San Antonio, bedbugs have been found in homes, apartments, dorms, trains, airplanes, theaters, and of course, hotels. Even high end hotels have had unfortunate bedbug encounters. The rich and poor alike have been victims, as bedbugs do not play favorites. If you have been a victim of bedbugs, whether you’re a property manager or tenant, it is important that you understand the bedbug laws in the State of Texas.

Texas Bedbug Laws

Out of the 22 different states that have bedbug laws, Texas happens to be one of them that has laws that mention bedbugs specifically. The State of Texas currently has two bedbug laws. They read as follows:

Texas Revised Code Sec. 341.011. NUISANCE

Bedbugs are a public health nuisance.

Texas Revised Code Sec. 341.012. ABATEMENT OF NUISANCE

(a) A person shall abate a public health nuisance existing in or on a place the person possesses as soon as the person knows that the nuisance exists.

(b) A local health authority who receives information and proof that a public health nuisance exists in the local health authority’s jurisdiction shall issue a written notice ordering the abatement of the nuisance to any person responsible for the nuisance. The local health authority shall at the same time send a copy of the notice to the local municipal, county, or district attorney.

(c) The notice must specify the nature of the public health nuisance and designate a reasonable time within which the nuisance must be abated.

(d) If the public health nuisance is not abated within the time specified by the notice, the local health authority shall notify the prosecuting attorney who received the copy of the original notice. The prosecuting attorney: (1) shall immediately institute proceedings to abate the public health nuisance; or (2) request the attorney general to institute the proceedings or provide assistance in the prosecution of the proceedings, including participation as an assistant prosecutor when appointed by the prosecuting attorney.

Enlist An Attorney

Whether you are a landlord, tenant, property manager, or vacationer who brought home bedbugs, and you are battling a bedbug infestation, seek assistance from an attorney who specializes in bedbug infestations. This blog post is for informational purposes only.

Get San Antonio Pest Control

If you are being bit the bedbugs while you sleep in your home, get help… Get professional pest control.

General Pest Control

Bedbug Control

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Published by Bulwark

5 Problems Fire Ants Cause Homeowners

One of the most problematic, destructive, and malicious, property pests that homeowners in the San Antonio, TX area battle; is the Red Imported Fire Ant. Here are five problems these ants cause:

1. Fire Ants Sting!

If you’ve ever been stung by an ant (not bitten), the culprit was a fire ant. They are the only stinging ant in Texas. These stings hurt. If you stumble across one of the fire ant’s notorious mounds, their bites may come in bunches. Once you experience the first bite, there may be dozens of other ants crawling up your legs—ready to sting!

After a victim has been stung by a fire ant, the sting site will feel like it’s on fire! The area will become red and eventually blister. An itchy rash may develop. If you have insect allergies you may begin to feel dizzy and vomit. If this is the case, seek medical attention.

2. Fire Ant Mounds Destroy Property

Fire Ants (Photo credit: NatalieMaynor)

One of the biggest problems fire ants impose on homeowners is the destruction of property. Fire ants build huge mounds that burrow almost eight feet deep. These mounds destroy trees and plants, not to mention they are an eyesore—reaching up to three feet in diameter.

3. Fire Ants Damage Electrical Equipment

One of the most interesting and unique fire ant characteristics also makes these ants a menace to homeowners. Fire ants are drawn to electrical equipment. They crawl into electrical wiring and air conditioning units, causing them to short out.

4. Fire Ants Injure Pets

Fire ants play no favorites as to who they’ll sting. If they feel threatened, or are disturbed in any way, they will defend themselves by stinging and biting. Your pets are no exception. In fact, fire ants are drawn to the moisture of your pet’s eyes, nose, and mouth. Fire ant stings around the eyes can cause your pet to go blind. Stings in the nose or mouth can cause them to swell shut, suffocating your pet. Worst case scenario, although rare, is that your pet may die from an allergic reaction to the ant’s venom.

5. Fire Ants Inhibit Outdoor Lifestyle

If you have a fire ant colony in your backyard, it affects your desire to go outside and enjoy your property. No more backyard barbecues or picnics. No more running barefoot through your yard. If you enjoy lying in the grass and watching the clouds go by, forget about it. You will be stung!

San Antonio Fire Ant Extermination

Fire ants can be very challenging to control. Trying to take the job on yourself can actually make the problem worse. Using an aerosol pesticide on a fire ant mound will accelerate the immature queen’s breeding; meaning they will become mature and start new colonies of their own. It will also cause the ants to spread out across your property as they wait for the insecticide to dissipate.

Do not try to take on these nasty pests yourself, and don’t risk a painful sting. Get help controlling the fire ants near your home or property. Get professional ant control!

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Published by Bulwark

A Word Of Valentine’s Day Advice

Love Letter Valentine Flowers (Photo credit: Teleflora)

Valentine’s Day will be here on Thursday, and if you haven’t started making plans yet… Start! If you don’t, she will make sure you regret it! Here are a few tips to get you started:

A Romantic Dinner Is A Must

Citrus or Las Canarias

For the most romantic Valentine’s dinner in San Antonio, look no further than Citrus or Las Canarias. Located close to the River Walk, they have very few tables to keep the dining experience intimate. Your date will look beautiful basking in the glow of the candles and oil lamps.

Catch A Romantic Chick Flick

Your date will appreciate the gesture of a romantic movie. Take her to see Safe Haven at Cinemark Movies 16 or AMC Rivercenter. If she’s not that into chick flicks, she’ll love It’s A Good Day To Die Hard.

Take Her Away From It All

For cozy, quaint and romantic, night away from it all, it doesn’t get much better than the Grey Moss Inn. The restaurant and patio are built under a canopy of huge Texas Oaks that beckons you to enjoy the night. Tables are candlelit and the native rock walls and pine-wood floor “creaks” of romance.

Get Cockroach Control

I can tell you that nothing screams I love you more than roach control! Haha! With all kidding aside, roaches can turn your Valentines Day into a day of misery. All your efforts will be for not if she finds a big roach waiting for her. See for yourself:

San Antonio Roach Control

P.S. Don’t forget the flowers!

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3 Things You Want To Know Before Buying a Home in Texas

texas our texas (Photo credit: jmtimages)

For better or for worse, there remains a ton of useful and even critical information that goes unnoticed in the overwhelming pursuit of buying a home.  The information below serves to inform, warn, and encourage those looking into this option.      Whether you are more or less likely to purchase a home due to examining the material below, the hope is that you can make an informed decision.

Real Estate is Nearly the Foremost Industry in Texas

For those unfamiliar with the significance of GDP (Gross Domestic Product), it is the market value of all officially recognized goods and services produced within a certain geographic region within a particular period of time.  To give you an idea of the presence that the real estate industry has in Texas, it accounts for nearly 7.8 – 12 percent of the GDP of the entire state of Texas.  By way of comparison there are only two other industries in the state that can top that.   Of course this data was provided by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, so I don’t know how trustworthy it is (wink).  The fact that half a million dollars of revenue is generated in other venues of Texas’ economy for every 1 million generated in its real estate is certainly revealing.   To a would-be investor, this is certainly welcomed news, underscoring the healthy nature of a decision to make a move in this direction.

Property Tax is Very High

It is not uncommon for a state to have an income tax, which typically supplies public entities such as police, schools, etc.   With Texas this is not the case.  So where are the multitudes of funds generated to maintain the various public services Texans have come to enjoy?  You guessed it… home owners.   Of course this is by no means THE source of revenue; however it is the largest source fueling public services.  Here is how it works:  You have your local taxing bodies that determine how much money they need in order to continue to make their services available.  As mentioned above these are organizations such as police, public schools, etc.  Next you have the appraisal district, which asses the value of your property.   Once the value of the home is determined then the taxable value is multiplied by the tax rate in order to determine the amount.  Should any disputes arise between the tax payer and the appraisal district, there is an Appraisal Review Board in place to handle any disputes.

There are Many Assistance Programs Available

A simple visit to a Texas home programs site could easily revel nearly a hundred different programs that are in place to make the purchase of a home a reality for many who otherwise assume they have no business even thinking about it.  There are down payment assistance, first time buyer programs, mortgage advocacy, and down payment and closing cost assistance to name a few.   Often times these programs can often be specific to a particular city e.g. Dallas, Waco, etc.  so you actually have the help of the city who certainly want to make it as welcoming as possible to become a member of the community.  Often times it is in the best interest of the cities and or counties to make these programs available, so one should never feel like they are trying to win the lottery.   There are countless numbers of homes filled with families that never imagined they would be able to own their own home.

Daniel functions as a content developer in the U.S., helping businesses grow and communities to be informed.

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Discovery of Endangered Spider In San Antonio Brings $15 Million Highway Project to A Halt

San Antonio Construction Delays

Commuters in San Antonio, TX are less then trilled about the discovery of an endangered spider in the middle of a $15 Million highway construction project, which has halted construction plans until further notice. While biologists are celebrating the rare discovery, local residents are fuming over the inconvenience and lack of progress on the busy road.

Construction workers have been told to stop working as the Federal Government tries to figure out what further steps need to be taken to protect the endangered spider. Josh Donat, San Antonio District spokesman for the Texas Department of Transportation, said “it is too early to tell which options are viable.”

With the underpass construction project on hold, the 80,000 motorists that usually pass through the intersection everyday will experience more delays in their already nightmarish commute. With all the attention on the special species of spider, San Antonio residents are fuming that the needs of the community are being overlooked.

The Discovery Of An Endangered Spider

The Braken Bat Cave Meshweaver spider was found in the heart of an underpass project, which began in April 2012, on Texas 151 at Loop 1604 in Northwestern San Antonio. It is only the second time the species has been spotted in more than 30 years. The spider was discovered after rain exposed a 6-feet-deep natural hole on the highway median. Local biologists found 19 other cave features, and believe that they all may be the spider’s habitat.

The Braken Bat Cave Meshweaver Spider

The Braken Bat Cave Meshweaver Spider is a rare species of spider found primarily in the state of Texas. The spider is about the size of a dime, and doesn’t have eyes. The spider was first discovered in 1980 by Goerge Veni, about five miles away from the newest discovery and construction site. The Meshweaver is named for a type of intricate mesh web the spider spins. They spend their entire lives in subterranean habitats, like caves. The Meshweaver was placed on the federal endangered species list in 2000, along with eight other spiders found only in the Texas County. Habitat degradation via pollution, alterations in water flow and direct human interference are the reasons scientists believe the spider is so rare.

Spider Control

While the Braken Bat Cave Meshweaver Spider is very rare, there are many other spiders that can infest your San Antonio home. If you are seeing spiders in or around your property, contact a local exterminator today!

Bulwark Exterminating
118 Broadway Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 224-2706
bulwarkpestcontrol.com

San Antonio Chimney & Wildlife Control
333 West Olmos Drive #123
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 607-0347
texaschimneywildlife.com

Orkin Pest & Termite Control
4902 Center Park Boulevard
San Antonio, TX
(866) 713-9979
orkin.com

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Aerial Spraying For Mosquitoes Continues Across Texas

Mosquitoes and West Nile

Much of Texas, including the city of San Antonio, is under a summer-long mosquito attack. These attacks have many San Antonio residents fearful of the deadly West Nile Virus which is at its highest levels ever. Over 75 percent of the country’s West Nile cases stem from the state of Texas which has led to President Obama to assess the situation and declare a state of emergency. Texas health officials say that more than 50 percent of the confirmed cases are “neuroinvasive,” the most severe form of the disease resulting in a confirmed 30 statewide deaths.

Combating the Mosquitoes

One effective way to combat the disease carrying mosquitoes is with aerial pesticide spraying, but it does raise many questions and concerns among the general public. Airplanes have been spraying many portions of the state with a pesticide designed to eliminate the mosquitoes and control West Nile outbreaks. The pesticide being aerially dropped is called DUET. It’s safe for the general public, but some my suffer reactions. The most common reactions to DUET include: burning sensations, prickling sensations, tearing in the eyes, blurred vision, and respiratory irritation.

If You Have Any of The Following You May Be Vulnerable To Reactions:

• Pregnancy
• Allergies
• Lung disease
• Asthma
• Respiratory infection
• Hypersensitivity to chemicals

Precautions

If you are concerned about having possible reactions to the aerial counterattacks, Texas health officials urge residents to take precautions. During the spraying, bring your pets indoors. Make sure to stay inside for a couple hours until the pesticide settles. Afterward, wash patio furniture, vehicles, children’s toys, and any garden vegetables. Make sure to wash your shoes as well before returning inside the house. If you feel like you may be hypersensitive to these pesticides, you may want to consider leaving town for a day or two.

Pest Control

We’re still a long way away from the end of West Nile season. We’ll be dealing with the virus outbreak through at least the end of September. If you are worried about the DUET pesticide, the West Nile Virus, or mosquitoes on your property, contact a local pest control professional today. They can offer safe, non-toxic solutions for all of your concerns and needs.

Bulwark Exterminating
118 Broadway Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 224-2706
bulwarkpestcontrol.com

Mosquito Nix
12500 Network Boulevard
San Antonio, TX 78249
(210) 699-7700
mosquitonix.com

Orkin Pest & Termite Control
4902 Center Park Boulevard
San Antonio, TX
(866) 713-9979
orkin.com

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OUCH! Texas Man Stung 300 Times by Africanized Bees

Killer Bee Swarm (Photo credit: pinkgranite)

Imagine trying to move a cabinet when you are suddenly being swarmed by some 125,000 aggressive Africanized bees. That’s exactly what happened to a 40-year old warehouse worker form Pflugerville, Texas on Wednesday. During the attack the man was stung more then 300 times and had to be rushed to the hospital immediately.

Despite the excessive bee stings, the man is expected to make a full recovery. A local beekeeper safely removed the giant colony along with 120 pounds of honeycomb. Three other people were also stung, but were not seriously injured.

This recent Africanized bee attack is raising awareness that these bees are still a problem in Texas and other parts of the Southwest United States.

Africanized “Killer” Bees

• Africanized bees, also know as “killer bees,” are a hybrid of honeybees from Europe and southern Africa.

• The only way to distinguish Africanized bees from their European counterparts is through molecular analysis.

• Africanized bees are ten times more likely to initiate an attack or sting then a common honeybee.

• Africanized bees are more easily aggravated, swarm rapidly, attack in greater numbers, and follow their victims for longer distances.

• Africanized bees are moving northward at a rate of 100-300 miles per year. They are now universal most of the state of Texas.

• The following informative graphic illustrates Africanized bee migration through the United States. 

Bee Problems?

If you notice any significant bee activity in or around your property, contact a professional immediately. Bee problems can be safely resolved by working with a local exterminator or bee removal specialist.

Bulwark Exterminating
118 Broadway Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 224-2706
bulwarkpestcontrol.com 

Critter Control
San Antonio, TX 78232
(210) 499-4225
crittercontrol.com

Orkin Pest & Termite Control
4902 Center Park Boulevard
San Antonio, TX
(866) 713-9979
orkin.com

San Antonio Bee Removal
210-547-1342
beeremovalsanantonio.com

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