Insects are almost never a welcome sight. If you are working in your garden or walking around your home and you find a black or dark-colored, metallic-looking beetle patrolling your property, you may initially be mortified. Featuring two large wings and very prominent mandibles, ground beetles often look like something out of a science fiction film more than a common house pest.
Thankfully, however, ground beetles are rarely problematic. In fact, they can actually help you keep other pests at bay. If you’re suffering from a ground beetle infestation, however, they may begin to nibble away at crops or plant roots. Indoor ground beetles, meanwhile, can cause problems by emitting sticky, stinky secretions.
Ground beetles are masters of survival. They’re capable of adapting to virtually any environment. While this makes them excellent hunters and adept survivalists, it can also prove frustrating if they happen to adapt to your home or garden.
If you have too many ground beetles in your home or posing a threat to your crops, you should reach out for the assistance of a professional exterminator in Bartlesville, OK. In the meantime, here are a few steps that you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing a ground beetle infestation:
- Vacuum away: First, you should vacuum and clear away the areas inside your home where you think ground beetles may be hiding. They could be gathered in cabinets, or in any areas where there may be spilled food and crumbs. Because they’re predatory, ground beetles also tend to congregate where you might find other insects.
- Clear debris: Next, you should clear away any areas of debris outside that may host a ground beetle nest. In nature, ground beetles love to congregate under fallen tree branches, piles of leaves and other hidden areas. If you have any fallen trees or other decomposing plant matter on your property, get rid of it and spray the area.
- Seal off entry points: If there are any areas in your home that are in need of resealing, now is the time to start replacing your weather strips and caulking. Ground beetles are likely to enter your home through cracks in the door jamb, window lining and other similar areas.
- Change your light bulbs: Beetles are naturally attracted to bright, white lights. If you’re concerned about ground beetles at your home, consider investing in yellow bulbs or bulbs with a slightly lower wattage for your exterior areas and patio lighting. This could help keep ground beetles at bay.
Since 2003, Excellence Pest Control has been a premier exterminator in Bartlesville, OK. Licensed in both Oklahoma and Kansas, we possess the expertise, equipment and experience necessary to help you fend off even the most skilled survivalist insects. Whether you’re facing a common ant infestation, ground beetle invasion or an overabundance of rodents, we’re here to help. Contact one of our friendly, knowledgeable representatives today to learn more about ways that we can help you fight off a wide range of common household pests.